Some of our Learning Moments this Week

This week has been another busy one. 

It has consisted of developing an understanding of ANZAC, and learning ways of how to look after ourselves if an earthquake should ever strike.

We welcome all our families to come and check out our ANZAC poppy gardens.

EARTHQUAKE DRILL

Our Earthquake Drill was based on information gathered from the Ministry of Education website.

We prepared for our drill by watching 'Stan' the dog on our iPad. Stan showed us how to keep safe through the 'Drop, Cover and Hold' procedure. We also practiced keeping 'Turtle Safe' i.e. rolling ourselves up like turtles.

Big Boys & Big Girls (Buck Stowers)

Fire Drill

In preparation for our first fire drill for 2016, fire warden Mary prompted discussions around fire safety using pictures, and asking questions during circle time. We also revisited our song, "Hurry hurry where's the fire?"

We were so proud of how well our tamariki responded to the sound of the fire alarm, the way they followed instruction, and how they walked calmly to our designated area.

Overall, our fire drill was a success due to good preparation and planning from our fire wardens- Mary & Faith.

Our Build Up to Easter

Tamariki worked alongside teachers in a variety of experiences to gain understanding and knowledge about concepts surrounding the meaning of Easter.

Papa Apii & Papa Tere planned a circle time story that provided tamariki with the biblical meaning of Easter. Beforehand, Papa Apii set up a weekly carpentry experience for tamariki to create their own wooden crosses.

Our teacher Rave worked on a 2 week project which encouraged lots of patience, sharing, and fine motor skills for tamariki, as they transformed plastic bowls into creative Easter bonnets.

Overall, tamariki are gaining an understanding that Easter is not only about chocolate, but also a deeper meaning and purpose for this holiday period.

Happy Easter..😀

Happy Easter to all our family/whanau. Keep safe to those that are travelling far and near.  Bless weekend everyone. 

Deidre started off the morning baking cookies with the children. 

Easter egg hunt in the Avaikinui room. 

Many mini chocolate eggs were hidden around the room. Another good day at apii with our children. Meitaki Maata to the teaching team for an awesome day.. 

Professional Development

Tonight some of our team attended a 'Self Review' workshop. 

In a nutshell, Self Review is a deliberate process of continuous improvement- attempting to find out why things are they way they are in areas of - 'Learning & Teaching, Collaborative Team Work & Governance. 

Elements of effective Self Review include:

R-relationships

E-evidence 

V-vision 

I-integrity 

E-evaluate 

W-wisdom

Overall, teachers found the workshop to be informative, motivating, and a good opportunity to network and share experiences with others.

Our Water Babies

Our Under 2 tamariki were provided with an opportunity to work and strengthen their little muscles today when their teachers took them for a dip in Glen Innes Primary's pool. 

With discussions and planning between teacher Faith, and grounds man Mr Sean, our tamariki enjoyed a water learning experience this afternoon. 

Coordination, balance, and water confidence were just a few learning outcomes for our small group today.

'As they explore their world, children gain confidence in the control and use of their bodies' (Te Whariki-Exploration).