The courtyard of Menzies Creek Primary School came alive on Thursday, 14 August, as Grade 5 and 6 students held a sonorous Market Day, transforming the school grounds into a bustling hub of stalls, games and food.
From fairy floss and homemade cookies to second-hand toys and barbecue sausages, the event showcased student creativity and entrepreneurial flair.
The stall was more than just fun, it tied directly into the curriculum by giving students hands-on experience with money and financial maths.
Grade 6 student Ayla Ulrick said the market was also part of a fundraising effort.
“We’re fundraising for the school and for the Grade 6 trip at the end of the year,” she said.
“Last year’s Grade 6 went to Gumbaya, but we all vote on where we want to go.”
Ayla ran a toy stall with items ranging from $1 to $4, depending on size.
“People donate toys at reception, and it gets given to us,” she said.
“I love how all the Grade 5 and 6 get together and use their creativity to design a stall and come up with catchy names.”
She said students learned valuable lessons about business and marketing.
“We had to do persuasive slogans, and we realised most people don’t carry cash, so the barbecue stall even set up EFTPOS,” she said.
“It’s a good system, we’re donating to the school and getting something back.”
Star Mail journalist, Shamsiya Hussainpoor showed her support for the student-run stalls, spending $18 across five items.
The Grade 5/6 teacher, Daniel Sutera said students shone throughout the process.
“They were outstanding, from designing posters and creating enticing deals to coming up with clever ideas,” he said.
“We hope Market Day continues to be a highlight on our calendar.”
The event also brought the Menzies Creek community together, with families and locals turning out to support the students’ efforts.
As for Ayla’s dream destination if the fundraising pays off?
“Probably Gumbaya World – the Grade 6 last year said it was really fun,” she said.
