School Newsletter Term 4 Week 6

Kaya WCSS Community

Kaya WCSS Community

Today our Primary staff and students have been entranced by the performance of two very talented, world class artists, Rhoda and Remo from Di Filippo Marionette company and their stringed puppets. Rhoda and Remo perform to acclaim at festivals throughout Europe and we were so lucky to experience their magic when they visited our school today. We are the first Steiner School in Australia to have this opportunity and I am sure we won’t be the last. Make sure you ask your children to tell you about this wonderful performance.

We are already more than halfway through our final term with many special moments still to come. Our Class 6 students, who we will soon be farewelling, are preparing for their graduation. In fact, many of them are off to Perth Waldorf School for an Orientation Day next Friday and we hope they enjoy this experience. Classes 4 and 5 had a fantastic time on their camps as you will see in this newsletter. Class 1 is excitedly preparing for their first ever play.

Our school has been filled with many moments of wonder and joy over this fortnight and I hope finding out about them here gives you a flavour of our days and the richness of our learning experiences. Please enjoy reading about and sharing the life of our lovely school in this newsletter.

May your week be lived with warmth of heart.

Jenny Dougan

School Administrator/Principal

From Administration

UNCLAIMED FAIR ITEMS

Thank you to everyone who contributed to our School Fair - we have an assortment of items overdue to return home. Please be sure to have a look outside the library and take anything which belongs to you. Unwanted items will be donated to charity.

Shining a Light On...

In order to ensure our policies and procedures are highly visible to parents/carers, we highlight a policy or important procedure in each newsletter. If you are interested in a specific policy check the Key Info Tab on the school website or email Reception to receive a copy. 

All WCSS policies are reviewed periodically and updated and/or amended guided by compliance and best practice and ratified by the School Council.

In this edition we bring your awareness to the Student Code of Conduct. The purpose of the Code of Conduct for Students (the Code) is to ensure that West Coast Steiner School is a safe, supportive and friendly place where learning is prioritised, the property and reputation of the school is protected, and students are encouraged to develop self-discipline and consideration for others. This Code applies to students at School and off site when engaging in school-related activities or representing the School.

The Code is founded on the School’s Values of Goodness, Beauty and Truth. These Values underpin our students’ rights and responsibilities within the school community to learn, work and play in such a way that they:

• create, encourage, and preserve the beauty of our School
• share joy, kindness, and care towards oneself and others
• speak with honesty to build trusting relationships with oneself and others.
  

Steiner Spotlight

Eurythmy at WCSS

Eurythmy is a unique and core subject in Steiner Schools. It was created by Rudolf and Marie Steiner, first as new stage art in 1912, and was soon seen to be of immense pedagogical value and brought as a core subject across the whole curriculum of the first Waldorf School.  It has since also been developed as a specialist therapeutic practice, which can be prescribed by Anthroposophical Doctors and used in the treatment of a wide range of ailments as diverse as skin conditions, breathing difficulties, dental issues, or mental health support.  Eurythmy continues to be taught in schools today for its calming, harmonising, social-strenthening and health-bringing properties, as it weaves classes and communities together through stories, poetry, music, and movement.

Here at WCSS, I have recently been bringing the subject to life with Classes 3, 4 and 6 in Term 3, and now Classes 1, 2 and 5 this term, with Monday Kindy classes continuing throughout.  The activities in Eurythmy vary greatly from class to class; but what they all have in common is that the movements are connected with the sounds of speech and music.  Along with learning the movement patterns, rhythms and gestures, the cultivation of embodied group experience through harmonious, meaningful movements is central.

Kindy students came along in song and movement, acting out stories with rhythms and rhymes and the gestures for consonantal sounds of speech. 

Class 1 students moved through warm ups of counting, spirals, Cassini Curve division, into the animal fun and Maths tasks of “Dinner at the Panda Palace” (by Stephanie Calmenson) with accompanying music.

Class 2 students took great pride in learning to lead the Curve of Cassini, with the song about the elements, stepping and gesturing with the music. They also heard a few fables, learnt many of the Alphabet gestures in Eurythmy, and delighted in the “name game”.

Class 3 built upon warmups and basics they’d encountered the year prior, and then moved through the First Nations (Qld to NT areas) dreaming story of the “Birth of the Butterflies”, in which they learnt to weave, star pattern walk, and beautifully move through the “harmonious eight” form together.

Class 4 encountered the fierce alliterative verses about Thor, in Norwegian and English, and began learning the basic copper rod activities, developing strength and precision throughout.

Class 5 worked wonderfully together, learning a complex medley with the copper rods, involving rhythms, directions, weaving forwards and back and dropping and (mostly!) catching the rods behind them.  Sound gestures and shared rhythms further cultivated their sense of place, and care for one another.

Class 6 had the dynamic contrast of straight and serious “Roman” marching forms, which then burst into a skip with light and dynamic movement.  They used their limbs with fullness and strength, paying attention to one another and pulling off a wonderful little final performance for the Class 3 students and the few parents who made it (thank you!).

We had the privilege and pleasure of collaboration with three fabulous professional pianists – Danielle, Vincent, and Jane throughout the months here.  They each brought so much skill and beauty to the room and students’ experience – we are so lucky and thankful to have such artists in our midst.  The delightful and heartfelt presence of class teachers throughout the lessons, learning and being part of the movements with the classes, was also a wonderful support and experience for all involved.  Thank you.

With love and movement,

Nicole Peterson

Eurythmist

Early Childhood

Farewell – Bruce Jones

Last week family and friends gathered in the early morning on Little Trigg beach to farewell a dear partner, father, and friend in Bruce Jones.

The backdrop of the Indian Ocean, limestone outcrops, soft white sand, Bruce’s surfboard, his portrait, candle, and flowers, lovingly reminded the gatherers that one journey had ended, and another journey had begun.

Under a gentle sun and a soft breeze, his life was honoured, celebrated, and remembered. Children laughed, splashed, and played. Tears were shed and wistful smiles remembered. Hearts forgave and received forgiveness and peace settled in the air.

White roses drifted out on the lingering tide and sea glass glistened in small hands.

Gathering to remember in groups here or there, sitting alone in silent thought or standing on the shore gazing at the ocean, Bruce was remembered, and his warmth felt. Life was celebrated and the ocean brought healing as children and adults immersed themselves in her waters.

The morning ended but not the story. Bruce’s legacy lives on in his beloved daughter Lily and son Isaac. His memory and the gift of Isaac will be cherished by his partner in life, Rebecca, his family, friends, and of course our West Coast school community.

Rebecca shared this verse by the poet Rumi, whose words were the love language of Bruce and Rebecca’s souls.  

Beyond what we wish

And what we fear

may happen……

We have another life,

As clear and free

As a mountain stream.

~Rumi

Until we meet again, go well dear friend.

Vanessa Fountain

Rose Kindergarten

If you can make a donation to assist Rebecca and Isaac please follow  the link or visit Market Day next Tuesday (all funds raised from this very special Kindy led Market Day will be donated to the Go Fund Me)! 

Primary News

Class 1

Kaya from Class 1,

It has been an exciting time in Class 1, and I am delighted to share some highlights from our recent activities.

In our Main Lesson, we embark on a captivating journey into the realm of mathematics, exploring the four fundamental processes: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Our approach goes beyond traditional methods, as we engage the children with real-life examples and a variety of hands-on materials. From counting crystals to dividing imaginary pizzas, the students eagerly embrace each concept, making connections between the abstract world of numbers and the tangible world around them. To further enrich our mathematical journey, we wove a captivating story into our lessons. The narrative not only serves as a vehicle for learning but also sparks the children's imaginations, making the mathematical concepts more relatable and enjoyable.

In addition to our mathematical explorations, Class 1 students are eagerly preparing for their very first class play, set to unfold next week. The excitement in the air is infectious as they practise their lines and songs, which are all choral, and immerse themselves in the storytelling through drama.

The class play is a wonderful opportunity for the children to showcase their creativity, teamwork, and newfound confidence. We invite you to join us next week for a delightful morning filled with joy, and the magic of our young performers.

Class 1 Play: Friday November 24 at 9.00am

Warm regards,

Kasia Rymarczyk

Class 1/Keyen Teacher

Class 4 Camp at Boshack

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Class 5 returned on Friday afternoon from a most exciting Adventure Camp at the Swan Valley Adventure Centre.

We began on a rather serious note, with a visit to Yagan’s Memorial to offer a prayer and write poetic reflections as we honoured the life of the Noongar diplomat and freedom fighter.

After that, the fun and challenges came thick and fast for our young Olympians, from orienteering and archery, to raft-building and canoeing, to high-ropes and possum glide, to our glorious triumph as we emerged—sweating and victorious—having conquered a most difficult of escape room challenges.

Despite many of us being fearful of heights, we all mastered the high ropes challenge, and then went on to even greater heights, raising up our classmates as we each took our turn to swing high up in the air like gliding possums!

Our day on the water was simply magnificent as we mastered the art of canoeing while playing tag and netball in our canoeing teams. We all enjoyed a refreshing swim in the Derbarl Yerrigan to celebrate our hard day’s work.

While the teacher’s personal highlight was landing the winning netball goal in the instructor’s canoe, each student had their own personal high point which ranged from overcoming fear of heights, to working through communication issues to win the orienteering challenge, building a solid floating raft using the clove hitch knot technique, and leading the class to solving the puzzles that lead to the escape room exit.

We returned stronger than ever, albeit with a few ant bites and battle scars, but with bellies full of delicious food, and minds full of brave tales of victory, of the mysterious overlap between Noongar and Greek constellations, and of “The Great Wizard Haka Paka,” to enthral our families with back home.

Heartfelt thanks to David Hammond for bringing exceptional energy to the camp, keeping an extra eye on our boys’ dorm, and for running Empire Games for all to enjoy in the evenings; to EA Thais Bolgueroni Barbosa for her specialist support with our international students, and to our prac teacher Courtney Stone for her can-do attitude and help providing extra care to the girls’ dorm.

Please enjoy the highlights video!

Elaine Meyer

Maar/Class 5 Teacher

GIFTED AND TALENTED SECONDARY SELECTIVE ENTRANCE PROGRAM - YEAR 7, 2025

Gifted and Talented  Secondary Selective Entrance Program applications for Year 7 in 2025 are now open. 

These unique academic, arts and languages programs are available at 24 select public secondary schools, including a fully selective academic school and an arts college. To learn more or apply visit the Department of Education site, email or call 9264 4307.

Class 6

Our recent class camp was a resounding success. The outdoor environment provides a place to learn, reflect, evaluate and share experiences. Children develop an appreciation for nature, a sense of adventure, confidence in their own abilities, the capacity for responsible risk taking, leadership, teamwork and decision making skills. Class 6 camp is an experience that children cherish as very fond memories of a class that becomes family for the week they are out in the world. We spent Week 2 of this term at Point Peron Adventure Camp. We moved together, from sunrise to moon shine, as a community filled with love for life. This is an extraordinary experience which fosters the above-mentioned strengths through various carefully chosen activities by the teacher. Evenings are filled with delight as we continue to immerse in art, music, nature and most importantly in each other’s company.   

The children had an amazing time, and the positive energy and camaraderie that comes from such adventures are still evident in our classroom. It was a valuable learning experience that will undoubtedly stay with them for years to come.

Ramneek Kaur

Class 6/ Maar Keyen Teacher

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Music News

What a wonderfully busy term we are having at WCSS! Earlier this term the Choir and Orchestra performed at the Kambarang Fair. The Choir was joined by Class 2 and 3 students and we even had some parents singing along to ‘Fill the World with Song’. The students sang so beautifully that I got goosebumps! At the Fair we also had the opportunity to see smaller groups of students and some individuals perform under the picnic tree and on the kindy stage. Students from Classes 3 – 6 played their string instruments or recorders to entertain passersby. I was very proud of all the performers and thought they did a great job!

There is no time to rest on our laurels however, as there are still plenty of opportunities to see the students perform!

On Monday of Week 7 the Class 6 students will be performing for their parents in small groups. This is a very special performance as they  chose their own groups and what music they wanted to play, which I then arranged for them if required. The pieces chosen range from the Backstreet Boys to the Mission Impossible theme, so there is something for everyone. This is the one performance where pop songs and movie themes are allowed, much to the delight of the students. The students have risen to the challenge and practised a lot. It is sure to be a great selection of performances. This will take place at 2.30pm on Monday November 20 in the Class 6 room.

On the Wednesday of Week 8 Class 3 will be performing for their parents to show them what they have learned on their string instruments so far. Parents are sure to be impressed by the big sound the Class 3 students are creating with their instruments, and also their listening ability. This performance will take place at 2.30pm on Wednesday November 29 in the Performance Room.

On Monday of Week 9 Class 5 will be performing for their parents. This semester Class 5 have been building their small ensemble skills by playing in string quartets. Every ensemble had a leader who ran rehearsals for their quartet during Class Ensemble time, while I circulated and gave advice as needed. The quartets are already sounding great and I can’t wait to see the parents’ reactions when they hear them. This performance will take place at 2.30pm on Monday December 4 in the Performance Room.

One of my favourite performances of the year will take place on the Thursday of Week 9. This is our Orchestra Advent Assembly. All are welcome to join the Orchestra on the front lawn area as we play Christmas songs. The words will be provided to the audience and all are encouraged to sing along. This year we will be playing 11 songs! This morning I found the carol program from 2011, so carols at WCSS are a long standing tradition. Be sure to save the date for this one, it is always a joyful occasion. This performance will take place at 8.45am on Thursday December 7 on the front oval.

For parents and staff who like to sing and are not opposed to performing there is one more performance opportunity this year. We usually have a group that sings Christmas carols at the Christmas markets on the last day of school. Rehearsals for this are on every Wednesday afternoon at 3.15 pm on the front oval between now and the end of term. Come along and sing some joyful Christmas songs! All are welcome and no prior singing experience is necessary.

Handwork

Class 3 love to crochet with lots of finished projects including granny squares, beanies and pencil cases.

Woodwork

WCSS Community Association

Dear School Community,

The year is almost at an end and the beautiful season of Christmas, a time of giving, is around the corner. There are two wonderful events coming up to celebrate Christmas in our gentle Steiner style.

Wreath Making Workshop

Join us at 8:45am on the 29^th November at the Hub. For just a gold coin donation you can make a gorgeous wreath for your home and if you have little ones they can play happily in the garden! Donations of Greenery are needed, so please bring to the Hub in the morning if you have some to share.

Christmas Markets

Held on the last day of school, December 12 at 12.00pm. If you are interested in having a stall at the market, please contact Maria Dau at mariadau@outlook.com

The Hub

WCSSCA has purchased lovely new baskets for the Community Shelf. The baskets will be labelled for your donations to be stored in. There will also be an anonymous request box for items people need. The list of needed items will be displayed next to the shelf. So please check it out and help a fellow school member if you can. When requesting your items please add your contact details and name so you can be contacted discretely by Hope, the Hub Captain, to collect your item.

Treasurer Wanted

WCSSCA is seeking a Treasurer to join our Committee! 

For more information see the job description below. To apply please contact WCSSCA at wcssca@wcss.wa.edu.au

With kindness in community,

Rachael (class 1 parent)

Alumni Focus

Our Class of 2018 returned to WCSS last Friday night to celebrate their 5 Year Reunion. Experiencing the same teacher for the Primary years results in strong bonds, feelings of belonging and enduring friendships. A solid foundation which instils confidence and direction. We look forward to continuing to watch them grow and thrive and wish them well for their final year of school next year!

Community News

“Ahlan wa sahlan”  Welcome to the Arabian Nights!
Class 12 students at Perth Waldorf School have embarked on the final aspect of their schooling journey, The Class 12 Play. Join them as they perform their final class play  and immerse yourself in the world of theatre, through Mary Zimmerman’s acclaimed adaptation, weaving weird and wonderful tales of romance and tomfoolery, and watch the stage come alive as they make the stories their own. 
The Arabian Nights is not your traditional play and was originally a devised piece, created through improvisations of a small group of actors. The play is made up of extravagant tales, and weaves stories within stories. 
Using a simple yet effective set, the student actors will bring the show to life with stunning costumes, lively music and lots of energy. Last week, the students received their roles and began forming an idea of how the production will look. Everyone will contribute to the final production, working behind the scenes, as well as offering their own opinions and suggestions along the way. Pulling off a play is by no means a simple task, and the Class 12’s will be working hard over the coming weeks to give the audience a show they will remember.
Witness the transformational power of storytelling at the Subiaco Arts Centre on the 24th and 25th of November. Recommended for ages 13+ but all are welcome at parents’ discretion. Tickets can be purchased online at the Subiaco Arts Centre website.

COMMONWEALTH TEACHER SCHOLARSHIPS

The Australian Government has announced that registrations are now open for 5,000 Commonwealth Teaching Scholarships to encourage more Australians to become teachers.
Passionate and motivated individuals who aspire to teach are being encouraged to register their interest.
Scholarships will be worth up to $40,000 over four years for undergraduate teaching students and $20,000 for postgraduate students.
Each scholarship will come with a commitment to give something back. In return for the $40,000 scholarship, you'll have to commit to teach for four years. For the $20,000 scholarship, there will be a two year teaching commitment.
The 5,000 scholarships will be available for new teaching students studying from 2024 and will be targeted at high-achieving school leavers, mid-career professionals, First Nations peoples, people with disability, people from whom English is an additional language or dialect and individuals from rural, regional and remote locations or from low socio-economic backgrounds.
Prospective teaching students can register their interest by visiting education.gov.au/teaching-scholarships

Regards,
Dr Anne Aly MP
Member for Cowan

Coming Events

NOVEMBER

Monday 20: Class 6 Strings Performances

Wednesday 22: Volunteer Thank You Morning Tea 8.45am

Wednesday 22: Lunchtime Talent Show

Friday 24: Class 1 Play 1.00pm

Wednesday 29: WCSSCA Wreath Making Workshop 8.45am / Class 3 Strings Performance for Parents 2.30pm

Save the Date:

Rivergods Gamelan Performance: Wednesday December 6, 11.15am (all welcome)

Kindergarten 6 Crowning Ceremony: Monday December 11, 8.35am

WCSSCA Christmas Markets: Monday December 12, 12pm

Class 6 Graduation: Monday December 12, 6.30pm

For further Term Dates check the school website calendar

WEEKLY

Market Day: Tuesdays 3.05pm

Craft Group: Thursdays 12.30pm at The Hub

Parent Study Group: Fridays 9.00am at The Hub or Library

Yarning Circle: Wednesdays 8.40am at The Hub

Parent and Staff Singing Circle: Wednesdays 3.15pm at the Picnic Tree

WA Anthroposophical Study Group: Mondays 7.30pm in the Staff Room

Golden Threads
Monday-Friday 8.00am-10.30am
Mon, Tues, Weds, Fri 2.30pm-3.30pm
Thursday 1.30pm - 3.00pm