Storytelling

Helen Evan's Storytime

Helen Evans visits Galloway every week to tell stories in both the Koala and Possum rooms. Helen was formerly a pre-school director and then a teacher at Tafe. Her passion for storytelling keeps her busy in her retirement as she visits many of the early childhood centres in Armidale. In a storytelling session, the children learn to listen, to concentrate, to remember. They learn about colours, sizes and shapes. They learn new words and get practice in counting and in taking turns to do things. These things are all literacy skills that prepare the children to read when they start school. Helen encourages the children to take part in the stories by providing sounds or actions, or by placing story pieces on the feltboard. The stories end with a game that involves everyone. The children look forward to Helen's visit each week.

Music

Jodi Orr Music

Hi there!

My name is Jodi Orr and I have the pleasure of coming to Galloway every Tuesday to join your children for music.

I was exposed to a wide range of music genres from an early age. Having grown up Through the ranks of the Salvation Army, I also learned to play brass instruments including Tenor horn, Euphonium and trombone,(and yes, the timbrel too!).

I had some formal piano lessons but am self taught on guitar. I have had a little vocal training but most of what I do comes from a passion for music within, and a love and enjoyment of children.

I obtained The Child Care Certificate at TAFE in the coursed 2nd year in Armidale... Yes, I'm That old! Then, after 12 months of voluntary work at a local preschool I was approached by educators with the Armidale and District Learning Difficulties Association, to work with children with special needs. Under the direction of various health and early childhood professional my duties included home visitations, Hydro therapy sessions, assisting the children in pre-school and running a weekly playgroup. Of course music became a valuable teaching tool. As did art and craft which I am quite partial to as well!

I have been blessed with 3 sons, Philip, Luke and Jesse, and now beautiful granddaughter Isabella Rose. I was able to choose to be a stay at home mum, for many years but re-entered the work force when my youngest son Jesse was in year 3 at Armidale city public school, in 2005.

I was employed at ACPS as a Teachers Aide Special, for 5 years, prior to being approached by Galloways beautiful Director Julie, who invited me to come and share my passion for music with you amazingly, wonderful children, and here I am, just over a year later, still as enthusiastic and pleased to be here.

The Dept. Education offered regular training and seminars which addressed issues such a bullying, classroom/behaviour management, child protection updates etc. and I am keen to undertake further training where possible.

Now in my spare time (spare time, what's that?) I enjoy reading, drawing/sketching, sleeping, spending time with family and friends. Not necessarily in that order, but am mostly kept busy learning lyrics and preparing for weekend singing engagements with my Fiancee Rick. Our band name is SIDETRACKED, named after me for obvious reasons.

As a young girl, I remember thinking "When I grow up I want to be a Singer and also work with children." I wanted to be a beautiful model as well of well 2 out of 3 ain't bad. I have met many of you on days I have worked a s a casual. I look forward to meeting more of you over time. Enjoy your beautiful children.

Regards Jodi Orr.