The Big Project at Kindlehill has always been BIG! But this year BIG cannot describe the challenges the Year 6-7 students had to face and over to finally get to presentation day.

With the impact of COVID-19 combined with Learning At Home and lockdown, students’ ability to really dive deep into a topic of their choosing was severely impeded. Mentors were not able to be met, workshops and courses unable to be attended, materials unable to be sourced.

Students worked hard to stay motivated and on task and with the Big Projects being presented last week – all were very relieved this momentous activity was over. I was very impressed with the diverse nature of the topics, the depth of learning and the reflective process taken by the students.

A particular highlight for me was when the class students joined dance master Gitai in learning part of his self-choreographed ‘Úptown Funk’ routine. A perfect expression of support, fun and community.

Let’s finish with a student voice, ‘maybe I learnt more than I thought I would’.

Shaila Bernard Class 2-3 Teacher

With a B. Arts (Social Ecology) and a Master of Teaching (UWS), S’haila has been at Kindlehill since 2001 when she came to a Spring Open Day with her children – and stayed! Since then, she has variously been Playgroup leader, Kindy assistant, member of the Village people, Craft coordinator, Gymnastic and sport coach, Music program coordinator, SEA delegate, Gardener and Gardening coordinator, Class Teacher and College member.