Carrie-Anne Thomas – Director of Students (K-6)

Year 6 Canberra Camp

Today, we are excited to welcome back Year 6 from their amazing three-day camp in Canberra.  The camp was filled with various adventures and offered new learning experiences each day. The students had the opportunity to explore the national capital, taking part in comprehensive tours and engaging in educational programs focused on Australia’s history, culture, heritage, and democracy. They were thrilled to visit destinations such as Parliament House, Questacon, and the Australian War Memorial, among others. The camp was both busy and highly rewarding, and I would like to express my gratitude to teachers Jessica Neutze, Leanne Cresswell, Josh Aghion, Jennifer Udovich, and Stuart Taylor for their unwavering energy and commitment in ensuring the camp’s success. I also extend my thanks to Stevie Levenston and Gena Yeomans for their significant contributions to organising this memorable experience for our students. 

Year 6 students have created wonderful and lasting memories during their time in Canberra! 

The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit the national capital as part of their Civics and Citizenship education. To assist families in meeting the cost of the excursion, the Australian Government contributes $30.00 per student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate program towards those costs. The rebate is paid directly to the School upon completion of the excursion. We have factored this into the cost of the excursion. 

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Unleashing the Power of Problem Solving 

Problem-solving skills are essential for success in all aspects of life. At school, students encounter various challenges daily, ranging from academic challenges to social interactions. By nurturing their problem-solving abilities, we empower our children to face these challenges head-on, develop resilience, and cultivate a positive mindset.

The benefits of problem solving extend far beyond the classroom. When our children become proficient problem solvers, they are better equipped to handle real-world scenarios, collaborate effectively with others, and find innovative solutions to complex issues. These skills will undoubtedly serve them well in their future academic pursuits and careers.

In this process, it is crucial to emphasise the importance of responding to problems with positivity. A positive response involves viewing challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. Encouraging our children to approach problems with an open mind and a can-do attitude fosters a growth mindset, which enables them to persevere, learn from failures, and ultimately achieve success.

Taking responsibility for our actions is a fundamental aspect of problem solving. When children learn to take ownership of their mistakes, they develop crucial skills such as accountability, self-reflection, and resilience. By acknowledging their role in a problem, they gain the power to find solutions, make amends, and learn and grow from the experience.

At Emanuel School, we are committed to fostering an environment that promotes problem-solving skills and positive responses. Our teachers incorporate problem-solving opportunities into lessons, encouraging students to think critically, explore multiple perspectives, and develop creative solutions. We also celebrate the achievements of our students who demonstrate a positive approach to problem solving, encouraging their peers to follow their lead.

As parents and guardians, you play a crucial role in supporting your child’s development of problem-solving skills. Here are a few strategies you can implement at home:

Encourage open communication: Create a safe space where your child feels comfortable discussing any challenges they encounter. Listen attentively and offer guidance without immediately providing solutions.

Teach resilience: Help your child understand that setbacks and failures are part of the learning process. Encourage them to persevere and find alternative approaches when faced with difficulties.

Model problem-solving behaviours: Demonstrate positive problem-solving skills in your own life. Involve your child in discussions and decision-making processes, allowing them to witness firsthand how you approach and resolve problems.

Foster a growth mindset: Encourage your child to embrace challenges, view mistakes as learning opportunities, and believe in their ability to find solutions. Praise their efforts and perseverance, rather than focusing solely on the end result.

By working together, we can empower our children to become confident problem solvers with positive responses. Let us cultivate a mindset of responsibility and resilience, guiding them towards a future filled with success and personal growth.

As always, we appreciate your partnership in providing the best educational experience for your children.