Business Innovation

Our Business Innovation classes have been diligently applying the Design Thinking Process to address real-world challenges within our high school community.

On Friday 6 September, our talented students showcased and tested their innovative solutions. It was inspiring to witness their creativity and problem-solving skills in action!

Event Highlights:

Innovative Solutions: Students presented a variety of creative solutions aimed at tackling real-world issues within our school community.
Engaging Presentations: The students confidently presented their ideas to staff members, demonstrating their thorough understanding and application of the Design Thinking Process.
Challenging Questions: Our students faced challenging questions from the staff and impressively provided well-thought-out answers and solutions.

Congratulations to all the students for their hard work and dedication! Your innovative spirit and problem-solving skills are truly commendable. Let’s continue to foster creativity and innovation within our community.

Certificate II in Construction - Concreting

In term 3, our Year 11 students embarked on an exciting journey to earn their Certificate II in Construction, with a special focus on concreting, in collaboration with ATEC. This hands-on program was designed to provide students with practical skills and in-depth knowledge of the construction industry, particularly in concreting techniques.

Under the expert guidance of ATEC instructors, students engaged in a variety of activities, including mixing, pouring, and finishing concrete. These practical sessions were not just about learning the techniques they were also about applying them in real-world scenarios. Students had the unique opportunity to concrete areas around the school grounds, gaining invaluable hands-on experience and improving our school environment

This program was more than just about acquiring trade skills. It was about instilling a sense of discipline, teamwork, and attention to detail. These are essential qualities that students can carry forward into their future careers and everyday lives. The experience has equipped them with the technical know-how, as well with the soft skills necessary for success in any field.

As we look forward to the term 4, we are excited to see how these young builders will continue to grow and apply their newfound skills. The Certificate II in Construction program has laid a strong foundation for their future, and we are proud of their achievements.

VETis WorldSkills Australia Carpentry FINALS

We are thrilled to announce that one of our senior students, Angus B, has emerged as the winner of the VETis WorldSkills Australia Carpentry competition held at the Lonsdale Skills Centre on 23 September.

The VETiS Carpentry Competition provides an incredible platform for talented young individuals to demonstrate their expertise in various aspects of carpentry, including construction, planning, drawing, material costing, and Workplace Health & Safety (WH&S).

These competitions are not just about winning medals; they are about showcasing industry excellence and promoting skills pathways both locally and globally.

Angus’s achievement is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and passion for carpentry. We are incredibly proud of his success and look forward to seeing him advance to the national level, where he will continue to represent our school with distinction.

WorldSkills Australia competitions play a crucial role in highlighting the importance of vocational education and training (VET). They provide young people with the opportunity to develop and refine their skills, preparing them for successful careers in their chosen fields.

By participating in these competitions, students like Angus gain valuable experience and recognition, setting them on a path to future success.

We extend our congratulations to Angus and all the other finalists who competed with such enthusiasm and skill.

Navigating Career Choices After High School: Tips from a Psychologist

Choosing a career path after high school is a pivotal decision that can shape your future. For many students, this transition can be both exciting and daunting. To help guide you through this journey, psychologist Kobus Maree from the University of Pretoria offers valuable insights and tips.

Understanding the Journey

The path from high school to a career is not always straightforward. While some students may have a clear vision of their future, others might feel uncertain about their next steps. It’s important to recognize that this is a normal part of the process. The key is to approach this journey with an open mind and a willingness to explore different possibilities.

Tips for Choosing a Career

Self-Reflection: Take time to understand your interests, strengths, and values. What subjects or activities do you enjoy? What are you passionate about? Reflecting on these questions can help you identify potential career paths that align with your personal interests and skills.

Research and Exploration: Gather information about various careers. Look into the day-to-day responsibilities, required qualifications, and potential growth opportunities in fields that interest you. Job shadowing, internships, and talking to professionals in those fields can provide valuable insights.

Seek Guidance: Don’t hesitate to seek advice from career counselors, teachers, and mentors. They can offer guidance and support as you navigate your options. Additionally, discussing your thoughts with family and friends can provide different perspectives and help you make informed decisions.

Consider Further Education: Depending on your chosen career path, further education might be necessary. Whether it’s university, vocational training, or apprenticeships, explore the educational requirements for your desired career. Remember, education is an investment in your future.

Stay Open to Change: It’s okay if your career interests evolve over time. Many people change careers multiple times throughout their lives. Stay flexible and open to new opportunities that may arise.

Managing Stress and Anxiety

The pressure to choose the “right” career can be overwhelming. Here are some strategies to manage stress and anxiety during this period:

Practice Self-Care: Ensure you are taking care of your physical and mental health. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are crucial.
Mindfulness and Relaxation: Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Set Realistic Goals: Break down your career planning into manageable steps. Setting small, achievable goals can make the process less daunting and more manageable.

Choosing a career is a significant milestone, but it’s important to remember that it’s just one part of your life’s journey. By taking the time to reflect, explore, and seek guidance, you can make informed decisions that align with your passions and strengths. Embrace the journey with an open mind and remember that it’s okay to change direction as you grow and learn.

𝐆𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝟏𝟐 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬

On Wednesday 4 September, our two School Captains, Aishwayra R. and Kris D., had the honor of attending the prestigious Government House Reception for Year 12 leaders.

This annual event, hosted by the Governor of South Australia for almost 30 years, celebrates the achievements and leadership of Year 12 students from schools across the State.

Her Excellency honoured the continuance of this tradition, welcoming students from metropolitan Adelaide, the Mid North, Riverland, and the Limestone Coast to Government House. She spoke with students about their lives in senior school, their capacity to be active citizens in South Australia’s future, and their plans for future study and work.

Aishwayra and Kris represented Aberfoyle Park High School with pride and excellence. Their participation in this event highlights their dedication and the bright future that lies ahead for them and their peers.

Learning 4 Life Students Visit Resthaven Aged Care

Our Learning 4 Life students recently embarked on a heart-warming and inspiring visit to Resthaven Aged Care Aberfoyle Park, marking a significant milestone in their design thinking project. This visit was an educational experience with a beautiful exchange of stories, smiles, and heartfelt connections.

Upon arrival, the students introduced themselves to the residents, engaging in thoughtful conversations to understand what kind of gifts might brighten their lives or add a special touch to their rooms. The residents shared their preferences, hobbies, and cherished memories, providing the students with valuable insights.

Armed with creativity and compassion, our students are now diligently working on creating and crafting personalised gifts for their new friends at Resthaven. These gifts are more than just items; they are tokens of friendship and appreciation, carefully designed to bring joy and comfort to the residents.

The visit was a resounding success, with students and residents alike cherishing the time spent together. The students loved the experience, connecting beautifully with the residents and building meaningful relationships across generations. This interaction has not only enriched the lives of the residents it has also provided our students with a profound understanding of empathy and community service.

We are eagerly looking forward to our return visit, where the students will present their heartfelt creations to the residents.

Announcing our School Captains for 2025

We are delighted to announce the appointment of our School Captains for 2025. After a rigorous selection process, we are proud to introduce:

Hannah S – Captain
Alex R – Captain
Lacey C – Vice Captain
Matilda A – Vice Captain

This year, we were fortunate to have a very strong field of candidates. Each student impressed our executive team with their thoughtful and inspiring presentations, showcasing their leadership potential and commitment to our school community.

Building on Student Leadership

As we look forward to 2025, we are excited to enhance our student leadership initiatives. Our House Captains will play a more active role in leading initiatives for the House Cup throughout the year. This will not only foster a spirit of healthy competition but also encourage greater participation and engagement among students.

Additionally, we aim to build a closer collaboration between the School Captains, the Student Representative Council (SRC), and the House Captains. This integrated approach will help to strengthen student agency at APHS, ensuring that student voices are heard and valued in our decision-making processes.

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