Elio's Gunshop

29/12/2025

Wishing everyone a happy New Year. We will reopen on the 6th of January.Looking forward to seeing you all in 2026.

22/11/2025

Great to see.!!!

In recent years, Sweden has begun a remarkable shift in its education system: after a period of intense digitization in classrooms, the country is rediscovering the value of physical books, traditional reading, and handwriting.

The change doesn't mean eliminating screens entirely, but rather balancing their use and reducing their presence in the earliest years, where specialists have expressed concern about the impact on reading comprehension, attention span, and the development of basic skills.

The Swedish government has allocated funds for schools to purchase more textbooks and printed materials, while also promoting more reading time and less screen time. Many teachers have begun limiting tablet use and reintroducing activities such as handwritten notes, working with notebooks, and consulting encyclopedias and physical texts. This decision is supported by studies suggesting that children understand information better when they read it on paper, and by signs that rapid digitization has not always yielded the expected results.

Although technology still has a place in Swedish education, the country is moving towards a more balanced model, where digital tools are complementary rather than the central focus of learning.

Source:

- "Sweden Education Shift: From Digital Learning to Pen and Paper", The Think Academy

22/11/2025

Worth thinking about!!

Finland has built one of the most successful education systems in the world by removing unnecessary pressure from students. Instead of relying on national standardized exams, the country allows teachers to assess students through ongoing individual evaluation. This creates a calm and supportive classroom environment where children feel encouraged to learn.

Even with shorter school days and very little homework, Finnish students continue to perform at the top in international rankings. Experts credit this to a strong focus on critical thinking, creativity and real understanding. Teachers are required to complete advanced training, which gives them the freedom and confidence to design lessons that fit their students.

The Finnish approach shows that academic success does not come from long hours or heavy stress. By focusing on well being, balanced learning and joy in education, Finland proves that students learn best when they feel safe, rested and motivated.

22/11/2025

Just letting all our customers know the shop will be closed from 24th November and will reopen on the 2nd of December. Due to Lawrence having a minor operation and recovery. Regards Lawrence and Sue.

19/08/2025

10/08/2025

Celebrating my 11th year on Facebook. Thank you for your continuing support. I could never have made it without you. 🙏🤗🎉

07/08/2025

Due to unforeseen circumstances we will not be open till after 12ish tomorrow. Regards Lawrence.

18/04/2025

Happy Easter and safe travels to all.🐣We will be open Saturday 19th April 9am till 1.30pm.

07/03/2025

Just letting all our customers know that our shop will be closed tomorrow 8th of March.
Due to a memorial service for Chaz Forsyth. Sorry for any inconvenience. Regards Sue and Lawrence.

30/01/2025

Just letting all our customers know we will be closed Waitangi weekend. See you all Tuesday . Have a safe and happy holiday.

25/01/2025

With Oamaru Mail – I just got recognised as one of their top fans! 🎉