Old Melbourne Gaol

Students had the unique opportunity to step back in time with an educational visit to the Old Melbourne Gaol.

The excursion was not just a trip, but a journey into Melbourne’s rich and sometimes grim history. The Old Melbourne Gaol, a historic site built in the mid-19th century, provided our students with an immersive experience into the lives of those who lived and died behind its formidable bluestone walls.

The day began with a role-playing activity where students were “arrested” and experienced what it was like to be a prisoner. This hands-on approach allowed them to better grasp the realities of life behind bars.

Students then had a guided tour of the Gaol, where they were introduced to some of Melbourne’s most infamous criminals, including the legendary bushranger, Ned Kelly. The students were captivated by the stories shared by the knowledgeable guides, who brought history to life with tales of crime, punishment, and justice in colonial Australia.

The highlight of the visit was the opportunity to explore the very cell where Ned Kelly spent his final days before his execution in 1880. The eerie atmosphere and stark surroundings gave students a profound sense of the harsh conditions faced by prisoners during that era.

The students left with a deeper appreciation for the past and a greater understanding of how it has shaped the world they live in today.

RMIT Excursion

PRC students took a trip to Bundoora to visit RMIT University. RMIT were kind enough to present a detailed lesson outlining the “dos and don’ts” of producing a resume. This class provided students with valuable advice and experience ahead of their RIJI mock interviews they’ll be undertaking in Term 4. The group also took part in a campus tour, being given advice about potential pathway options and typical aspects of student life at Uni or TAFE.

Whittlesea Tech

On Monday 2nd September PRC students visited Whittlesea Tech to design and make a range of keyrings and jewellery to sell at the Whittlesea Market. Under the guidance of the fantastic staff from Whittlesea Tech, the students sketched their keyring designs on paper before scanning them into the software for the laser etching machine. Other students used a variety of precut acrylic and wooden shapes to create fabulous earrings.

Bunnings

On the 13th of September it was Orange Group’s turn to run the Bunnings BBQ. The students were involved in all aspects of planning, shopping and running the BBQ, with Thomas and Laura both assisting with the cooking. Based on previous BBQs, the students estimated that 10kgs of sausages would be enough, however, we had to buy a further 6kgs to keep up with the demand. The students loved using the school’s new EFTPOS machine, which helped boost our sales on the day.

Market Day

Our students recently participated in a fantastic fundraising event at the Whittlesea Market, where they showcased their creativity and hard work to support our school’s initiatives. In the weeks leading up to the event, they prepared by crafting handmade keychains, designing and printing vibrant stickers, decorating glasses, and planting beautiful potted plants to sell. Their dedication and teamwork paid off, as their stall at the market attracted many customers who were impressed by the unique items on offer. We are incredibly proud of our students for their initiative, creativity, and commitment to making a positive impact. This experience provided them with invaluable skills in teamwork, responsibility, and entrepreneurship, and they should all be very proud of what they’ve achieved.

Important Dates