Learning world’s wonders
WHEN children start kindergarten at Dominic College they begin an exciting learning journey that is both broad and rich in experiences to enable them to discover their world and the other people in it.
The college recognises that the early years of education are the most critical years of schooling and foundations in literacy and numeracy form the centre of learning through many lenses.
Learning Japanese at Dominic commences in kindergarten. “Being immersed in a language other than English is a wellresearched means to develop children’s overall literacy and understanding of how language operates and functions.” College principal Beth Gilligan said.
“There are significant benefits to children learning another language and the younger children can commence this, the better the outcomes achieved. There are not only increases generally in their literacy but also the cognitive capacity and cognitive flexibility of students.”
The college has two qualified full-time Japanese teachers who have developed an extensive language and cultural program.
Japanese hand puppets join the kindergarten classes and become much loved friends in the students’ program.
The language program sits alongside additional specialist programs in the creative arts, physical education and applied studies.
Cooking in one of the college’s kitchens is a muchanticipated and regular fun activity that supports both literacy and numeracy development for students.
Science in the early years at Dominic commences with a Bush Kinder program and the many provocations of the environment and changing weather conditions, including making mud pies as well as making and sailing boats in the college creek.
The Bush Kinder program enables children to develop a deeper conceptual understanding and respect for their natural environment.
On 28ha, the college has an abundance of wildlife to enhance learning experiences.
In addition, the college’s animal husbandry program provides further opportunities for hands-on learning with rabbits, chickens, ducks, alpacas, pigs and sheep, among the many animals living on-site.
As a co-educational college, with students from kindergarten to Year 10 all on the one campus, genuine opportunities for mentoring and modelling for younger students happens naturally every day.
“Our Buddy program begins in kindergarten and this is an enriching community experience for both the younger and older students,” Ms Gilligan said.
“Our leadership programs equip older students with community building skills that they put into practice in connecting with and mentoring the younger students.”
In early 2021, kindergarten students will move into the new K-2 Precinct, centrally situated within the campus site.
When fully completed, this development will provide vibrant contemporary spaces to further enhance teaching and learning, including playful, interactive design features to stimulate student imaginations.