As part of our Unit of Inquiry into 'How the World Works', Reception students from St Peters Campus recently visited the Concordia Campus for a hands-on learning experience that combined science, design, construction and environmental care. Their exploration of local animals and how we care for them inspired a collaborative project with Mr Beitz and the Design, Technology and Engineering team—building bird boxes for native birds.
The students began by selecting a local bird species and, as a class, researched the dimensions and features needed to create a suitable bird box. This inquiry-based approach helped deepen their understanding of animal habitats and the importance of thoughtful design in supporting wildlife.
During their visit, the children were introduced to the Design, Technology and Engineering workshop—a new and exciting environment filled with tools and possibilities. Under the expert guidance of Mr Beitz, they learned how to:
- Sand timber to prepare it for construction
- Use the drill press and saw to shape and assemble their boxes
- Personalise their creations using the laser cutter
What stood out most was the way the children embraced the responsibility of working in this new space. They showed great care and maturity in following safety instructions, respecting the tools and supporting one another throughout the building process. Their enthusiasm was matched by a strong sense of focus and pride in their work.
This experience not only supported their inquiry into the natural world but also introduced them to basic design and engineering principles in a fun and engaging way. The completed bird boxes were a testament to their creativity, teamwork and growing understanding of how we can care for the animals in our local environment.
To conclude the day, the students read the book How I Changed the World, which inspired thoughtful reflection on the impact of small acts of kindness. They made a powerful connection between their bird box project and the idea that even small contributions—like creating safe spaces for local birds—can make a meaningful difference in our world.
We are incredibly proud of our Reception students for their curiosity, responsibility and compassion. A huge thank you to Mr Beitz and the Design, Technology and Engineering team for making this memorable learning opportunity possible!
Laura Benger
Reception Teacher – St Peters Campus