29 May 2025
From the Head of the ELC
One of the greatest joys of working with young children is listening to the stories they eagerly share. Their narratives offer a window into their developing minds and unique perspectives. No matter how simple, each story holds depth – whether it’s their interpretation of a funny moment, an observation about the world around them, or the way they piece together ideas to form their own conclusions.
Children’s retelling of events is always fascinating. They don’t just recount what happened – they bring the experience to life in their own distinctive way. Often, they vividly remember what was said, how people responded, and the emotional atmosphere of the moment, using non-verbal expressions and cues to paint a full picture. Whether recalling the excitement of a birthday celebration, the wonder of a new discovery, or the disappointment of an unexpected change, their stories reveal what truly stays with them. They notice subtleties that adults might overlook, offering a glimpse into how they process experiences, emotions, and relationships. Their recollections can be inspiring, hilarious, and at times, profoundly thought-provoking.
What children choose to share reflects what they hold as significant and meaningful. Sometimes, it is a small exchange – a kind word, a warm hug, or a shared laugh – that resonates the most, showing that emotions and connections often matter more to them than the event itself. Their stories remind us that children don’t just experience moments; they internalize them, shaping their understanding of the world, relationships, and human interactions.
As educators, we cherish these conversations, knowing that storytelling strengthens children’s communication skills, self-expression, and sense of identity. It is a privilege to witness their growing confidence as they share their stories, offering us invaluable insight into their world. Listening to their perspectives enriches our own, helping us appreciate the depth of their thinking and the beauty of seeing life through their eyes – filled with curiosity, imagination, and a deep appreciation for life’s simplest, yet most meaningful, moments.
Important Information
Vision Assessment – Goanna and Eagle Classes
The Statewide Eyesight Preschooler Screening (StEPS) program is an initiative of NSW Health and offers 4-year-old children, eligible for school in 2026 (who have not been previously screened), a free vision assessment.
We have arranged for the StEPS program to visit the ELC on the following dates at 9:00am:
- Wednesday 4 June – Goanna Class
- Thursday 5 June – Eagle Class
Consent forms are available at reception. Please ensure the original forms are completed, signed, and returned to ELC reception by Friday 30 May.
Save the date: Grandparents and Special Persons Morning Tea
We are delighted to host our ELC Grandparents or Special Persons Morning Tea at the ELC. Please select a date that your child attends and their grandparents or special people can attend:
Wednesday 18 June: 10.00am-11.00am OR Thursday 19 June: 10.00am-11.00am
Please RSVP by Monday 2 June 2025.
What’s Happening This Term
Parent Learning Series: Boys, Girls, Brains & Behaviour with Justin Coulson
Newington College warmly invites all our parents, and families outside our community, to an evening with Dr Justin Coulson on Thursday 5 June in the Old Boys Lecture Theatre, starting at 5.30pm with refreshments.
Stereotypes about boys and girls have been around for centuries. We all grew up learning that girls play with dolls and boys play with trucks, girls wear pink and boys wear blue, girls are good at reading and boys are good at maths, boys are active and use their bodies, but girls prefer to be sedentary and talk lots.
Despite the supposed gender revolution, boys and girls really do seem to be different. They relate to others differently, develop differently, play differently, receive diagnoses differently, experience mental health challenges differently, and more.
In this science-based presentation, Dr Justin Coulson unpacks brain, behaviour, and gender myths, truths, and rumours to help parents work with their children to uncover their strengths, build motivation, and maximise their resilience and wellbeing.
Staff Profile
This week we chatted to Lindfield Year 6 Teacher William Neville. William has a double degree in Education and Psychology from Macquarie University. He joined the Lindfield team from our Wyvern Campus in 2024 where he led our Year 5W class. This year he has continued with the cohort in Year 6W where the students have enjoyed his dedication, positive attitude and outstanding teaching abilities.
Q. What is one of your best memories of being a student?
A. Competing in a LEGO Robotics competition with my best mates in primary school. We managed to win our division, going on to represent Tasmania at the National Final on the Gold Coast. A surreal opportunity, with hindsight, and I didn’t realise at the time how fortunate I was. We were pipped for first by a team who recreated a Mission Impossible movie with their programmed LEGO, but the trip to Dreamworld afterwards certainly helped allay the pain of second place.
Q. Did you have a favourite teacher growing up and why?
A. I was lucky to have a host of wonderful educators during my time at school. My favourites were always nurturing, available to listen and happy to challenge me on my crazy ideas. One that stands out was my Year 3 teacher – we’ll call him ‘Mr Edmund.’ He made everyone in his class feel like they mattered and had some of the worst/best jokes of all time. In my own career, I’ve often borrowed from Mr Edmund’s playbook. I know the importance of connection and relationships for both cognitive and socioemotional development. Therefore, my classroom door will always be open in the morning for a check-in or chat. I want my students to feel like I know and care about them.
Q. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to students that you wish you had known when you were in school?
A. Doing small things the right way every day really adds up. People appreciate effort and attention to detail, so committing to good habits will serve you well. A great example is to work hard on your handwriting when you’re young or it’ll be too late for you… I’ve learned this the hard way. Paul Kelly and Kev Carmody had it right – “from little things, big things grow.”
