Year 11

Congratulations to Year 11!

A huge well-done to all year 11 students on completing their end-of-year exams. This milestone is not only an important achievement in itself but also excellent preparation for the challenges of Year 12.

We have been genuinely impressed by the maturity and commitment shown throughout the exam period. Students conducted themselves with focus and positivity, making strong use of their study time both at home and within the senior school. Their efforts and discipline have not gone unnoticed—well done to all!

A big well-done to our Vocational Major students on successfully completing their work experience placements. We have received wonderful feedback from employers, who have praised your work ethic, attitude and professionalism. You have represented Berwick College with pride, maturity, and commitment; we could not be prouder of the way you have embraced this opportunity.

Industry Insights Session at Arup

Creative problem-solving was well and truly put to the test during our recent Industry Insights visit to global engineering and design consultancy Arup, where our Year 11 students discovered just how much teamwork, innovation and real-world thinking drive major engineering projects. Many were fascinated to learn that Arup’s very first job in Australia was the iconic Sydney Opera House, a fitting introduction to a company known for tackling complex, creative challenges.

To begin the day, students heard from an inspiring panel of Arup professionals who shared their diverse career pathways into engineering, design and consulting. The panel set the tone for the day, giving students valuable insight into the breadth of opportunities within the industry.

Our year 11 students then joined peers from Cranbourne East Secondary College and Koonung Secondary College for a hands-on STEM engineering challenge: designing and building ‘floating houses’ capable of holding weight. The activity brought out quick thinking, budgeting skills, creative design and plenty of laughter as teams raced to create a structure strong enough to hold as many marbles as possible.

Throughout the STEM activity, and later over a deliciously catered lunch, students had multiple opportunities to pick the brains of Arup staff, asking thoughtful questions about study choices, industry trends and the diverse journeys that led employees to their current roles. The day also included an exclusive tour of Arup’s sustainably designed Melbourne headquarters. Highlights for our students included:

• The 3D printing room, where they saw complex models and prototypes being developed

• The sound lab, where they experienced a Michael Jackson track in perfect, immersive audio

• Other interactive spaces showcasing Arup’s innovative approach to engineering and design

A huge thank you to Arup for hosting such an engaging and inspiring day, and to Ourschool, the not-for-profit organisation that delivers the Alumni Program at Berwick College and made this opportunity possible.

The Step-Up Program is fast approaching 

This important week marks the beginning of students’ Year 12 journey, giving them the opportunity to engage in their new classes and set strong foundations for the year ahead. By participating fully, students essentially begin life as Year 12 learners, gaining valuable insight into course expectations and study routines.

As we head into the holiday break, we wish all students a restful and enjoyable time with family and friends. We also remind year 11s (soon to be year 12s!) of the importance of completing the holiday homework they receive from their teachers. This work is designed to support a smooth transition and ensure students start year 12 confident and prepared.

Year 11 Team

• Year 11 Learning Leader: Rebecca Kosach (rebecca.kosach@education.vic.gov.au)
• Year 11 Learning Leader: Dustin Cunningham (dustin.cunningham@education.vic.gov.au)
• Year 11 Assistant Learning Leader: Lachlan Curnow (lachlan.curnow@education.vic.gov.au)