AS the upcoming Illuminate Raymond Terrace event prepares to light up Boomerang Park on 19 September, local schools are working hard to craft some of the lanterns that will bring the city to life.
Irrawang Public School, Raymond Terrace Public School, St Brigid’s Primary School, Grahamstown Public School and Alesco Secondary College are currently running lantern-making workshops for students.
Sophie Winley and Olivia Niland, students from St Brigid’s Primary School, told News of the Area about their experience at the workshop.
“Each person was provided with a wooden square board with four holes in the corners, four wooden sticks, an A4 sheet of paper and a small wooden block to assist with hammering the sticks into place,” they explained.
“Once the wooden structure was assembled, the paper was carefully folded into a cube shape.
“Students then decorated their lanterns using stencils and markers, creating their own individual designs.
“Once the decorating was complete, the paper cube was carefully attached to the wooden structure to form the finished lantern. On the night there will be lights placed inside the lanterns.“
Sophie and Olivia shared how, during the activity, everyone was cooperative, helpful and respectful, and that everyone was very proud of their creations.
Similarly, Sarah Rudolph, Principal at Irrawang Public School, shared her thoughts on the importance of the event.
“The workshops provided a great opportunity for students to express their creativity while also thinking about their connection to Raymond Terrace and what they value about their local community,” Ms Rudolph said.
“Experiences like this are a great way of taking learning beyond the classroom. Students develop creativity, collaboration and problem-solving skills, but they also learn that they can actively contribute to the community they are part of.”
Alongside the lantern display, the Irrawang Public School Student Leadership Team and P&C will be hosting a stall to raise funds for the school.
Students from all schools are also expected to be involved during the night, with many different activities for everyone to enjoy and connect over.
By Nico LOMBARDO
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