Specialists
Secondary 11/12
Term 1
Digital Tech
This semester the unit is ‘Make Your Own Game’ and so far the students have used the Hopscotch app to create some simple games. We have used coding blocks that guide events, loops and movement to create our own versions of ‘Crossy Road’ and ‘Geometry Dash’. We have also talked about how a good game has a goal, looks good and strong mechanics to make sure the controls are easy to use. The students can’t wait to design their own game which will be next term. A fantastic effort so far!
Music
Music elective groups have also produced impressive band work on a song of their choice. Classes have selected a variety of pieces such as Die on This Hill by Sienna Spiro and Billie Jean by Michael Jackson and have been developing their performance skills as an ensemble. Senior students are demonstrating thoughtful musical decision making as they shape their final interpretations of each piece.
PE
Selected students also joined the Concord Swim Team which competed in School Sport Victoria (SSV) Banyule Division and Northern Metro Regional Swimming Championships. Concord had 18 students compete in the SSV swimming pathway this term and it was great to see an increase in representation. Their determination, sportsmanship and support for one another were evident across both events.
Social Competencies
Secondary 11/12 students extended their understanding of the Concord School values and examined how these guide behaviour in real‑life contexts such as the community, workplace and online spaces. They reflected on how their choices affect themselves and others.
As part of Drug Education, students analysed the differences between medicines and drugs, including prescription and over‑the‑counter options. They examined medication labels, purpose, dosage, storage and safety and developed practical skills by locating a GP in their local area, supporting their ability to navigate healthcare independently.
Visual Arts
Secondary 11/12 students opened the term with writing, colouring and Pop Art‑themed name artworks featuring bold colours and patterns, a process that involved plenty of trial and error. For many, it was their first experience independently creating block lettering. Learners then progressed to higher‑level planning tasks, designing an intentional collaborative mosaic. They worked closely with peers to test arrangements and colour combinations while also developing concepts for a personal project of their choosing. Their thoughtful approach, creative risk‑taking and steady increase in confidence have been evident in every session.
Food Technologies
Students in Secondary 11/12 have been learning about International Cuisine. Throughout the term, they prepared and cooked a range of dishes from around the world, including Hokkien Noodle Stir Fry from Asia, Sushi from Japan, Tacos from Mexico, Chicken Shawarma from the Middle East, Fish Patties from Thailand, Hamburgers from the USA, and later this term, Spaghetti Bolognaise from Italy. Students have really embraced the program and enjoyed learning about the cultural origins of each dish. Their growing confidence and enthusiasm in the kitchen have been wonderful to see.
Science
Secondary 11/12 Science students have participated in the Crime Scene Investigators unit. They have been learning how to preserve a crime scene, collect evidence and understand the tasks and skills forensic scientists need to analyse evidence left behind. Students have engaged in excellent discussions while working in teams to complete activities and mock investigations, including How Aware Are You?, The Stolen Purse, and Rogue Rodent Mystery. Both classes have also been working in teams to plan their own crime‑scene scenarios, which will be set up and investigated next term.
Drivers Education
Drivers Ed students have made a strong start in identifying the many steps involved in becoming smart, empathetic road users. We have discussed the process of obtaining their Learner’s Permits and highlighted the safety knowledge they already use every day. Students have also shown impressive improvement in their practice learner tests.
Outdoor Education
In Term 1, students participated in our Bike Education Program. Throughout the term, they developed their bike‑riding skills while learning important road‑safety rules. Students were introduced to the ABCD check to ensure their bikes were safe to ride and practised using correct hand signals when on the move.
During the program, students worked together as a team, encouraging and supporting each other while building their confidence on the bikes. Their physical endurance and fitness improved through regular riding sessions, and they approached each challenge with increasing assurance. A highlight for many was racing against their peers and completing the time trials, which proved both exciting and rewarding.
Overall, the program was a great success, helping students strengthen teamwork skills while learning to ride safely, responsibly and with growing independence.
