Technology 

Agriculture Report 

Eat, sleep, FEED, repeat.

While learning to do rain dances is not listed on the Agriculture curriculum, the students and I have decided that perhaps it should become a necessary component. Our jobs like everyone else has been the constant feeding and monitoring of our ewes before they are due to lamb. So far, we are on track, but if the lack of rain continues we may need to ask around for some more feed to keep our ewes alive. 

The Primary students had a fantastic session with the Equestrian class two weeks ago. The students were split into groups and each equestrian student explained to the younger students all the necessary requirements in looking after a horse. This included what special equipment they needed, how often they are groomed and shod, how much and what they need to be fed and most importantly their names. The younger students really loved being up close to the horses and all managed to have a special pat. Thank you very much to Ms Hinge, Mrs Price and the equestrian girls for giving up their time and allowing us this special treat. 

We have been busy preparing our wicking beds for some winter planting of vegetables and also reviving our Herb beds. As with all living things sometimes they get a bit old and tired and so we felt they should be replaced with some new fresh varieties. The 5/6 class and 9/10 Elective class have removed the old plants, topped the pots with some new fresh soil and planted out our new herbs. Here is to some nice fresh produce in a few weeks time to go into our hearty soups for lunches.

The VCE class enjoyed their morning out at the Balmoral Sire Evaluation day. They had been learning about the research and emerging technologies in the Agricultural industries and were able to see first hand the implementation of a field day, as the last step in ensuring the research is practical and profitable. We are also hoping to visit Naracoorte Seeds and to witness their operations first hand. We must also thank Naracoorte Seeds for supplying us with the seed to re sow our new paddock on the back oval. It’s a pity they don’t guarantee the rain to go with the seed!!!

If anyone has sheep poo to spare, we are seeking 5-6 bags for our wicking beds. Please contact the office if you have any to spare. Thanks.

The break is late, lets hope the Spring is lush.

Mrs Jane Francis

Technology – Food and Textiles

Sweet Desires

Over the last few weeks students have been learning about the role yeast plays in creating a baked product. They have developed their knowledge and understanding of the importance of providing the ideal conditions that will give the optimal result. With perseverance and working collaboratively, students have produced Hot Cinnamon Doughnuts and Cinnamon Scrolls using a yeast dough – the aroma was very inviting! Students have used store bought pastry to produce a traditional French pastry the Apple Galette. They developed their skills in the art of preparing pastry and apple to then arrange on their pastry disc. After the galettes were baked students glazed their galette with warm apricot jam. After this experience students had the opportunity to look at sustainable food practices through using leftover ingredients. Students used slice rounds of apple and wrapped them in pastry piece, a quick and easy dessert option that could be frozen, using leftovers. Sweet Desires offers the students to develop and extend their creative skills presenting food. A challenge that the students love, is to be given two finger lamingtons, strawberry, raspberry coulis, cream, a variety of chocolate and pantry staples, to create and present on a plate in a single lesson. As you will see by the photos the incredible plates, they all produced – well done Sweet Desire students.

Year 7/8 Food Technology

The year 7/8 students have been working collaboratively to preserve fruit and make the classic dessert Apple Crumble. Last week students were giving mystery ingredients to create 4 different muffins, 2 savoury and 2 sweet. Students then evaluated each muffin according to the way they prepared the mystery ingredients and the flavour, appearance, and texture. Students now have the opportunity to design their own sweet or savoury muffin based on their research and product development.

Year 5/6 Technology - Textiles

Students created their own paper patterns, so they were able to pin and cut out their Ugly Doll designs and embellishments. They have all been very busy sewing and persevering in learning new skills and techniques to produce their own Ugly Doll. 

Year 2/3/4 Food Technology

The Year 2/3/4 students have continued to extend their skills in making products using a basic scone dough. Students made both sweet and savoury scrolls. They prepared their filling ingredients using graters for apple and cheese and sliced ham using small knives. They rolled out the dough and then place their prepared ingredients onto the dough and then rolled it up. Students learnt to carefully slice the scrolls. Students were thrilled with their scrolls and enjoyed eating them. A perfect addition to a lunchbox with a variety of ingredients!

Healthy Lunchboxes

Packing a healthy lunchbox can help your child learn and concentrate even better, promote growth and development, and encourages healthy food choices for the rest of their life.  A child’s lunchbox should be varied and balanced. As you will see in the following articles some wonderful ideas form Nutrition Australia on Packing a Healthy Lunchbox and Lunchbox swaps. 

Mrs Annabel Hawkins 

Technology – Food and Textiles