Early learning exams

The Malta Society of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce in Valletta was a very lively place recently. Mr Barry Draycott, examiner from the London College of Music, examined children from Malta's Antonio Galea Primary School, Floriana, in the LCM's Early Learning Examinations. Four groups participated, two for Stage 1 and another two for Stage 2.

The younger groups were all set with percussion instruments: tambourines, castanets and triangles as they performed a colourful Oh What a big bass drum! They then acted the all-time favourite Cinderella with their teachers, Ms Brenda Seychell and Ms Josianne Bonnici.

The costumes were as varied and imaginative with the main characters being the Clock, the Fairy Godmother complete with wand, Coachmen, Pumpkin, Prince and of course Cinderella, who did not hesitate to go rid herself of her rags and don her riches - a beautiful dress!

Stage 2 children, dressed as ducks with caps and webbed feet, played castanets while performing their action song Six Little Ducks together with their teacher Ms Jocelyn Vella.

Their next item was Walking in the Jungle, a game song during which the children imagined they were exploring the jungle with binoculars, meeting wild animals, mimicking the sounds of snakes, crocodiles, lions, monkeys as well as a very original Tarzan call!

Mr Joe Chetcuti, head of school, accompanied the children on the piano throughout the examinations, while the help of teachers Mrs Monica Camilleri and Ms Nathalie Vella, was vital in making the learning experience fun and a complete success.

All this would have not been possible without the parents' co-operation and without the support of the school's committed teachers. A very well done to all!