Science

Year 8 and 10 Students Keep the Curiosity Alive with Inspiring Student Research Projects 

We are proud to celebrate the impressive efforts of some of our Year 8 and 10 students who recently submitted their Student Research Projects. These investigations showcased a strong grasp of the scientific method, with students employing critical thinking and creativity to explore a wide range of fascinating topics.

The projects were presented on posterboards, demonstrating not only scientific understanding but also excellent science literacy and design skills. Topics varied greatly, reflecting the diverse interests and curiosity of our students. From plant and environmental studies to molecule movement and material durability, each project offered unique insights and learning opportunities.

A special congratulations to those students whose projects demonstrated exceptional quality; they will be invited to represent our school at the upcoming Annual Community Science Fair in Term 3. This is a fantastic opportunity to share their work with the wider community and engage with fellow young scientists.

The science faculty thoroughly enjoyed reading the many interesting and engaging posterboards. All participating students should feel proud of their commitment. We look forward to seeing their continued curiosity in scientific inquiry and exploration. Keep up the great work!

Year 9 & 10 Psychology: Exploring the Mind and Behaviour

This term, our Year 9 and 10 Psychology students have delved into the fascinating world of psychological research and self-discovery. Through a series of engaging investigations, they’ve explored key psychological theories that not only deepen their understanding of the mind but also provide insights into their own behaviours and experiences.

One standout study focused on sleep habits and technology use before bed. Some very brave students ‘unplugged in the name of research’ and examined the impact of substituting their phone or tablet on their sleep quality and subsequent behaviour, uncovering some intriguing personal findings about the role of screens in their nightly routines.

In another investigation, students completed a short-term memory task designed to compare visual and auditory stimuli. Using analytical statistics and critical thinking, they demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in memory recall when given a visual stimulus, an exciting finding that highlights how we process information differently.

Ethics in psychology was also a key area of study. Students learned how research, assessment, and treatment methods have evolved over time to better protect participants and improve outcomes. This reflective learning helped them appreciate the responsibility that comes with psychological research.

Continuing their exploration of feelings, emotions, and behaviour, students took a fun and thought provoking trip to Luna Park. While the Physics and iSTEM students explored the engineering, motion and forces aspects of the venue, the psychology students were just as busy. They investigated psychological aspects of theme parks, including the use of colour, stand placement, and layout. Most fascinating was their analysis of why people seek the thrill of fear and excitement by riding scary rides, connecting psychology to realworld experiences.

Our Year 9 and 10 Psychology students have shown curiosity, critical thinking, and self-awareness throughout these diverse topics. Their enthusiasm for understanding the mind and behaviour promises an exciting journey ahead in Psychology.

Year 11 Biology: Exploring Enzymes and Cells

It’s been a busy and exciting term for our Year 11 Biology students. Students have learned proper microscope techniques, examining prepared slides and making their own, including the onion cell slide pictured below, viewed under low power. This practical approach helped them appreciate the structure and diversity of cells firsthand.

Working collegially, they’ve investigated the fascinating world of enzymes, nature’s catalysts. Students conducted hands-on experiments to observe the impact of temperature, pH, surface area, and substrate concentration on enzyme reaction rates. Through these practical tasks, they gained a deeper understanding of how enzymes function in living organisms.

Theory and model making complemented their lab work, as students examined key cellular structures such as the cell membrane. Using digital tools, they created video clips showing how substances move across the membrane, reinforcing complex concepts with creative visuals. Their research into cell membrane structure and function was impressive and showed strong teamwork and investigative skills.

A highlight was connecting organelles to real-world analogies, making even the trickiest content memorable. The classroom was buzzing with excitement as students constructed, and then devoured, lolly and bicky cell models. Who could resist learning about the rough endoplasmic reticulum or golgi apparatus when they are coated in sugar?

STEM Students Explore Western Sydney International Airport

Our Year 8 HPGE and Year 9 and 10 STEM students recently had the exciting opportunity to visit Western Sydney International (WSI) Airport through the generous support of GenerationSTEM CSIRO. The excursion offered an in-depth look at modern airport technology aimed at improving efficiency and streamlining the check-in process.

Students were given various roles to model real world airport operations, from observing the innovative basement luggage handling system in this newly built greenfield airport, to learning about security by watching biosecurity dogs in action as they trained to detect restricted items in baggage. The airport’s architecture was also a highlight, with panoramic views of the Blue Mountains and terrazzo tiles sourced from the Nepean River, reflecting a strong commitment to sustainability.

A hands on departure platform activity allowed students to experience the security screening process firsthand. This was followed by a tour of the arrival baggage collection area. The day concluded at the Discovery Centre, where students tackled an engaging STEM challenge and discovered the diverse career opportunities available at WSI Airport. This experience reinforced the importance of STEM skills for a range of professions in the aviation industry.

This experience is invaluable in helping students connect the theoretical learning in their iSTEM and HPGE courses with the practical skills highly sought after in today’s workforce. These programs are specifically designed to prepare students for future careers by developing core competencies such as problem solving, innovation, and teamwork. These are skills that industries across Australia are actively seeking.

We thank Western Sydney International Airport for hosting our students and providing such a meaningful learning opportunity. Our Year 8 HPGE and Year 9 and 10 STEM students are now even more motivated to pursue STEM pathways and contribute to innovative solutions in their communities and beyond. 

A special thanks to the Generation STEM Community Partnership program for funding this excursion. 

Year 9 and 10 iSTEM Students Battle for the Title of 2026 Robot Wars Champion

Our Year 9 and 10 iSTEM students have recently completed an exciting assessment task where they designed and built robots to compete in the thrilling “2026 Robot Wars” challenge. Following the iSTEM engineering design process, students innovated, designed, tested, and refined their robots through multiple iterations.

After rigorous preparation and improvement, the robots went head to head in sudden death finals, showcasing students’ creativity, problem-solving skills, and teamwork. The competition was fierce and full of energy, with students eagerly battling for the prestigious title of “2026 Robot Wars Champion.”

Congratulations to all participants for their hard work, resilience, and dedication throughout this hands-on learning experience. We can’t wait to see what amazing projects our iSTEM students develop next!

Exciting Luna Park Excursion for Year 9, 10, and 12 Students

Last week, our Year 9 and 10 STEM and Psychology students, along with Year 12 Physics students, took part in an exciting learning adventure at Luna Park. The day offered a unique blend of fun and educational experiences, as students explored the science and psychology behind theme park rides.

STEM students focused on the design and engineering of Luna Park, investigating how motorised rides operate, perfect preparation for their upcoming Term 3 unit on motors. Psychology students observed and discussed the reasons behind people’s choices of rides, exploring what motivates thrill-seeking behaviour and how people respond to different attractions.

Meanwhile, our Year 12 Physics students put their classroom knowledge into practice, performing calculations related to the motion of various rides. The trip provided an engaging opportunity for students to see science and psychology in action.

A big thank you to all teachers and students for making the day a success. We look forward to more hands on learning experiences in the future!

Science Faculty