Experiential Learning

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

The vibrant life of the Prep School continued in 2020, despite government restrictions and heightened hygiene. For a moment, our calendar looked empty, with the cancellation of camps, excursions and parent events. And then, the boys and teachers got to work! Each grade developed an incursion (an event held on campus) to elevate learning and enrich the curriculum.

Year 6 Refugees

Early one morning, we watched Year 6 boys trek off into the distance carrying a ration pack and 6 valuable items. During this simulation of life as a refugee, the boys faced uncertainty, disappointment and longing for home.

Experiential, immersive learning is designed to bring history, geography and science out of books and into reality. In 2020, these events deepened understanding, encouraged inquiry and celebrated the boys’ hard work.

The fact that The King’s School’s classrooms extend beyond the buildings to include agricultural plots, shearing sheds, a dam, and acres of land cannot be underestimated. With our campus as our classroom, the learning was rich and exciting all year long at the Preparatory School.

Shannon O’Dwyer Deputy Head (Academics), Preparatory School

Pre-K Vacay

As part an inquiry into communities, Pre-Kindergarten students built an impressive resort, complete with mini-golf, waterslides, a café, a gift shop and a security team. Each boy took charge of one area of the giant cardboard creation, dressed in Hawaiian shirts and giant smiles. They explained how each role was connected to make the community function efficiently.

Kindy & Year 1 Zoo-Keepers

Science investigations into living things, habitats and ecosystems turned in two full days of engineering in Kindy and Year 1. The boys took on the role of zoo-keepers to build habitats for different species. The classrooms were covered in clay, straw, grass, wood and fabric. The boys used their understanding of mathematics, science and engineering to combine materials, test strength and create safety from the elements.

Year 2 Paddock to Plate

The Paddock to Plate inquiry involved a rollicking bush dance, a visit to the shearing shed, and a taste of damper, hot chocolate and honeycomb. Dressed as farmers, the boys showed off their impressive knowledge of how food and fibre are processed, before enjoying a picnic lunch of locally-sourced products.

World Expo in Year 3

When the planes were grounded, and all travel plans suspended, the World Expo took us around the globe. Year 3 boys set up a series of exhibits, to showcase the clothing, language, culture and geography of different countries. Each boy spoke with confidence about the built and natural landforms of his chosen country.

Year 4 Trade Simulation

Financial literacy was the name of the game in Year 4 as a trade simulation saw the boys buying, selling, saving, borrowing and bargaining to understand how economies work. They learned wonderful lessons about saving, debt, interest and banking, as they took on the role of small businessmen for the day.

Gold Rush on Price 5

Year 5 rushed to the Goldfields (on Price 5 Oval this year!). They built a tent village, purchased miner’s licences, cooked damper, and played games from yesteryear. Videos from Hill End set the scene, and roaming police kept the young miners one their toes.