Teaching and Learning
Teaching and Learning Newsletter
Celebrating Design and Technology Week with 3D Printing!
This week is Design and Technology Week, and what better way to celebrate than by diving into the world of 3D printing! To mark the occasion, our Year 7 students will be getting a crash course in 3D printing during their Digital Technology class on Tuesday. Some students have already expressed keen interest in learning how to create their own 3D model so this is the perfect opportunity to spark their creativity and give them a hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology.
For many of our Year 7s, this will be a fun and refreshing change from their usual work with Excel spreadsheet - a special treat to engage them in something new and exciting!
Meanwhile, our Year 9 Systems Engineering students had their first experience with 3D modelling and printing last term and thoroughly enjoyed it. Given their enthusiasm, there are plans in the works to introduce another integrated 3D project this term as part of their Common Assessment Task (CAT).
It’s fantastic to see our students so enthusiastic about technology and innovation and Design and Technology Week is the perfect time to nurture that passion!
CHES Semester 2 Enrichment Electives – Applications Now Open!
We’re excited to share that applications for Semester 2 Year 10 Enrichment Electives at the Centre for Higher Education Studies (CHES) are now open!
These electives offer a unique opportunity for high-achieving and highly motivated Year 10 students to engage in advanced, challenging, and inspiring studies across a range of subject areas. It's a fantastic chance for students to extend their learning and explore new academic interests.
Application Details:
- Open: Now
- Close: Thursday, 30 May 2025
- How to Apply: Applications can be submitted via the CHES website or directly through the application link.
We encourage all Year 10 students who are eager for a challenge to consider this option and come and speak to Ms Kennedy or Ms Quinn about registering.
Study Group
A reminder that we changed the day/time for Study Group during Term 2. This term ALL students are welcome to attend this group and work with our tutors on a Tuesday and Thursday after school.
The Importance of Reading: A Foundation for Lifelong Learning
Reading is one of the most powerful tools we can give our young people, not just for academic success, but for life. Strong reading skills are closely linked to better performance across all subject areas, including Maths, Science, and the Arts. But beyond the classroom, reading builds vocabulary, critical thinking, empathy, and imagination.
Research shows that students who read regularly:
- Develop stronger comprehension and writing skills
- Expand their general knowledge and understanding of the world
- Improve their focus and concentration
- Perform better in standardised testing
- Are more likely to enjoy learning and become independent thinkers
However, recent studies highlight a concerning trend: nearly one in three Australian teenagers do not read in their spare time, with reading often ranking below social media and video streaming in leisure activity preferences. This underscores the importance of fostering a reading culture both at school and at home.
How can families support reading at home?
- Encourage regular reading time (before bed is a great option)
- Read the book that your child is currently studying in English for Term 2.
- Talk about books, ask questions, share your own favourites
- Visit the local library or bookshop together
- Be a reading role model and let your child see you reading for pleasure
At school, we continue to promote reading through our classroom programs and library initiatives. But the message from home makes a powerful difference. When students see reading as both enjoyable and valuable, they’re more likely to become lifelong readers.