Originally Published June 20 2022
ST Mary’s Primary School students were treated to a visit by the Circus Challenge this week, engaging in fun, hands-on activities to learn how to become part of a circus troupe.
But don’t be fooled, this is not a traditional circus as you know it. There are no clowns, no trained animals, and no big circus marquee.
Travelling from Western Australia, performer Mr Circus, also known as Clint, said the idea behind the Circus Challenge was to promote resilience in schools.
“We’re using circus as just a really fun way to engage with kids, but also give them an opportunity to try things that they haven’t necessarily done before,” Clint said.
“Through that experience, they get to learn that not everything we do that is fun is easy, and that sometimes it does take a bit of resilience just to pick things up and keep on trying.”
St Mary’s Primary School principal Kate Quin said the student have “adored” the workshops.
“The Circus Challenge fitted nicely in our social and emotional literacy program, with a big emphasis on having a go, taking risks in a safe and supportive environment, and having fun,” Ms Quin said.
“They have learnt a lot of new circus skills which we have seen in action already in the schoolyard, while having a lot of fun at the same time.”
