Learning & Teaching News

The Importance of Excursions in Supporting Curriculum and Student Learning

Excursions are more than just a fun day out of the classroom—they play a crucial role in supporting the curriculum and enhancing the learning experience for students. At our school, we recognise that hands-on experiences, whether in the local community or further afield, offer unique opportunities for students to engage with the content they are learning in the classroom. These excursions provide practical, real-world applications of knowledge, help build essential skills, and deepen student understanding.

VET Hospitality Year 2 Excursion to The Langham Hotel

For our VET (Vocational Education and Training) Hospitality students, the recent Year 2 excursion to The Langham Hotel was a prime example of how an industry-focused experience can inspire and inform career pathways. Students had the chance to tour the hotel’s world-class facilities, observe professionals at work, and engage with staff in the hospitality industry. This hands-on exposure not only broadened their understanding of the hospitality sector but also highlighted the skills needed to succeed in the industry, from customer service to team management. The excursion reinforced classroom learning and gave students a real taste of the dynamic nature of the hospitality field.

Year 7 & 8 Volleyball and Football Incursions at Clyde North Campus

Physical education is a key part of the curriculum, and the recent volleyball and football incursions at our Clyde North Campus were a fantastic way to bring the lessons to life. Thanks to the Sporting Schools Grant, which provided funding for these activities, students from Year 7 and 8 were able to participate in four engaging sessions across four weeks, with expert training coaches from Volleyball Victoria and Football Australia.

The incursions were met with an overwhelmingly positive response, with students eagerly taking part in skill-building drills, teamwork exercises, and friendly competitions. The high level of enjoyment and participation made it clear that these activities offered much more than just physical exercise—they helped students develop important life skills, such as communication, leadership, and resilience. Whether it was learning how to perfect their spike in volleyball or improving their ball control in football, the students were able to immerse themselves in the sport, while receiving guidance from professional coaches who brought a wealth of experience and expertise.

The very high uptake of these sessions speaks to the enthusiasm and energy our students bring to physical activity, as well as the value of giving them the opportunity to work with top-tier sporting professionals. These incursions not only enhanced their sports skills but also contributed to their overall physical and social development.

Year 10 Law and Politics Incursion

As part of our Year 10 Law & Politics unit, students had the unique opportunity to engage in a fascinating Q&A session with a detective from the Monash Crime Investigation Unit. This incursion provided invaluable insights into the real-world application of law enforcement, investigative procedures, and the criminal justice system.

During the session, students had the chance to ask the detective about a wide range of topics, from the day-to-day responsibilities of a detective to the challenges of solving complex criminal cases. Our guest detective shared his experiences working on both high-profile and routine cases, giving students an in-depth understanding of the skills, tools, and ethical considerations involved in criminal investigations.

The detective also discussed how investigations are conducted, including the role of evidence collection, forensic analysis, and the importance of adhering to the law while ensuring justice is served. Students were particularly intrigued by the detective’s stories about how technology, such as surveillance footage and data analysis, plays an increasingly critical role in modern policing.

One of the highlights of the session was the opportunity for students to ask questions. Students were keen to learn more about the realities of crime-solving, what makes a good detective, and how law enforcement agencies collaborate with legal professionals to ensure fairness in the judicial process.

This experience not only enhanced students' understanding of the law but also sparked important discussions about ethics, accountability, and the role of the police in society. The incursion was a valuable and engaging part of the Year 10 curriculum, allowing students to connect what they’ve been learning in the classroom to real-life law enforcement practices.

Thanks to Ms Genevieve Storey for taking the time to organise this visit. We look forward to continuing our exploration of Law & Politics and how these fields shape our communities.

Golf Excursion

The recent golf excursion was a fantastic opportunity for students of both campuses to explore a sport that requires focus, strategy, and discipline. Golf, often seen as a sport that connects physical and mental skills, provided students with an outlet for personal growth. During the excursion, students learned about the fundamentals of the game, including technique, etiquette, and sportsmanship, while also gaining an understanding of the science behind the sport, such as the physics of ball movement and the importance of precision. It was a perfect example of how extracurricular activities can support STEM learning, while also providing an enjoyable way to engage with the broader curriculum.

The Value of Excursions in Broader Learning

Excursions, both local and industry-based, provide students with the chance to see theory in action and experience real-world applications of their classroom lessons. These experiences help develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills that will benefit students far beyond their school years. Excursions also allow students to explore careers, discover new interests, and develop life skills, all while building stronger connections with their peers and teachers.

As our students continue to explore new subjects and industries, it is clear that excursions are an invaluable part of their education. From developing practical skills in the hospitality and sports sectors to experiencing new environments and learning about the wider world, these outings are integral to fostering a love of learning and preparing our students for success in their future careers and studies.

We look forward to continuing to offer such enriching experiences as part of our commitment to providing a well-rounded education that supports both academic and personal growth.

Mr David Hansen

Deputy Principal - Learning & Teaching