Other Learning Programs
Science
We use the 'Primary Connections' program on a two year cycle as the basis for our Science program, one unit per term in Biological, Chemical, Physical and Earth Sciences. The 'Primary Connections' program is linked to the Australian Curriculum, but we also extend it with additional explicitly taught activities.
Art, Music, Chinese and History
These are taught through integrated units in the classroom. Special school events such as the Art Show, Science Day and Whole School Musical provide opportunities for students to explore, create, and perform.
We use the 'Primary Connections' program on a two year cycle as the basis for our Science program, one unit per term in Biological, Chemical, Physical and Earth Sciences. The 'Primary Connections' program is linked to the Australian Curriculum, but we also extend it with additional explicitly taught activities.
Art, Music, Chinese and History
These are taught through integrated units in the classroom. Special school events such as the Art Show, Science Day and Whole School Musical provide opportunities for students to explore, create, and perform.
Student leadership
At Mount Blowhard Primary School we believe in developing leadership skills in all students. Juniors are inspired and learn from older students as they lead assemblies, speak in public, greet visitors, thank guests, and perform in public.
Our Junior School Council is an opportunity for students to have input into the running of the school and to learn about meeting procedures, democratic decision making, organisation, team work and communication. This is a rotating role so all students from all year levels have the opportunity to contribute. Students are involved in planning school events, suggesting new initiatives and solving problems. All senior students also have the opportunity to organise and lead weekly assemblies on a rotational basis.
Technology
Every classroom has an interactive touchscreen, and use of technology is appropriately integrated across the curriculum. We have class sets of iPads and laptop computers. Students learn effective research skills, and how to use ICT for communication and presenting. We use a range of high quality learning apps, chosen by teachers, to meet specific learning goals. Students also learn about cyber-safety, including privacy, keeping safe on-line and ways to protect against on-line bullying. In Years 4 to 6, Technology classes also include learning to control small programmable robots.
Extra-Curricular
At Mount Blowhard Primary School we take advantage of opportunities for our students to participate in local events and activities, and we also bring members of the wider community into our school to share their knowledge and expertise. Extra-curricular activities include Book Week, Careers Days, Grandparents Day, visits by secondary school bands, cooking, gardening, and guest speakers. Our Year 6 students participate in the Miners Rest ANZAC Day Service.
Well Being
Our five school rules are Be Nice, Be Honest, Be Positive, Be Safe and Be A Learner. These rules provide us with a clear and simple framework to guide behaviour. Mount Blowhard Primary School is implementing the 'School Wide Positive Behaviour Support' program. This approach focuses on identifying, teaching and rewarding the behaviours we want to see in students. Our school has a positive and accepting culture where effort is valued, and ALL students know the value of trying their best.
Assembly
Parents and visitors are always welcome to attend our weekly assemblies, currently held every Friday afternoon at 3:00 pm. Year 6 students rotate as assembly leaders. Assemblies vary slightly from week to week but generally include: special events, teacher announcements, presentations of student work, reflection on the successes and challenges of the past week, awards, and we acknowledge any birthdays that week. Assemblies play a vital role in building student leadership and also establishing and building our school culture.
Chess
Chess is a wonderful game for developing sequential thinking and extending concentration. We teach all students from Years 3 to 6 how to play chess, and currently use the services of a chess coach once a year to extend students' skills. For those interested in pursuing chess, we offer opportunities for a team to compete in inter-school chess competitions.
At Mount Blowhard Primary School we believe in developing leadership skills in all students. Juniors are inspired and learn from older students as they lead assemblies, speak in public, greet visitors, thank guests, and perform in public.
Our Junior School Council is an opportunity for students to have input into the running of the school and to learn about meeting procedures, democratic decision making, organisation, team work and communication. This is a rotating role so all students from all year levels have the opportunity to contribute. Students are involved in planning school events, suggesting new initiatives and solving problems. All senior students also have the opportunity to organise and lead weekly assemblies on a rotational basis.
Technology
Every classroom has an interactive touchscreen, and use of technology is appropriately integrated across the curriculum. We have class sets of iPads and laptop computers. Students learn effective research skills, and how to use ICT for communication and presenting. We use a range of high quality learning apps, chosen by teachers, to meet specific learning goals. Students also learn about cyber-safety, including privacy, keeping safe on-line and ways to protect against on-line bullying. In Years 4 to 6, Technology classes also include learning to control small programmable robots.
Extra-Curricular
At Mount Blowhard Primary School we take advantage of opportunities for our students to participate in local events and activities, and we also bring members of the wider community into our school to share their knowledge and expertise. Extra-curricular activities include Book Week, Careers Days, Grandparents Day, visits by secondary school bands, cooking, gardening, and guest speakers. Our Year 6 students participate in the Miners Rest ANZAC Day Service.
Well Being
Our five school rules are Be Nice, Be Honest, Be Positive, Be Safe and Be A Learner. These rules provide us with a clear and simple framework to guide behaviour. Mount Blowhard Primary School is implementing the 'School Wide Positive Behaviour Support' program. This approach focuses on identifying, teaching and rewarding the behaviours we want to see in students. Our school has a positive and accepting culture where effort is valued, and ALL students know the value of trying their best.
Assembly
Parents and visitors are always welcome to attend our weekly assemblies, currently held every Friday afternoon at 3:00 pm. Year 6 students rotate as assembly leaders. Assemblies vary slightly from week to week but generally include: special events, teacher announcements, presentations of student work, reflection on the successes and challenges of the past week, awards, and we acknowledge any birthdays that week. Assemblies play a vital role in building student leadership and also establishing and building our school culture.
Chess
Chess is a wonderful game for developing sequential thinking and extending concentration. We teach all students from Years 3 to 6 how to play chess, and currently use the services of a chess coach once a year to extend students' skills. For those interested in pursuing chess, we offer opportunities for a team to compete in inter-school chess competitions.