Did you know research shows that exercise promotes improved school attendance and enhances academic performances?
Children of today are growing up in a society where using technology is one of the primary activities they are involved in, this has resulted in them not being as physically active in their home environments. Experiences and activities that enable and teach positive risk-taking and encouraged self-discovery are another component that has been lost with the decrease in physical play and activity. On the other hand, school learning has also changed dramatically where students are now offered a more hands on experience, however, more children are beginning their school journey less prepared with the motor and perceptual skills required to work successfully in this environment.
To help overcome these challenges, the Mt Ridley campus will be introducing a Perceptual Motor Program (PMP) called Smart Start. The Prep students will begin this in Term 2 and it will include both parent helpers as well as some of Year 6 student leaders assisting with the movement stations. PMP is already successfully running at the Donnybrook campus, so we are very excited to now be able to extend this program.
Other highlights that are currently happening in Primary RAVE, Health and PE are:
- The Year Prep, 1 and 2 students at Donnybrook are currently enjoying participating in their Swimming program and Mt Ridley’s Year 1 and 2s will begin swimming next Monday.
- Hume tennis coaches are currently teaching all of our Year 3 students Hot Shots.
- Year 5 RAVE students have been inspired through the documentary of ‘Ryan’s Well’ and are looking at hopes and dreams and personal goal setting as well as the stories of the early Israelites and early Christians.
- It has been great to see the Year 1s and some the Year 2 classes begin their morning with physical activity each day
- Year 4s are currently creating advertisements that focus on Healthy food choices and are exploring how their food choices can be influenced by the media and advertising.
- Mt Ridley Preps have been currently learning about Jesus and have thoroughly enjoyed using the large felt board to tell stories.
- As part of our work to meet the Child Safety standards and linking closely with the Wellbeing team, students have been involved in a curriculum cyber safety program. This is a good time to remember that Cyber Safety is not just something we learn about in class but should be something we are actively conversing as a regular part of family conversations.
We are very excited to see the students working so well this term and look forward to what the rest of the year has to offer.
