This term in Year 5, our students have been engaged in some fantastic learning experiences! From diving deep into exciting new topics in Religion and Science to developing their teamwork skills in PE/Sport, the children have shown great enthusiasm and curiosity. It's been wonderful to see their confidence grow as they tackle new challenges, explore creative ideas, and make meaningful connections in their learning journey so far this term.

Stage 3 Camp to Berry Sport and Recreation
We couldn’t let the opportunity pass us by without sharing a few of our Stage 3 camp experiences from late last term. Year 5 had an unforgettable adventure at Berry Camp, filled with fun challenges and new experiences. Highlights included some capsizing boats during canoeing, (much to everyone's excitement), scaling the climbing wall with determination, aiming for bullseye in archery, and cooking delicious damper over an open fire. It was a fantastic opportunity for students to build resilience, teamwork, and lifelong memories with our friends. It really was a fun three days with lots of laughs.

Sienna: ‘In week 9 last term, we went on a majestic adventure to Berry, I was left astonished. When we arrived we ate lunch, (By the way we had a delicious honey soy chicken wrap). But, the first activity that I got when we got there was canoeing and uhh. Some goofballs tipped over! Crazy right?! Then we had lots and lots of fun playing yeet Bob! I was so shocked because there were mansions that we could've seen if we explored more beyond the river. After we went canoeing we put our canoes back, and walked up back to the freeplay area. We had some time to play. I tried pickleball for the first time, it was awesome! After our freetime, Went back to our cabins. We got changed and had some dinner. Dinner was spaghetti bolognese. After dinner, We went back to our cabins, changed into pyjamas and cleaned our teeth. We Played charades (WHICH WAS SOOOO FUN!) And then it was time for night activities! Once the night activities finished we all headed to bed. Day one was done!’

Lewis: ‘At Berry we had a blast, It was AWESOME! There was so much to do. Once we arrived at Berry, we got into groups. I noticed my group was doing rock climbing first. We were called the Fierce Wombats. When we got into the hall we had to put on harnesses to keep us safe, Because safety is most important. It was scary at first but I love it now.’

Aria: I was very happy that the weather was just perfect the whole time! The sunny skies made the activities even better. My favourite thing was canoeing, the highlight was definitely everyone capsizing. But, I also enjoyed working with my friends in the canoe. Our instructor Zac said we weren't allowed to swim in the lake. He said it was because of the rain, so when we finished we did a game of splashing everyone. It was so much fun! Another highlight was going indoor rock climbing. We had to get into small groups, then approach the rock wall to attach ourselves to the rope . Once you attached yourself to the rope you would say “check one” after this we yelled, “WEDGIE!”It was so funny! After we did a few rounds of rock climbing, we stepped it up and did it blindfolded.

Cooking Damper was a blast! We had to get a stick, put the dough on the stick and cook it on the fire. Mine didn't look very appealing at all. It was burnt, and when we finished cooking it, we put maple syrup inside. My hands were covered with maple syrup. It was a sticky moment!’

HSIE
In History Year 5 students have been wrapping up their exploration of the formation of the Australian Federation in 1901 through an engaging research task. They investigated the key contributions of the founding fathers—Sir Edmund Barton, Henry Parkes, and Alfred Deakin—focusing on their visions for a united Australian nation. Students examined how these influential leaders promoted ideas such as national unity, fair governance, and democratic representation, deepening their understanding of Australia’s journey to becoming a federation.

Pete Cromer Art
During Art lessons,, Year 5 students showed determination and perseverance as they created beautiful artworks inspired by Australian artist Pete Cromer. Using a combination of paper craft, watercolour painting, and shading techniques, each student carefully designed a unique and thoughtful piece as a special Mother’s Day gift. Their creativity and effort truly shone through, and we hope all the mums loved their heartfelt, handmade surprises! Some of their results were just beautiful!

Carroll College Day
Last Friday, Year 5 students had an exciting afternoon at Carroll College Day, where they took part in a range of fun activities to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Carroll College Broulee. From the laughter of tug-o-war and pool noodle balance fights to the energy of obstacle courses and pull-up challenges, the day was packed with lots of laughs.To top it all off, students enjoyed the awesome atmosphere of the Battle of the Bands, making it a memorable and fun way to finish the day.

Religion
This term in Religion, we will be investigating the topic titled: ‘Sacraments strengthen and nourish believers to live spirit filled lives’. We will be learning about the Holy Spirit, its representations through images, its significance within the rite of Confirmation and where/how the Holy Spirit is at work in our everyday lives. We have started the unit by learning about Mantras and creating our own mantra to help us feel closer to God when we are praying. 

English
This term, Year 5 has begun reading a new shared novel,
The Black Cockatoo by Carl Merrison and Hakea Hustler.
The story has already sparked thoughtful discussions as students explore important themes such as family,
culture, and standing up for what is right. 

My Body, My Life program
On Tuesday, our students participated in the My Body, My Life program. This Personal Development program was delivered by the Canberra Goulburn Archdiocesan Relationships Team, Catholic Education and focussed on growing and changing, personal hygiene, peer pressure, friendships and embracing our own uniqueness. This program was gently delivered and sparked some really interesting and important conversations within a safe, supportive and comfortable environment. 

Dhurga
This week, students began Dhurga lessons with Mr Riley Nolan. The study of Aboriginal Languages enables students to communicate in the target language and learn about the vital role that language has in the transmission of Aboriginal cultures. The study of Aboriginal Languages provides a unique opportunity to learn about and extend respect to Aboriginal Languages and cultures. Stage 3 students will be introduced to phonemes in Dhurga language and will begin by referencing the ‘Dhurga Dictionary and Learner’s Grammar a south-east coast, NSW Aboriginal Language Handbook’., developed by locals Trish Ellis and Kerry Boyenga. The students loved our first language lesson with Mr Nolan and started off our learning with simple conversational language such as hello, good morning/afternoon, yes/no and ‘how are you?’

Mrs Megan Grant
Year 5 Teacher