Teaching & Learning News
Agriculture
The paddocks at the ag farm have been planted. Ava applied fertiliser on Friday, so we are optimistic that rain is on the horizon!
There is always plenty to do at the Ag farm. Ryan and Billy were hard at work today cleaning out the feeders and the girls put together the yards.
Students have kicked off their preparations for the Brisbane Ekka at the Ag farm. With the recent rain, our paddocks are looking greener and healthier—perfect for getting ready for August! Stay tuned as we follow their journey to the Ekka.
Primary Industries
Our Year 12 Primary Industry students are gaining hands-on experience during their work placements in Week 8! Isabelle and Charlotte tried their hand at operating the wool press — learning valuable skills in the wool industry. Great work!
Multi-Categorical
Our students remain actively engaged while volunteering at the Tenterfield Railway Station Museum. Recently, they collaborated with Debbie from Sustain on an e-waste project. Additionally, Jayda and SLSO Julia provided support to volunteers working on various maintenance tasks.
Ms Olive’s MC class, students took their learning to the next level! For English, they watched "That Sugar Film" documentary and explored the impact of sugar on our health. Then, in Math's, students dove into their own sugar investigation—working out how many teaspoons of sugar are in popular foods (either per serving or per 100mls/100g). Did you know 4g of sugar equals one teaspoon? Well done to our curious and motivated learners, connecting real life to classroom learning.
English
In Ms Smith's Year 7 English class, our students crafted beautiful nature Haiku poems and set them adrift in the Tenterfield creek, sharing their appreciation for the wonders of nature with the world. Students absolutely loved this unique experience connecting poetry and the environment.
Technology Wood
Mr Sproule's Year 9/10 Technology students have put in a lot of effort this term on their projects. Below is a glimpse of their impressive creations, and they truly look fantastic! Well done, everyone!
Music
Our instrumental music lessons are in full swing with the whole concert band getting together today at lunch time to practice. We are looking forward to hearing what they have accomplished when they play for the school next term.
Food Technology
Mrs Cooper's Year 8 Food Technology students prepared savory potatoes in their practical lesson. It was a perfect opportunity for the students to enjoy a warm meal just in time for lunch!
Chemistry
On 10 June our HSC Chemistry students are attending the UNE Booster Day and Titration Challenge! The HSC Chemistry course explores core concepts such as chemical reactions, analytical techniques, and the impact of chemistry in everyday life. Events like UNE Booster Day provide students with opportunities to deepen their understanding by engaging with real-world chemistry applications.
During the Titration Challenge, students put their skills to the test with hands-on experiments, measuring precise volumes and concentrations to solve chemical puzzles. This practical experience not only reinforces classroom learning but also builds confidence in laboratory techniques.
A sincere thank you to the University of New England (UNE) for hosting and supporting this initiative, making science exciting and relevant for our students. Opportunities like these inspire future scientists, chemists, and researchers.
Wellbeing
Congratulations on the following Year 8 students who received their Bronze award on 9 June.
Science
Exploring DNA with Lollies in Year 10 Science!
Mr Clay’s Year 10 Science class embarked on an exciting journey into the realm of genetics through a hands-on lesson. Students delved into the structure of DNA—the molecule that encodes our genetic information—by crafting colorful models with lollies.
Subject Focus:
During this lesson, the spotlight was on comprehending the double helix structure of DNA, which consists of four chemical bases: Adenine, Thymine, Cytosine, and Guanine. By using lollies to symbolize each base, students constructed models that illustrated how these bases pair and twist together to form the DNA molecule.
Hands-On Learning:
By selecting various colored lollies for each base and connecting them with toothpicks, students skillfully replicated the iconic double helix shape. This interactive activity transformed abstract concepts into tangible experiences, making learning truly unforgettable.
Fun and Engagement:
Science can be enjoyable! The use of lollies not only made the lesson engaging but also sparked excitement among students as they learned and celebrated their creations. Thank you to Mr Clay for inspiring our students and turning science into a deliciously fun experience!
Technology Metal
Year 12 student Saxon has been diligently working on his senior project in Mr Sproule’s Year 12 Industrial Technology Metal class this term. His table is beginning to take shape and looks fantastic, showcasing the techniques he has acquired throughout his metalworking journey.
