Empowering Student Voice at St Joseph’s Primary School, Kempsey
Year 6 Students at St Joseph’s School Primary School, Kempsey, share their learning with their whole community through Fortnightly News Episodes. (11 March 2024)
In a dynamic display of collaboration and creativity, Year 6 students at St Joseph’s Primary School, Kempsey, have led a fantastic initiative beyond the typical classroom experience. They share their learning, report on events, and celebrate the achievements within their school through a fortnightly video presentation.
Since 2022, under the guidance of Year 6 teacher and School Evangelisation and Community Coordinator, Mr Tim May, students diligently gather information on various school events, providing a comprehensive view of the vibrant life within the St Joseph’s community.
‘Video production is a great way to engage students in sharing the good news events within their school. It builds confidence in the student presenters who work hard to deliver their lines to the camera. It has been great to see the students' response to the videos in assembly and the encouragement and support from the wider school community,’ said Tim.
In Episode Two, the students skillfully highlighted four significant events: discussing the implications of new changes in Teaching and Learning, providing updates on Project Compassion, recapping the impactful visit from Wildfire for 10:10 Retreats and Song Writing Workshop, and celebrating recent sporting achievements. The addition of guest interviews from both staff and students infused a personal touch, enhancing the relatability and engagement of the episode.
‘It took some time to put the story together, but it is very satisfying to see it all come together and see the students' response to our work. I really liked interviewing the younger students,’ said Year 6 student Jason.
This initiative stands out not just for its informative content but also for the invaluable skills students are developing in the process. These skills encompass the refinement of research and communication abilities, as well as the cultivation of teamwork and creativity.
‘It was more challenging than I had thought it would be. Presenting on camera has given me more confidence and allowed me to experience new challenges,’ said Year 5 student Indy.
The resounding success of these news episodes is evident in their widespread popularity among students and parents, especially during whole school assemblies. The wave of positive feedback has motivated the team to extend the celebration of their school community's achievements by sharing the episodes across various media platforms.
‘We are proud of the great work that is being done by Mr May and our Year 6 students to share and promote all the wonderful things happening in our school community, and the creative and engaging platform in which it is presented,’ said Assistant Principal Erin McGovern.
