Secondary News

Digital Intelligence (DQ) Framework Update

This term, our students have made great progress in developing their understanding of how to use technology in a safe, responsible, and balanced way, as part of our commitment to the Digital Intelligence (DQ) framework.

Across the school, students have engaged in class discussions about healthy tech habits, including screen time awareness and strategies for safe and purposeful device use. Many classes have also introduced screen-free lessons, giving students the opportunity to build other important skills like handwriting, focus, and interpersonal communication, without relying on digital devices. In-class infographics and smart board reminders have further supported this learning, offering tips on correct posture, the 20/20/20 rule for eye health, and optimal device setups.

We’ve also seen fantastic integration of these concepts within subject areas:

• Science classes have explored how multitasking with devices can disrupt concentration during experiments, and they’ve made connections between screen exposure, blue light, and concepts like radiation and radioactive decay. Discussions on addiction have also been woven into lessons on genetics and inherited traits.
• Health classes have aligned closely with the DQ framework by addressing responsible technology use and incorporating wellness activities that encourage balance, giving students screen breaks and offline alternatives to support their overall wellbeing.

We’re proud of the way our students are building their digital intelligence and learning to become thoughtful, safe users of technology in a range of learning environments. We look forward to continuing this journey in Term 2.

Year 7 HASS Museum Excursion

Article by Mrs Karin Au | HASS Teacher and Head of Year 11

On 28 March, 120 Year 7 students, along with Ms Lakshi, Mrs Parnham, Mrs Paul, Mr Asphar, Ms De Piazza, Mrs Hatton and Ms English, visited the WA Museum for an exciting day of learning. Students worked through a booklet that included a scavenger hunt, exploring the museum across different floors in small groups. Many were captivated by exhibits such as the migration stories or the life-sized replica of a helicopter. Some even picked up souvenirs like soft toys and gemstones from the gift shop! The excursion truly brought History to life. Ask your child about the 'wire'—an artefact from Ms Di Piazza's time in the Outback, which we discovered the purpose of during our visit!

Hear from some of our students:

Aylah V. 7I |  One of the highlights was the ‘Wildlife’ area, which even had dinosaurs! It was fascinating to learn about history through videos and displays that answered so many of our questions. At the end of the day, we visited an art exhibition untitled ‘Spinfex’ featuring beautiful First Nations paintings. An artist was even there to talk about their work, which made it even more special! Overall, it was an amazing experience, and we all had a fantastic time learning and exploring with our friends. 

Jayde P. 7N  and Milan H. 7N | When we went on the excursion, my friends and I were really excited! I liked most of the things there, but my favourite was the wildlife exhibit. I enjoyed it because it felt like a calm and relaxing place. I also liked looking at the extinct animals and learning about the ones that still exist! Another interesting part was the striped uniform in the Connections exhibit. It was worn in concentration camps a long time ago, and I found the information about that history really fascinating. 

RAC bStreetSmart Event | Year 11s 

Article by Karin Au | Head of Year 11

On 6 March, with temperatures reaching a scorching 38°C, our Year 11 students attended the RAC bStreetSmart event at Perth Arena. This eye-opening experience highlighted the dangers of distracted driving, speeding, and drink and drug driving, educating students on ways to reduce risk-taking behaviours on the road. Here are some insights from our Year 11 students. 

Pratichha G. 11K | The RAC bStreetSmart allowed me to understand how my actions on the road could not only affect myself but also those around me. It also allowed me to acknowledge that being a passenger can also heavily affect how the driver performs. Such as, if I am in the backseat and I try to show something to the driver, I am taking their attention away from the road when that should be their main priority. This experience will remain an important reminder to me as it will help me to stay focused when I am behind the wheel and also allow for me to be a good passenger when someone else is driving. 

 

Alera T.  11N | The event began with a realistic crash re-enactment, featuring actual paramedics, firefighters, and police officers demonstrating how emergency services respond to serious accidents. The scene was intense—graphic and confronting—but it effectively set the tone for the day. One of the most impactful moments was hearing Rob Pike’s story. At just 17, he was involved in a devastating crash that took the lives of three friends and cost him both legs below the knees. His story was a powerful reminder of the consequences of risky driving. Overall, the experience was eye-opening and unforgettable. It provided valuable lessons that I will carry with me, and I’m grateful to have attended. 

 

Rohan G. 11N | The firsthand accounts from road trauma survivors added a deeply personal perspective. This event was more than just a presentation—it was a sobering reminder of the responsibility that comes with being on the road. The lessons learned will stay with us, reinforcing the importance of safe driving choices. 

Year 7 Social: Laser Tag

Article by Mathew Asphar | Head of Year 7

Our Year 7s had their first secondary school social at Laserforce Port Kennedy, on Thursday, 3 April. The students completed two sessions of intense, competitive, and appropriately loud laser tag while also enjoying some quality tucker, provided by the good people at Dominos Port Kennedy during their break time.

The students really enjoyed themselves and demonstrated good behaviour for most of the evening. They are to be particularly commended for the job they did tidying up the dining area before their parents collected them.

A big thank you to Mrs Debbie Best, Miss Grace English, Miss Sharayah Paki & Mr Damien 't Hart for being superstars and taking time out of their evening to make the event possible.

Year 9 Social: Roller Skating

Article by Mrs Lucinda Hill  | Year 9 Pastoral Care Class Teacher

The Year 9 Social held on Thursday afternoon at Rolloways was a fantastic event filled with laughter, food, music, and plenty of skating fun! It was a wonderful opportunity for students to unwind, bond with their peers, and create lasting memories outside the classroom.

From the moment students laced up their skates, the excitement was palpable. Whether they were seasoned skaters or stepping onto the rink for the first time, everyone enthusiastically embraced the challenge. The upbeat music and vibrant lights created an electric atmosphere, and it was great to see so many students enjoying themselves, supporting one another, and showing off their skating skills! Mr Walsh and Mr Wilson joined in, showing excellence and courage on the rink.

The social event not only provided a great way to relax but also helped strengthen friendships and build new connections within the Year 9 cohort. A huge thank you to the staff who helped ensure the event ran smoothly – your support was invaluable in making the afternoon a success.

We look forward to many more enjoyable events throughout the year and encourage students to continue participating in these wonderful opportunities to engage with their school community.

Year 11 Social: Laser Tag

On 21 March, around 30 Year 11 students came together for an adrenaline-filled laser tag social. The competition was fierce, with everyone dodging, strategising, and battling it out for victory. 

Hear from our students:-

Megan A. 11K | Our Laser Tag social event was a great success and an unforgettable experience. We started things off by splitting into three teams: blue, red, and yellow. After some intense rounds, the blue team came out on top, winning all four rounds. Once the game was over, we headed to the Wellington Shops to grab food of our choice and chill. The evening was a perfect chance to unwind, enjoy some good food, and have fun with classmates outside of school. Overall, it was an awesome night, and we definitely made some great memories.

 

Jamsin D. 11G | The Year 11s had a blast at Lazer Blaze in Willeton! The competition was brutal and intense, and the overall result was breathtaking! The cohort split into 3 different groups, one group of girls and two groups of boys. The four rounds of laser tag pushed us all to the limit with everyone giving it their all to make their team win. The girl's team won the night, winning four out of four games! What a domination!  The night was filled with lots of laughs and experiencing everyone’s competitiveness. But the fun didn’t stop there. After all the adrenaline was released, we enjoyed some much-needed downtime. The Year 11s split into their own groups to enjoy a dinner of their choice in Willeton.  It was the perfect way to wrap up the night. Spending time with friends and talking about their personal experiences during the battle of seeing which team is the best. A special mention and thanks to Mrs Au for planning the event and the teachers who made the night unforgettable. What a night of intense competition, endless laughs, and unforgettable memories. Can’t wait for the next social! 

Year 7/8 Waterwise Incursion 

Article by Karin Au | HASS Teacher and Head of Year 11

On Wednesday, 19 February, our Year 7 and 8 students took part in an exciting Waterwise incursion, using silent disco technology to explore important water conservation topics. Students rotated through four interactive tents, each offering a unique learning experience. Topics covered included understanding the importance of saving water and practical ways to reduce waste at home and school, as well as learning about where our water comes from, including desalination, groundwater, and dams.

It was a beautiful day, and the students thoroughly enjoyed the sessions. However, as the day progressed, strong winds picked up, and unfortunately, we had to cancel the final session after four tents collapsed. Despite this setback, the students gained valuable insights and had a fantastic time. Here are some experiences from the students:

Avah G.7I | “The Waterwise incursion was exciting and educational experience. Going through space and discovering the universes supply of water, back in the outback, discovering how little water there is there, and looking from a map at all the water supplies. It was an interactive activity that helped us acknowledge how much water we use daily. Whether it be from growing apples, making pizza or having a shower, it informed us of our usage in water, and how much we use per day.”

 

Lachlan H. 7I | “The Waterwise incursion was amazing. I leant so many things about water and why it is so important. I went home and thought about how me and my family use water. I liked how it was all on headphones. There were lots of activities to do. When I found out how much water was used making a pizza, it blew me away. I had a fun time. 

A big thank you to everyone involved in making the day a success!