Teaching and Learning

As we wrap up Term 3, it’s a good time to reflect on what makes learning at Fairhills both purposeful and inspiring. At the heart of our work is a simple philosophy, guided by our school vision: empowering our community to be curious, creative and confident learners. Great learning happens when students are challenged, supported and given the tools to express their thinking with clarity and confidence.

This term, our teachers have been working in teams to trial different writing strategies in the classroom. These approaches, focused on helping students write with precision and purpose, are already showing promise. After all, the ability to communicate ideas clearly is not just a skill for English — it’s the secret ingredient for success across every subject.

At the beginning of September, we were delighted to welcome applications from local Year 6 students for our 2026 STEM Academy. The excitement and curiosity these future Year 7s bring is contagious, and we’re thrilled at the thought of nurturing the next wave of scientists, engineers and problem-solvers here at Fairhills.

We are also celebrating the achievements of our current students. Our Year 9s who demonstrated high growth in NAPLAN since Year 7 are being recognised on the last day of term with the time-honoured student favourite — a pizza lunch. It’s a small way of saying, “hard work pays off… and sometimes it tastes like pepperoni.”

Meanwhile, our Year 12s are heading into the business end of their school journey. In the first week of the holidays, they will sit their practice exams on site. To support them further, they will also join the Knox Schools Exam Revision Program, where chief examiners share invaluable tips and insights. It’s not every day you get advice from the people who actually mark the exams. It’s a bit like getting the recipe straight from the chef.

As always, thank you for your ongoing support of teaching and learning at Fairhills. Together, we’re building learners who are confident, creative, and ready for the challenges ahead.

Bill Exton
Assistant Principal – Teaching and Learning

Year 7 Students – Reaching for the Stars!

Our Year 7 STEM Academy students have been boldly venturing into the world of space exploration, designing and building their very own mini satellites! Using CubeSat models and launch boxes, they’re gaining hands-on experience with engineering design, space technology, and creative problem-solving.

This exciting project encourages students to think like real aerospace engineers—planning, testing, and refining their satellite designs to get them ready for launch. It’s been inspiring to watch their enthusiasm, innovation, and teamwork as they turn science fiction into science reality!

Year 9 Connect Excursion – Chinese Museum & Chinatown

Our Year 9 Connect students recently took part in a fascinating excursion to Melbourne’s Chinese Museum and Chinatown. The experience offered a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of Chinese migration, cultural traditions, and the important role Chinese communities have played in shaping Victoria.

During their visit, students engaged with powerful stories of migration and resilience, gaining insight into how these histories continue to influence contemporary Australian society. A guided walking tour through the heart of Chinatown further deepened their understanding of Melbourne’s vibrant multicultural landscape.

This immersive day out provided a meaningful extension to classroom learning, fostering greater cultural awareness and appreciation for the diverse community we are part of.

Year 10 Students – Coca-Cola Immersion at KIOSC

Our Year 10 students are currently gearing up for their final presentation at KIOSC on 28 October, marking the culmination of their Coca-Cola Immersion Day 4 experience. Over the past few weeks, they’ve tackled real-world challenges in the food and beverage industry, diving into areas such as product development, sustainability, and innovative marketing.

Working collaboratively, students have developed creative solutions and sharpened their problem-solving and entrepreneurial skills. The final session will provide them with a valuable opportunity to present their ideas in a professional setting, demonstrating both their creativity and critical thinking.

We’re incredibly proud of their hard work and achievements. Our Year 10 innovators are a shining example of how STEM learning connects classroom knowledge with real-world applications.

Year 11 Chemistry Students Investigate Water Contamination at KIOSC

Our Year 11 Chemistry students recently had the opportunity to apply their scientific knowledge to a real-world environmental scenario during an excursion to KIOSC. Tasked with investigating potential water contamination in Lake Argyle, located in the Kimberley region, students explored the impact of an open-cut mine on the local ecosystem.

Using immersive VR technology, students virtually navigated the terrain, gaining insight into how contamination affects surrounding flora and fauna. Back in the lab, they conducted a series of experiments—including colorimetry, precipitation reactions, and titration—to analyse copper levels in simulated water samples.

This hands-on experience allowed students to deepen their understanding of analytical chemistry while tackling a complex environmental issue. It was a valuable and engaging way to connect classroom learning with real-world challenges.

Year 12 Chemistry Students Dive into Analytical Spectroscopy at KIOSC

Our Year 12 Chemistry students recently took part in an exciting Masterclass in Analytical Spectroscopy at KIOSC. This hands-on experience allowed them to extend their classroom learning by applying a range of spectroscopy techniques—including infrared (IR) spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy—in a real-world investigation.

Working with advanced scientific instruments, students analysed data from each method to identify an unknown white powder. Their investigation successfully led them to determine the substance as caffeine.

This immersive practical activity not only deepened students’ understanding of key analytical techniques but also demonstrated the vital role these tools play in modern chemical analysis.

Year 12 Vocational Major Community Lunchtime Event

In the second-to-last week of Term 3, our Year 12 Vocational Major students hosted their Community Lunchtime Event as part of their final major assessment.

The event’s purpose was to raise funds for several student-selected charities, including:

• Victorian Brotherhood Ltd
• Alliance for Gambling Reform
• Down Syndrome Australia
• Foodbank Victoria

The students took full charge of the event, from planning and organizing to designing stalls, promoting the activities, and managing every detail. The lunchtime buzzed with excitement, community spirit, and plenty of fun.

A highlight of the day was the popular water balloon toss—where students paid to throw balloons at teachers, with even our Principal getting involved!

Through their creativity, teamwork, and enthusiasm, the Year 12 VM students not only raised money for important causes but also demonstrated the true spirit of giving back. It was a fantastic way to celebrate the end of their VM journey.