Year 2 students have recently embarked on an exciting and imaginative learning journey through a Conceptual PlayWorld inspired by the book The Imagineer by Christopher Cheng. At the heart of this experience is “Grandpa’s Shed,” a rich, story-driven environment that invites children into a world of curiosity, creativity, and hands-on discovery.
In this playful setting, students have stepped into the role of young inventors, assisting the sometimes grumpy Grandpa (who bears a striking resemblance to Mr Muscat—though he always seems to be napping when the class visits the shed!) as they take apart his old pianola and other vintage gadgets.
The self-playing piano has become a focal point for exploring how forces—specifically pushing and pulling—are used in technology. Guided by Grandpa, the students have discovered how air is moved through bellows by foot pedals to make the pianola play music.
This hands-on exploration is much more than play. It is purposeful learning that taps into students’ God-given curiosity, helping them understand real-world science and mechanics through story, imagination, and roleplay.
By interacting with everyday technology in a meaningful context, students are building a deep understanding of how forces work while developing important skills like problem-solving, collaboration, and critical thinking.
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In a recent “chat” with Grandpa, he hinted at an exciting challenge ahead. His granddaughter, Penny, is preparing for a service trip overseas and has encountered a problem she needs help solving. The young imagineers will soon be putting their learning into action, using empathy, creativity, and their knowledge of forces to design a solution that supports Penny in her mission.
Through Grandpa’s Shed, science, technology, engineering, and maths have come alive—not just as academic subjects, but as tools God has given students to explore, invent, and care for others!
Mr Chris Muscat, Mrs Paula Jones & Mrs Melanie Oxman
Year 2 Teachers
