Middle Years of Schooling

MIDDLE YEARS

 
In Victoria the Middle Years of Schooling refer to Years 5 – 9. At Wodonga West Primary School our middle years students (Years 5 & 6) are organised in multi-age groupings.
Students spend two years with their classroom teacher, allowing strong student/teacher relationships to build and maximise engagement with curriculum before secondary school.
 
The transition between Early Years and Middle Years is facilitated by on-going implementation of the researched based Victorian Early Years Literacy and Numeracy Model.
 
Our bi-annual camp is conducted in first term and as well as being an enjoyable educational experience, is also a chance for team building activities and the development of social skills.
 
The Electives Program operates weekly, and allows students to develop an area of special interest, and to access expertise from other teachers and members of the community. Students are offered a variety of art, craft, and leisure activities, and encouraged to try an activity which they otherwise might not experience. It also allows students to give back to the school and wider community by working in the school gardens.
 
Year 6 students also have the opportunity to participate in yachting at Lake Hume, learning the skills necessary to launch and sail an X3 yacht.
  
Students are encouraged to take a leadership role within the school and can be elected to the Student Leadership Council and take an active role in school activities and decision making.
 
Monitors are responsible for coordinating the recycling program across the school, and students organise and lead a fortnightly Middle Years Assembly where student achievements are celebrated. We have many sporting opportunities. The emphasis is on fun, fitness, participation and developing a positive sporting attitude. Students take part in interschool swimming, athletics and cross country running, as well as participating in Winter Sports and Kanga Cricket carnivals
 
STUDENT LEADERSHIP
 
Wodonga West Primary School’s Student Leadership Council comprises of two elected representatives from each of the classes in Year 5 and 6, whilst representing all students in the school. Prior to the election at the beginning of each year, nominated students prepare and present their “Maiden Speech” to the class.
 
The SLC meets regularly to discuss issues relevant to the school community and initiatives from the student body. The group discusses ideas about how to help maintain and enhance our school environment as well as ideas related to developing positive relationships with the wider community.
 
The SLC members are encouraged to act as role models for all students and are also given the opportunity to develop Leadership skills.
Some of the responsibilities and opportunities SLC members enjoy are:
  • Preparing and running a fortnightly assembly - which includes organising the agenda, liaising with staff and students and an opportunity to practise public speaking.
  • Being responsible for organising and promoting fundraisers for school and community projects through Casual Dress Days.
  • Representing our school at community ceremonies such as ANZAC day and Remembrance Day services
  • Participating in Leadership Forums with student leaders from other Wodonga schools.
  • Attending the annual Rotary Leadership Camp at Bogong Outdoor Education Centre.
  • Assisting with showing parents and prospective students around our school on Prep Orientation Day.
  • Reporting to School Council.
  • Holding regular class meetings as a means of gaining feedback from students on relevant issues.