Around the Secondary Classes

Humanities News

During Term 2 a number of students from the secondary school participated in the Australian History Competition. Their willingness to explore the past showcases dedication to learning and a curiosity about the world around them. The competition encourages a holistic approach,  emphasising that history is not just a collection of dates and facts, but a journey that shapes our understanding of the present and the future. Congratulations to all students who took part in this opportunity.  A special mention goes to those students who earned Distinctions and Credits.

Catherine Jetson - Head of Humanities 

Macbeth

For English this term, the Year 10 students have been delving deeper into one of Shakespeare’s most popular and timeless tragedies, Macbeth. The cohort had the amazing opportunity to watch a Bell Shakespeare group perform a “rehearsal” of Macbeth. 

There was a lot to take away from the experience, as the performance paid close attention to key scenes, soliloquies, Shakespearean language choices and themes through their off-story commentary, side conversations and humorous use of modern analogies. Their modernised portrayal of Macbeth did not distract from its complexity but it helped simplify concepts for the audience. Obviously, this was very much appreciated by the Year 10 students, as they had to do an in-class assessment on Macbeth that same day. Some students were also invited to go on stage and help act out certain scenes. It was definitely a fun and entertaining way to understand Macbeth!

Tahiyat Jinan - Year 10 

Hadley's Art Prize Excursion

Year 9 and 10 Art elective students visited Hadley’s Orient Hotel last week to view the finalists of the Hadley’s Landscape Art Prize. We were fortunate to be present for the announcement of the winner of the People’s Choice Award which went to Joshua Andree. Dr Amy Jackett, curator of the exhibition delivered an informative tour, highlighting a number of key works which explored the concept of landscape in surprising and intriguing ways. Dr Jackett also arranged for artist Joshua Andree to speak to the students about the process and meaning behind the creation of his work. 

The students were engaged and inspired to hear about how much depth of thought and how many layers of paint went into his painting. We felt honoured to be met with such generosity of spirit by the artist and curator and their insights added a whole new dimension to our experience of the exhibition.