Resource Learning Hub
2024 Children’s Book Week
Each year in August since 1945, the Children’s Book Council of Australia has brought children and books together across Australia through Children’s Book Week. During this time schools and public libraries celebrate books and Australian children’s authors and illustrators. This year’s theme is Reading is Magic.
This year, there were approximately 120 new Notable Australian Books chosen for judging from the categories of books for Older Readers, Younger Readers, Picture Books, Early Childhood and Non-Fiction. For each category there was a winner selected by a panel of Judges plus another winner chosen by a panel of young people. A selection of these wonderful new books are available for viewing in our School Library.
Science Week: Crazy Chemistry Adventures
Have you ever wondered which antacid works best for heartburn? Our Year 11 Chemistry students investigated this question as part of their acid, base and pH studies. Students tested the most popular antacids – Guardium, Quickeze, Rennie and Mylanta, in a practical investigation that mimicked the reaction between our stomach acid (Hydrochloric Acid) and each antacid tablets. Using methyl orange indicator to detect when the reaction was complete, the results showed Mylanta was the best acid/base neutraliser.
But that’s no all – our Year 12 Chemistry students have been designing, refining and testing their own practical investigations. With a focus of sustainability and green chemistry, our budding chemists have explored questions relating to:
🌱 Energy Content in Food: Exploring sustainable crops to fight hunger
🔋 Improving Battery Efficiency: Enhancing energy transfer for better performance
🌍 Biofuels Production: Comparing new vs. used oil as an eco-friendly alternative for vehicles
Science Week has been a blast with these brilliant minds leading the charge towards a greener, more efficient future!
Student Leadership Planning Day
Last week, our Student Leadership team spent a productive day at the Realm library in Eastland, where they engaged in thoughtful discussions and planning sessions for the upcoming Diversity Week. The team worked together to develop exciting activities that will celebrate the diversity within our school community. They also discussed their vision for the future, focusing on creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students.
In the afternoon, the team headed to Timezone for some fun and bonding. The team-building activities there helped strengthen their connections and foster a spirit of collaboration, ensuring they are ready to lead the school toward a successful and meaningful Diversity Week.
Year 7 Printed 3D Key Tag Success
We are thrilled to celebrate the achievements of our Year 7 students in the Make and Build subject. Recently, they embarked on an exciting journey to design and create their very own 3D printed key tags. This project challenged them to apply their digital skills and engage in design thinking to solve real-world problems creatively.
The students began by brainstorming ideas and sketching their designs, focusing on both functionality and aesthetics. They then moved on to digital modelling, using 3D design software to bring their concepts to life. Throughout the process, they encountered challenges, such as optimizing their designs for printing and ensuring durability, but with determination and collaboration, they found innovative solutions.
By the end of the project, each student had a unique, personalized key tag to showcase. This project not only highlighted their creativity and problem-solving abilities but also gave them valuable experience in using technology to turn their ideas into tangible products. Congratulations to all our students for their hard work and fantastic results!
Year 9 Connect Excursion to Willum Warrain: A Journey of Cultural Exploration
Last week , 60 of our Year 9 Connect students embarked on an enriching excursion to Willum Warrain, a significant cultural hub for the local Indigenous community. This experience was more than just a trip; it was an opportunity for our students to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the First Nations people.
Throughout the day, students participated in a range of activities designed to deepen their understanding of Indigenous culture. The day began with a traditional welcoming ceremony, where students were introduced to the significance of this sacred space. They then moved into the Ngargee area for a yarning session, engaging in meaningful discussions and stories that highlighted the importance of connection to the land and community.
One of the highlights of the excursion was the exploration of the Koorie Bush Tucker Trail. Here, students learned about the native plants and their uses, gaining a newfound appreciation for the natural resources that have sustained Indigenous communities for thousands of years. The cultural exploration also included learning about traditional material culture, such as possum skin cloaks, coolamons, woomeras, and spears.
Students were deeply engaged in the storytelling session, which provided them with a vivid insight into the traditions and practices that have been passed down through generations. The day also offered a chance to reflect on the impacts of colonisation, the Stolen Generation, and the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.
The excursion to Willum Warrain was not just an educational experience but also a journey of personal growth for our students. It reinforced the values of respect, understanding, and cultural awareness, all of which are vital components of our Connect program.
This day will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on our students, as they continue to develop as thoughtful and informed members of our community.
Year 9/10 Outdoor Education
Last week our Outdoor Education students embarked on their first excursion of the semester and went out white water kayaking on the Yarra River in Wonga Park.
Students had the opportunity to experience 12 sets of rapids in total, with some having their first experience facing the white water. Aside from a fair few stuck kayaks, some tumbles into the water and a cold, wet and windy day, all students successfully navigated themselves through the obstacles and were all smiles after the day.
Year 12 Art Excursion
Our Year 12 Art students had a fantastic time on their latest outing to the National Gallery Victoria (NGV) and the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art (ACCA). Students explored the Conservation and Presentation of Artworks while taking in the vibrant city atmosphere.
