It has most definitely been all about our Australian Didgeridoo Workshop and our exciting design and technology unit where we mastered skills in textiles using a number of different techniques to tie dye a t-shirt.

On Monday we spent the day with Chris learning all about Aboriginal heritage and beliefs, we explored what the Aboriginal people call ‘Dreamtime’ and the origins of the didgeridoo and boomerang. The workshop started with the children immersed in a dreamtime story, taking on the role of a kangaroo with huge worries about why he was not like other animals. Chris used his didgeridoo and other Australian instruments to tell the story and act out different scenes, which the children thoroughly enjoyed. They could not wait to get their hands on their own didgeridoo and play like Chris. 

Each child had their own didgeridoo to explore different sounds and styles. Initially they all found it challenging but by the end of the workshop, every child could imitate the sounds that Chris was using and wanted to show off their skills! 

As Historians in our topic lessons, we began to think about the Commonwealth and why the King is important to people across the world. We shared where our families originated from and explored different flags that represent these countries. All children are so proud of their heritage and wanted to share stories and knowledge about what makes their home country unique and special to them. We ended the week looking at the United Kingdom and how we can celebrate the home that we live in and the heritage of our country- we got creative and made our very own t-shirt to represent the colours of the Union Jack. 

Next week as designers we will master practical skills in making portable snacks for our Royal Celebration party which will be on Wednesday afternoon. As designers we will take inspiration from existing products and think about a product’s purpose, its users and how it is designed. We will cut, peel and grate ingredients safely and hygienically. During the week, we will recreate our own snacks, designing our end product for the celebration party. 

We will be making some snacks in class for our party but if you would like to contribute to the celebration please send any party food item that your child might like to share with their friends on Wednesday. This might be something common in the United Kingdom or a food that celebrates your own culture from a different country. 

It will also be our last day with Sam so the children are very excited to also celebrate her time with us before she starts her teaching journey in September! 

White Rose Maths - Year 1- pg. 110, 111, 112 / Year 2- pg. 103, 104, 105 

 Have a great weekend, 

Islands team.