Circus Day, 2002

FUN was the order of the day with smiles all round - mostly from students, but also from the Visiting Teachers, parents and even the circus trainers!

In all, nine boys, five girls, three mums, one dad, and seven Visiting Teachers joined the three circus trainers at the Women's Circus training space in Footscray on 5th August 2002.

First, with everyone in a big circle (even the Visiting Teachers and parents), we played ball games and stick games and learned each other's names. Then it was down to the serious business of warming up - something that is very important before physical activity. We finished the warm-up with a 'foot sit' - where one person sits on the feet of another - accompanied by plenty of clapping and cheering!

Then we divided into two groups with one group working on the aerial gear. Students learned several tricks on the ropes and the trapeze, including the 'bird's nest'. The groups then swapped. Stilt walking was the second activity - and a couple of students came very close to learning to walk without assistance!

At the end, we came together and made a “Sara Lee” balance (you know: layer upon layer upon layer) which was another excuse for more clapping and cheering!

Students were asked for one word to describe the day. They said “fun”, “exciting”, “amazing”, “surprising”, “great”... One student even said it was the “best day” of their life! I'd have to add, it was fantastic to see the students having a go at everything on offer, some demonstrating a high level of skill. Notable also was the students' support for each other.

I would like to thank the Visiting Teachers and parents for driving the students across town, for assisting with the stilt-walking and photography, and for generally being good sports. Special thanks also go to our excellent trainers, Andrea Ousley and Bianca Sciarretti from the Women's Circus.

If you would like to know more about the Camps and Recreation Program, please contact Deb Lewis.