Recently our Junior children visited the Antarctic Centre as part of our learning programme on “Communities.”

The purpose of this trip was to use the Antarctic Centre educational programme to engage our children in our trimester 1 Inquiry, having them take part in a guided tour of the Antarctic Attraction and Penguin enclosure, and embrace how we live in an interconnected and interdependent global community.

The last time Elmwood School visited this venue was 2006 so it was long overdue, but well worth the wait.  The children spent time in the Antarctic Centre classroom learning about the special features of Antarctica.  Once we were told about the environment, the penguins, and the scientists who work there, it was time to view the penguin enclosure and huskies. 

Our Year 2's enjoyed the playful penguins swimming and "playing up" to the audience through the viewing glass, while the Year 1's loved patting the huskies and learning about how they support the communities on the ice.

The storm room was a treat for those who braved the snow and wind chill factor. The children were well equipped with warm jackets, hats, and gloves on. For some children it was their first time in the snow.

Finally we all went to the 4D theatre and pretended we were on the boat heading to the icy continent. With 4 D glasses on it was a highlight for those who were brave enough to stay for the movie. 

So what happened... the chairs wriggled, we were sprayed with water, a sea bird "pooped" on us, and something tickled our legs!!!!!  By the end of the movie lots of children were outside the movie theatre with our parent helpers. They missed a treat!

After all this excitement we headed back to school by bus.  Thank you to all our parent helpers who supported us for our visit.  We couldn't have done this without you.