Lower Loop Latest - Learning by Doing and Playing
As we step into the heart of this month, the pages of our newsletter unfold with an abundance of joy, discovery, and learning that has colored the vibrant canvas of our school community. Each passing day brings new stories of growth, resilience, and exploration that reflect the spirit of curiosity and adventure that defines us at VERSO. I do hope you enjoy reading about our learners and their experiences.
Greetings Lower Loop Families
C1-2 Setting Sail with Emotions: A Swashbuckling Drama Adventure with Curtain Up!
Throughout the workshop, students not only honed their acting abilities but also gained invaluable insights into the complexities of human emotions within the context of a pirate's life. With the guidance of the facilitators from Curtain Up, they embarked on a journey of self-expression, learning how to portray courage, fear, and camaraderie on the high seas of the stage. The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the exhilarating rehearsal session, where students worked tirelessly to prepare for a special pirate-themed performance to showcase their newfound skills to their parents.
This immersive experience not only fostered a deeper appreciation for the performing arts but also empowered our learners to communicate and connect with others on a more profound level, all while embracing their inner pirates. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Curtain Up for their dedication to making this learning opportunity a memorable and enriching one for our students and to our parent community for coming in to share the learning with us.
C3-4 Beyond the Walls - Scaling New Heights at Rock Domain
On Thursday, 22 February, our C 3-4 had an exciting trip to Rock Domain climbing gym. It was a special day outside our usual classroom, where everyone learned about working together, being brave, and not giving up. This trip was part of their Learning Lab, pushing them to try hard and showcase how well they can self-regulate and exhibit resilience.
We asked the learners how they felt before and after climbing, and it was amazing to see their reflections. They transitioned from feeling a bit scared to being proud and excited about what they could accomplish next. Their stories demonstrated how much they grew from this adventure, proving that taking action, not just talking about it, helps create strong, confident kids.
Climbing up the walls wasn’t merely about reaching the top; it also helped develop confidence and self-esteem. It illustrated how engaging our bodies in activities can positively impact our minds. Thursday’s Beyond the Walls experience taught us that being brave extends beyond the classroom; sometimes, you discover it when climbing outside your comfort zone.
EY2-3 Frogs in Focus: Leaping into Learning at the EY2-3 Learning Lab!
In the EY2-3 Learning Lab, our young explorers are currently delving into the fascinating world of animals and their fundamental needs for survival and growth. As part of this captivating journey, our focus this week revolves around the intricate life cycle of various creatures, with a special spotlight on frogs.
One of the engaging stations in our learning space invites children to embark on a creative adventure using play dough. Here, they can sculpt and mold the different stages of a frog's life, from the tiny tadpole to the fully matured amphibian. This hands-on activity sparks imagination and allows for a tangible exploration of the frog's developmental journey.
Another captivating area features a water tray adorned with miniature frogs and lily pads, creating a miniaturized version of the frog's natural habitat. Children are encouraged to immerse themselves in small-world play, providing them with a sensory-rich experience of the frog's ecosystem.
To weave a thread of mathematics into our exploration, we've introduced playful number frogs for the children to investigate. This not only enhances their mathematical skills but also adds an exciting dimension to their understanding of the frog's world. Complementing this, we've embraced the joy of music by incorporating the beloved tune '5 Little Speckled Frogs' into our activities. Through song and rhythm, we aim to reinforce the concepts in a delightful and memorable way.
We are confident that this multi-sensory and interdisciplinary approach will not only deepen the children's comprehension of the frog's life cycle but also ignite and nurture their innate curiosity and passion for learning. Stay tuned for more exciting adventures in the world of discovery at our Learning Lab!
Unveiling Environmental Heroes: EY4-5's Eco Odyssey with Precious Plastics and Love Wildlife!
This BTW adventure was an integral part of our "People and Nature" Learning Lab, where learners had the unique opportunity to engage with two outstanding organizations - Precious Plastics and Love Wildlife. The primary focus of the trip was to delve into the profound impact of plastic pollution on marine life and explore innovative solutions through upcycling. At Precious Plastics, our learners actively participated in workshops, gaining insights into the world of plastic reusability. They discovered the art of transforming discarded plastic into new, functional items, marking a crucial step towards a sustainable and eco-friendly future. Furthering their understanding of marine conservation, the learners immersed themselves in a workshop with Love Wildlife, hosted by Nature Inc. Here, they delved into the intricate world of sea turtles, learning to identify these majestic creatures and understanding the dire effects of microplastics on their species. The workshop not only raised awareness about the challenges faced by marine life but also empowered our learners with the knowledge of how small actions, like repurposing plastic bottle caps, can contribute to positive change. The trip served as a catalyst for fostering environmental stewardship among our learners, instilling in them a sense of responsibility towards the planet. The hands-on experiences, coupled with engaging workshops, not only broadened their perspectives but also sparked a curiosity for sustainable practices. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated teams at Precious Plastics, Love Wildlife, and Nature Inc. for providing our learners with a memorable and educational experience. Special thanks to our learners for their enthusiasm and eagerness to learn. Stay tuned for more captivating journeys in EY4-5 as we continue to weave the tapestry of knowledge and discovery here at VERSO! |
We hope you enjoyed the Lower Loop Latest! Enjoy the Spring Break Holiday with your families. We are already looking forward to the learners returning to us on Monday, 4 March. It will be a Day E.
Wishing you a safe and happy holiday.
By Cushla Jones