Exploring Cultural Heritage through Mask Making: A Creative Journey with Modroc!

Year 6 students recently embarked on an inspiring project using Modroc, a plaster bandage material. With Modroc students created unique cultural masks that reflect their diverse backgrounds and personal identities. This hands-on activity not only allowed students to delve into the artistry of mask making but also fostered a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other’s cultural heritage.

The process began with students moulding Modroc on their faces to create a perfect fit for their masks. This experience was both exciting and slightly unusual as plaster was applied directly to their skin. Students described the sensation as "refreshing like a facial" and the need to stay still while the Modroc set encouraged patience and mindfulness. Once the masks dried, the true fun began.

Leading up to this, students had researched their own cultural backgrounds or a culture that they wanted to reflect, seeking inspiration from traditional symbols, designs, and colours. They then painted their masks. Students chose symbols and designs that held specific meaning to them, reflecting their individuality and the richness of their cultural roots.

As we reflect on this experience, we are reminded of the wisdom in Romans 12:4-5:

"For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others."

Through the mask-making project, students not only honed their artistic skills but also gained valuable insights into the beauty of cultural diversity. We are proud of their hard work and the meaningful connections they have forged through this creative journey.

National Reconciliation Week 2024: Now More Than Ever

We are incredibly thankful for the involvement of all the students who helped create the amazing display in our school library. The display showcases artwork that beautifully represents the spirit of reconciliation.

Yesterday, we held our annual Learning Expo from 9:15am to 10:30am. Parents, grandparents and other loved ones were welcomed into the different learning spaces of our school, to share in our students' learning. I was fortunate to be able to walk around the different classrooms and witness students eagerly sharing their knowledge and skills. The classrooms were a buzz of excitement and full of energy.  

There are many ways that we celebrate learning in our school. We celebrate students at our weekly assemblies, Chapels and in our newsletters. We share highlights on our Instagram account, and we showcase student work on pinboards around the school and in classrooms. It was wonderful to have the opportunity to open our doors and classrooms yesterday and celebrate with our school community in person. When we acknowledge and celebrate the work of our students, we are saying that we are proud of them.  

I recently read a short blog written by Bradley Busch entitled 4 Reasons Why It’s Important To Say “I’m Proud Of You” To Your Child. He states that this positive phrase can reduce the fear of failure, increase self-esteem, and stop a fixed mindset. But most importantly it is what our children want to hear.  

”Saying “I’m proud of you” is so simple, yet research has proved this type of sentence to have very powerful effects. When children hear this phrase from their parents they are less likely to fear failure and instead feel encouraged to learn and try new techniques. They also experience an increased sense of self-worth, which leads to improvements in wellbeing and social relationships.”  

If you didn’t make it to the Learning Expo yesterday, I encourage you to take time to talk to your child about what they are learning in class, do some homework together or drop by the classroom and spend a few moments together looking at their work. Let's celebrate learning together, ensure our students know that we are proud of them and make our school a place where everyone can shine! 

Anywho, while I was there, I saw one of the Bunnings attendants placing a few, very wilted and dead looking peace lilies into new pots. Probably to aid in the selling of the dying plant. And after a bit of an inspection, I thought to myself, "Yeah I can take it home and try to save it."

But thinking back, I really didn’t do much at all, I just gave it some water and placed it in the right spot. I didn’t tell the plant to take nutrients from the watered soil or draw energy from the sun.

We can all be gardeners for God and help His Kingdom grow.

Ensuring Quality Sleep for School-Age Children

Adequate sleep is crucial for children aged 5-11 years, as it significantly impacts their mood, health, and academic performance. According to experts, children in this age group need 9-11 hours of sleep each night. Proper sleep enhances concentration, emotional regulation, and overall well-being, reducing the risk of illness by boosting the immune system.

Establishing a consistent bedtime routine is essential for promoting good sleep habits. This can include activities like putting on pyjamas, brushing teeth, and engaging in calming activities such as reading a book or listening to soft music. It's also beneficial to maintain regular sleep and wake times, even on weekends, and to ensure the sleeping environment is quiet and dimly lit.

Minimizing screen time before bed and ensuring exposure to natural light during the day can also help regulate sleep patterns.

For children experiencing sleep issues such as bedwetting, sleep apnoea, night terrors, or sleepwalking, it's important to consult a healthcare professional. These issues often resolve with age, but professional advice can provide tailored strategies to manage them effectively.

Encouraging good sleep hygiene and addressing any sleep-related concerns promptly can help children enjoy restful nights and energetic days, ready to take on the challenges of school and play. For more detailed information, you can visit Raising Children Network.

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Term 2 Book Club