So what is the best way to prompt a tidy up of the house and yard, the surest way to get all of the niggling (think doors repaired, pool cleaned, windows washed, shed tidy) yet not life threatening tasks on the todo list ticked off?

Why host an overnight school cluster for 28 children, 16 parents, 4 teachers and a school principal of course!

It’s the perfect way to bring together a band of playmates for your children, give the teachers an insight into a Distance Education child’s life, create a sense of school community and use up an excess eggs in the fridge.

Families travelled up to five hours to attend this get together bringing  along swags, plenty of scrumptious food to share and big smiles.

Four teachers banded together to plan some great learning activities for all the children, encompassing teamwork, number facts, drama, narratives and puzzle solving. There was something for everyone, whether you were a Preppie or a Year 6 student.

Out of school hours, the kids had loads of fun playing cricket, swimming in the pool or inspecting the menagerie of chickens, pigs and poddies.

Floorspace was at a premium overnight as swags covered almost every inch of the house. A giant sleepover, I guess!

Naturally the kids all rose at daybreak on the second day, eager not to miss out on any play opportunites. In true #lifeofacountrykid fashion they played  brumby and wild pig games before Rob mustered them together for some more organised fun.

It certainly was a great way to build a sense of community, school pride and belonging. So many great people who banded together to create memorable moments for our precious children. I’m sure they all slept well on their journey home.

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