On 10 November, the newly established St Anthony’s School Edwardstown Little Investigators Playgroup were delighted to welcome special visitors from Canberra and Goulburn Catholic Education Office, Tim Elliot Head of School Services and Alice Castrisson Early Childhood Project Officer, Jane Lemon from DECD and Tina Adamo from Catholic Education SA.
The Supported Playgroups in Schools (SPinS) at St Anthony’s started in Term Two this year with Hollie Parker and Cate Birch (Principal) attending a special SPiNS Playgroup workshop held at the Catholic Education SA Conference Centre. After consultation with the Junior Primary teachers and existing parents it was decided to hold playgroup next door to the Junior Primary classrooms. This has been a fabulous initiative as both teachers, parents and children get to see other children engaged in learning and play.
Hollie is the trained OSHC Director and conducts the SPiNS Playgroup every Thursday morning from 9am – 11am. The program is designed to support parents to learn with their child. The morning routine is structured, inviting and supporting families to be a part of their child’s learning, development and first introduction into the St Anthony’s school community.
Tim Elliot was impressed with the program.
“It was a privilege to see a program that engaged parents to introduce their children to the love of learning”, he said.
Tim felt inspired by his visit to start their own SPiNS Playgroup back in Canberra.
Jane Lemon from DECD could not get over the “the children’s sense of belongingness to all other Reception children, teachers and parents.”
Cate Birch (Principal) spoke of the value of SPinS: “the introduction of a SPiNS playgroup was an excellent opportunity to grow the Early Years within a school setting, where the education of the child and parent is highly valued and supported” she said.
If you would like more information regarding St Anthony’s Schools Little Investigators Playgroup please contact Hollie at the school on 8115 7500 or visit the school website.
A Twilight Catholic Schools Music Festival Concert will be held at St Michael’s College, 15 Mitton Road, Henley Beach on Saturday November 19 at 7pm. The Concert will be held in the Founders Hall and tickets will be available at the door.
Ticket Prices: Adults- $15/ All Concessions-$10 / Children 5years and under- $5
