Incursions and Excursions

VCE Physical Education and VET Sport, Aquatic & Recreation – Ice Skating and Ice Hockey

This term, Ms Cook and Ms McNulty took their students studying VCE Physical Education Unit 3 and Certificate III in Sport, Aquatic and Recreation to a combined ice skating and ice hockey excursion. The excursion provided students with a fantastic opportunity to take the theory they have been learning in the classroom and apply it in a completely new sporting environment.

Throughout the day, VCE Physical Education students explored key concepts including biomechanics, skill acquisition, energy system use, fatigue and performance, while VET Sport, Aquatic & Recreation students discovered what it was like it be a foundation level participant whilst also observing coaching strategies, communication techniques, skill progression and risk management practices in action.

Many students arrived at the rink convinced that ice skating would be easy. However, those first few steps onto the ice quickly changed their minds. For many, the rink barrier became their new best friend as they carefully found their balance and confidence. Following a 30-minute lesson focusing on basic skating techniques, turning and, most importantly, how to fall safely, students then spent the next hour practising and developing their skating skills.

It was fantastic to watch students improve throughout the session. As confidence grew, students became more willing to challenge themselves, try new skills and put into practice many of the concepts they have been learning in class. The experience provided a great example of how practice, feedback and persistence contribute to skill development.

The afternoon session introduced students to the fast-paced sport of ice hockey. After being fitted with protective equipment, students learned the basic skills and rules before putting everything together in a full game. Students quickly discovered that skating while controlling a stick and puck is much harder than it looks. For some, there was almost as much time trying to save themselves from falling, spent sitting or lying on the ice and trying to stand up again as there was skating and playing the game. There were plenty of laughs, some impressive goals scored and a few visits to the penalty box along the way.

Overall, whilst a few went home a little sore the excursion was a highly successful and enjoyable experience. It provided students with a valuable opportunity to connect theory with practice while challenging themselves in a completely different sporting environment. Judging by the number of students already asking when they can go back, the day was a memorable one for all involved.

Warrandyte High School Goes to Parliament

Year 12 Legal Studies students recently stepped out of the classroom and into the heart of Victoria's democracy with a visit to Melbourne's Old Treasury Building and Parliament House. The excursion was designed to introduce students to their Unit 4 studies, which focus on People and the Law and the Australian Constitution.

The day began at the Old Treasury, where students explored Victoria's fascinating journey from early settlement and the Gold Rush era through to Federation. They learned about the development of Australia's Constitution, our historical links to Britain, and the role of Government House. Students also had the opportunity to sit in the historic council chambers and examine displays highlighting democratic values, protest movements and the leaders who have helped shape Victoria.

In the afternoon, students headed to Parliament House, where they took part in a hands-on parliamentary role-play. Assuming the roles of Members of Parliament, students debated a bill as it moved through the legislative process before touring the Legislative Council (Upper House).

A highlight of the day was meeting a current MP - John Mullahy the Member for Glen Waverley. Students asked thoughtful questions about life in Parliament, pathways into politics and what motivates people to serve their communities through public office.

The excursion provided students with a valuable opportunity to see Australia's democratic institutions in action and connect their learning to the real world. Several students also collected entry forms for the upcoming Parliament Prize competition, inspired to become more actively involved in civic life. The day served as a powerful reminder that democracy works best when people are informed, engaged and willing to have their say on issues that matter to them.