What are Students Learning About?

During the term Years Three to Six will be celebrating mass with Fr Michael on Thursday’s at 12pm. Each class will have their own opportunity to celebrate the mass.  This week Year 6 have been preparing for their first class Mass. They have worked with Clare Barry, our Youth Minister to choose Scripture and create prayers based on the their “I am” statement. I am the Way the Truth and Life John 14:6. Unfortunately we are unable to invite parents to attend but we would love you to keep us in your prayers as we celebrate together.

What are Staff Learning About?

In the past few weeks, including the holidays, I have met with grade teams to discuss how to incorporate the new Brisbane Curriculum into our conceptual inquiry units.  Our discussions have been exciting! We have talked about concepts such as metamorphosis, community and structure.  As we continue to grow our understanding of the inquiry process it was heartening to see so many teachers confident to plan and organize learning in this way.

Reflection

On the holidays I caught up with an ex-student. She is in her late 20’s now (which gives you a clue to how long I have been teaching!).  When I was teaching her mum was pregnant with a baby brother.  She insisted that he be called Elmo.  Apparently, my response to her instance on the name was “if he comes out red and furry you can call him Elmo!” Luckily, his name is Tim. 

It just reminded me of the impact that teachers have when we don’t even know it.  Our students are like our own kids while they are in our class but continue to be in our hearts forever.

At St John’s we pride ourselves on creating a loving, dynamic community.  We take time to talk to our students, be interested in their lives and support them in their learning.   My hope for them as they grow is that they remember that at St John’s “we are on earth the heart of God” and they remember when it was crystal clear to them in an experience or a kind word.

God bless,

Steph Stewart

Notices from the Parish