Senior School

Exploring Religion in Contemporary Australia

As part of our Year 11 Religious Education curriculum, students recently embarked on an enlightening excursion to two significant sites of worship and cultural heritage: the Islamic Museum of Australia and the East Melbourne Synagogue.  This excursion aimed to deepen students' understanding of the diverse religious landscape of contemporary Australia, fostering a spirit of interfaith dialogue and mutual respect.  

First Stop: The Islamic Museum of Australia 

Our journey began at the Islamic Museum of Australia, where students were welcomed with warm hospitality.  The museum provided a comprehensive insight into the history, culture and contributions of Muslims in Australia.  Through engaging exhibits and interactive displays, students learned about the Five Pillars of Islam, the rich artistic heritage and the significant role of Islamic civilisation in the development of various scientific and cultural fields.  A highlight of the visit was the guided tour, where students had the opportunity to ask questions and engage in meaningful discussions with the museum's knowledgeable staff.  

Second Stop: The East Melbourne Synagogue

The next leg of our excursion took us to the historic East Melbourne Synagogue, within walking distance of the Academy.  Here, students were given a tour of the synagogue, learning about its architectural significance and the role it plays in the Jewish community. The visit provided an invaluable opportunity to explore the traditions and rituals of Judaism, including the importance of the Torah, the significance of the Sabbath and the various festivals celebrated throughout the Jewish calendar.  Students were particularly fascinated by the chance to see the Torah scrolls up close and to learn about the intricate process of their creation and care.  Rabbi provided plenty of role play/interactive experiences for the students to participate in which brought a lot of joy to the group.

Reflections and Insights 

Throughout the excursion, our students demonstrated curiosity and openness, asking insightful questions and engaging respectfully with the guides and each other.  This experience not only broadened their knowledge of Islam and Judaism but also encouraged them to reflect on the broader themes of religious diversity, tolerance and coexistence in contemporary Australia.

Ms Hannah Hale 

Learning Leader Religious Education

A Talk with Former Victorian Attorney General Rob Hulls 

On Thursday, 17 October the Year 11 Legal Studies classes had the privilege of being involved in a talk and discussion with the former Victorian Attorney General Rob Hulls. Rob spoke passionately about his early experience as a young solicitor working in the Aboriginal Legal Service in West Queensland which set him on a path to improve the experiences of First Nations People in the justice system.  He also gave some valuable insights into finding different pathways to achieve his academic ambition of studying law.

 Rob was the Victorian Attorney General from 1999-2010 and was deputy premier from 2007-2010.  He was the architect behind the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities 2006, as well as the introduction of specialist courts such as the Koori Courts and the Neighbourhood Justice Centre in Collingwood.  He has always been happy to challenge tradition to bring about necessary reform and appointed the first female Chief Justice of the Supreme Court in 2003. 

Rob answered a continual flow of questions about cases he covered and the challenges he faced in trying to improve the operation of the justice system for all members of the community. He also gave some thoughtful insights into the current problems in relation to youth offending. 

Rob left the audience with some important messages that it is up to all of us to make a difference and that sometimes you have to put yourself out of your comfort zone. 

Mr Joe Natoli 

VCE Legal Studies Teacher