YEAR 11-12 SCHOOLNEWS

Year 10 and 11 Outdoor Education

On Wednesday 10th June, our Year 10 and 11 Outdoor Education students took part in an exciting introductory mountain biking session at the You Yangs as part of their Ride Off-Road Bicycles on Easy Trails module. The afternoon provided students with the opportunity to develop fundamental off-road riding skills while building confidence navigating varied terrain in a challenging outdoor environment.

Students represented the school exceptionally well, demonstrating enthusiasm, resilience, and a willingness to challenge themselves throughout the session. It was fantastic to see students support one another while applying key riding techniques including balance, braking, gear selection, and trail awareness. Their positive attitude, respect for the environment, and commitment to learning contributed to a highly successful day.

This experience marks an excellent beginning to the module, and students should be congratulated on the maturity and effort they displayed while embracing a new and exciting outdoor recreation challenge.

Thanks,

Mr Parker

SENIOR YEARS ART + DESIGN ENRICHMENT TOUR

SYDNEY | 26th – 29th APRIL 2027

Western Heights College + Belmont High School 

An exciting opportunity is available for creative students currently entering Years 10–12 in 2027 to take part in a unique Art + Design Enrichment Tour to Sydney and Bundanon.

Students will spend three immersive days at Bundanon, the former property and studio of renowned Australian artist Arthur Boyd, located on the Shoalhaven River on Dhurga and Dharawal Country. The experience includes artist-led workshops and creative activities within the landscape. The tour also includes a day in Sydney visiting the studio of iconic Australian artist Brett Whiteley and the Art Gallery of New South Wales.

Only 10 spots are available and we will be partnering with students and staff from Belmont High School to facilitate this opportunity. 

Importantly, students do not need to be studying Art to apply. All creatively interested students are encouraged to express interest.

To express your interest please contact: allesha.fecondo@education.vic.gov.au 

Online parent information sessions will be held in coming weeks. 

My First Speech Competition

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Hon Milton Richard MP is launching the Department of the House of Representatives’ My First Speech Competition for local schools.

This is a national competition that welcomes students in Years 10, 11 and 12 to envision themselves as newly elected Members of the House of Representatives and write a 3-minute speech, focusing on a topic they’re passionate about.

One winner from each year group will present their speech to the Speaker and members live at Parliament House, receiving an expenses-paid trip to Parliament House in Canberra, including flights and accommodation, and a prize pack valued at $250.

We highly encourage you to promote this opportunity to your students in Years 10 – 12. This is a great competition for our secondary students to develop as our future local leaders – learning about the work of the Australian Parliament and gaining experience in writing and public speaking.

For further information and entry submission, please visit the website: https://mfs.houseofrepresentatives.gov.au/

Entries to the My First Speech Competition close on 11.59pm AEST on Monday 20 July 2026.

Thank you for your ongoing support of our electorates’ young people.