In Science, our upper primary students have been fully immersed in project-based assessments, each featuring a hands-on component that has made their learning both engaging and meaningful. They have been exploring chemical reactions and investigating the properties and uses of different materials in the world around them. Our Year 6 students had the exciting opportunity to design and conduct their own experiments, testing hypotheses and drawing conclusions from their findings. Year 5 students have been delving into the fascinating world of solids, liquids, and gases, learning how particles interact and how changes occur between different states of matter. Year 4 students took on a creative challenge, designing new products using recycled materials, reinforcing the importance of sustainability. Meanwhile, our Year 3 students explored insulation and material properties by designing and testing different esky prototypes to determine how effectively they could keep an ice cube from melting. 

Our lower primary students have also been busy with their own scientific discoveries. They have been exploring the water cycle, learning how to predict the weather, and making connections between their observations and real-world weather patterns. Year 2 students have been investigating different scientists and the vital roles they play in our society, while our Prep students have been developing their understanding of various materials and learning to navigate different technologies in the classroom. 

Students in Years 2 to 6 have also been honing their digital skills through block coding with Microsoft MakeCode. They have been creating an impressive variety of digital projects, including interactive games and even musical instruments, showcasing both creativity and problem-solving skills in the process. 

Sport has also been a major focus this term, with students participating in swimming lessons to develop their confidence and skills in the water. These lessons culminated in our highly anticipated Swimming Carnival, where students put their practice to the test in a fun and supportive environment. Our upper primary students worked on refining their freestyle, backstroke, and breaststroke techniques, while our younger students focused on building water confidence and mastering their freestyle and backstroke strokes. The Swimming Carnival was a fantastic day, filled with enthusiasm and team spirit, and we would like to extend a huge thank you to all the parents, carers, and staff who came along to support and assist. 

In addition to swimming, our Year 5 and 6 students recently took part in the AFL Gala Day, where they had the chance to showcase their skills and teamwork. Students who excelled at the event had the opportunity to trial for the Crusader boys' and girls' teams, which will go on to compete against schools from Cairns and the Sunshine Coast. It was an action-packed day, and we are incredibly proud of all who participated. 

Looking ahead, we have our Cross Country Carnival coming up in Week 3 of next term. This year, the event has been moved forward to give our 10, 11, and 12-year-old students the chance to qualify for the Atherton Regional Carnival. We encourage all students to get involved, give it their best shot, and most importantly, enjoy the experience. 

As we wrap up this term, we want to take a moment to acknowledge the dedication, enthusiasm, and hard work of our students. Their eagerness to learn and participate has made this term a memorable one, and we are looking forward to an equally exciting and enriching term ahead! 

Best Regards,

Mr. Lochie Dunford