Zensational idea to keep students focussed - plus more
SCHOOL WRAP
Students at Wonga Beach State School start the day more relaxed than ever with the arrival of a true ‘Zen Zone’.
The school’s Student Council has implemented a ‘Zen Zone’ for their students to use before school and at lunch times. They have loved having the space to relax and some of the teachers seem to like it too.
The Zen Zone will allow students who may be experiencing strong emotions to take a mental break, practice mindfulness breathing exercises and utilise calm down strategies that work for them in a safe and welcoming environment.
Wonga Beach Year 4-6 students also participated in the Cairns Sport Spectacular event held last Friday.
Principal Noami Tait likes to give a special thank you to the Port Douglas Combined Club for sponsoring the school’s participation in the event.
“Our students were extremely grateful and we can’t wait to see them put their sporting skills to use in our upcoming events,” she said.
MEANTIME IN OTHER SCHOOL NEWS…
Reading Buddy Program
Eating pikelets while reading to other students. That is what some dedicated students from Mossman High School will be doing every Friday at the neighbouring Mossman State Primary School in a new initiative between the two schools.
A small group of Year 7 and Year 8 students went through an application process to express their interest in being part of the program. Last Friday morning was the kick off with the student’s first visit to the Reading Room.
Belinda Guthrie, Head of Engagement for Year 7 and 8 accompanied our Reading Buddies for the first visit.
“All participants thoroughly enjoyed the interaction with the primary school students and we all appreciated the wonderful warm atmosphere that is present in the Reading Room,” she said.
“Ms Pam gave us a run down of how to support the students with their decoding and identifying letter sounds.
“We are all very excited about continuing with this program and have definitely chosen the best day of the week to visit as Ms Pam makes pikelets for the Reading Room visitors and helpers on a Friday.”
Swinging mornings at St Augustine’s Primary
This week the school launched their pre-morning zumba sessions which will take place every Wednesday morning at 8.30am.
The school hopes to encourage all of our community members to start the day with movement and music.
At our Douglas Shire schools there is always something happening. Each week Newsport sums up the events, achievements and news from the schools that make our region great. If you would like to be included in the weekly wrap-ups please contact jamie@newsport.com.au.