Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School Thursday Island
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7 Normanby Street
Thursday Island QLD 4875
Subscribe: https://olshthursis.schoolzineplus.com/subscribe

Email: principal.ti@cns.catholic.edu.au
Phone: 07 4213 0050

From the Hub & Life Skills, Mr. Jonathan Beales

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Life Skills

Exploring Sustainability Through Hands-On Learning

This term, our students have been actively engaged in a hands-on learning unit focused on their local environment. They have been exploring the connections between community, fishing practices, and sustainability, while developing a deeper understanding of ecosystems, environmental conservation, and responsible fishing methods.

A key focus of the unit has been the sustainable management of marine resources in the Torres Strait. Students investigated local ecosystems and food chains, learning about the interdependence of species and the importance of maintaining ecological balance.

As part of their inquiry, students explored traditional fishing techniques alongside modern sustainable methods. They also developed practical skills by learning how to tie fishing knots and cast a line. The highlight of the unit was a fishing expedition to the local wharf, where students had the opportunity to put their new skills into practice.

In addition, the students participated in a beach clean-up at Sadie’s Beach. They were surprised by the amount and variety of rubbish they collected, which sparked meaningful discussions about human impact on the environment and the importance of keeping our marine habitats clean.

This unit has been an enriching experience, with students enthusiastically contributing their own knowledge and insights. Their curiosity and engagement have been evident throughout, making it a truly rewarding learning journey.

The Hub

Building Skills and Confidence

In Term 2, our students have continued to thrive during their daily sessions in The Hub. Each session begins with sensory activities, which play a vital role in supporting children’s learning and development. These activities help strengthen essential cognitive, language, and motor skills, while also building neural pathways that support problem-solving, decision-making, and language acquisition.

Alongside our regular routines, we have placed a strong emphasis on writing and spelling this term. Now that students can confidently identify all the sounds that make up words, they have been enthusiastically practising writing word families and improving their spelling skills. It’s been wonderful to see their growing confidence and progress each day.

Best Regards,
Mr. Jonathan Beales