Little Joeys Merewether Play and Stay 

Our fortnightly Play and Stay sessions have continued to be a raging success. It has been such a joy to see future Joeys children engaged in learning through play with their families, exploring, experimenting, and discovering in ways that support their development and spark their natural curiosity.  

One of the key aims of our Play and Stay is to support a smooth and positive transition to school. As children grow more familiar with routines, spaces, and staff, they are developing confidence and a sense of belonging that will help them feel ready and excited for the next step in their learning journey. 

Perhaps most heartening of all has been the strong relationships that are forming. Children are connecting with peers and educators, while families are building supportive relationships with each other and with our staff. These connections are at the heart of what makes our community so special. 

Thank you to all the families who have joined us! Your participation, warmth, and enthusiasm help make Play and Stay a welcoming and nurturing space for everyone. 

Early Learning Visit 

We were delighted to recently welcome a group of preschoolers from a local early childhood centre for a special visit to our kindergarten space. It was a wonderful opportunity for connection, play, and community building. 

From the moment the preschoolers arrived, our Kinders took great pride in showing off their learning environment, confidently guiding their new friends around the space, sharing their favourite activities, and engaging in play together.  

One of the highlights of the visit was the chance to meet our much-loved therapy dog, Remi. Our Kinders were beaming with pride as they introduced Remi to the preschoolers, explaining her role in our community and demonstrating how we care for and interact with her. Remi, of course, enjoyed the extra attention and played her part perfectly.  

Visits like these are such a valuable way to support positive transitions, foster peer relationships, and help our Kinders build a sense of responsibility and community. It’s also a wonderful reminder of the confidence and growth we’ve seen in our students this year. 

Risky Play 

We are passionate about creating learning environments that support the whole child, including their growth, independence, confidence, and creativity. One important element of this is allowing children to engage in risky play. 

But what is risky play? 

Risky play refers to activities that involve a level of challenge and risk, such as climbing, balancing, jumping from heights, using tools, or exploring natural environments. It doesn’t mean unsafe or careless play. Rather, it’s about giving children the opportunity to assess and navigate risk in a supported, supervised environment. 

Why is risky play important? 

Research shows that risky play offers a wide range of benefits for children’s development, including: 

• Physical development – building strength, coordination, and motor skills 

• Cognitive growth – developing problem-solving, decision-making, and risk-assessment skills 

• Emotional resilience – learning how to manage fear, build confidence, and recover from setbacks 

• Creativity and curiosity – inspiring exploration and imaginative thinking 

• Social skills – encouraging collaboration, negotiation, and communication with peers 

In primary school, risky play also helps students develop autonomy. They learn to trust themselves, understand their limits, and make informed choices. These are life skills that extend well beyond the playground. 

We provide opportunities for safe, age-appropriate risky play through structured outdoor learning, nature play, climbing equipment, loose parts, and guided experiences that allow children to challenge themselves and grow.  

Father's Day 

As Father’s Day approaches next week,
we take a moment to acknowledge the significance this day holds for many in our school community. 

For some, Father’s Day is a joyful opportunity to celebrate the love, support, and guidance of fathers, grandfathers, and other father figures. It’s a time for appreciation and special memories. To those marking this occasion with happiness and gratitude, we wish you a beautiful celebration with your loved ones. 

We also recognise that for others, Father’s Day can be a difficult time. Whether due to loss, absence, or challenging personal circumstances. Whether this day brings celebration, reflection, or a mixture of emotions, our thoughts and prayers will be with you next weekend. 

Chloe Coe  
Wellbeing Coordinator