This week's student blogger is Molly Whittaker. Molly has some stunning African artwork, a book review, reasons for supporting having a school dog and a post about sacrifice on her blog. You can access Molly's blog at this link. Thanks Molly for showing us how to Reach for the Stars as Lifelong Learners in the Catholic faith.
Canine Educator Programme trial and dog visits at St Joseph's
Some time ago, Miss Huls drew my attention to a project where retired greyhounds listen to children read in schools. Since getting a new pup who is a lab/greyhound cross with a gentle and loving nature, I decided to do some investigating. I have been liaising with the co-ordinator of the Canine Educator Programme at South New Brighton. You can learn more at this link. Miss Huls is bringing Jazz the Irish Wolfhound cross for a few sessions to trial this programme. The response from the children has been very positive. You can learn more by going to the Year 6 class blog.The idea is that the dog is there for a short visit in the room in a controlled environment to support learning. Our rules about dogs running loose in the playground still remain. Fiona from the Oamaru library will also be bringing a retired greyhound into school with her owner as part of a dog safety programme. Lulu the Jorgensen poodle has visited on a lead when Susie is working with the children in our school garden. My dog Mika is visiting the juniors for a short session during Discovery on a Friday morning. We will let you know how we progress with this trial. If you have any concerns or worries about this trial, please contact me.
Visitors from the North Otago education sector
Yesterday, we welcomed about fifty teachers into our hall for a learning session with Brian Annan and Mary Wootton. This was a free taster session where they explained about the role they can play in supporting school leaders, teachers and families through their business - Infinity. You can read about the session at this link.
Tomorrow the teachers will play the Year 8's in our annual Daffodil Day Fundraiser. Children must come to school in their uniform and can wear something yellow, for example, a daffodil, scarf, cap or hair tie and bring a gold coin donation. We will play the netball game at 1:45 pm and follow this with assembly at 2:15 pm. Awards and certificates for cross country and other sporting achievements will take place.
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