Homeschool Drop-off Group- Tinker Tank

In this cycle we are trialling a new option for Drop-off Group. We will continue to offer more focussed activities in the morning and more open ended, activities and free play in the afternoon, but this time you can choose if you would like to attend both time slots or just one. Look out for different tickets (and ticket prices!) at check out.

MORNING SESSION:

Invent the ultimate survival kit, engineer the strongest bridge, craft high‑performing makeup and vibrant fabric dyes, or discover the secrets to growing the happiest, healthiest plants. Every project is an invitation to explore, experiment, and create!

Working in small teams or independently, students can choose from four inspiring themes — or dream up one of their own. Each theme guides them through a series of hands‑on scientific investigations, which can result in a final piece of work if the students wish. The final presentation can take many forms such as a display, poster, talk, video or other, depending on what the students are comfortable with.

Along the way, students learn how to design fair tests, form hypotheses and interpret their results, though games and fun activities. And of course there will be time for free play!

AFTERNOON SESSION:

Join us for an engaging afternoon of experiments, games, and free play! Students who attended the morning session are welcome to continue developing their investigations, or they can explore new experiments using the materials provided.

Through self-directed exploration, peer collaboration, and guided discussion with educators, participants will deepen their understanding of key scientific concepts such as forming a hypothesis and conducting a fair test.

The Drop-off Group aims to provide a drop-off service for homeschooling families to allow the parents to have some child-free time and the students to create meaningful connections with other students while pursuing learning in a low pressure environment. If your child needs you to stay for extra support, or until they settle in, you are welcome to do so.

Help with homeschooling reporting is also part of the service.

This group is suitable for students aged 5-14 years old.

This event will run for three consecutive Tuesdays (26 May, 2 and 9 June 2026).
Another Drop-off Group cycle is running earlier this term and more are coming later in the year. Follow us on Humanitix to be notified.

The day will have a predictable structure with a suggested timetable emailed in advance to participants. Typically, our days run in 4 x 45 min to 1 hour blocks, with breaks in between. Blocks 1 and 2 are where most of our focus time happens, block 3 is more movement - based and block 4 is free-choice where students can either complete activities from earlier in the day, or choose quiet games and activities before pick up.

Behaviour expectations

We expect all students to display respectful behaviour towards each other, the educators, the venue and our materials. Students are expected to check out activities offered before deciding if they'd like to participate or not. If they choose not to engage in the provided activities, students can engage in a quiet, non-disruptive activity in the same space so they can still be under the supervision of our educators. Students are welcome to use the quiet area at any time if they need a break.

Items from home

We recommend students don't bring toys or other personal items from home as these may be lost or damaged. If items need to be brought along, we ask they are only used in the breaks or in block 4. We ask these items are not noisy or disruptive to the activities of the wider group. Electronic devices are only allowed for direct communication from home and are to remain in bags for the rest of the time.

Neurodivergence and Learning Support

We recognise that one learning environment will not suit every child. We are aware of different learning needs and ways to support neurodivergent people. Some of the educators are neurodivergent themselves. Some supports we plan to have in place are: quiet zones, movement regulation zones, headphones, visual aids and regulation tools such as fidgets toys.

Homeschool Reporting Support

• Parents will receive a short report with photos after the last gathering, outlining what their children have been engaging with during the sessions.

• This will broadly outline which subjects and outcomes the activities covered.

• This service is included but parents can opt out.

• More detailed homeschool reporting support can be provided at an extra cost.

More about Phoenix Adventures here and check out our commitment to child safety here.

About the Educators

Ilaria is the owner of Phoenix Adventures. She has a background in Biology and Science Communication. She worked for CSIRO Education, delivering hands on science workshops for school children for several years. She is mum to two homeschooled girls, currently 9 and 15. This is their 4th year homeschooling. Since satarting her homeschooling journey, Ilaria has run many different classes and activities for the community. In 2025, she established the Homeschool Hangout, a homeschooling cooperative, which proved very successful.

Ilaria is passionate about providing children with an opportunity to learn in a low-pressure, supportive and fun environment.

Sarah's background is in music and education. She is a qualified teacher and taught in a primary school for ten years. Sarah is also a registered music therapist and music teacher. She is the mum of two homeschooled children who are 6 and 8. As well as teaching in the classrooms Sarah has run school bands, choirs and drumming groups. She is autistic and passionate about supporting neurodivergent learners. Sarah has additional training in AAC and gestalt language processors.

Peace of mind

Phoenix Adventures holds Public Liability insurance, Working with Vulnerable People Check and current First Aid Certificate.