T3W1 — 28 Mar 2025
Dear SSIS Parents,
March has been an engaging and eventful month, filled with a multitude of enriching activities and events. Our students explored creativity and innovation during STEAM Week, showcased their curiosity at the Science Fair, and celebrated the beauty of mathematics on Pi Day (3.14). We also fostered community and connection through Classroom Circles. During this week’s assembly we proudly recognized our Students of the Term, celebrating their dedication, growth, and achievements. As we wrap up the month, we look forward to seeing you tomorrow for Student Led Conferences, where your child will proudly share their learning journey with you.
Key Dates:
- Mar 29 – Student Led Conference, Science Fair, & Primary Production (Non-school day)
- Mar 31 – Spring Excursions
- Apr 1 – Early Dismissal, Half Day(No lunch)
- Apr 2 to 4 – Tomb Sweeping Holiday (No school)
- Apr 10 – SASMO Math Olympiad Competition
- Apr 11 – International Friendship Day
- Apr 19 to 20 – SSL Championships
- Apr 21 – Coffee Afternoon, Sign up
- Apr 25 – House Shirt Day
- Apr 26 – Rocket Science Sports-Swim
STEAM Week: A Celebration of Innovation and Creativity!
Students in the Primary Division engaged in a week of hands-on learning and exploration during STEAM Week, where they discovered the exciting connections between Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. Throughout the week, students participated in engaging challenges, from building LEGO structures and designing recycled art projects to solving binary code mysteries and tackling math escape room puzzles.
The STEAM Recycling Drive encouraged students to bring in reusable materials linked to different STEAM subjects each day, fostering environmental awareness while promoting creative problem-solving. From constructing 100-piece paper chains to racing in a 100m dash, students experienced the thrill of inquiry-based learning in a fun and interactive way.
STEAM Week not only sparked curiosity but also encouraged collaboration, critical thinking, and innovation—skills essential for the future. Thank you to all the teachers, staff, and families who supported this inspiring initiative!
Celebrating the Magic of Mathematics on Pi Day!
On March 14th (3.14), students in the Primary Division celebrated Pi Day with a variety of engaging activities that combined creativity, problem-solving, and mathematical exploration. From circular snacks and storytelling in Grade 1 to Pi-themed art challenges in Grades 2 and 3, students explored the significance of circles and the infinite nature of Pi in fun and interactive ways.
Older students took on more advanced mathematical challenges, including a 3-minute 14-second-long division contest in Grade 4, a Pi memorization challenge and Pie Party in Grade 5, and tessellation design using technology in Grade 6. These activities encouraged students to think critically, explore patterns, and appreciate the role of math in everyday life.
A huge thank you to our teachers for leading these exciting activities and fostering a love for mathematics among our students. Pi Day was the perfect way to round off STEAM Week, reinforcing that math is everywhere helping us design, measure, build, and even bake delicious pies!
A Mad Scientist Brings Science to Life for Grade 1 & 2!
Thanks to a special invitation from the Preschool, our Grade 1 and 2 students had the exciting opportunity to experience a performative science show on March 14th. The show, featuring an engaging “Mad Scientist,” combined science, entertainment, and hands-on audience interaction, making learning both thrilling and memorable.
Students were captivated by experiments such as “Water and Fire Don’t Mix,” “Fire in the Palm,” and “Smelling Dry Ice.” They watched in amazement as ice changed colours, primary colours mixed into new shades, and an air cannon demonstrated the power of air pressure. The highlight of the performance was the dry ice explosion, which had students eagerly engaged and inspired to explore science further.
A huge thank you to our preschool team for organising this fantastic event and bringing the wonders of science to life for our young learners!
Building Community Through Classroom Circles
As part of our Pastoral Care Program, all students recently participated in a Classroom Circle lesson designed to strengthen relationships, encourage open communication, and build a culture of respect and empathy.
A classroom circle provides a safe and inclusive space where students can express their feelings, share experiences, and engage in meaningful discussions. During this lesson, students sat in a circle to symbolize equality, practised active listening, and took turns speaking using a talking piece to ensure everyone’s voice was heard. Activities included sharing how they were feeling, playing “Would You Rather?” to practice taking turns and collaborating on a shared storytelling exercise.
Through these discussions, students explored important social-emotional skills such as trust, respect, and teamwork, fostering a positive classroom environment where every student feels valued and connected. Classroom Circles will continue to be a key part of our efforts to support student well-being and strengthen our school community.
Kind regards,
Tony Rampton
Primary School Principal
