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- Emotional development in boys
- Book Week celebrations
- Early intervention support
- Father and son sports afternoon
On Tuesday, our Year 5 and 6 families were invited to attend a Parent Series session with School Psychologist, Kate Atkinson, who shared her expertise on the social and emotional development of boys in the upper primary years. Kate explored the unique challenges faced by students at this stage, including navigating friendships, building resilience, managing emotions, and preparing for the transition to secondary school. Parents were provided with practical strategies to support their son’s wellbeing at home, alongside insights into the developmental milestones typical of this age. The session also highlighted the importance of open communication, fostering independence, and creating safe opportunities for boys to learn from mistakes as they grow in confidence and maturity. This focus on wellbeing strongly aligns with our School-Wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS). The SWPBS framework promotes a culture of respect, responsibility, and care, ensuring boys feel safe, supported, and ready to learn. Sessions such as this are a valuable way for parents and the School to work together in reinforcing these shared values and supporting each boy to thrive both inside and outside the classroom. We thank Kate Atkinson for her engaging and insightful presentation, and our parents for their partnership in nurturing the growth and wellbeing of our boys.
To celebrate Book Week, we have been very fortunate to welcome a number of guest authors and illustrators who have presented to our boys over the last two weeks. These sessions have provided a wonderful opportunity for students to hear first-hand about the creative process, gain insights into storytelling, and be inspired by those who bring books to life. A special thank you goes to Mrs Chelsy Gaskell, Mrs Niki Browne-Cooper and Ms Nicole Murphy, our dedicated library team, whose passion and hard work have brought this program together. Book Week is always a highlight on our school calendar, and this year promises to be no exception. I look forward to seeing many of you at the Book Week Parade this Friday, as we come together to celebrate the joy of reading and the power of imagination.
Early intervention in the early years is vital because it allows children to receive support at a stage when their brains are most adaptable and responsive to learning. Identifying and addressing developmental needs early helps build strong foundations for language, social, emotional, and physical growth, reducing challenges later in school. By providing timely support, we give our students the best chance to thrive, reach their potential, and approach their learning journey with confidence. Our Speech and Language and Occupational Therapy screenings are an important part of our ELC program. They give families and teachers valuable insights into each boy’s development and ensure that support can begin early if needed. Since introducing Pre-Kindy and Kindergarten in 2019, we have moved screenings forward from Pre-Primary so that learning profiles can be created earlier and interventions put in place sooner. This approach means better outcomes for the boys and stronger support for families. With the support of both Occupational Therapist, Julie Morgan and Speech and Language Pathologist, Chelsea Preston, our ELC team work closely with them to support each boy’s growth. Ultimately, our philosophy is simple: early intervention makes a difference. We are committed to giving every boy the best chance to develop, thrive and succeed.
Today sees our Years 5 and 6 Father/Significant Other and Son Winter Fixture take place to celebrate the conclusion of a terrific winter of sport. Games will take place at Mt Claremont playing fields, St John’s Wood playing fields, UWA Sports Park, ATI Martial Arts and Revolution Sports. This is a wonderful opportunity to engage with your sons in a fun and physical way. All fathers and significant others are encouraged to participate and enjoy the afternoon.
Congratulations to our BGM winners!
Dr. Steven Males
Head of Preparatory School
