Our Stories
Billy Cart Kids
2 minutes read9 October 2024
At Wayi School, students are taking their love of learning on the road. Made possible by Bank First's Teaching Initiatives Program (TIP), Wayi School will introduce its Billy Cart Kids program to students later this year.
Students will work together to build Billy Carts that they can drive around school grounds, learning problem-solving strategies and communication skills along the way.
For Wayi School Principal Leanne Sinnadurai, it's important that students love learning and look forward to coming to school each day. 'We think about how our students can learn in a really engaging way and the Billy Cart program is the perfect example of that.'
'Our students will have the opportunity to develop their leadership skills and work together – all within an environment that is so exciting and interesting,' said Leanne.
Two carts have already been donated to the school for students to practice with and learn safe behaviours.
'It was really fun to ride on the Billy Carts,' said student Adem.
Teacher Megan Lang believes that the fun-factor of the Billy Cart program will support in other areas of learning too, by acting as a reward for good behaviour.
'It's important to understand each student as an individual and knowing what it is that they wish to work towards'.
As a specialist school, Wayi staff will ensure that accommodations necessary for access and success are in place for every student, regardless of their level of ability. 'When you can really help students who struggle to learn, the joy in that is immense,' said Megan.
'My favourite thing about Wayi School is the kind teachers. I want my Billy Cart to look like a unicorn or a mermaid,' said student Fallonn.
'The Billy Cart program offers an opportunity for students to be hands on in their learning. It teaches them to enjoy something that is physical and work as a team,' said Megan.
Frances Sanford, Inclusion Outreach Coach and Learning Specialist, is confident that the program will benefit students beyond their time in school. 'We're going to teach language that students can use when problem-solving in a group, helping them communicate when they get out into the workforce or the wider community’.
Through TIP, Bank First to proud to support innovative school initiatives like Wayi School's Billy Cart Kids program.