Welcome to our blog!

Welcome to the SHEAF Blog.

Despite our best intentions, we're not great at keeping this blog updated with our latest happenings. We are, however, definitely an active group, meeting at least once each week during term time.

If you'd like to make contact with Dunedin home educators, our contact details are in the column, below right.

We send out a weekly email newsletter with details of upcoming events, courses, gatherings etc.

You can also find us on Facebook (page is visible whether you're a facebook user or not)
http://www.facebook.com/SHEAFDunedin

Have a look through this blog to see the types of events we have organised in the past. You'll also find links to other blogs and articles that we find useful or informative, on the off-chance that you'll appreciate them too :~) (Look for these more general blog-posts under the label "Weekend Reading")

If you're not currently on our email list and would like to contact us, please email us at the address you can see in the column on the right. We'd love to hear from you!

(Last updated May 2013)

Friday, May 28, 2010

Weekend Reading - Getting hit on the head lessons

I enjoy reading Alfie Kohn's articles. He's extremely adept at picking out some of our education-related assumptions and bringing them into the light - not always to their best advantage.

In this article he is responding to the common opinion that kids are going to come across bad/boring/tedious/harmful practices and events later in their lives, so we should expose them to such things early so they can get used to it - something he calls the Better Get Used To It principle (BGUTI).

Getting hit on the head lessons


Once you've read the article, you'll feel compelled to find the Monty Python sketch that introduces the Getting Hit on the Head Lessons, from which Alfie Kohn takes his title.

Let me save you the hassle :~)

Here is the Argument Clinic, in all its glory (the head-hitting is at 4:08). I have watched it and there isn't any nudity, but there is mild 1970s British abuse language. It seems that videos aren't embedding properly just now, so double click on the video below and it will take you to the YouTube site where you can watch it properly.

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Swimsation Swimming for Term 3

Swimsation have contacted us wanting an idea of numbers for our Swimming Classes for Term 3. Numbers are waaaaaay down this term, and I think they're getting a little antsy about allocating us swimming instructors for such low numbers.

So, we'd like an expression of interest from anyone considering coming along in Term 3 - this does not commit you to signing up, it is just an indication of numbers.

The swimming session is divided into two half-hour segments. In the first half hour, the kids are given swimming instruction based on their skill level (at sign-up you indicate whether they are beginners, advanced or somewhere in the middle, and then the kids are also assessed very unobtrusively during the first session of the term). Beginners are in the Learners Pool, with the intermediate and advanced swimmers in the shallow end of the lap pool.

The second half hour is something fun, like water-sports or water-safety. This last term they have done some aqua-jogging, some practice rescue-swimming, some kayaking, some snorkelling...

The fee for the 10 week term is usually about $95, and I believe there is a family discount if you have several children signed up.

Please contact Nicola if you are interested!

Diary Dates - 25 May 2010

Thanks very much to an extremely patient and energetic Ted, for the first group tennis session last Tuesday. The kids had a great time and the weather held out perfectly. We can't wait till next Tuesday! Another highlight last week was the art gallery trip, which Kathrin organised. We now have two lovely new 'sunrise' paintings on the wall, so thanks for that, Kathrin.

THIS TERM

every Monday during term time, 11:00 - 12:00pm: Swimsation lessons; 12:00pm on: lunch and socialising. If you are interested in joining the lessons, contact Swimsation at Moana Pool to book. Otherwise, just turn up!

every Tuesday during term time, 12:30 - 1:30pm approx: tennis at Logan Park tennis courts. Contact Ted for more information.

12:30pm, Wednesday 26 May: Meet up at Chingford Park

7:30pm, Wednesday 26 May: Mums' Night Out, Nova Cafe

11:00am, Wednesday 2 June: orienteering at the Botanic Gardens. Contact Tammy to book

12:30pm, Wednesday 9 June: Meet up at Arthur Street Park

12:30pm,Wednesday 16 June: IDSW, blue Book 2, walk 4, meet outside of 38 Warden St, Opoho

12:30pm,Wednesday 23 June: Meet up at Mosgiel Memorial Park, Hartstonge Ave.

12:30pm, Wednesday 30 June: Meet up at St Clair playground, corner of Victoria Rd and Forbury Rd/Esplanade

TERM 3

1:00pm, Wednesday 1 September: St John's "Safe Kids" first aid course for children. Contact Kathrin to book

TERM 4

Wednesday 17 November: Life Education Trust visit, Calton Hill School. Contact Annemieke to book

Remember, if it's raining, our outdoor meet-ups or walks will usually be cancelled/postponed

Supporting home educators around the country!

Via Selina-Jane:

Hi There Homeschoolers across the Nation
I am a homeschooling mum of my youngest son who is 14yrs.
My work background along with my husband has been in the Film and Television industry. He now is a teacher and I of course homeschool as well as write screenplays, photography, drama, etc you know multitask!!
I got a small group of students together to make a short film. The end product was fantastic and the fun we had was immense and hands on teaching all the time!!
So to get to the point I need your help and support.
We have entered this into the Twinings short film festival and we need your votes via computer.
Please go to www.twiningsfilmfestival.co.nz
our film is on the second page of entries and is called A Drink with Friends featuring Santa.
I plan to make more short films as this is a great opportunity to teach the students the huge amounts of work that even a small production takes. Our work experience in this field makes some of the mystery surrounding how things are done easier - yes - but also we know where to cut corners and make the process faster.
If any of you would like to contribute or be involved please contact me - YES anyone including the folks on the "Mainland" of our beautiful country.
Thanks and please vote!

Also Also Also.........

DISNEY CHANNEL CASTING CALL FINALIST
My teenage daughter, Hayley, who was previously homeschooled was chosen as one of the 5 finalists out of 6000 entries in the Casting Call competition.
We had to attend workshops and formal audition in Sydney recently. We are now relying on public vote to help with the final selection so another ask if you could please go to the website www.disneychannel.com.au and click on casting call it will take you to the five finalists. My daughters name is Hayley.
I know I know An ask from someone you don't know but we all must lobby together and support publicly the successes of our children so homeschool will continue to show positive results in ALL fields.
Many Thanks Community
Regards
Lynz Wilmshurst

Intriguing Dunedin Street Walks

Our next IDSW will be the 4th one from the blue book (Book 2). We'll meet outside of 38 Warden St, Opoho at 12:30pm, Wednesday 16 June. The walk is supposed to take 1.5 hours, so schedule at least 2 to 2.5 in your diaries! Although it's not a particularly long walk, it might be quite hilly, as it crosses parts of the Signal Hill Rd/Lovelock Ave area. You've been warned!

Orokunui trip

Via Selina-Jane:

I received a letter form Julie Wiel today, and she has asked me to pass on the following information.

"I'm organising a trip to a native bird sanctuary later in the year. I plan to visit it myself first so I can gauge the set up and meet the educators who run the schools programme.

It will be a cost of $5 per child and adults free. You can take prams but there are places it may be harder to push them. The usual tour takes 90 mins, I'm unsure at present how long the schools tour will be. As I find out more info I will let you know, but at this stage I would like to know who would be interested.

It's at the Orokonui bird sanctuary, near Waitati, they have many species of our native birds, incl. kaka chicks, 33 saddlebacks, tui's and bellbirds, etc.

they have a lovely looking cafe and facility pictured in their brochure so perhaps it could be made into a day trip.

I spoke to a man who works at Orokonui and he suggests Spring would be the best time to visit the bird sanctuary.

Any who are interested can either text me or ring me on home phone."

Please note Julie is unable to receive contact via email. If you are having trouble finding Julie's contact information, contact us via the SHEAF email address and we'll get back to you.

Observatory trip

It's nearly Matariki again, so a trip to the observatory seems to be in order. According to Amadeo (everyone's favourite science communicator), very early morning is the best time to view the mid-winter constellations. This may put some people off, but is anyone interested in meeting at the observatory at around 6 or 7am, on a Saturday or Sunday morning, some time in June/July?

If so, please email Nicola your preferred day, then she'll check that the observatory is free and that Amadeo can meet us there. He'll let us know exactly what time to meet once we've confirmed a date.

The cost will probably be $2 per child, $4 per adult or $10 per family.

Edited to add: trip now confirmed for 6.30am, 18 July. Make sure you book with Nicola so you are advised of any cancellation/postponement

Orienteering

Tammy has booked us in for an orienteering trip through the Botanic Gardens, at 11am Wednesday 2 June. We'll meet at the Information Centre (by the cafe) and have lunch afterwards. There may be a charge of $1 per child, but possibly not - It will be confirmed in next week's newsletter. Phone Tammy to book.

Mid-year dinner

Tammy suggested the excellent idea of having a mid-year dinner at Indian Spice, in the North Rd shops. We thought just after the homeschooling allowance had been received might be the best time to go, so tentative dates are either Wednesday 30 June or Thursday 1 July, at about 7:30pm. If you're interested (and everyone is welcome), please let me know which date you'd prefer, or if you'd like a different date altogether! Here's the restaurant's site if anyone would like to check out their delicious menu

Edited to add: confirmed date is Wed 30th June. Either 6.30 or 7.30pm - if you let Nicola know you're coming, she will make sure you know what time :)

Friday, May 21, 2010

Weekend Reading - Big Hairy Audacious Goals

Here's an article I found recently - first published in 2001 - in the Home Education Magazine.


In this article Julie encourages us to help our children dream huge dreams that set their hearts on fire, and then resource and encourage them to turn those dreams into reality. Inspiring!
"...When I was a kid, school provided me with sensible goals that wouldn't interfere with my parents' lives too much... Certainly some of my teachers rose above the mediocrity and contributed profoundly to my life, but on the whole, most of my school life was keenly managed and required mere compliance from me. I didn't own the experiences and I certainly didn't orchestrate them.

"Enter the B-HAG into our family. Suddenly I'm on a radical learning curve led by my kids..."

Monday, May 17, 2010

Diary Dates - 17 May 2010

As usual, if anyone has any suggestions for trips or activities, or would like to organise anything for our group, please feel free!

SHEAF ACTIVITIES THIS WEEK

11:00 - 12:00pm, Monday 17 May: Swimsation lessons; 12:00pm on: lunch and socialising.

12.30pm Tuesday: Tennis. Contact Ted for more info

12:30 - 2:30pm, Wednesday 19 May: "Peninsula Sunrise" workshop, Art Gallery - FULLY BOOKED
$2 per child - please try to bring the correct change if possible. Contact Kathrin to confirm your place.

COMING UP

every Monday during term time, 11:00 - 12:00pm: Swimsation lessons; 12:00pm on: lunch and socialising. If you are interested in joining the lessons, email Adrian Brown at albrown@dcc.govt.nz to book. Otherwise, just turn up!

Tuesdays, 12.30pm: Tennis at the Logan Park Tennis Centre. Contact Ted for more information

12:30pm, Wednesday 26 May: Meet up at Chingford Gardens

7:30pm, Wednesday 26 May: Mums' Night Out, Nova Cafe

TERM 3

1:00pm, Wednesday 1 September: St John's "Safe Kids" first aid course for children. Contact Kathrin to book

TERM 4

Wednesday 17 November: Life Education Trust visit, Calton Hill School. Contact Annemieke to book

Remember, if it's raining, our outdoor meet-ups or walks will usually be cancelled/postponed.

OURS DVDs

Selina-Jane has kindly offered to co-ordinate a bulk order of the OURS DVD. To preview this DVD, go to http://www.oursdvd.co.nz/preview-dvd.html

From Selina-Jane:
I have contacted Kindle Films about the Ours DVD. They have a special offer for Home Schoolers:

The Ours DVD costs $26 (postage is free). For every 5 we order, we will get one DVD free, taking the cost down to $21.66 each. I have attached the information they have sent me about the dvd's so that people can have a look. It has a link to their website, where you can see more about the content of the dvd's.

If people would like to contact me with their orders by Friday 28th May, then I will work out the final costs (factoring in the discount) and people can place their payment into the DCHE account, which I will give details of to them at the time.

Blessings, Selina-Jane


Contact Selina-Jane by phone or email. She is the DCHE coordinator, her contact details are also on the SHEAF list.

New research on home education

Some articles about some recent research on home education in New Zealand. The articles are principally profiling the researcher, but there is a brief overview of some of his research.

http://www.massey.ac.nz/massey/about-massey/news/article.cfm?mnarticle=home-schooling-viable-alternative-says-researcher-12-05-2010

http://www.stuff.co.nz/manawatu-standard/news/3690696/Graduate-79-keeps-children-on-toes

Life Education Trust visit

Annemieke is organising a trip for our group to visit the Life Education Trust caravan. So far, the confirmed details are Wednesday 17 November, Calton Hill School, 38 Riselaw Rd, Calton Hill. There will be three different sessions run during the day, each for different age groups, as follows:

1 junior session (5 - 7 year olds) for just over an hour. Cost $3 plus gst ($3.40)
1 middle session (8 - 10 year olds) for 1.5 hours.Cost $3 plus gst ($3.40)
1 senior session (11 - 13 year olds) for 2 hours. Cost $5 plus gst ($5.60)

The times and topics have yet to be confirmed, but in the meantime, if you would like to book spaces for your family, email Annemieke

Tennis - more info

From Ted:

I've had several folks call about playing so I think it will be fun. I guess I will go ahead and pick Tuesdays at 12:30pm as a time and see who can make it. If it turns out that that time is bad for folks I have some flexibility so I'd be willing to talk. No need to sign up or anything. There are 27 courts so there is room. There is only one of me, however, so time I spend with kids will be determined by numbers and need. Any parents who want to play would be welcome. If anyone is looking for reasonably priced rackets, I recommend Trade Me. I found four on trade me for $35.00 including shipping. The man who runs the place is usually there if you want to get a pass or buy tennis balls or you can pay each visit. We play a couple of times each week anyway so we may be able to set up another time as we go along. I will be at the Logan Park Tennis Center early to help folks get in etc. I've got a pass already. If you have any questions please email or call (472 7852). I'll see whoever is interested then or some following Tuesday. See ya', Ted

For the previous notice about Tennis, see here

Friday, May 14, 2010

Weekend Reading - 50 reasons why I could never homeschool

We've all had people say "Oh my goodness, I could NEVER homeschool!" Which often leaves me wondering if they think I'm a weirdo-freak or superwoman, and at a complete loss as to what to reply. Usually I smile brightly and say "Well, it works for us!"

Here is a list of the top 50 reasons why I could never home educate, from Guilt-Free homeschooling, with her straight-up replies to each one.

Monday, May 10, 2010

Diary Dates - 10 May 2010

We had a great trip to the museum last week, where the kids got to re-enact a Samoan kava ceremony, and some Fijian fire-walking. Good fun!

SHEAF ACTIVITIES THIS WEEK

11:00am Monday 10 May: Swimming classes at Moana Pool. Socialising and lunch from 12:00noon

12:30pm, Wednesday 12 May: Intriguing Dunedin Street Walk, Blue Book, Walk 3, meet outside of 70 Duncan St, City Rise

THIS TERM

every Monday during term time,
11:00 - 12:00pm: Swimsation lessons;
12:00pm on: lunch and socialising.
If you're interested in joining the lessons, contact Swimsation at Moana Pool to book. Otherwise, just turn up!

12:30pm, Wednesday 12 May: Intriguing Dunedin Street Walk, Blue Book, Walk 3, meet outside of 70 Duncan St, City Rise

12:30pm, Wednesday 19 May: "Peninsula Sunrise" workshop, Art Gallery - FULLY BOOKED

12:30pm, Wednesday 26 May: Meet up at Chingford Park, North East Valley

7:30pm, Wednesday 26 May: Mums' Night Out, Nova Cafe

TERM 3

1:00pm, Wednesday 1 September: St John's "Safe Kids" first aid course for children. Contact Kathrin to book


Remember, if it's raining, our outdoor meet-ups or walks will usually be cancelled/postponed

OURS NZ Nature DVDs

Via Kathrin ('OURS info' document attached also):
Hi Dunedin Homeschoolers

I've made an awesome NZ Nature DVD especially for 3-8 year olds. It's called OURS and has 55 topics all about our native creatures, unique land areas and children engaged in looking after the environment. OURS has an alphabetic structure of 26 chapters and the beautifully filmed topics are in 'bite-sized' chunks. Ideal as introductions to all sorts of things about NZ with an easy to choose custom-made menu. Plus, OURS is a gentle, documentary-style DVD with voiceover narration that respects our children's intelligence.
If you visit www.oursdvd.co.nz you can have a look at the DVD clips and see what you think. I'd really like to offer OURS to homeschool families, as it's such a great resource. I am willing to do bulk order discounts etc..

Emma Heke
Kindle Films Limited
T/A Red Heke Productions
PO Box 719
Nelson 7040
t: 03 5469694
m: 0274210468
www.oursdvd.co.nz
info@oursdvd.co.nz

HPV vaccination programme

Karen Nielsen, a Public Health Nurse, has asked us to pass on information to our group regarding the HPV vaccinations. Nicola sent this information out as attachments with the newsletter. If you missed this, or would like it sent to you again, please contact Nicola.

Tennis

From Ted:

My kids have both expressed interest in learning to play tennis. After researching lessons for a bit I came to the conclusion that we couldn't afford them, especially when we were not sure whether they had a true interest. I have played tennis off and on for more than 40 years (I can't believe I can say that) and I decided that, even though I am far, far from a professional or a teacher, I could at least get them started in the sport.

We are going to the courts in Logan Park at least once each week to hit the ball around, get some exercise and learn a little about tennis in the process. I would like to open this up to anyone else who may be interested. Adults or kids who know the game are welcome to come and share what they know and pair up with others at their level to play. Adults and kids who have little or no experience with the game are welcome to come and learn. I am more than happy to have folks drop kids off. I'd be happy to supervise.

The only fee would be in access to the tennis courts. You can either pay as you go ($4.00/visit) or buy a pass. A pass for an individual is $50.00/year from the date of purchase for unlimited use. A family pass is $100.00/year from the date of purchase for unlimited use. Beyond that you would need a racket, tennis shoes and tennis balls (they sell used but still good balls at the courts for a dollar each). Obviously winter is nearly here and it will get cold but with a hat and gloves its not difficult to stay warm with all the running around. We have not settled on a day yet but we want to do it during the school day (maybe before or after lunch to be followed by lunch and play or just play). I am open to Ideas. I am also open to twice each week.

Let me know if anyone is interested or has any questions. You can reach me at bluekombi @ hotmail . com (without the spaces) or call me on 472 7852.

Thanks,
Ted

Bouldering (low rock-climbing without ropes) trip

From Claire:

Hi there
The bouldering guy (Nathan) got back to me yesterday. He would be happy enough for us to have a session in their room in the day time but he and the other guy who run it work in the day. We could just go by ourselves but I think it would be good to have someone who knew how to climb with us. Even if just to tell the kids to pull their heads in if they are getting carried away. Always goes down better from someone else! Nathan was going to ask a few people he knew that might be able to do it. We could maybe ask around our group, there might be someone who is into climbing. There are no ropes etc, bouldering is free climbing and they have a big padded floor. It would need to be a smallish group 10-15.
Let me know if you have a climbing friend.
Cheers
Claire

Friday, May 7, 2010

Weekend Reading - The Classical Approach

Since we've recently had some posts about Unschooling and Charlotte Mason-style education philosophies, I thought we'd continue on our tiki-tour and have a look at some of the other approaches people take with their home education.

This week I've picked what is usually known as the Classical Approach, the most widely known version of this being found in the The Well Trained Mind book.

In the article linked below, Susan Wise Bauer, co-author of the Well Trained Mind book, gives a summary of the Classical method



For more information about the Classical Method and The Well Trained Mind, have a browse through the following links:

Online Resources at The Well Trained Mind website

Reserve The Well Trained Mind at the Dunedin Public Library. [Sorry, I (Stacey) currently have it out!]

Chat with other home educators at the Well Trained Mind Forums (aka the Hive Mind)

A very clear, concise article contrasting and comparing a range of approaches to home education, including the Classical Method. The Various Approaches to Home Education.

Monday, May 3, 2010

Diary Dates - 3 May 2010

Thanks very much to Tammy for organising the aviary trip last week. It was a great success, even though we didn't quite manage to get through all of it! Tammy is looking at organising the orienteering workshop through the Gardens next.

SHEAF ACTIVITIES THIS WEEK

11:00 - 12:00pm, Monday May 3rd: Swimsation lessons

1:00 - 2:30pm, Wednesday 5 May: "Celebrating the Pacific" workshop, Otago Museum. $3 per school-aged child. There are still a few spaces left, so email Nicola if you'd like to book.

THIS TERM

every Monday during term time, 11:00 - 12:00pm: Swimsation lessons; 12:00pm on: lunch and socialising. If you are interested in joining the lessons, contact Swimsation at Moana Pool to book. Otherwise, just turn up!

1:00 - 2:30pm, Wednesday 5 May: "Celebrating the Pacific" workshop, Otago Museum. Contact Nicola to book

12:30pm, Wednesday 12 May: Intriguing Dunedin Street Walk, Blue Book, Walk 3, meet on the footpath outside of 70 Duncan St, City Rise

12:30pm, Wednesday 19 May: "Peninsula Sunrise" workshop, Art Gallery - FULLY BOOKED

12:30pm, Wednesday 26 May: Meet up at Chingford Gardens

7:30pm, Wednesday 26 May: Mums' Night Out, Nova Cafe

TERM THREE

1:00pm, Wednesday 1 September: St John's "Safe Kids" first aid course for children. Contact Kathrin to book

*****
As usual, if anyone has any suggestions for trips or activities, or would like to organise anything for our group, please feel free!
Remember, if it's raining, our outdoor meet-ups or walks will usually be cancelled/postponed.

Kiwi Kids Learn - issue 2

You really have to admire their marketing skills and persistence! I have no idea what this magazine is like, but for those interested: [Stacey has a copy of issue 1 if anyone wants a look]

Hi Everyone,
Issue 2 has arrived from the printer today and is ready to go. The feature this issue is a Brain Special that includes games, activities and ideas as well as how and why our brain works the way it does, brain food recipes and an article written by a specialist at DORE about learning difficulties. There is also something for everyone whether your children are preschoolers or teenagers. We take a look at Dramatic Play, English and Geography with the outline for an in depth study on Mining in our National Parks.
For the kids there is Purple Monkey's activity pages, Mothers Day Crafts, Book Reviews by other kids, as well as the Student Showcase where they can check out what other kids across New Zealand have been doing.
For more details, feedback or to order visit the website www.kiwikidslearn.yolasite.com. You can now pay by credit, debit card or from your paypal account online at the Kiwi Kids Learn site or via internet banking or cheque.
If you have already subscribed then your magazine is already in the post to you.
Please spread the word - tell your friends, family, colleagues and neighbours!!
I look forward to hearing from you.
Kind Regards
Kim Mounsey
Kiwi Kids Learn: Education at Home
www.kiwikidslearn.yolasite.com

Ruth's Story - play at Globe Theatre

From Vanetta:
Hi this is to let Home Educators know about special prices for...

****** " RUTH'S STORY " ******
at the Globe Theatre
104 London Street
a play by Carol Krueger
Weds 5 May 7pm
Thurs 6 May 7 pm
Fri 7 May 7 pm
Sat 8 May 2pm and 7 pm
if you book through me all tickets to any performance cost $5 for adults and children concession price
[normal prices Adults $15 Children $10 ]
****** to book email rosenbergs@maxnet.co.nz as soon as possible please ******

or you can phone Mrs Krueger on 455 7804 and mention my name for group Home Educator's booking
Suitable for ages 10 years+
you can include other friends and family in your booking for the cheap price

This is a story about the Holocaust and centres around a Jewish girl, a young Resistance worker, and a young Nazi. As children they start off as best friends, the War changes all that. Through the Lord, that changes again and they help each other to overcome their difficulties. For further info see last week's Star midweek or phone Mrs Krueger. Matt Rosenberg is in this drama.

Best wishes,
Vanetta Rosenberg

DPB work requirements

From the NCHENZ email list:
Hi there

I have recently emailed Paula Bennett MP (Minister of Social Development and Employment) asking her to continue supporting single home-schooling parents with the DPB. I did this after hearing that the government may introduce work-testing for home-schooling mothers on the DPB. Ms Bennett’s office confirmed that this issue is indeed CURRENTLY under consideration.

I would like to ask as many of you as possible to join with me in writing to Paula Bennett on behalf of the single mums in our home-schooling community. The single home-educating mums I know are doing such an incredible job with their children…it seems terrible to think that they may lose the choice to home-educate because they are no longer financially supported.

Please join me so that Paula Bennett hears from many of us on this issue – it only requires an email for our voices of support to be heard. Her email address is paula.bennettmp@parliament.govt.nz

Many thanks for reading this – now PLEASE TAKE ACTION on behalf of the single mums among us!!

Regards
Angie Fraser

For more on this topic, see previous blogpost here

Next Mums' Night Out

The next Mums Night Out is penciled in for 7:30pm, Wednesday 26 May at Nova. And remember you don't have to be a mum - you don't even necessarily have to be homeschooling (although it probably helps to have some affinity with the concept :~)

For more info contact Nicola or Kathrin

St John's trip - additional info

A little addition to the information regarding the St John's first aid trip in Term 3 - the cost is a gold coin per child. I think there are still places available - email Kathrin to book

Art classes

Kathrin received this email during the week. If you'd like to organise a class then contact Kathrin for the relevant email address, or use the phone number below...

To Whom It May Concern

Hi, I am the manager of a small art studio, Studio2, based on Bond Street in Dunedin. Primarily we cater for people with intellectual and physical disabilities, but we are interested in running an art session for children (not just children with disabilities, every is welcome). we are wondering if any of your parents would be interested? the studio is small, we would only want 4-5 children per session. We are 'artist based' which means that we concentrate on finding out individual preference, and allow artists to develop their own style, and make their own choices without a tightly prescripted session plan. we work with each person to develop a project that they want to do, and encourage independence as much as possible.

Studio2 has been running for six years, we have organised many exhibitions and helped with the sale of art work (we do not take a commission, although several venues we use sometimes do). we value process over end product and strongly believe that confidence gained through art making helps confidence and esteem in all areas of life.

I have been managing Studio2 for five years, both part time and fulltime. I recently completed a Master of Fine Arts at the Otago Polytechnic, focusing on art education for Pacific Island students. I also lecture part time in the design department of the Otago Polytechnic, and work hard at networking on behalf of Studio2 in the wider Dunedin Arts community.

We run two sessions daily, monday - Friday, 9.15am - 12pm and 1pm - 4pm. Preferably i would like to run the children's session during a monday morning or tuesday afternoon, but we are reasonably flexible. Please contact us through this email address, or ring (03) 474 5949 if you have any questions.

Warm Regards,
Bridget Inder
(studio manager)

Curriculum Concepts - free downloads page

Curriculum Concepts has a free download section which is currently featuring the workbook Cloze Comprehension Stories for approximately Years 4 - 6 http://www.curriculumconcepts.co.nz/free/000163.pdf -

If this link no longer works, go to www.curriculumconcepts.co.nz and look for "Free download" under Quicklinks on the right hand side menu - even if the above book is no longer on offer, you may find something that you like!