Over the January school holidays, our College proudly ran the very first Leap into Prep program. It was a very joyful and successful three weeks.

Leap into Prep was designed as a gentle, welcoming introduction to school life, giving our Prep students the chance to build confidence, make friendships, learn routines, and feel comfortable at the College before the academic year officially begins.

Across the program, children were immersed in playful, hands-on experiences that balanced movement, creativity, imagination and quiet reflection. Our days were filled with jungle adventures, where children crawled through obstacle courses, created animal masks, played Wild Animal Bingo, and practised mindfulness through jungle yoga and relaxation. Story times such as Rumble in the Jungle, The Lion Inside, and Five Little Monkeys Swinging in the Tree sparked rich conversations, laughter and opportunities to retell stories through play and craft.

As the weeks progressed, children also became space explorers, building rockets from recycled materials, designing astronaut patches, hopping across planets, and completing “astronaut training camps” filled with stretching, jumping, crawling, and imaginative role play. These experiences encouraged teamwork, problem-solving and confidence.

Our final week focused on superheroes, teamwork, and kindness, with children designing their own superhero identities, completing obstacle courses, taking part in secret missions and even becoming “Kindness Ninjas,” quietly spreading positive messages around the school. Rescue and teamwork challenges encouraged cooperation, communication and empathy, reinforcing the idea that learning is something we do together.

What stood out most throughout the program was the children themselves. They were settled, engaged and beautifully behaved, showing kindness to one another, enthusiasm for learning and increasing independence as each day passed. Many arrived each morning excited to share their stories, eager to see their friends, and ready to jump into the day’s activities.

Leap into Prep provided a soft start to school life. Children became familiar with school spaces, daily routines, transitions and expectations. This gentle approach helped them build trust, practise independence, and develop a strong sense of belonging.

A very big thanks to the following staff members for their assistance in running the program: Mrs Bradley, Mrs Williams, Mrs Braniff, Mrs Wheeler, Mr Williams, Miss Robyn, Mrs Kember, Mrs Leach and Mrs Burrows. Thank you to our families for your support and trust as we launched this new initiative. 

What a joyful way to leap into learning!

TRENT DAVIS
HEAD OF CURRICULUM & WELLBEING (PREP TO YEAR 2)