Secondary Department
From Paddock To Profession; Fresh Ideas And Industry Insights
Term 2 began with an exciting professional learning opportunity for Mrs Upjohn, who attended an Agriculture Teachers’ Network Day hosted by University of New England. The day brought together educators from across the region to deepen their knowledge and explore current trends in agricultural science and education.
A range of engaging and practical sessions were delivered throughout the day. Presentations on ruminant digestion and methane emissions provided valuable insights into livestock production and environmental sustainability—an increasingly important focus within modern agriculture. Sessions on genetics and breeding programs explored how producers can make informed decisions to improve livestock performance and productivity.
One of the highlights was a hands-on activity using Smarties to model breeding values, allowing participants to better understand how genetic traits are selected and measured. This practical approach also extended to calculating carcass value index, linking classroom concepts directly to real-world industry applications. Additional sessions examined growth and development factors influencing livestock, further strengthening connections between theory and practice.
The day concluded with a session focused on pathways and opportunities within agriculture. This included discussions around careers in the industry, university options for students—particularly those in Year 11 seeking extension opportunities—and postgraduate study pathways such as graduate certificates available for teachers.
Mrs Upjohn returned with valuable knowledge, practical ideas, and updated industry insights that will continue to enhance the learning experiences of our Agriculture students.
Weighing Up Success; New Equipment Boosts Student Learning
During the holidays, Mrs Upjohn sourced a second-hand Ruddweigh-Gallagher sheep weigh crate for the school, adding an exciting and valuable piece of equipment to our Agriculture program.
This “new to us” weigh crate has already made a significant impact on how students work with the school’s sheep. It allows for safer handling practices while also improving the efficiency of weighing livestock—an essential skill in modern agricultural operations. Importantly, it gives students hands-on experience with equipment that is widely used across the industry, helping to better prepare them for future pathways in agriculture.
With a slight adjustment to the yard design, students are now also able to draft sheep into two separate yards, further enhancing their practical skills and understanding of livestock management systems. Students have been both amazed and pleased with how much time is saved when weighing and drafting using the new setup.
This addition is a fantastic example of how practical resources can enhance student learning, making activities more efficient, engaging, and closely aligned with real-world agricultural practices.
A big thankyou to Mr Walker for transporting the crate to school for us.
Hands-On Agriculture
VET students in Stage 5 and 6, studying a Certificate I in Agriculture and Certificate II in Agriculture respectively, have been highly involved in managing current farm challenges and preparing lambs for upcoming competition.
With seasonal conditions creating a lack of available feed, students have been actively engaged in decision-making and animal management practices to maintain the health and productivity of the school flock. These real-world experiences are invaluable, giving students insight into the challenges faced by producers and the importance of proactive management.
Already this term, students have had the opportunity to assist with crutching both lambs and ewes—an essential husbandry practice that supports animal welfare and wool clip quality. In Week 2, the Thompson family generously supported the school by assisting with the crutching of the ewes. Corey Thompson worked closely with students, answering questions, highlighting critical points, and guiding Stage 6 students through the process while giving them the opportunity to develop their skills firsthand.
The family also kindly loaned their equipment to the school, enabling the task to be completed efficiently and safely. Looking ahead, the school aims to upgrade its own equipment and work towards becoming more self-sufficient, while continuing to maximise student involvement in these important annual activities.
These experiences not only build practical skills but also foster confidence, teamwork, community connections and develop a deeper understanding of the agricultural industry.
Year 10 Science
This term, Year 10 Science students are studying the chemical world. To introduce the topic they have been investigating subatomic particles and atomic models. As a culmination of their hard work, this week they modelled atomic structure of the first 20 elements using lollies. This was a tasty way to check their understanding!
Over the term Year 10 will be investigating different types of chemical reactions and their real-world applications.
Language
Year 7 Language students marked Japanese Children's Day by folding colourful origami Samurai helmets (known as kabuto) to give out to junior students.
The kabuto symbolises a "guardian" to shield children from illness and accidents.
Drama Workshop
Exciting Drama Workshop Ignites Creativity at Uralla Central
On Wednesday, 6 May, Uralla Central was buzzing with energy as 13 enthusiastic students—7 from Rocky River Public School and 6 from Uralla Central School—came together for a fantastic drama workshop. Over the course of two engaging 2-hour sessions, the students immersed themselves in a dynamic blend of drama games and circus-style gymnastics.
The workshop was designed to not only entertain but also to channel the students’ abundant energy and creativity into meaningful educational experiences. Throughout the day, participants explored various drama exercises that encouraged teamwork, improvisation, and self-expression. The inclusion of circus-style gymnastics added an exciting physical element, helping students develop coordination and confidence.
By the end of the day, all students showcased their new skills in lively final performances that combined both drama and gymnastics elements. The enthusiasm and joy were palpable—each student had an absolute ball, many using their naturally energetic personalities as a springboard to engage deeply with the workshop activities.
This successful collaboration highlights the value of creative arts in education, fostering both personal growth and a sense of community among students from different schools. We look forward to more vibrant events like this that inspire and empower our young learners!
