Well we are now on the countdown until the end of a wonderful year of learning. I cannot believe how fast this year has gone. I am excited for the children who will move into a new 'era' of middle school learning opportunities.
It is busy from now on with trips, assemblies, visits to Cantabria and Fergusson Rest Homes. Here is the update for week 8.
We will be practising our nativity play and refining it. My father from Scotland has asked that we present this to him and some of his church friends via Skype so Karen and I will organise this during the week. Please ensure that your child has his/her costume at school. If you are having problems sourcing costumes, please let me know so that I can help.
On Friday we will have our Playtopia trip. We will leave school at 10:15 am and return close to 1 pm. Thank you to all the parents who have offered to come. I have managed to secure an excellent deal for our fish and chips from Bellevue Fish and chip shop. The cost is $2.75 per child for 3 fish bites and chips. We will use the other 25 cents wisely for another treat!!!
I will keep you updated for week 9 next Sunday
Have a lovely week
Saturday, 30 November 2013
Saturday, 16 November 2013
Week 6 Term 4
Another lovely weekend
Last week the children spent less time than expected in the pool. It was noticeable that children in both classes weren't bringing their togs to school. This was quite surprising for many parents and for Karen and me too. We questioned the children about their likes and dislikes about the pool and swimming, and the only response that came through was that it was too cold. They found the pool warm but the changing before and after made it decidedly unpleasant. I shiver just standing on the side!!!! Unfortunately we are not able to change the timing of the little ones' swimming. We need to fit in with other timetabling for the middle and senior school children. The only other way around this is for the children to change in the classrooms before and after the lesson. Not ideal but at least it's warmer. Hopefully more children will bring their togs during week 7. If your child is unable to swim due to medical reasons, we will require a note. Swimming is part of the Physical Education programme and children can't opt out unless they are unwell.
This Friday will be attending mass at 9am to celebrate Tara Chapman's 7th Birthday.
I have booked an end of term treat for the Year 2 crew at Playtopia on December 6 and would really appreciate some parent helpers for the day. We will be walking there and back. The entrance fee for each child is already covered due to our wonderful fundraising efforts earlier in the year. We would also like to organise a fish and chips lunch on our return to school so if you know of a place that would give us a great deal for 50 children, can you please let me know.
Our end of tear junior picnic will be held in the school grounds on Thursday 12 December from 9:15am -12:30pm. You are all welcome to come and join us for an exciting morning.
Karen and I are delighted to note that most children have learned their nativity play lines by heart. From week7, the children not be using their scripts. Thank you all for supporting your child in their learning of lines. We would appreciate costumes being ready by Week 8. These need to come in a named plastic bag, and will remain at school until after the performance.
Have a lovely week
Last week the children spent less time than expected in the pool. It was noticeable that children in both classes weren't bringing their togs to school. This was quite surprising for many parents and for Karen and me too. We questioned the children about their likes and dislikes about the pool and swimming, and the only response that came through was that it was too cold. They found the pool warm but the changing before and after made it decidedly unpleasant. I shiver just standing on the side!!!! Unfortunately we are not able to change the timing of the little ones' swimming. We need to fit in with other timetabling for the middle and senior school children. The only other way around this is for the children to change in the classrooms before and after the lesson. Not ideal but at least it's warmer. Hopefully more children will bring their togs during week 7. If your child is unable to swim due to medical reasons, we will require a note. Swimming is part of the Physical Education programme and children can't opt out unless they are unwell.
This Friday will be attending mass at 9am to celebrate Tara Chapman's 7th Birthday.
I have booked an end of term treat for the Year 2 crew at Playtopia on December 6 and would really appreciate some parent helpers for the day. We will be walking there and back. The entrance fee for each child is already covered due to our wonderful fundraising efforts earlier in the year. We would also like to organise a fish and chips lunch on our return to school so if you know of a place that would give us a great deal for 50 children, can you please let me know.
Our end of tear junior picnic will be held in the school grounds on Thursday 12 December from 9:15am -12:30pm. You are all welcome to come and join us for an exciting morning.
Karen and I are delighted to note that most children have learned their nativity play lines by heart. From week7, the children not be using their scripts. Thank you all for supporting your child in their learning of lines. We would appreciate costumes being ready by Week 8. These need to come in a named plastic bag, and will remain at school until after the performance.
Have a lovely week
Saturday, 2 November 2013
Week 4 term 4
Wow, what a wonderful weekend we've had; I hope this beautiful weather continues.
The children enjoyed time in the pool last week and I was so impressed to note that most children brought their swimming gear to each session.
I was absolutely delighted with the results from Spelling, Writing and Maths testing. Most children are ready to move into middle school with confidence.
This week (Tuesday) we have Andrew Chin coming to school for a musical day. The learning the children do during the day with this very talented musician, will culminate in an evening performance at church on Tuesday from 6:30-7:30pm. All children are expected to attend and of course our class would love to show off their beautiful singing skills to parents.
Please keep working with your children on our end of year nativity play. At the moment, the girls are certainly well ahead at learning their words. Come on boys, you can do it!
The Health Promoting Team has requested that each child bring a piece of fruit to school on Friday. Each child will be able to sample some delicious treats which will be made by this enthusiastic team of children
I hope you all have a lovely week
P.S No swimming this week.
The children enjoyed time in the pool last week and I was so impressed to note that most children brought their swimming gear to each session.
I was absolutely delighted with the results from Spelling, Writing and Maths testing. Most children are ready to move into middle school with confidence.
This week (Tuesday) we have Andrew Chin coming to school for a musical day. The learning the children do during the day with this very talented musician, will culminate in an evening performance at church on Tuesday from 6:30-7:30pm. All children are expected to attend and of course our class would love to show off their beautiful singing skills to parents.
Please keep working with your children on our end of year nativity play. At the moment, the girls are certainly well ahead at learning their words. Come on boys, you can do it!
The Health Promoting Team has requested that each child bring a piece of fruit to school on Friday. Each child will be able to sample some delicious treats which will be made by this enthusiastic team of children
I hope you all have a lovely week
P.S No swimming this week.
Sunday, 27 October 2013
Week 3 term 4
I hope you all had a wonderful weekend and are ready for a short week.
This week we have swimming. Our time is between 9 and 10 am. Some of the class will be going with room 17 and vice versa. This is so we can continue with our maths programme. We will be starting our assessments this week so that reports are ready to go out in time.
The children once again completed some lovely descriptive poems last week. This was the introduction to narrative writing where children need to carefully observe and describe a setting, character or something from nature.
The year 2 crew started rehearsing the nativity play for the end of year prize giving. Thank you to the parents who are helping their child with their lines. As in the past, we hope that the children can perform without their scripts. A wonderful achievement for children so young. We will start practising the Christmas Carols this week. If you have any problems accessing costumes, please let me know. A letter came home on Thursday outlining what your child's part is and their costume requirements
On Thursday at 8.45 am we will continue with the Rosary in the school hall. If your child has rosary beads, please allow them to bring them to school.
Our literacy and numeracy programmes continue to be the focus for learning
I hope you all have a lovely week
This week we have swimming. Our time is between 9 and 10 am. Some of the class will be going with room 17 and vice versa. This is so we can continue with our maths programme. We will be starting our assessments this week so that reports are ready to go out in time.
The children once again completed some lovely descriptive poems last week. This was the introduction to narrative writing where children need to carefully observe and describe a setting, character or something from nature.
The year 2 crew started rehearsing the nativity play for the end of year prize giving. Thank you to the parents who are helping their child with their lines. As in the past, we hope that the children can perform without their scripts. A wonderful achievement for children so young. We will start practising the Christmas Carols this week. If you have any problems accessing costumes, please let me know. A letter came home on Thursday outlining what your child's part is and their costume requirements
On Thursday at 8.45 am we will continue with the Rosary in the school hall. If your child has rosary beads, please allow them to bring them to school.
Our literacy and numeracy programmes continue to be the focus for learning
I hope you all have a lovely week
Saturday, 12 October 2013
Week 1 Term 4
Welcome back and I hope you all had a lovely holiday. The weather during the first week was magnificent so I spent many hours in the garden.
Karen and I have planned another exciting term of learning for your lovely children.
The concept this term is Symbolism and we will be experiencing learning through this concept in a variety of ways. The maths topic focus is Geometry, specifically 2D and 3D shapes. We will of course continue with number.
We will be investigating signs and symbols around the school and neighbourhood. We will also look at signs and symbols of Christmas through narrative writing.
The Year 2 crew will be performing the nativity play as part of Music and Drama. Every child will be participating and will have lines to learn so this will be homework for the term beginning week 2.
We will be swimming this term too, more information to follow.
PLEASE REMEMBER THAT ON TUESDAY MORNING FROM 9 AM, THE JUNIOR TEAM WILL BE VISITING RAINBOW SPRINGS. EACH CHILD WILL NEED TO PROVIDE A BOOSTER/CAR SEAT. WE ALSO NEED LOTS MORE PARENTS TO HELP. IF YOU ARE ABLE TO TRANSPORT AND SUPERVISE 3 CHILDREN PLEASE LET ME KNOW BY TOMORROW. THANK YOU TO THE PARENTS WHO HAVE ALREADY OFFERED TO HELP. YOU WILL NEED TO COMPLETE THE TRANSPORT FORMS WHICH I GAVE OUT ON THE LAST FRIDAY OF TERM AND HAND THEM TO ME ON EITHER MONDAY OR TUESDAY MORNINGS. PLEASE CHECK THE NOTICE GIVEN OUT AT THE END OF TERM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.
I have no doubt that we will enjoy our last term as a class/ team and thank you all for your ongoing support.
Karen and I have planned another exciting term of learning for your lovely children.
The concept this term is Symbolism and we will be experiencing learning through this concept in a variety of ways. The maths topic focus is Geometry, specifically 2D and 3D shapes. We will of course continue with number.
We will be investigating signs and symbols around the school and neighbourhood. We will also look at signs and symbols of Christmas through narrative writing.
The Year 2 crew will be performing the nativity play as part of Music and Drama. Every child will be participating and will have lines to learn so this will be homework for the term beginning week 2.
We will be swimming this term too, more information to follow.
PLEASE REMEMBER THAT ON TUESDAY MORNING FROM 9 AM, THE JUNIOR TEAM WILL BE VISITING RAINBOW SPRINGS. EACH CHILD WILL NEED TO PROVIDE A BOOSTER/CAR SEAT. WE ALSO NEED LOTS MORE PARENTS TO HELP. IF YOU ARE ABLE TO TRANSPORT AND SUPERVISE 3 CHILDREN PLEASE LET ME KNOW BY TOMORROW. THANK YOU TO THE PARENTS WHO HAVE ALREADY OFFERED TO HELP. YOU WILL NEED TO COMPLETE THE TRANSPORT FORMS WHICH I GAVE OUT ON THE LAST FRIDAY OF TERM AND HAND THEM TO ME ON EITHER MONDAY OR TUESDAY MORNINGS. PLEASE CHECK THE NOTICE GIVEN OUT AT THE END OF TERM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.
I have no doubt that we will enjoy our last term as a class/ team and thank you all for your ongoing support.
Monday, 23 September 2013
Week 9 Term 3
Wow, we got here and I know that all our lovely children are ready for a well deserved holiday. I hope the weather is kind to us during the holidays. I hope to spend lots of time in my garden preparing for planting.
On Friday, the year 2 crew will be having a pirate party to celebrate our concept of enterprise. Children are asked to dress as pirates (school uniforms will need to be worn to and from school). We will be having a pizza lunch with ice cream for dessert.
Home Reading logs will come home this week for holiday reading. Please make an effort to encourage your child to read and complete these during the holidays. Our class would love to win the prize for most home reading forms handed in.
Thank you all for your support and I hope you have a lovely holiday with your family.
On Friday, the year 2 crew will be having a pirate party to celebrate our concept of enterprise. Children are asked to dress as pirates (school uniforms will need to be worn to and from school). We will be having a pizza lunch with ice cream for dessert.
Home Reading logs will come home this week for holiday reading. Please make an effort to encourage your child to read and complete these during the holidays. Our class would love to win the prize for most home reading forms handed in.
Thank you all for your support and I hope you have a lovely holiday with your family.
Saturday, 14 September 2013
week 8 term 3
Counting down to end of term........
What a busy week we had. The Te Ngae maze was a great success and many children were able to apply enterprising skills as the made their way through the maze. Check out the photos on the Year 2 Crew page. Ask your child which skills they used. Once again a huge thank you to parents who came along. It has been a great priviledge to work so closely with you during the year. The positive effects of the triangulation in education between parents, child and teacher is so important so its great to see you regularly both formally and informally.
The children who were working with me completing their tessellations project worked so hard, persevering until their work was completed to a very high standard. I have also been very impressed by the quality of writing coming from my group. The children are now able to work for longer periods of time on their work and this is reflected in the quality.
This week we will be starting our assessments and portfolios will be kept up to date.
We will be completing the Peters Spelling Test, Basic facts 10 minute test and a handwriting sample.
I hope you all have a lovely week
What a busy week we had. The Te Ngae maze was a great success and many children were able to apply enterprising skills as the made their way through the maze. Check out the photos on the Year 2 Crew page. Ask your child which skills they used. Once again a huge thank you to parents who came along. It has been a great priviledge to work so closely with you during the year. The positive effects of the triangulation in education between parents, child and teacher is so important so its great to see you regularly both formally and informally.
The children who were working with me completing their tessellations project worked so hard, persevering until their work was completed to a very high standard. I have also been very impressed by the quality of writing coming from my group. The children are now able to work for longer periods of time on their work and this is reflected in the quality.
This week we will be starting our assessments and portfolios will be kept up to date.
We will be completing the Peters Spelling Test, Basic facts 10 minute test and a handwriting sample.
I hope you all have a lovely week
Saturday, 31 August 2013
Week 6 Term 3
Spring is in the air at last!!!
Wow, what a week. The year 2 crew are delighted to announce that the total profit from our enterprising food sales was ........ $753!!!!! This will fund our trip to the Maze on September 10 and also another trip next term. Thank you to everyone who made this possible, especially all the lovely ladies who helped at school. The children had a great time peeling and chopping vegetables.
We farewelled our student teacher Lori on Friday so it's back to Mrs Pinfold cracking the whip.
Poor Wyatt had a nasty accident on the new playground and is now sporting a full arm cast. What a way to avoid writing!!!
Aaron will be singing the response psalm at Mass on Friday so please come and support him. Aaron has been practising for this.
Maths testing has now been completed and most children have made good progress. Keep practising the basic facts at home.
I hope you all have a lovely week.
Wow, what a week. The year 2 crew are delighted to announce that the total profit from our enterprising food sales was ........ $753!!!!! This will fund our trip to the Maze on September 10 and also another trip next term. Thank you to everyone who made this possible, especially all the lovely ladies who helped at school. The children had a great time peeling and chopping vegetables.
We farewelled our student teacher Lori on Friday so it's back to Mrs Pinfold cracking the whip.
Poor Wyatt had a nasty accident on the new playground and is now sporting a full arm cast. What a way to avoid writing!!!
Aaron will be singing the response psalm at Mass on Friday so please come and support him. Aaron has been practising for this.
Maths testing has now been completed and most children have made good progress. Keep practising the basic facts at home.
I hope you all have a lovely week.
Sunday, 25 August 2013
Week 5 term 3
Wow! What a week! The nachos fundraiser was a huge hit. We made over $500 profit. A very special thank you to Lisi, Annette, Susie and Michelle who were amazing in the preparation and delivery of the nachos to classes. Check out the photos below. A great production line.
The children in room 16 performed beautifully for assembly and also did a great job running the assembly too. The children and I were absolutely delighted to see a great turnout of parents who came to watch.
Thank you also to all the parents who came to our maths evening: 73 parents altogether. We hope that the evening was helpful to you and that the handouts prove to be useful.
This week we will be carrying out our final fundraising for a while. The children, along with our amazing parent helpers, will be making soup to sell to the school on Thursday. Please refer to a previous letter home for requests for ingredients for the soup. If you are able to help please see or e mail me. This event also supports our concept 'Enterprise' and Procedural writing.
This is the last week for our lovely student Lori Kershaw. We will be having a Teddy Bear's picnic on Friday at lunchtime as a farewell for Lori. Thank you Lori you have proved to be a wonderful teacher in our room.
Monday, 12 August 2013
week 3 update
Hello everyone
There is lots happening over the next couple of weeks and I would appreciate your help.
There is lots happening over the next couple of weeks and I would appreciate your help.
- We (the Year 2 Crew) will be making and selling nachos and soup to fundraise for trips
- Room 16 will be performing at assembly on Friday 23 August at 2:15pm
- There will be a maths evening for parents on Wednesday at 5:15pm in rooms 16 and 17 and we strongly urge you to attend. There will be great tips on how to support your child's maths learning at home.
Your child will come home with 2 notices tonight; one requesting food for the soup and nachos, and the other an invitation to our maths evening.
For the assembly, can you send your child with dark pants or skirt and a white shirt or t shirt. Please put these in a named plastic bag. We won't need these until Tuesday next week.
Once again thank you all for your continuing support
Sunday, 11 August 2013
week 3 Term 3 2013
Welcome to week 3
Thank you parents for the outstanding response to parent interviews. I was able to talk with all parents about their child. Its great to know that you all support your child and me in the quest to install in our children a great love for learning. As you are aware, a home/school partnership is vital if we are to optimise learning.
This week, the children will be learning about multiplication strategies which is an important part of maths learning. This involves grouping of numbers.
The children are continuing with procedural writing and to that end I would like to ask that your child provide a piece of fruit on Wednesday to make fruit kebabs. We will be writing the procedure for this on Wednesday and Thursday.
On Wednesday 21 August, the junior team will be running a maths evening from 5:15pm in Rooms 16 and 17. A note will come home on Tuesday to invite you to attend. Please return the fill in slip by Friday so that we know how many goodie packs to make up!
The year 2 crew are planning a trip to the 3D Maze at Te Ngae on Tuesday 10 September. We will be fundraising for this. Next Wednesday we will be making Nachos to sell to the school. If you have a crockpot, can you please let us borrow it. The following week we will sell soup and once again will require crockpots. If you are able to give up some of your time to help us with this, please see Karen Tabuteau or me. More information for this to follow soon. These activities will also support our concept 'Enterprise'.
Check out the photos of our Sushi making and of the children learning about 'probability' in maths.
Have a lovely week
Thank you parents for the outstanding response to parent interviews. I was able to talk with all parents about their child. Its great to know that you all support your child and me in the quest to install in our children a great love for learning. As you are aware, a home/school partnership is vital if we are to optimise learning.
This week, the children will be learning about multiplication strategies which is an important part of maths learning. This involves grouping of numbers.
The children are continuing with procedural writing and to that end I would like to ask that your child provide a piece of fruit on Wednesday to make fruit kebabs. We will be writing the procedure for this on Wednesday and Thursday.
On Wednesday 21 August, the junior team will be running a maths evening from 5:15pm in Rooms 16 and 17. A note will come home on Tuesday to invite you to attend. Please return the fill in slip by Friday so that we know how many goodie packs to make up!
The year 2 crew are planning a trip to the 3D Maze at Te Ngae on Tuesday 10 September. We will be fundraising for this. Next Wednesday we will be making Nachos to sell to the school. If you have a crockpot, can you please let us borrow it. The following week we will sell soup and once again will require crockpots. If you are able to give up some of your time to help us with this, please see Karen Tabuteau or me. More information for this to follow soon. These activities will also support our concept 'Enterprise'.
Check out the photos of our Sushi making and of the children learning about 'probability' in maths.
Have a lovely week
Saturday, 3 August 2013
Week 2 Term 3
Week 2 already, and this is a fairly short term so we will need to get cracking!!!
The children settled really quickly into routines and it has been wonderful to see their growth academically. Most of the children have developed a sound work ethic and I will continue to foster this throughout the remainder of the year. As I said before, our concept is 'Enterprise' and we have some exciting work around this for the children to do. On Monday at 11:30 am, the children in my writing group will be making sushi. The purpose of this is to learn about 'Procedures' which will be our main learning area in writing. It is also an opportunity for the children to be creative, work together and perhaps even solve some problems (sushi can be quite tricky to make!). Would the children from my writing group please bring a gold coin donation to help pay for the ingredients.
We have parent interviews this week, and this is a marvellous opportunity for parents to meet with me to discuss their child's progress. Please ensure you take this opportunity, and of course your child is encouraged to attend. Some parents have already done this. The school newsletter has details about how to make an appointment. If you are unsure, please contact the office and they will do it for you.
On Wednesday 25 August from 5:15pm- 6:15pm, the Junior Team will be holding a Maths Evening in rooms 16 and 17. We will share information about the stages in maths, how we teach the children and how you can support their learning at home. More information about this will follow later.
The Year 2 crew will be having a couple of class trips this term and as usual we will need some parent help. As soon as venues are confirmed, we will give you more information.
I hope you have a great week
The children settled really quickly into routines and it has been wonderful to see their growth academically. Most of the children have developed a sound work ethic and I will continue to foster this throughout the remainder of the year. As I said before, our concept is 'Enterprise' and we have some exciting work around this for the children to do. On Monday at 11:30 am, the children in my writing group will be making sushi. The purpose of this is to learn about 'Procedures' which will be our main learning area in writing. It is also an opportunity for the children to be creative, work together and perhaps even solve some problems (sushi can be quite tricky to make!). Would the children from my writing group please bring a gold coin donation to help pay for the ingredients.
We have parent interviews this week, and this is a marvellous opportunity for parents to meet with me to discuss their child's progress. Please ensure you take this opportunity, and of course your child is encouraged to attend. Some parents have already done this. The school newsletter has details about how to make an appointment. If you are unsure, please contact the office and they will do it for you.
On Wednesday 25 August from 5:15pm- 6:15pm, the Junior Team will be holding a Maths Evening in rooms 16 and 17. We will share information about the stages in maths, how we teach the children and how you can support their learning at home. More information about this will follow later.
The Year 2 crew will be having a couple of class trips this term and as usual we will need some parent help. As soon as venues are confirmed, we will give you more information.
I hope you have a great week
Wednesday, 31 July 2013
Week1 Term 3
Welcome back to term 3
I hope you all enjoyed our lovely weather during the holidays.
Here is some information for the week to keep you up to date
Our concept this term is Enterprise and the children have already been introduced to this.
We have a Canterbury University student in our class for the next 5 weeks. Her name is Lori Kershaw.
Please return completed reading logs to the school office
We have parent interviews next week so please make an appointment to see Karen Tabuteau or me. Information about this came home in the weekly newsletter.
The children have settled back into daily routines well.
Have a lovely week
I hope you all enjoyed our lovely weather during the holidays.
Here is some information for the week to keep you up to date
Our concept this term is Enterprise and the children have already been introduced to this.
We have a Canterbury University student in our class for the next 5 weeks. Her name is Lori Kershaw.
Please return completed reading logs to the school office
We have parent interviews next week so please make an appointment to see Karen Tabuteau or me. Information about this came home in the weekly newsletter.
The children have settled back into daily routines well.
Have a lovely week
Thursday, 25 July 2013
Hello from Australia
Hi everyone, just enjoying a few days in warm and sunny oz. I was delighted to hear that Wyatt has done so well in the World Champs BMX racing. Congratulations for coming 3rd in your age group. What a star you are. Well done to Lachie too!🚲🚲🚲. See you all next week. Looking forward to meeting Braxton too ( Brooke's baby brother).
Saturday, 6 July 2013
Week 10 Term 2
Well we finally got here!
Please check the 'Year 2 Crew' blog for information that pertains to both of our classes this week.
We have been busy working through the many assessment tasks which are required and will continue with these this week. The portfolios will come home at the end of week 1 next term, followed by parent interviews during week 3.
The year 2 hangi will take place on Wednesday and we will be preparing the food on Tuesday from 11 am. We are very short of parent volunteers to help with the food preparation and I am concerned about allowing children to work with knives and peelers unless they are closly monitored. If you can spare an hour from 11 am on Tuesday I would be very appreciative.
Congratulations to Mereana Corbett and Grant Thom on the safe delivery of a new baby boy. Brooke is absolutely delighted to have a little brother. I know you will be a wonderful sister Brooke.
On Friday we farewell Mackenzie from our class. Mackenzie and her family are off to China for 2 years. We hope to be able to skype Mckenzie in her new country. We will all miss you Mackenzie. Have a wonderful adventure.
Please return Hangi forms and money and the 'Milk in Schools' form by Tuesday. We can only provide milk to the children who have returned the forms.
I'd like to take this opportunity to thank you all for the wonderful support this term. The children have enjoyed many wonderful learning experiences; the photos in your child's portfolio will highlight some of our work and play for this term.
Have a safe and happy holiday
Please check the 'Year 2 Crew' blog for information that pertains to both of our classes this week.
We have been busy working through the many assessment tasks which are required and will continue with these this week. The portfolios will come home at the end of week 1 next term, followed by parent interviews during week 3.
The year 2 hangi will take place on Wednesday and we will be preparing the food on Tuesday from 11 am. We are very short of parent volunteers to help with the food preparation and I am concerned about allowing children to work with knives and peelers unless they are closly monitored. If you can spare an hour from 11 am on Tuesday I would be very appreciative.
Congratulations to Mereana Corbett and Grant Thom on the safe delivery of a new baby boy. Brooke is absolutely delighted to have a little brother. I know you will be a wonderful sister Brooke.
On Friday we farewell Mackenzie from our class. Mackenzie and her family are off to China for 2 years. We hope to be able to skype Mckenzie in her new country. We will all miss you Mackenzie. Have a wonderful adventure.
Please return Hangi forms and money and the 'Milk in Schools' form by Tuesday. We can only provide milk to the children who have returned the forms.
I'd like to take this opportunity to thank you all for the wonderful support this term. The children have enjoyed many wonderful learning experiences; the photos in your child's portfolio will highlight some of our work and play for this term.
Have a safe and happy holiday
Saturday, 29 June 2013
Week 9 Term 2
Week 9 Term 2
Welcome to Maori Language week
We will celebrate this by focusing intently on greetings, Maori calendar, Karakia and Waiata. Rooms 16 and 17 will also be weaving for Golden Time on Friday. Heidi will lead this and introduce more Te Reo as we go. Since this is also Matariki, rooms 16 and17 will be supported by the Whanau groupin organising and preparing a Hangi. We will prepare the hangi on Tuesday and Cook it on Wednesday. There will a charge to cover the cost of the food. We are looking for parent volunteers to help with the preparation of food on Tuesday and 'dishing up' on Wednesday. Please speak to me if you are able to help.
This week the class will be completing end of term assessments which will be put in portfolios. You will see some wonderful improvements from term one
The children will be participating in the 'Move It' programme. Please ensure that your child brings their P.E gear to school on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Well done to all the children for competing in the Cross Country challenge. It must have been the coldest day of the year and I was proud to seee the children demonstrate stamina and perseverance. Well done to our winners.
Sara and Lina Stahlhut and family are off to Germany to visit family and friends. We would like to wish you all a safe and happy journey.
Friday is the last day for our student teacher Melva Buchanan. Melva has proved to be a great asset in the classroom. We hope to have her back with us later in the year.
I was absolutely delighted with the high standard of writing (from room 16's writing group) which was inspired by our Hannah's Bay trip. This will be on display in the classroom alonside the Art work made by reusing newspaper and tissue paper. Please make time to view it; you too will be delighted. I will add some pictures of these to the blog during the course of the week.
Welcome to Maori Language week
We will celebrate this by focusing intently on greetings, Maori calendar, Karakia and Waiata. Rooms 16 and 17 will also be weaving for Golden Time on Friday. Heidi will lead this and introduce more Te Reo as we go. Since this is also Matariki, rooms 16 and17 will be supported by the Whanau groupin organising and preparing a Hangi. We will prepare the hangi on Tuesday and Cook it on Wednesday. There will a charge to cover the cost of the food. We are looking for parent volunteers to help with the preparation of food on Tuesday and 'dishing up' on Wednesday. Please speak to me if you are able to help.
This week the class will be completing end of term assessments which will be put in portfolios. You will see some wonderful improvements from term one
The children will be participating in the 'Move It' programme. Please ensure that your child brings their P.E gear to school on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Well done to all the children for competing in the Cross Country challenge. It must have been the coldest day of the year and I was proud to seee the children demonstrate stamina and perseverance. Well done to our winners.
Sara and Lina Stahlhut and family are off to Germany to visit family and friends. We would like to wish you all a safe and happy journey.
Friday is the last day for our student teacher Melva Buchanan. Melva has proved to be a great asset in the classroom. We hope to have her back with us later in the year.
I was absolutely delighted with the high standard of writing (from room 16's writing group) which was inspired by our Hannah's Bay trip. This will be on display in the classroom alonside the Art work made by reusing newspaper and tissue paper. Please make time to view it; you too will be delighted. I will add some pictures of these to the blog during the course of the week.
Saturday, 22 June 2013
Week 8 Term 2 2013
Week 8 Term 2
We are now into the last couple of weeks of a very busy term.
Last week the author of the 'Bear Branches and the Cloud Conundrum' Terri Rose Baynton visited the school. Congratulations to Sarah, Sara, Ariahna, Te Oki and Reegan who were forunate to be selected to join Terri for a workshop. These children were some of the winners of the short story competition. The standard in Room 16 was very high and Mrs O'Leary had difficulty in selecting the eventual winners. All children provided work of a high standard.
This week (Monday) the Junior School will be visiting Hannah's Bay Sustainable Gardens. This visit supports our learning about Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. We will be travelling on the school bus and private transport. Thank you to the parents who have offered to come with us.
The children have also been practising hard for our Cross Country competition which will take place on Thursday at 11 am (weather permitting). We would like to welcome you to cheer on your child.
On Friday, we celebrated the beginning of Matariki by weaving with harakeke and creating some lovely crayon rubbings. A big thank you to Heidi for preparing a wonderful slide show which explained the meaning of Matariki and organising helpers to work with the children in their weaving.
We will be continuing with the theme of Matariki in the next few weeks and a focus on this especially during Maori language week in week 9.
We welcome Mrs Melva Buchanan to our class for 3 weeks. Mrs B. is a first year student from Canterbury University.
I will upload a few photos of our week at school on our photo page.
Have a lovely week
Room 16
We are now into the last couple of weeks of a very busy term.
Last week the author of the 'Bear Branches and the Cloud Conundrum' Terri Rose Baynton visited the school. Congratulations to Sarah, Sara, Ariahna, Te Oki and Reegan who were forunate to be selected to join Terri for a workshop. These children were some of the winners of the short story competition. The standard in Room 16 was very high and Mrs O'Leary had difficulty in selecting the eventual winners. All children provided work of a high standard.
This week (Monday) the Junior School will be visiting Hannah's Bay Sustainable Gardens. This visit supports our learning about Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. We will be travelling on the school bus and private transport. Thank you to the parents who have offered to come with us.
The children have also been practising hard for our Cross Country competition which will take place on Thursday at 11 am (weather permitting). We would like to welcome you to cheer on your child.
On Friday, we celebrated the beginning of Matariki by weaving with harakeke and creating some lovely crayon rubbings. A big thank you to Heidi for preparing a wonderful slide show which explained the meaning of Matariki and organising helpers to work with the children in their weaving.
We will be continuing with the theme of Matariki in the next few weeks and a focus on this especially during Maori language week in week 9.
We welcome Mrs Melva Buchanan to our class for 3 weeks. Mrs B. is a first year student from Canterbury University.
I will upload a few photos of our week at school on our photo page.
Have a lovely week
Room 16
Saturday, 15 June 2013
Week 7 Term 2
Week 7 Term 2
Hello everyone
The term is flying by and the class has been working so hard. I am in the process of completing Reading Running Records on each child from my reading groups (these include children from Karen's homeroom). This gives me the opportunity to assess each child's reading ability individually and I am absolutely delighted with the results.
The children also completed a basic facts in 10 minutes test. Resuls were generally pleasing. Since basic facts knowledge can only be achieved through practise, it is much appreciated if you would do this with your child at home. There is not enough time in a busy day to continually revise and practise this..... we need to keep moving! Addition and subtraction facts to 10 then 20, doubles and halves to 10 and 20. This knowledge should be instant which means that children should not use their fingers to 'work out' answers.
Another area of 'basics' is high frequency words used in writing. These are the spelling words at the front of your child's homework book. Please go over these regularly.
If children know how to spell these words then the writing process is so much easier for them. Once again time is of the essence!
The children are involved in a writing competition. Ask your child what they have been doing. Once again the children's interest in this has been amazing! I came into the classroom on Thursday morning before school had started to see a number of boys with their writing books, getting on with their stories. I couldn't believe my eyes. My aim is for children to develop a love for learning and in this instance this was certainly evident!
We are visiting Hannah's Bay Sustainable Gardens on Monday June 24. If you are able to come with us and bring your car, this would be apprectiated. Children learn so much through experience and the trips this year have highlighted this.
Many thanks to you all for your ongoing support of your child and the class.
Have a lovely week
Hello everyone
The term is flying by and the class has been working so hard. I am in the process of completing Reading Running Records on each child from my reading groups (these include children from Karen's homeroom). This gives me the opportunity to assess each child's reading ability individually and I am absolutely delighted with the results.
The children also completed a basic facts in 10 minutes test. Resuls were generally pleasing. Since basic facts knowledge can only be achieved through practise, it is much appreciated if you would do this with your child at home. There is not enough time in a busy day to continually revise and practise this..... we need to keep moving! Addition and subtraction facts to 10 then 20, doubles and halves to 10 and 20. This knowledge should be instant which means that children should not use their fingers to 'work out' answers.
Another area of 'basics' is high frequency words used in writing. These are the spelling words at the front of your child's homework book. Please go over these regularly.
If children know how to spell these words then the writing process is so much easier for them. Once again time is of the essence!
The children are involved in a writing competition. Ask your child what they have been doing. Once again the children's interest in this has been amazing! I came into the classroom on Thursday morning before school had started to see a number of boys with their writing books, getting on with their stories. I couldn't believe my eyes. My aim is for children to develop a love for learning and in this instance this was certainly evident!
We are visiting Hannah's Bay Sustainable Gardens on Monday June 24. If you are able to come with us and bring your car, this would be apprectiated. Children learn so much through experience and the trips this year have highlighted this.
Many thanks to you all for your ongoing support of your child and the class.
Have a lovely week
Saturday, 25 May 2013
Week 4 term 2
Hello Everyone
Thank you for all keeping up to date with our weekly notices on the year 2 crew blog site. We are off to the museum on Wednesday, so thank you to the parents who offered to help.
We had a wonderful time at the Recycling Centre and thank you again to the parents who were able to come. Without parent assistance, these trips would not be possible.
We are working away at our literacy and numeracy programmes. Please continue to work with your child in spelling and basic facts maths. The reading logs are going really well and 2 children have completed 5 logs since the beginning of the year. Well done!!!
Thank you for all keeping up to date with our weekly notices on the year 2 crew blog site. We are off to the museum on Wednesday, so thank you to the parents who offered to help.
We had a wonderful time at the Recycling Centre and thank you again to the parents who were able to come. Without parent assistance, these trips would not be possible.
We are working away at our literacy and numeracy programmes. Please continue to work with your child in spelling and basic facts maths. The reading logs are going really well and 2 children have completed 5 logs since the beginning of the year. Well done!!!
Saturday, 13 April 2013
Week 12 Term 1
UPDATE: WE WILL HAVE A TEDDY BEARS PICNIC FOR GOLDEN TIME ON FRIDAY. CAN YOU PLEASE SEND A SMALL PLATE OF FOOD TO SHARE.
Hello everyone and welcome to the last week of term 1.
We had a lovely time at the zoo last week. So relaxing!
The zoo educator was amazing and he catered beautifully to our learning intentions for the visit. I was so impressed that the children were able to explain what they were learning and ask relevant questions. Well done children I was very proud of you.
Check out our photopeach slide show
http://photopeach.com/album/ig9b5b
Many thanks Jason for the amazing photos.
A huge thank you also to the parents who supported us on this trip, and a special thank you to Steve and Kylee for allowing us the use of their bus (so comfortable too!)
This week we have 'Leg it" on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings so please ensure that your child has their P.E gear.
We will be completing end of term assessments for portfolio documentation and finishing off our wonderful focus on zoo communities.
Not sure about Golden Time yet. I will chat with the children tomorrow and let you know.
I hope you all enjoy a lovely holiday with your families.
I'm off to Thailand and Singapore to relax on the beach and have some retail therapy.
See you all next term.
Hello everyone and welcome to the last week of term 1.
We had a lovely time at the zoo last week. So relaxing!
The zoo educator was amazing and he catered beautifully to our learning intentions for the visit. I was so impressed that the children were able to explain what they were learning and ask relevant questions. Well done children I was very proud of you.
Check out our photopeach slide show
http://photopeach.com/album/ig9b5b
Many thanks Jason for the amazing photos.
A huge thank you also to the parents who supported us on this trip, and a special thank you to Steve and Kylee for allowing us the use of their bus (so comfortable too!)
This week we have 'Leg it" on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings so please ensure that your child has their P.E gear.
We will be completing end of term assessments for portfolio documentation and finishing off our wonderful focus on zoo communities.
Not sure about Golden Time yet. I will chat with the children tomorrow and let you know.
I hope you all enjoy a lovely holiday with your families.
I'm off to Thailand and Singapore to relax on the beach and have some retail therapy.
See you all next term.
Saturday, 6 April 2013
Week 11 term 1
Week 11 is going to be very busy!!
On Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, the children will be participating in the 'Leg it' programme, so please ensure they have their P.E gear on these days.
Nigel Caley (Brendon's dad) has also offered to bring an ambulance to school and share how he and others help people in our community when they are sick or have had an accident. Thank you Nigel, this certainly supports our 'Communities' Concept.
On Thursday we will go on our much anticipated zoo trip. Notices were sent home last week outlining this day. Please pet me know if you did not get one and I'll send it home with your child on Monday.
Swimming is now finished for the term. The temperature has certainly dropped over the past few days. Autumn has arrived!!
I hope you all have a lovely week, and please congratulate your children on their hard work and determination to do well. Their progress so far is wonderful.
PS Check out our photos page
On Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, the children will be participating in the 'Leg it' programme, so please ensure they have their P.E gear on these days.
Nigel Caley (Brendon's dad) has also offered to bring an ambulance to school and share how he and others help people in our community when they are sick or have had an accident. Thank you Nigel, this certainly supports our 'Communities' Concept.
On Thursday we will go on our much anticipated zoo trip. Notices were sent home last week outlining this day. Please pet me know if you did not get one and I'll send it home with your child on Monday.
Swimming is now finished for the term. The temperature has certainly dropped over the past few days. Autumn has arrived!!
I hope you all have a lovely week, and please congratulate your children on their hard work and determination to do well. Their progress so far is wonderful.
PS Check out our photos page
Monday, 1 April 2013
Week 10 Term 1
It has been really lovely to have an extra long weekend. I hope you enjoyed extra time with your family and friends and didn't eat too many chocolate eggs.
We are now in countdown mode for the zoo trip next week. Another newsletter will go out tomorrow. Children have now been organised into groups and will know tomorrow if they are travelling by car or on the bus.
We have been working hard with our writing and the children have completed lovely pieces of work around our key concept of 'Communities'. We will continue with this during the course of the week. If you have any pipe cleaners and or tissue/crepe paper, we would be delighted to have them for art work to support the children's writing. The children put a lot offort into their work especially when there is an audience for it so we love to provide illustrations for our writing.
There is no written homework this week, just keep up the super reading and basic facts.
I will be retesting the children's spelling tomorrow, so hopefully you will see a new list highlighted in their books next week.
Have a lovely week
Moira
We are now in countdown mode for the zoo trip next week. Another newsletter will go out tomorrow. Children have now been organised into groups and will know tomorrow if they are travelling by car or on the bus.
We have been working hard with our writing and the children have completed lovely pieces of work around our key concept of 'Communities'. We will continue with this during the course of the week. If you have any pipe cleaners and or tissue/crepe paper, we would be delighted to have them for art work to support the children's writing. The children put a lot offort into their work especially when there is an audience for it so we love to provide illustrations for our writing.
There is no written homework this week, just keep up the super reading and basic facts.
I will be retesting the children's spelling tomorrow, so hopefully you will see a new list highlighted in their books next week.
Have a lovely week
Moira
Saturday, 23 March 2013
Week 9 term 1 2013
It was lovely to see all the children participate in the Palm Parade on Friday. The children enjoyed dressing up in their costumes and waving palms as the donkey and rider passed by. Some of the photos for this will be on our year 2 crew page.
Unfortunately the has been a nasty vomiting bug sweeping through our class. I have discussed washing hands before eating and after visiting the toilets. I also discourage children from sharing food and drink. Please reinforce this at home.
Thank you parents who attended our reading evening. The junior team teachers appreciate the time you take to support your children, and believe me this is very evident in the great progress that they are making. The reading logs have proved to be a great success.
Thanks to the parents who have paid for the zoo trip. I will continue to collect this money during the week.
I hope you all have a great week and are looking forward to a well earned Easter break.
Saturday, 16 March 2013
Week 8 Term 1 2013
Week 8 already!!
Karen Tabuteau and I will share the weekly updates on our Year 2 Crew page, so please check there for information pertaining to both our classes. Anything that is for Room 16 will be here! Which brings me to our Zoo Trip on April 11. Children will bring notices home on Tuesday. Please ensure that these are signed and returned to me. Permission is needed from parents because we are travelling outside Rotorua. We have had plenty of offers to help, and transport for this is almost finalised. All family adults are most welcome to attend however you will need to organise your own transport. The cost for entry will still be $5.50 per person.
I have been delighted with the response and quality of the children's homework. Its lovely to note that parents are taking time with their children to support them in this. I am amazed at the amount of home reading being completed. Some children have already completed two reading logs and this has certainly had a positive impact on their reading ability at school. If your child needs more books, please take them to the library for an extra supply. This way, they can browse and select books which they find interesting. book types.
Thank you to the parents who came to the Athletics Day. Our lovely children had a wonderful day and enjoyed participatig and competing. Well done to all the winners.
Happy Birthday Harrison, and thank you for sharing a delicious cake
Karen Tabuteau and I will share the weekly updates on our Year 2 Crew page, so please check there for information pertaining to both our classes. Anything that is for Room 16 will be here! Which brings me to our Zoo Trip on April 11. Children will bring notices home on Tuesday. Please ensure that these are signed and returned to me. Permission is needed from parents because we are travelling outside Rotorua. We have had plenty of offers to help, and transport for this is almost finalised. All family adults are most welcome to attend however you will need to organise your own transport. The cost for entry will still be $5.50 per person.
I have been delighted with the response and quality of the children's homework. Its lovely to note that parents are taking time with their children to support them in this. I am amazed at the amount of home reading being completed. Some children have already completed two reading logs and this has certainly had a positive impact on their reading ability at school. If your child needs more books, please take them to the library for an extra supply. This way, they can browse and select books which they find interesting. book types.
Thank you to the parents who came to the Athletics Day. Our lovely children had a wonderful day and enjoyed participatig and competing. Well done to all the winners.
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Saturday, 9 March 2013
Week 7 Term 1 2013
Great News........ Room 16 will be visiting Hamilton Zoo on Thursday 11 April. We are looking at 'Communities within a Zoo' and focusing on the people who work there. We will be travelling by bus and car, leaving school at 8:45 am and returning at 2:30pm. The cost will be $13 per person and this covers transport, zoo entry, a classroom programme and of course a walk around the zoo. I will provide more information soon. We will need enough cars for 8 children who will also need to have booster seats. If you are able to provide the extra transport, please see or e-mail me. mpinfold@stmarys.rotorua.school.nz
This is another busy week. On Tuesday at 9:45, Room 16 begin Life Education lessons in the Life Education caravan which is currently at school. Our focus is 'All Together' which ties in nicely with our concept curriculum.
On Thursday, school closes at 12:30pm on that day. Children who travel home by bus will be able to remain at school and will be cared for until the buses leave.
Friday 15 March is a busy day. We have St Joseph's Mass at 9am. Our very own Sara Stahlhut will be leading the Responsorial Psalm so please make an extra effort to join us at church.
At 11am on Friday, the Junior School children will participate in their Athletics Day. All children are expected to participate. Once again we are asking for parent help so if you are willing and able to lend a hand please come and see me. Thank you to Jason Trask for helping us set up a day of fun and competition. The children will be required to wear their P.E. gear. Please also ensure that your child has been smothered in sun block! Children will also need plenty to drink and sun hats are imperative.
We had fun in the pool this week.
Have a lovely week
Moira Pinfold
P.S. If you click the mouse in our fish tank, you will feed the fish!
Sunday, 3 March 2013
Week 6 2013
Well, we are half way there (end of term 1)! We had a really busy week last week and the Gala was wonderful. Thank you all again for your support.
The class is now working well together and the children have been quick to learn new routines and expectations. Reading, Smart Words, Jolly Grammar, Writing and Maths groups are up and running (almost smoothly!) Karen and I are trying to instil a sense of self responsibility in the children i.e. being in the right place for instructional groups, looking after property, organising book bags and completing and returning homework.
Alien Art was amazing. Ask your child what they did. I was impressed by their ability to stay on task for long periods of time to complete outstanding pieces.
This week:
Swimming each day at 9:30 am
Library on Friday at 9:45am.
PLease check out the other pages for some updated photos of your lovely children at work.
Well, we are half way there (end of term 1)! We had a really busy week last week and the Gala was wonderful. Thank you all again for your support.
The class is now working well together and the children have been quick to learn new routines and expectations. Reading, Smart Words, Jolly Grammar, Writing and Maths groups are up and running (almost smoothly!) Karen and I are trying to instil a sense of self responsibility in the children i.e. being in the right place for instructional groups, looking after property, organising book bags and completing and returning homework.
Alien Art was amazing. Ask your child what they did. I was impressed by their ability to stay on task for long periods of time to complete outstanding pieces.
This week:
Swimming each day at 9:30 am
Library on Friday at 9:45am.
PLease check out the other pages for some updated photos of your lovely children at work.
Friday, 22 February 2013
Term 1 Week 5: 25 February-1 March 2013
Week 5 already!
I am just coming to grips with the blog, and am delighted to be able to upload photos, so check out the reading page!
Bear with me as I become more adept at the blogsite.
The children have all settled in beautifully and are adapting to the life and pace of a Year 2 room. Karen Tabuteau and I are now cross grouping the children for reading and writing. Maths will follow next week. This is working really well because we can now target groups of children working at the same level and design class and group programmes to suit their needs.
I have been delighted with homework responses. Thank you parents for your support. Thank you also for the offers of parent help in the class. Your assistance in a busy junior room is invaluable.
The Gala is coming! It has been wonderful to receive so many donations. Thank you.
Week 5 already!
I am just coming to grips with the blog, and am delighted to be able to upload photos, so check out the reading page!
Bear with me as I become more adept at the blogsite.
The children have all settled in beautifully and are adapting to the life and pace of a Year 2 room. Karen Tabuteau and I are now cross grouping the children for reading and writing. Maths will follow next week. This is working really well because we can now target groups of children working at the same level and design class and group programmes to suit their needs.
I have been delighted with homework responses. Thank you parents for your support. Thank you also for the offers of parent help in the class. Your assistance in a busy junior room is invaluable.
The Gala is coming! It has been wonderful to receive so many donations. Thank you.
Monday, 11 February 2013
Term 1 Week 4 18-22 February
Great to see you all at Parent Interviews and thanks to those who have completed the parent survey, which can be accessed through our school website www.stmarysrotorua.school.nz. If you haven't yet done the survey it will still be online till the middle of week 4. We really value your comments.
Gala Reminders
Thanks to those who have offered to help with the Gala. We are still looking for more helpers. Please contact Leeanne on 3453068 or email leeclay@ihug.co.nz if you know of anyone who is willing to assist in some way
Gala Countdown We are hoping you might be able to contribute to the Gala this week by contributing any of the following:
Monday 18th Feb Tinned goods or bags of lollies (e.g. Jet Planes, Licorice Allsorts, Milk Bottles, Jubes etc). If you have any old baskets or platter that you no longer require - these would be handy for the quick fire raffles
Tuesday 19 Feb Nacho day - corn chips, tinned tomatoes, chilli/baked/kidney beans, onions
Wednesday 20 Feb Bathroom day - soap, hand wash, tissues, shampoo, conditioner, toilet tissue etc
Thursday 21 February Books or a packet or box of something e.g. chips, raisins, cereal, handee towels. Plastic bags and ice cream containers with lids would also be handy.
Friday 22 February Bottle day - please bring a bottle or jar of something e.g. shampoo, soft drink, sauce, perfume, jam. (Note: Children are not to bring alcohol)
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