Year  5 Spotlight

Year 5 Parliament House Excursion

Last week, the Year 5 cohort visited Parliament House for an engaging and informative tour of Victoria’s historic seat of government. Students explored the Lower House, the Upper House, and the Parliament House Library, gaining a firsthand look at where key decisions that shape our state are made.

A highlight of the day was participating in a mock parliament on the chamber floor. Students took on the roles of members of parliament as they debated a bill proposing a ban on video games after 10pm for those under 18. This hands-on experience allowed them to express their views, think critically, and better understand how bills are discussed and voted on.

We were also fortunate to meet David Southwick, the Member for Caulfield, who spoke with students about his role and responsibilities in parliament. His insights added a meaningful real-world connection to our learning.

The tour guides were knowledgeable and engaging, and the excursion was a fantastic way to consolidate what students have been learning about the levels of government and how laws are created. It was a memorable day for everyone involved!

On Monday, grade 5 went to the parliament house and it was so fun! First, we met David Southwick and he told us a bit about how the parliament works and how they make a new law. Then, we did a mock parliament and the main roles were Speaker, prime minister, clerk, minister of education, opposition leader, shadow minister of education. After that, we got a tour of the parliament house and the library had real gold in it. We also got told the story of how the clerks staff got stolen and it was all gold!! -Emma B 

The excursion to parliament house was so fun! Firstly, we got to meet David Southwick and he told us all about what laws he makes and everything he does. Secondly, we went into a room where we got to do our own mock parliament. I got to be a speaker for Mornington. We even got a tour of the parliament house. We saw the lower house, the upper house and even the really old library with real gold in it. - Charlie S