Technologies News
Digital Technologies
Year Seven
Students are busily working through developing their coding skills and have explored concepts such as applying conditional logic to input data and changing variables that impact the way their code executes.
We use Minecraft: Education Edition and the MakeCode platform to engage students with coding in Year Seven. This method allows for real-time feedback on what they are developing.
All of these coding skills come together in their final project to design their own structure in the game using code.
Year Eight
This term, we are exploring data and networks, examining how these systems operate, from the hardware that connects our devices, such as switches and routers, to the various connection methods, including wireless and fibre-optic technologies. Our project for the term involves applying this knowledge to a home network scenario, where students will design their own network by selecting appropriate hardware and considering the specific needs of the people who will use it.
Mr Kieran Bailey | Head of IT and Innovation
Hospitality
Year Seven
Wilson students have jumped into Hospitality classes with enthusiasm this term! They have quickly learned the rules and routines, showing curiosity and asking great questions.
With a focus on reducing food waste, students have created delicious dishes using leftovers and garden produce. Highlights include chocolate-drizzled fruit skewers, wholemeal veggie pizzas and a fresh taco salad.
This fun, motivated group has impressed with their teamwork, creativity and commitment, even completing homework tasks with pride. Well done, Wilson!
Year Eight
This term, students investigated hidden sugars in everyday foods, learning that sugar is a discretionary item best enjoyed in moderation. They then applied their knowledge by crafting delicate meringues from egg whites and sugar and a rich lemon curd using the yolks, flavoured with native lemon myrtle. These treats were artfully arranged on grazing boards and shared with staff. Continuing the sweet theme, students selected a recipe from the Albany Show schedule. After a practice bake, their final entries have been submitted for judging. We wish all our talented bakers the best of luck. Your efforts are already a triumph!
Year Nine
This term, students explored the role of micronutrients, vitamins and minerals, by analysing nutrient-rich foods like dark chocolate, spinach, quinoa and mango. They brought their learning to life by piping chocolate decorations and plating mini cheesecakes with whipped cream, fresh fruit and edible flowers. In preparation for the Albany Show, students entered the decorated cupcake section, baking vanilla cupcakes from scratch. They made buttercream icing and used piping techniques and creative toppings to craft stunning entries. Congratulations to all participants, your creations are truly show-worthy. We would not want to be the judge, best of luck when the results are announced!
Year Ten
This term’s design brief invited students to explore cake artistry by designing a mood board and transforming it into a buttercream celebration cake. With newly learned skills, they baked vanilla cakes, made buttercream from scratch, stacked and crumb-coated their layers and applied a smooth final coat. The decorating phase showcased their creativity, using coloured buttercream and a variety of decorations. For many, it was their first time attempting these techniques, making the results even more impressive. All cakes have now been delivered to the showgrounds for judging. Good luck to all. Your efforts are outstanding and you should be very proud!
Certificate II Hospitality
Year Eleven
This term, Hospitality students proudly donned their function uniforms and showcased professionalism at several school events. They helped set up and serve at the Boarders Valedictory Dinner and supported Chef Nick in packing hundreds of fresh salads for Year Twelve graduates and their families. At every station, students displayed grace and teamwork.
After weeks of mastering the art of mocktail-making, our hospitality students designed their own signature drinks, serving them at the annual Mocktail Party. With staff and Year Eleven students dressed in their wildest Op Shop outfits, the night was bursting with colour, creativity and endless mocktails.
A huge thank you to Mr Jordan Owenell for welcoming the Year Eleven students as the new school leaders and to Mrs Renae O'Donnell for getting everyone up and dancing. Special thanks to all staff who supported the event and especially to Mrs Cherry, who went above and beyond sourcing supplies, providing meals and helping students transform the space into a vibrant mocktail bar. Your dedication made the night unforgettable!
Mrs Teresa McAllister | Head of Technologies/Teacher
Sustainable Production
The garden is very productive now, the students have been eating raw broad beans, peas, carrots and lots of herbs. The students will be entering some of their produce in the Albany Agricultural Show this weekend, so keep an eye out if you are attending.
The Year Eight students have set up the incubator and filled it with our own fertilised eggs, thanks to Nugget the wonder rooster. By the end of Week Five, we should have some new fluffy chicks in the classroom to cuddle. I have included a picture of the last batch of chickens, it is a colourful flock!
The Year Seven Baudin students have planned, planted and mulched their garden. They have also learned how to sow and germinate seeds as the great vegetable seedling shortage continues.
A big thank you to the Year Ten students who did an amazing job of collecting wildflowers and succulent cuttings to decorate venue for the Boarding Valedictory dinner.
Ms Diane Thomas | Teacher
Wood Technologies
Another busy and fast-paced start to the term, with the Year Ten group making excellent progress towards completing their coffee tables. They have developed some impressive designs and concepts that promise to result in high-quality finished products.
The Year Nine Woodworking groups have also made great strides towards finishing their toolboxes, with many producing well-crafted and polished pieces.
Meanwhile, the Year Nine Materials group has completed the design phase of their metal car project. We have secured time at the Albany Men’s Shed for Weeks Six and Seven this term and we are looking forward to this fantastic opportunity to engage with the community and build some brilliant metal cars, incorporating a small amount of cutting and welding.
Mr Brodie Sarre | Design and Technology – Woodwork Teacher