University Campus Updates

Alan and Spencer, Year 9, University Campus

Semester 1 at University Campus has been one of the most enjoyable and memorable parts of our school journey so far. Over the past few months, we have had countless opportunities to step outside our comfort zones, try new things, and build new skills through experiences like Immersion and Challenge Week. Every week has brought something different, making learning both exciting and rewarding. 

One of the best parts of being at University Campus is having access to Glen College’s fantastic facilities. The modern science laboratories and fully equipped gym have allowed us to take what we learn in class and apply it in practical, hands-on ways. Using professional-quality equipment has made lessons much more engaging and has helped us better understand how scientific concepts work in everyday life. 

Another thing many students enjoy is spending lunchtime at the Agora. It’s a great place to catch up with friends, relax between classes, and choose from a variety of cafés and restaurants. Having access to such a welcoming space, along with the excellent facilities at both Glen College and University Campus, creates a positive environment where students can enjoy school while focusing on their learning. 

Challenge Week was definitely one of the highlights of the semester. It gave us the chance to take part in a range of hands-on activities that were both fun and educational. From panning for gold and learning about economics to exploring environmental conservation and developing cooking skills, every activity encouraged us to think differently and discover new interests beyond the classroom. 

Another memorable event was the House Chess Competition. During lunchtimes, students proudly represented their houses in friendly but competitive matches, earning valuable house points along the way. As the competition moved into the knockout rounds, the atmosphere became even more exciting, with students gathering to support their teammates. After some intense matches, a student from Thoresby House claimed the championship title. 

Looking back, Semester 1 at University Campus has been an unforgettable experience. The support from our teachers, the friendships we've built, and the opportunities we've been given have helped us grow both academically and personally. With access to the outstanding facilities and learning spaces at Glen College and La Trobe University, we've been able to learn in ways that go far beyond the classroom. As we move into the next semester, we're excited to continue challenging ourselves, making new memories, and taking advantage of everything University Campus has to offer. 

By Issac, Year 9, University Campus

Every debate begins in the same way: with a prompt and a room full of possibilities.  

Together as a team, everyone meets every Wednesday lunchtime to craft speeches. These speeches, along with our pre-prepared rebuttals, would form the basis of what would be used against other schools. In the moments of the debate, where ideas and perspectives collide, everyone discovers that the real victory is not just winning an argument but learning to listen, think, and speak with purpose. As students rise to speak, they are not just forming and conveying arguments, they are building confidence, empathy, and the courage to engage with the world. the courage to engage with the world. 

Overall, I feel debating has taught me many lessons that will help me both now and in the future. Personally, as a slightly shy person, debating has strengthened my confidence, not by making me louder but by helping us find a voice that is thoughtful, grounded, and worth hearing. Since teams are in threes, we all have enhanced many skills in collaborating with others, especially in times of stress (like during the debate). Also, we all learned the importance of seeing both sides of an issue, which builds empathy and reminds us that all questions are much more complex than they appear at first glance. Debating sharpens our commitment to communicating with clarity, pushing us all to express ideas with purpose and precision. These lessons extend well beyond competitions; they shape how we understand one another and can change who we are.  

In the end, debating has never just been about score sheets or perfectly timed rebuttals. It is about the people we become along the way, people that are more thoughtful, more confident, and more willing to engage with ideas that challenge us. As we look ahead to the rest of the year, we will all carry these lessons as valuable tools with us. Tools to speak with purpose, to listen with curiosity, and to step into every conversation ready to learn something new. Also, if debating has taught us anything, it is that the most meaningful discussions are still waiting to be had. 

Ari & Keiran, Year 9, University Campus

University Campus students had the experience of completing exams to test our learning throughout the semester. We took this opportunity to improve our study skills and work ethic, whilst also adding to our overall semester grade. Exams were a wonderful opportunity for us to show our learning. For the first time our year partook in the full 6 exams across three days where we fully presented our learning and everyone worked to the best of our abilities. Exams can be a stressful time so here are some tips for this year's Year 8 as not to be stressed by their upcoming time in Year 9. 

1. Study: If you study to any degree, you will be more ready for the exams than if you don’t. It doesn't even have to be that much. Half an hour a night will drastically improve your result. 

    

2. Get good sleep: A teenager should be getting from 8-10 hours of sleep a night. Lack of sleep can lead to stress, and stress can lead to a lower result than you wanted. That is why sleep is crucial to exam success. 

    

3. Take regular brain breaks: Studying can be stressful, so it is very important that you structure your study around regular regimented brain breaks. This can be anything from grabbing a bite to eat or spending 5 minutes on your phone.

    

4. Stress: Make sure you talk to your parent, friends, teachers and other trusted persons if the exams are stressing you out. Stress is a part of exams, but it should not become your entire life.  

    

5. Do the hard things first: When studying doing what is easy will not help your cause. Studying the hard things is the easiest way to success as if you find them easy!

    

Exams may be scary, but if you follow these tips, you will find exams less stressful, less exhausting and a more enjoyable experience all round. 

Good luck!