Assessing and extending children’s learning The Girls’ Pre Prep class, led by teacher By listening closely to the children, the educators responded to this interest by finding out what the girls already knew about birds and Ms Jodie Mitchell and supported by posed questions to challenge their thinking and encourage them to find Co-educators Ms Zara Brown and Ms Kathryn out more. Bertram, followed a child-led project-based ‘I wonder where a bird lives? What can you use to make a nest? approach to learning and teaching this year. How do birds learn to fly?’ A project on birds evolved after the The girls were particularly fascinated with where birds live and how educators noticed the girls had observed nests are created. Opportunities for research were offered and the girls and discussed birds they had seen and heard observed birds in the natural environment, read books and looked at photos of birds and nests to find out more. They were encouraged to in the School grounds. show their thinking through the hundred languages – such as drawing, sculpture and story. The girls learnt how to manipulate clay to create the ‘In response to children’s evolving ideas and interests, educators assess, shape of a nest and incorporate natural materials, such as straw, leaves anticipate and extend children’s learning via open ended questioning, and twigs, to create a beautiful home for birds that may visit us in Early providing feedback, challenging their thinking and guiding their Learning. We hope to see many more birds visit us as the girls welcome learning.’The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia. them with beautiful homes and places to visit. the face of ruyton It is with sadness we say farewell to a familiar face at Ruyton. Mrs Glenda Lauchl an has worked here since 1990 where she has fulfilled many roles. She began in the Junior School Library before moving to the Early Learning Centre. During term time, Glenda commenced her day supervising Junior Before Care, returning to Early Learning to work as a Co-Educator in and wisdom and we will miss her the afternoons. She finished the day friendship. We will also miss her working in the After School signature fruit and vegetable platters programme. Glenda also worked she prepares in After Care! So many during the term breaks in the Holiday girls at Ruyton have been blessed with Programme. She is reliable, creative meeting Glenda on their arrival in the and always goes the extra mile. morning or her farewell in the Colleagues remember her as intuitive, evening; she has been the face of self-effacing and with a great sense of Ruyton for so many. Glenda will humour. With the children she has continue her love of working with always been ready with a smile, a children with her own grandchildren. cuddle or soothing words. The staff They are fortunate to have such a have benefitted from her knowledge caring grandmother. autumn 2017 5