Senior School News
It has been a busy and engaging fortnight in the Senior School, with students benefiting from a range of guest speakers as part of our Term Two Business and Economics unit. Alongside this, our Year 6 students have been actively involved in a variety of leadership initiatives, demonstrating responsibility, creativity, and a strong commitment to contributing positively to our school community. Read below to find out more.
Year 5 and 6 Guest Speakers
Advertising
This week, our Year 5 and 6 students were fortunate to hear from Ant Phillips (Leo's Dad in 5CD), who shared his knowledge and experience in the world of advertising and marketing. Ant spoke to the students about the importance of creativity in business and how successful companies develop unique ideas and campaigns to stand out from their competitors.
Students learned about the power of advertising, the importance of understanding an audience, and how businesses use creative thinking to capture attention and promote their products effectively. The session was highly engaging and provided students with valuable insights as they continue developing their own ideas and businesses through their Shark Tank projects.
Superannuation
Our students also had the opportunity to hear from David Constable (Ryder's Dad 5CD), who spoke to the students about the importance of financial planning and superannuation. David explained how superannuation helps people save for their future and why it is important to begin thinking about financial habits and long-term goals from a young age.
Students learned about earning, saving, investing, and planning for the future, while also gaining a greater understanding of how money can grow over time. The session was both informative and engaging, providing students with valuable real-world knowledge and encouraging them to think carefully about financial responsibility and future planning.
AI in Businesses
On Monday, our Grade 6 students were inspired by hearing from Pip Stocks, a past parent, who shared her passion for empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs through technology and Artificial Intelligence. Pip spoke to the Year 6's about the exciting opportunities AI is creating in the business world and encouraged them to think creatively, solve problems, and embrace innovation.
Pip also spoke about a recent app she has created called Notes & Nudge, which is available on the App Store, and explained the process of developing an idea and bringing it to life through technology.
Students also had the opportunity to explore and use her platform, 'The Startup Muse', which helped them further develop and refine their business ideas. The session was highly engaging and provided valuable insights as students continue working on their Shark Tank projects.
Finance
Our Year 5 students enjoyed a visit from Liana Cauchi (Alexander's Mum 5CD), who spoke about the importance of financial literacy and being smart with money. Students learnt valuable lessons about saving, budgeting, and making thoughtful financial decisions, while also gaining an insight into Liana’s work with ANZ Bank. Liana's presentation encouraged students to begin developing positive money habits from a young age and highlighted the importance of planning for the future.
Setting up a Business
Andrew Van de Gumster (Lachie's Dad 5KM), spoke to the Year 5 students about the process of setting up a business and the skills required to become a successful entrepreneur. They learnt about the importance of independent thinking, creativity, and taking calculated risks when developing new ideas and pursuing business opportunities. Andrew shared valuable insights and real-world experiences, encouraging students to back their ideas, think innovatively, and persevere when facing challenges.
Not for Profit
On Tuesday, our Year 6 students enjoyed a visit from John Ferraro (Imogen's Dad 6ES), who spoke about the important work of Paintback. Students learnt about how the organisation helps safely dispose of unwanted paint and packaging, reducing waste and supporting a more sustainable future for communities across Australia.
John's presentation provided valuable insights into environmental responsibility, recycling initiatives, and the positive impact not-for-profit organisations can have when working towards a meaningful cause.
Term Two Year 6 Leadership Initiatives
Our Year 6 students continue to demonstrate outstanding leadership across the school through a range of exciting initiatives designed to build connection, skill development, and school spirit.
This term, Clemmie and Zoe have taken the lead in running an Art Club for Year 1 and 2 students during Thursday lunchtimes. The sessions provide a creative and welcoming space for younger students to explore different art activities while being guided and supported by our senior leaders.
In addition, students have been actively involved in organising a Year 4 and 5 Netball Tournament held on Wednesday lunchtimes, promoting teamwork, fair play, and active participation across year levels. The competition has been a fantastic opportunity for students to develop their skills in a fun and supportive environment.
Our Year 6 leaders have also been supporting younger students through Soccer training sessions for Year 2 students on Tuesdays and Thursdays, helping to build and further develop their teamwork skills and coordination.
Finally, Coding Club on Mondays continues to be a popular initiative, where students collaborate to develop their digital skills, problem-solving abilities, and creativity in a technology-rich environment.
These leadership opportunities reflect the initiative, responsibility, and community spirit of our Year 6 students, who continue to make a positive impact across the school.
Elaine Shanahan
Senior School Leader