By Ms Tracey Markovic, Assistant Head of Junior School Operations

In Term 4, our Year 5 students will undertake the Sharing the Planet Unit of Inquiry with the central idea: ‘Needs drive connections.' Through this unit, students will explore different communities to identify the needs that exist within them. Students will then analyse the connections that have been fostered in order to best meet those needs.

In order to provide a local case study for students, all classes have had the opportunity this year to visit Calvary Aged Care and assist in the creation of snuggle blankets for kittens at the RSPCA.

Each week, one Year 5 class is divided into two groups: half of the students visit residents at Calvary Aged Care, where they spend time connecting across generations, while the other half stay on campus to weave colourful, soft blankets for the RSPCA. This rotation gives all students the opportunity to engage in two unique service experiences.

This initiative not only allow students to learn practical skills like weaving and crafting but also helps them to understand the importance of community service, empathy and caring for vulnerable animals.

This project beautifully tied into our service learning goals by encouraging students to think about how they can make a tangible difference in the lives of others. Along the way, students discussed the role of organisations like the RSPCA and the simple ways we can all show kindness.

The Year 5 team is incredibly proud of the students’ enthusiasm, teamwork and thoughtfulness. Service opportunities like this encourage students to think deeply about how they can contribute to their community in meaningful ways.

We look forward to delivering the finished blankets to the RSPCA early next term, knowing they’ll offer a little extra comfort to some very grateful furry friends.