Out and About
Enrichment Excursion:
Once Upon a Festival
This week a group of aspiring writers ventured to Immanuel College for the annual ‘Once Upon a Festival’ - a truly unique event and one of the largest for young people in Australia. Our students had the opportunity to experience a stellar lineup of world- class authors and illustrators in workshops, talks and special events. Throughout the day, students enjoyed the festive atmosphere with food trucks, coffee and ice-cream vans, book stalls and live music from the Immanuel College Brass Band.
The students were captivated by Joel McKerrow as he shared tips for writing, performed poetry and shared his experiences with overseas authors and publishers. Others had the opportunity to explore all things Manga with an Illustrator’s Workshop, which delved into the intricacies and nuance of character building within this increasingly popular genre. All students heard from Mark Smith, an Australian author of young adult fiction. Students gained valuable writing tips, along with meaningful insights into the challenges of becoming a published author. They also received practical advice on how to navigate those challenges with confidence and creativity.
Once Upon a Festival was fun celebration of creativity, learning, ice cream and coffee. With plenty of inspiration and memorable moments, we are already looking forward to next year!
Hayley Gronow
Teacher Librarian
Exploring Local Ecosystems: Year 8 Geography Fieldwork
In Week 3 our five Year 8 Geography classes ventured to the River Torrens to gather fieldwork data on the health and water quality of the river and its surrounds.
Students collected data which included decibel readings, humidity and temperature readings, pH readings, and turbidity readings, as well as making observations on pollution levels and the condition of the vegetation.
Macroinvertebrates (water bugs) sampling was also conducted to give an indication of the health of the water.
Returning to the classroom, students are now compiling a report on their findings.
Fieldwork is an invaluable experience for our students helping them connect classroom learning to the real world.
Exploring Conservation:
Year 10 Geography Fieldwork
Our Year 10 Geography students took their learning outdoors in Week 2 with an exciting fieldwork excursion to Yookamurra Wildlife Sanctuary.
As part of their study of Environmental Change and Management, students are exploring the impact of humans on the Australian environment. During the excursion, they investigated the importance of conserving native vegetation to support healthy ecosystems. This included examining how past fires had affected the area by measuring mallee tree stems and assessing the presence of native animals within the feral-proof fence to understand how removing cats and foxes supports their survival.
Students also conducted scat analysis. Yes, they collected and analysed samples, to identify evidence of wildlife. Although the animals themselves were not seen on the day, students found signs of bettongs, numbats, possums, echidnas, and kangaroos, providing valuable insights into the sanctuary’s ecosystem.
Judi Schmidt
Geography Teacher
Students to St Paul Lutheran Sports Day
Five Year 8s, all past students of St Paul Lutheran Primary School, were lucky enough to assist at their Sports Day last Friday, as student ambassadors of Endeavour College.
These students helped at various stations throughout the day, assisting staff when needed and encouraging the primary students.
The chance to give back to the community from which they came, is always a highly valued experience and immensely appreciated by all. The Year 8s even participated in corner spry to conclude the day with their very own old scholar team, including the addition of a few parents.
Thanks St Paul Lutheran Primary School for an enjoyable and fulfilling service opportunity.
Emily Nelson
Acting Marketing and Communications Manager