Queenwood Connections
I am immensely thankful that during their most critical years of brain development (Primary schooling), Mosman Prep is able to dedicate its resources to teaching and learning strategies which target the needs of boys - the way they react to situations and the way in which they process information.
At a time when Australian research has identified that boys are three times more likely than girls to be quietly disengaged in their learning, and twice as likely to have significant deficits in writing, it is a privilege to be able to tailor learning activities and spaces to specifically cater for boys.
Our teachers support boys’ learning by increasing experimental and kinaesthetic learning opportunities. They also support literacy through spatial visual representations, break tasks down into achievable steps, give boys some choice in topics they investigate, provide opportunities for group activities, and incorporate movement and fun!
Research also suggests that students in boys’ schools are more likely to explore their strengths and interests, feeling more comfortable to engage in an assortment of learning areas, unrestrained by gender stereotypes or a fear of being judged. Seeing our boys engaged in a wide range of learning activities in an unreserved manner is very special.
It is critical that boys have the opportunity to discover their authentic voice, to express their ideas and thoughts, and to test their thinking against the thoughts of others. They need to feel heard without judgement, to feel comfortable to be vulnerable in developing their emotional vocabulary.
At the same time, having the opportunity to interact and develop healthy relationships with girls is very important. We are thankful to have Queenwood Girls’ School only a few hundred metres down the road, and thankful that the Principal (Ms Elizabeth Stone), and Head of Junior School (Ms Anni Sandwell) are committed to, and passionate about, our students connecting in meaningful ways.
One of our ‘Foundation for the Future’ programs is titled ‘Queenwood Connections’.
Since our ‘new found’ freedom from the pandemic restrictions, we have already managed to organise the following:
- Year 5 visited Queenwood this week for a scavenger hunt.
- Year 3 students are writing letters to each other as soldiers (Prep boys) to women back at home (Queenwood girls) as both have looked at the ANZAC legend.
- K-2 boys are going to Queenwood next week to watch a performance (Meerkat Performance of Dr Huff).
- We have invited senior girls over to listen to our author presentation by Morris Gleitzman to celebrate book week.
- Year 2 and Year 6 have invited their Queenwood grade partners to Terrey Hills.
- Queenwood staff joined with our staff recently at Prep for a Gifted Awareness Week visiting speaker.
We have connected our teachers with the Queenwood teachers and things are buzzing in relation to exciting connections for our students, and powerful collaboration between our staff.
Targeted and liberated learning for boys without distraction, supplemented by healthy connections with girls is a very powerful and exciting formula.
Peter Grimes | Headmaster
