Secondary School

Year 8

Shakespeare Comes to Life: A Year 8 English Showcase

This term, our Year 8 English students embarked on a vibrant journey through the works of William Shakespeare, exploring four of his most iconic plays: Hamlet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Othello and Julius Caesar. They delved into the intrigue of the tragedies and the whimsy of the comedies, developing a rich appreciation for the Bard’s enduring themes and literary brilliance.

To celebrate the culmination of this dynamic unit, students embraced the spirit of the stage by donning costumes and performing scenes from their favourite plays. These filmed performances highlight their creativity, critical understanding, and ability to interpret Shakespeare’s complex characters and storylines, reimagining them in modern contexts with confidence and flair.

Making Meaningful Connections: Community Engagement and Volunteering in Action

This semester, students enrolled in the Community Engagement and Volunteering elective took their learning beyond the classroom, supporting various initiatives in the Primary School at Moama Anglican Grammar and volunteering off-site at Bupa Aged Care and the Epicentre Op Shop. Through these experiences, students built connections across generations, learned the value of service, and discovered the power of small actions to make a big impact. 

Here are some of the students' reflections:

"This semester in the elective of Community Engagement and Volunteering, we went and helped in the primary school in single periods, and in the double periods, we went offsite to Bupa Aged Care. I helped in Mrs Reid’s class in the Primary school where we often moved around the classroom helping a variety of students with multiple different tasks such as learning games on their iPads, colouring in 2D shapes, learning about measurement, and more. My favourite part was when we were able to sit on the floor and watch TV with the kids while they ate their lunch, they would ask if they could sit on our laps as we had created a bond with the students over the semester. When we travelled offsite to Bupa, we would sit with the residents and talk about hobbies, their lives, and how they like living at the aged care facility. We also recently played Bingo with them, and they would tell us stories with the occasional “Bingo” interruption. My main resident from last term kept asking if I could come back after the elective was finished. I have created so many memories that will be cherished from both Bupa and the primary school."

-Reflection by Keisha Hall

"In Community Engagement and Volunteering we went to The Epicentre Op Shop in Echuca. There was a wide range of stuff at the Op Shop. We were tasked to sort out the clothes, label picture frames, label clothes, and check if the batteries of toys were working, etc. It was a great experience that showed us what some volunteers do, and I would highly recommend it to future students who are interested in it."

-Reflection by Jack Wheatley

"I enjoyed Community Engagement and Volunteering because I got to go to the Epicentre Op Shop where I helped with pricing, checking if toys worked, and bagging clothes. I enjoyed it because I was helping the community and the other volunteers at the Epicentre. I also enjoyed doing it with the other people from the class."

-Reflection by Raiden Baines

"I helped the Year 2s with Aussie Rules. I enjoyed teaching them one of Australia's well-known sports. I went to Bupa and played Bingo with some of the residents—that was fun! I also helped with the sports shed, with things like pumping up the balls."

-Reflection by Monique Johnson

Giving Back with Gratitude: Students in Service at Epicentre Op Shop

This term, a group of Year 8 students stepped beyond the classroom to lend a hand at the Epicentre Church Op Shop. Through their time, energy and compassion, these students supported the day-to-day operations and made a tangible impact in our local community.

The team at the Op Shop shared their appreciation:

“This school term we have enjoyed visits from a few Moama Anglican Grammar students who have spent some time volunteering with us. We are so grateful for their assistance and their willingness to do whatever needed doing on the day.”

In their final visit of the term, the students took it one step further by donating items to the Op Shop’s Food Pantry Program—an initiative that supports families in need.

“How amazing and thoughtful! Thank you Moama Anglican Grammar for including community engagement in your teaching. Your students represented your school so well.”

Medieval Day Magic: Year 8 Steps into the Middle Ages

Last Thursday, our Year 8 students stepped back in time for a fun and immersive Medieval Day—a hands-on historical experience that brought the Middle Ages to life.

Throughout the day, students engaged in a variety of interactive activities that explored medieval life in all its complexity. They tried their hand at wielding replica weapons, learned about crime and punishment, medieval entertainment, and the role of heraldry, even designing their own unique family crests.

A standout moment was viewing the impressive display of medieval weaponry and armour, offering a vivid glimpse into what a knight would have worn into battle.

Beyond the fun and games, students gained a deeper understanding of life in medieval Europe in a way that was both engaging and unforgettable. A big thank you to the dedicated staff who helped make the day such a memorable success.

Year 8 Robotics: Innovation in Action

Throughout the semester, our Year 8 Robotics elective students have been developing their skills in robot design, construction and programming using LEGO Spike Prime kits. They explored both block-based and Python coding, with a strong focus on problem-solving and debugging.

For their major assessment, students were challenged to design interactive toys tailored to a specific audience. Creative designs included a goal-kicking soccer player, sensor-driven dodgem cars, and dynamic spinning tops.

To celebrate the end of the unit, students participated in a spirited Sumo Robot competition. The objective: push the opponent’s robot out of the arena. Success required strategic thinking around centre of gravity, motor limitations and the ability to make rapid adjustments between rounds. With clever coding and intelligent tactics, Raiden and Riley emerged victorious.

It’s been a fantastic term of innovation, collaboration, and hands-on learning. Well done to all involved!

PDHPE – Year 8 Golf

Over the past six weeks, our Year 8 students have thoroughly enjoyed their PDHPE lessons at Rich River Golf Club, where they had the opportunity to develop their golf skills in a fun and supportive environment.

Students spent time on the driving range, chipping and putting greens, as well as the mini golf course. There were plenty of long drives, shanks, swings and misses and even a few impressive holes-in-one — all accompanied by lots of laughter and good spirits.

A big thank you to Rich River Golf Club for so generously accommodating our students. We hope to see some PGA level golfers in the near future. 

 LifeChanger Sessions for Year 9 and Year 11

Our Year 9 students participated in a LifeChanger session focused on personal identity, positive self-talk, and building strong connections. The program encouraged students to explore who they are, what they value, and how they can foster respectful relationships and a confident mindset.

Meanwhile, our Year 11 students took part in a LifeChanger session that centred on personal growth, goal setting and resilience. Students were challenged to reflect on their own journeys, consider how they can overcome setbacks and develop the skills to thrive as they move toward their final years of schooling and beyond.

Education Outdoors at Gunbower Estate: A First for Our Students

Recently, our Year 8 Out and About (OAA) class, along with the Year 9 and Year 10 Physical Activity and Sports Studies (PASS) students, took part in an overnight camp experience at Gunbower Estate. This camp was particularly special, as our students were the first ever from the school to camp overnight on the property, marking a significant milestone for Moama Anglican Grammar.

Each year level spent a separate night on site, participating in a range of outdoor activities. Students enjoyed canoeing, bike riding, and a visit to the historic homestead, where they learned about the estate's rich history.

A highlight for the Year 9 and 10 students was the challenging hike up Mount Hope, with the Year 9s adding to the adventure by biking to the base of the mountain before beginning their climb.

Throughout the camp, students were responsible for setting up their own campsites, preparing their meals, and collaborating to manage all aspects of outdoor living.

We are incredibly proud of the way all students conducted themselves during the experience and look forward to more opportunities for outdoor learning and adventure in the future.

HSC PDHPE Students Explore Elite Sport and Human Performance

This Week our HSC PDHPE students are enjoying a fantastic camp experience. They explored the fascinating Harry Brookes Anatomy and Pathology Museum in Melbourne, gaining firsthand insights into the human body and its functions. This was followed by an engaging tour and discussion at IKON Park with AFL player Brodie Kemp, who shared his experiences and knowledge of elite-level sport and performance.

Students also participated in a sports science experience at Federation University in Ballarat, delving into the physiological and biomechanical principles that underpin athletic performance. A highlight of the session was Will Pike achieving an impressive result in the VO2 Max test, while Henry Brown and Toby Cadd demonstrated outstanding speed and power during the Wingate Sprint Test.

A Harmonious Journey: Senior Music Students in Wagga Wagga

This week, our Senior Music students hit the road for an exciting two-day study trip to Wagga Wagga, filled with music, learning, and more than a few Disney sing-alongs. The journey began bright and early on Thursday, with spirits high and voices even higher, as students kept the bus ride lively by belting out their favourite tunes, much to the amusement of our bus driver.

Our first stop was Uranquinty for a quick lunch break before heading to a unique and enchanting concert, The Magpie and the Nightingale. This performance featured two professional recorder players, accompanied by cello and guitar, presenting a beautiful mix of Renaissance and Baroque repertoire, complete with bird calls. A standout moment was a stunning arrangement of Blackbird by The Beatles, which left the audience both moved and inspired.

That afternoon, our Year 10 and 11 students took part in a hands-on composition workshop at the Riverina Conservatorium of Music. They explored the structure and expressive potential of the 12-bar blues. They even had the rare opportunity to hear original piano compositions performed live by the composer herself, Joanne Burrows—a truly memorable experience.

Friday was all about deepening HSC preparation. Students returned to the Conservatorium for the Senior Music Study Day, led by Joanne Burrows. The morning sessions focused on aural skills and musicology, while Year 12 students showcased their performance pieces to peers and teachers from across the region. The feedback they received was thoughtful and constructive, perfect for refining their work ahead of final practical exams.

Throughout the trip, our students represented the school with enthusiasm, respect and a genuine love of learning. Their active participation, insightful questions, and positive engagement made a strong impression on both staff and fellow students.

It was a rewarding experience for everyone involved and a wonderful reminder of the creativity and dedication within our music community. We would like to thank the Riverina Conservatorium of Music for enabling us to be part of such a valuable and inspiring event.

Authentic Flavours and Hands-On Fun: Year 9–12 Italian Students Dive into Pizza Making at Moama Pizzeria

On a deliciously memorable day, our Year 9 to 12 Italian students swapped the classroom for the kitchen as they ventured to Moama Pizzeria for an immersive excursion into the art of pizza making. Hosted by the talented Lara Ludbey, owner of Moama Pizzeria, the experience served up the perfect blend of cultural insight, culinary skill, and creativity.

Students were warmly welcomed into the restaurant, where Lara shared her expertise and passion for authentic Italian pizza. They learned about traditional methods and the importance of fresh ingredients, from preparing the dough to selecting the perfect toppings and cooking the pizza to perfection.

Then came the highlight of the day: the opportunity to create their very own pizzas. With wide smiles and enthusiastic energy, students experimented with ingredients to craft their individual masterpieces.

This hands-on experience was not only a wonderful way to bring language and culture to life outside the classroom, but also a chance for students to collaborate, explore Italian traditions, and take pride in their culinary creations. The event was a resounding success, filled with laughter, learning, and, of course, mouthwatering pizza!

A massive thank you to Lara Ludbey at Moama Pizzeria for her time, generosity and expertise in hosting such a delicious afternoon.

Celebrating Student's Achievements

Celebrating Luella Williams – State-Level Netball Success

We’re proud to cheer on Luella Williams (Year 7) and her teammates from the Echuca District Netball Association (EDNA) 13/U side as they head into Finals Day this weekend — the highest level of representative netball competition for their age group.

After months of dedicated training and hard-fought regional tournaments, Luella and her team rose to the challenge at the Northern Zone Championships, securing a place among the top 12 associations in the state. Her squad went on to make a stunning finals day comeback, defeating the previously undefeated top seed and claiming the championship title with a 12–5 victory in the final.

Luella’s journey through the EDNA development pathway showcases her incredible work ethic, talent and commitment to team spirit. Congratulations, Luella! We are proud of your sporting success and look forward to watching your continued growth both on and off the court.