Support Faculty Snapshot
Stage 4
CAPA (Music) - B. Van Keppell
This term our Stage 4 Music students have been very busy! Starting with the blues and transitioning to rock music, our students have been studying the history, artists and musical features of these genres.
This unit has been leading up to their week 9 assessment task, where students will be performing a short section of a song of their choosing. We have a lot of talent here in the support unit, with students picking from a wide array of instruments. These include electric guitar, bass guitar, drums, vocals, piano and glockenspiel!
PDHPE - A. Middleton
Students are demonstrating maturity and positivity as they engage in thoughtful discussions about respect, effective communication, and assertiveness in supporting themselves and others. In practical lessons, we have just completed our net/court games unit and have now begun our striking and fielding activities. So far, we have played kickball and will soon progress to Tee Ball, continuing to develop and refine our skills.
LITERACY/NUMERACY - T. Byrne / Ed.Whitlam
Reading, Spelling and Grammar- Oh My! This term we have been practising all the skills we will need to be a stronger reader and writer. We have been learning about helpful spelling rules, grammar conventions and how to read for meaning.
Stage 5
PDHPE - T. Byrne / Ed.Whitlam
Not quite sure where to look! Respectful relationships and sexual health are on the timetable. We are moving through the content with maturity. In practicals we are about getting past the opposition.
ELECTIVES (Agriculture) - Lucy
Stage 5 Agriculture students have been learning about one of Australia’s most iconic agricultural industries, wool production. Students explored the history and development of the Australian wool industry and investigated the important role that sheep and wool have played in Australia’s agricultural economy.
Students have been developing their knowledge of sheep husbandry and management operations, including nutrition, animal health and routine husbandry practices. They investigated key operations such as drenching, shearing and mulesing, considering the purpose of each practice, how it is carried out and the ways producers manage the health, welfare and productivity of their sheep.
The class has also explored how technology and innovation are shaping the future of wool production. Students investigated emerging technologies such as BioClip, which uses biological processes to assist with wool removal, as well as robotic-assisted shearing technologies designed to support shearers and improve efficiency and safety.
Through this unit, students have gained an appreciation of the skill and knowledge involved in producing Australian wool, while considering how the industry continues to adapt through animal welfare practices, technology and innovation.
Stage 6
AGRICULTURE - Lucy
Stage 6 Agriculture students have been busy exploring the fascinating world of plant production, developing their understanding of what plants need to grow successfully and how farmers can manage these requirements to produce healthy and productive crops. Students investigated the importance of soil and climate requirements and examined how environmental conditions can influence plant growth and production.
Students also explored the morphology and function of plant structures, including leaves, stems, roots, flowers, seeds and fruits. Through their learning, they developed an understanding of how each structure contributes to plant growth, reproduction and survival. They also investigated different plant propagation techniques, as well as the role of fertilisers in supporting plant growth and improving production.
A key component of the unit was investigating the impact of microbes, invertebrates and pests on plant production systems. Students considered both the beneficial and harmful roles these organisms can play in agricultural environments and how producers can manage potential impacts on crops.
As students prepare for their Year 11 Agriculture examinations, they have also been revising key concepts and consolidating their knowledge from throughout the year. This has provided an opportunity to revisit important agricultural principles and apply their knowledge to real-world plant production situations.
ENGLISH STUDIES - S.Heneghan / B.Ferreri
This term Year 11 English Studies students are exploring the Voices of Australia module, examining how diverse voices, experiences and perspectives contribute to Australian identity. Through the core text “Freeman” (2020) and a range of supporting texts, students have been discussing themes such as identity, belonging, culture and representation.
Students are developing their analytical skills by identifying language features, collecting evidence, and making connections between texts in preparation for their assessment. The in-class assessment will take place in Week 8, where students will demonstrate their understanding of why recognising and valuing diverse voices that shape Australian identity are important.
Extra/whole Faculty
Stage 4 Zoo Excursion
As part of Science Week, our students enjoyed an exciting visit to Sydney Zoo, where they were able to take their Science learning outside the classroom and explore the incredible diversity of the animal kingdom.
Throughout the zoo, students investigated animal classification, identifying similarities and differences between species and considering how animals are grouped. They also explored the fascinating adaptations that help animals survive in their environments and examined the conservation status of different species, including those that are vulnerable or endangered.
A highlight of the day was participating in the special Science Week workshops, including activities with Sydney Water, the World of Insects, and an exploration of Indigenous Australian artefacts. These experiences provided students with opportunities to see how science connects with water management, biodiversity, culture and the world around them.
Students also enjoyed an informative orangutan keeper talk, learning about the remarkable intelligence, physical abilities and behaviours of these incredible animals. The keeper shared how orangutans use problem-solving skills, tools and their impressive physical adaptations to navigate their environment.
Of course, the students had plenty of personal highlights too! The reptile and nocturnal animal house, aquarium, and koala exhibits were firm favourites. Students were particularly excited to see the koalas with their joeys and enjoyed the opportunity to pat an emu.
The excursion was a fantastic chance for students to engage with Science in an authentic and memorable environment while developing their understanding of classification, adaptations, biodiversity and conservation. It was wonderful to see their curiosity and enthusiasm throughout the day!
First Aid Course
Eleven students participated in the First Aid Course, where they engaged deeply with essential topics such as DRSABCD, CPR, anaphylaxis, and the treatment of cuts, bites, and stings. The course facilitator was highly impressed not only by their knowledge and enthusiastic participation but also by their exceptional respect and maturity throughout the sessions. He praised the students to staff, expressing how outstanding he thought they were.
