Year 12 Excursion, Rippon Lea

On Friday 8th March, our year 12 EAL class went on an excursion to Rippon Lea Estate in Elsternwick as part of their study of Shirley Jackson’s We Have Always Lived in the Castle with their teacher, Miss Goodall, and the kind support of our MEA, Shanaz. Here students developed their understanding of the cultural and social setting of the novel. Students left the school bright and early to hear volunteers from the National Trust of Australia speak about the history and social status of the former residents of Rippon Lea estate. 

After this, students set off on a self-guided tour of the mansion, and surrounding gardens. They were amazed by the elaborate décor and architecture of the house and grounds. Our students found many opportunities to make jokes about the characters from the book, they were able to recognise rooms where key events from the novel could have taken place, and of course, they still found time to take some great photos!

While we were touring the house, the volunteers kindly offered more insight into the social and cultural climate of the 20th century. Students were shocked to hear that hosts were expected to provide cigarettes and cigars after a meal for their guests.

One student in particular had some very interesting ideas about how to modernise and capitalize on the house and grounds by building a large glass cube structure, although they were reluctant to share these ideas with staff.

Everyone was intrigued by the film crew outside who were shooting a commercial for laundry detergent. Unfortunately students did not get an opportunity to engage with the crew or a celebrity! 

Overall, everyone had a wonderful time out, and the students are already asking where we are going next!