Week 5 - Inquiry and Respect

This week is Reconciliation Week, and year 6 have had the opportunity to lead a 'Yarning Circle' in their Multi Age Support Groups.  Over the last few weeks, we have been learning about a traditional Aboriginal way of learning called the Yarning Circle.  (see previous posts)

On Wednesday Year 6 and Year 5 led their groups of students, aged from Cottage to Year 6, through the process of yarning.  They started with a Welcome to Country that recognised the importance of the land and the Eora People as its Traditional Owners.  Through story telling they explored the idea of what reconciliation is, and why it is important.  They shared stories and passed around the talking rock as students spoke and listened to each other.  The stories shared were about friendships gone wrong, but restored.  Then about a time they may have felt disrespected.  Students then shared an 'Imagine if..' story, suggesting ways we could ensure that we respect and recognise Aboriginal Culture right here in our school.

All the Year 6 students led incredibly well, supported by their Year 5 colleagues.  Several teachers commented to me about how impressed they were with how it was run by the students. Congratulations Year 6 on an impressive and well led special reconciliation lunch.

We also investigated the link between forces and energy in Science this week by completing some experiments in the Hall with balls, a pear on a rope and a drum.  Ask your child about what they learnt from the experiences...

The photos below are of both these events. I hope you enjoy this window into our week.