Enrichment Electives Semester 1 Activities
A semester of curiosity, challenge and growth in CHES Enrichment Electives
Over 200 Year 10 students participated in five electives designed to prepare them for future VCE and HES studies:
- Introduction to Algorithmics
- LingoLab: Unveiling the Wonders of Real-World Language
- Mathematical Investigations
- Mind Over Myth: Exploring Philosophy with Critical Thinking
- Research Matters
From the outset, students impressed staff with their enthusiasm, thoughtful engagement, collaborative learning and willingness to embrace new challenges.
These electives provide valuable preparation for future VCE studies in Algorithmics, English Language, Extended Investigation and Specialist Mathematics, while also opening pathways to advanced university studies and Higher Education Studies opportunities in later years.
Throughout the semester, students participated in weekly live online lessons led by dedicated CHES teachers and attended Seminar Days designed to deepen their learning through challenge, collaboration and authentic experiences.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
At the second Seminar Day of the year, students engaged in a diverse range of extension activities tailored to their areas of study.
Mind Over Myth students explored ethical issues in video games while challenging their thinking through an interactive workshop on logical fallacies led by partners from Deakin University.
In LingoLab, students investigated the fascinating ways humans communicate. A presentation from Monash University on digital communication inspired students to create and analyse their own constructed languages.
Mathematical Investigations students applied mathematical thinking to real-world problems, modelling phenomena ranging from disease spread to flight paths and working like practicing mathematicians.
Research Matters students visited the Gene Technology Access Centre, where they participated in hands-on scientific investigation using DNA barcoding techniques and contributed to live research projects.
Introduction to Algorithmics students travelled to the Science Gallery to participate in a workshop exploring the differences between artificial intelligence and human creativity, prompting discussion about technology, innovation and problem-solving.
The day concluded with all students gathering in the auditorium to hear CHES Principal Stewart Milner discuss future VCE pathways and opportunities available through CHES.
Celebrating Student Achievement
The semester culminated in the CHES Enrichment Elective Presentation Day, a celebration of student learning, creativity and achievement. Hundreds of students showcased their work from Mind Over Myth, Research Matters, LingoLab, Mathematical Investigations and Introduction to Algorithmics to an authentic audience of parents and carers, staff from students’ base schools, and representatives from the Department of Education. The quality of presentations reflected the dedication, persistence and intellectual curiosity students had demonstrated throughout the semester.
Equally impressive was the supportive culture students created. They engaged in thoughtful and genuinely valuable conversations, showing confidence in communicating their ideas and a willingness to learn from one another. At CHES, we know that celebrating learning matters. Presenting work publicly gives learning purpose, raises expectations and encourages students to take pride in what they achieve.
The Presentation Day highlighted not only the exceptional capabilities of our students but also the strong learning community they built together over the course of the semester. Many of these talented students are already demonstrating the knowledge, skills and habits that will support future success in VCE studies and Higher Education Studies with CHES. Their achievements this semester provide a glimpse of the exciting pathways that lie ahead. Congratulations to all students, teachers and Enrichment Elective Leader Mardon Elian on a fantastic semester of learning, growth and achievement.
