Ethics lessons are an alternative for children during the weekly scripture class at Gerringong Public School.
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The age-relevant ethics curriculum has been created by approved provider Primary Ethics. Currently there are eight trained volunteers teaching the program, with a wait list for years 3, 4 and 5.
More volunteers are needed so the full K-6 curriculum can be offered.
Through structured lessons aimed at teaching skills like ethical reasoning, critical thinking and respectful discussion, children learn to listen to each other, voice opinions and give reasons, build on each others' ideas and remain curious and open-minded.
They also learn to disagree respectfully, not to accept peer pressure and think things through in order to make well reasoned decisions.
Lessons are structured, resources are age-relevant and include scenarios, poems, stories, group work, activities and questions.
These encourage children to think about what people should do in different situations.
Some sample topics for infants are; hurting someone without meaning to; telling the truth; being kind.
Some topics for primary are; what it means to be a good friend; is cheating ever OK; teasing.
Teaching experience is not required, online training and free two-day face-to-face training is provided along with ongoing support and professional development.
If you would like to know more and want to join the team please contact ethics co-ordinator, Carrie Schulman at gerringongethicscoordinator@gmail.com or 0438 201 475.
back row from left Susan Griffiths, Warren McPherson, Mary Collins, Carrie Schulman, Mary Lee
Front row from left Lorraine Peade, Robyn Koller, Annette Wright