Play, connection and creativity - BCE schools celebrate Under Eights Week

Play-based learning in action at St Sebastian’s Primary School, Yeronga 

Students celebrated with a vibrant program of play-based learning experiences on Wednesday 20 May, from a visiting Alpaca to a tricky word hunt, to hands-on sensory activities and finishing with a fun 70s style retro dance! 

Acting Principal Leigh Hopton said Under Eights Week was a valued opportunity to celebrate the wonder, capability and curiosity of young learners.  

“We know that children learn best when it is active and engaging. Through purposeful play, children are encouraged to wonder, inquire, create and stretch and challenge themselves in a safe, supportive environment,” Leigh said.  
 
Each experience throughout the morning was intentionally designed, with clear learning goals that directly supported areas including Science, Health and Physical Education and STEM. 
 
One highlight was a STEM design challenge, where students used everyday materials to build a chair strong enough to hold a Barbie for more than five seconds. 

“Introducing STEM activities in the early years builds curiosity and confidence with exploring how the world works. Children learn to ask questions, predict, test, collaborate and persevere, key habits for problem-solving and innovation. These hands-on experiences develop the real-world skills children will need for future learning and future pathways.” 

Play‑based learning is key at St Sebastian’s, offering children a safe space to explore with all their senses, practise new skills and make sense of their experiences at their own pace. 

“Because play can be child-led and teacher-guided, each child can learn at their own pace while still being extended through thoughtful questions, resources and explicit teaching moments.” 

The Under Eights event also saw strengthened connections across the school community, with local kindergartens, families, younger siblings and community partners invited to take part.  

“It’s a wonderful way to build relationships early and to showcase the care, community and joy that sit at the heart of St Sebastian’s,” Leigh said. 

Community connections at St Peter Chanel, The Gap 

At St Peter Chanel School, The Gap, Under Eights Week was also a celebration of community. 

Across the week, students enjoyed a teddy bears’ picnic, a Parents and Friends organised BBQ, and a range of creative and active play experiences that brought learning to life.  

“Under Eights Week is a special time at St Peter Chanel as it celebrates the early years of childhood and reminds us just how important the first eight years of learning really are,” Principal Bec O’Connor said.  

The highlight of the celebrations was a visit from local emergency services, with a fire engine, ambulance and police bringing real‑world learning to life for students. 

“Their involvement adds excitement for children while helping build positive, familiar connections with the people who support and care for our community every day.” 

Another special part of the week was the involvement of their buddy students, who joined in activities with the younger learners.  

“This helps our younger children feel supported and safe, while our older students grow in leadership, empathy and responsibility. Learning alongside one another strengthens relationships across year levels and reinforces our strong sense of community.” 

The school included incoming families and local kindergarteners to support smoother transitions into the school and strengthen partnerships between the community and the school.  

“We sent a school bus to pick up children from local kindergartens, making it easier for families to access our school,” Bec shared. “It’s a simple gesture, but one that builds familiarity, removes barriers and helps children feel excited about their next learning journey.”  

“As the saying goes, “it takes a village to raise a child,” and this week is a beautiful example of that village coming together.” 

As BCE schools continue to nurture curious, capable learners, Under Eights Week remains a powerful reminder that meaningful learning begins with play.  

For more information about St Sebastian’s Primary School, Yeronga or to enrol click here  
 
For more information about St Peter Chanel, The Gap or to enrol click here.

© Brisbane Catholic Education, St Peter Chanel School, The Gap (2026).