Social Science

The Social Science faculty has been a hive of activity this term. There have been many excursions, incursions, assessment tasks and learning activities. We would like to highlight work from one of our keen geographers in Year 8, Kyle B. He presented a beautiful information report on Mount Everest. See an excerpt of his work below.

HSC Legal Studies students had a visit from Dr Vincent Hurley from Macquarie Uni who spoke to them about police powers, bail laws and coercive control. His insight was invaluable and stories from his own experience as a police officer were interesting and engaging. 

The Mock Trial boys had another round of competition against St Luke’s Grammar where unfortunately after a hard fought trial, the boys lost the trial. Moo the Mock trial cow, team mascot was in attendance for support (see picture below).

Mock Trial

The Mock Trial has been an exhilarating experience for my fellow lawyers and I. Last week, Epping Boys High School travelled to Dee Why to face the opposing counsel, St Luke's Grammar School. The plaintiff, represented by St Luke's Grammar School, brought proceedings against the defendant, represented by Epping Boys High School. Both parties engaged in a fully contested hearing, advancing competing evidence, raising objections, and examining witnesses in what proved to be a closely balanced trial. At the end, the case was dismissed, winning us the verdict but in terms of points, we were unsuccessful as St Luke's Grammar took the trial points. The experience was exceptional and without equivalent. Throughout Mock Trial and the different cases, we gained insight into the critical analysis, evidentiary evaluation, and meticulous preparation essential to conducting and prevailing in actual legal proceedings. We thank Mr Dewane for making time to organise and guide us through the process.

Agastya S, Year 11

Echo Conference

On Monday 22 June Mr Kinsky, Miss Doshi, and Mr Edwards had the privilege of taking the Year 12 Economic Students to the annual Echo Economic Conference. Held at Macquarie University. 

Economic students gained unprecedented insights into Australia's fiscal future at the annual Echo Conference held at Macquarie University. The event featured a powerhouse lineup, offering attendees the rare privilege of hearing directly from the nation's foremost economic and political leaders.

The exceptional speaker roster included: 

• The Hon Malcolm Turnbull AC: The 29th Prime Minister of Australia provided a fascinating look at the intersection of leadership, global geopolitics, and innovation.
• Dr Steven Kennedy PSM: The Secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet brought his wealth of macroeconomic expertise to discuss the strategic priorities shaping our public sector and long-term economic security. 
• Ms Danielle Wood: The Chair of the Productivity Commission offered students a deep dive into Australia's economic landscape, shedding light on stalling productivity, the promise of artificial intelligence, and what the future holds for generational living standards.
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For the hundreds of aspiring economists in attendance, this was an unparalleled opportunity to bridge classroom theories with real-world policy formulation from the very architects guiding Australia's economic trajectory.

On behalf of the Economics teachers Mr Kinsky would thank parents and staff for supporting this event. The student’s behaviour was exemplary and we look forward to reading about their new found insights in upcoming Trial HSC essays.

Model United Nations Assembly (Rotary)

 The Model United Nations Assembly is a fantastic opportunity for students to explore the world of politics, wide-scale debates, and to discuss real world issues from the perspective of different nations. Chatswood-Roseville Rotary, as part of the Northern Districts Rotary group, hosted this event on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May. This allowed students the time to research and discuss the issues in depth, whilst communicating with other nations during block meetings. 20 groups were there in total, representing countries from all over the world. Although we did not win any prizes, the students thoroughly enjoyed the event and felt that they gained vast knowledge about how policies are made and the ways in which countries communicate to get what they need.

Discover Model United Nations (UNSW)

UNSW hosted a Model United Nations event on their Kensington campus on Tuesday 19 May. This event exists to show students how the United Nations works, and what issues they discuss when nations come together. In total there were 40 other schools, with about 300 students combined. They were then split into smaller groups, where students were allocated a country and a small pack of information to get them started. We were discussing refugee status across the world, and how nations could improve the quality of life for those who are seeking refuge. Students demonstrated some strong representation of their nation, providing key stances and viewpoints on issues which may have opposed their own personal belief. Oliver P and Harsh S were recipients of ‘Most Diplomatic’, where their discussion and communication with other nations stood out the most. Looking forward to future MUNA events, which are open to all year 10 and 11 students.

Year 12 Geography  - Blackheath

On Monday 25 May, Year 12 Geography made the trip out to Blackheath in the Blue Mountains as part of their Rural and Urban Places study. The aim of the trip was to gain an understanding of how a rural town operates, how it was built, and what is its role in the connection between metropolitan and regional NSW. Our first stop was to Govetts Leap lookout, which was short lived due to the fog being too dense. We then spent some time in the town centre, exploring the antique shops and local businesses that thrive on tourism. The local shop owners were very friendly, and happy to see us city folk coming to their town. A quick return to the lookout on our way home allowed the students to see the beautiful scenery, and a photo opportunity. Overall, a great experience that will benefit the students for their upcoming Trial and HSC exams.

Aida Ghorayeb & Aidan Bondfield

Relieving Head Teachers Soical Science