Junior School

Year 7 Scientists 

Our Year 7 students recently took on the role of budding scientists, designing and conducting their own experiments to investigate the dissolving time of Alka-Seltzer tablets.  This exciting inquiry-based learning experience allowed students to explore the scientific method, develop critical thinking skills, and discover the impact of variables on dissolving rates.

Some students investigated the effect of temperature on dissolving time, observing how hot, cold and room-temperature water influenced the rate of reaction.  Others explored how different liquids, such as juice, vinegar and soft drinks, impacted dissolving time.  A third group examined whether breaking the tablets into smaller pieces would speed up the reaction.

Students recorded their results, identified patterns and presented their findings to the class.  This hands-on approach not only deepened their understanding of chemical reactions but also sparked curiosity and a passion for science. 

Well done, Year 7!

Dr Bryce Dermody

Year 7 Wellbeing Leader

Year 8 Medieval Day

To mark the end of Term one and the completion of our humanities unit on the age of Medieval Europe,  the lords and ladies of 8 Blue, Green and Red all participated in a day of feasting and festivities known to us as Medieval Day. 

On this day, all participants were formally invited to don the attire of Medieval Times and bring forth refreshments to share amongst fellow friends and companions.  The day was filled with laughter and merriment, all centred upon the theme of Medieval Europe.

The day began in the hall, where all gathered and dressed in their finest medieval clothing.  It was a remarkable sight, with costumes ranging from kings and queens to knights and nuns and even to peasants and maids!  In our various outfits and garments, all Year 8 students took part in activities like a medieval-themed quiz and most notably, a photo booth, complete with props and attire from the past.  These entertainments provided opportunities for everyone to connect with comrades and make new companionships with scholars from other classes.  The medieval photo booth was especially popular, bestowing us with a keepsake to remember the day we spent as a kingdom of Year 8s.

The kingdom was also fortunate enough to be treated to a Medieval performance whilst inside the Hall.  A splendid troupe of entertainers, originating from all of the three classes, performed a play recounting the tale of the Black Death, exhibiting what life was like during the time of that horrid pestilence.  Much to everyone’s pleasure, this spectacle was followed by a rendition of “The Schuyler Sisters” from the musical Hamilton.   It was an utter delight to watch our peers present such a remarkable performance for all to enjoy.

As the morning’s festivities came to a close, the events of Medieval Day continued into the afternoon.  The maidens of Year 8 ventured forth to the Carlton Gardens outside the Melbourne Museum for a picnic, much similar to those of Medieval times.  This journey offered the perfect chance to reunite, share the delicacies we had brought, and bask in the warmth of the sun.  Fortunately, the weather was most favourable, allowing all to consume their meal in the open air, whilst playing football and enjoying the company provided by each other.

At last, our day of festivities concluded within the Drama Studio, where all gathered to witness a film set in the medieval period, namely “A Knight’s Tale”, and it was a fitting end to a day filled with medieval festivities. 

In closing, Medieval Day was a grand success, and all the Year 8s enjoyed a most marvellous time together, celebrating the conclusion of Term 1.  A heartfelt thanks should be given to the noble teachers, Mrs Patuto, Mr Molony, and Mr Tomassini, who worked tirelessly to ensure the day’s triumph.  Truly, it was a highlight of the year!

Mr Alan Tomassini

Humanities Learning Lea

Yr 8 Home Economics

Year 8 Food Class serves up creativity with homemade pizzas.   The smell of freshly baked pizza filled the Food Tech room last week as our Year 8 Food students rolled up their sleeves and got hands-on in a delicious design challenge. 

As part of their practical assessment, students were tasked with designing their own pizzas — from the base to the toppings — and making everything from scratch!  

Before stepping into the kitchen, the class spent time researching flavour combinations, dietary needs and the cultural significance of pizza around the world.  They then sketched out their own unique pizza concepts, choosing ingredients that reflected their tastes, nutritional balance and a bit of flair!

The real fun began when students began making the dough by hand.  Students carefully measured, kneaded and proved their mixtures, learning the science behind yeast activation and gluten development.  With dough ready, it was time to roll, top and bake.

Topping choices ranged from the traditional — pepperoni and mozzarella — to the inventive, with some students opting for pineapple and jalapeño, vegetables and feta cheese.  We even had a gluten free pizza produced.

The activity wasn’t just about food — it encouraged planning, time management and a healthy dose of creativity.   Students also reflected on their outcomes, considering what went well and what they might tweak next time.

It was fantastic to see the students take ownership of their creations.  Making the dough from scratch gave them a real sense of pride, and the results were impressive both in taste and presentation.

A big congratulations to our budding chefs for their efforts and enthusiasm.  We can’t wait to see what they cook up next!

Ms Mara Atkins

Teacher - Food Technology