SCIENCE
Australian Museum. Earth and Environmental Science Excursion
On Friday the 9th of May, Year 11 and 12 Earth and Environmental Science students attended an excursion to the Australian Museum. Earth and Environmental Science is a subject that tackles both the Earth’s past and present but also focuses on how society can effectively manage the challenges we face, looking towards Earth’s future. Students who enjoy a relevant, meaningful look at the Earth as well as a focus on the environment should consider selecting the subject in Year 11 and 12. Below are the reflections of two students who attended.
All the Earth and Environmental classes were going to the Australian museum for an excursion, and it was some metamorphic madness!
We had done all sorts of activities and even had hands on authentic rock calculations.
We started off with understanding Australia’s ancient geology and how that’s shaped our land and was used as intriguing everyday items for Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander People. We then arranged into groups and used a toolkit to identify certain rocks through measuring the density, texture and hardness.
The next activity involved using a tablet, and another kit, but instead of rocks, there was illuminating crystals. Different groups were named, and we all had to do take part in a race to see who could find the name of the crystal in our kit first. The last activity we did was a trading game for points with other countries. We analysed the key commodities other countries were low on and made trades with them. This excursion had really opened up my eyes and engaged my curiosity in so many ways.
- Sumyta K (Year 11)
At the beginning of this term, both Year 11 and Year 12 Earth and Environmental Science classes went on an exciting excursion to the National Museum of Australia. Earth and Environmental Science is a subject designed for students who are curious and inspired by the planet’s past, present, and future, and who are interested in understanding the natural cycles that have shaped Earth over millions of years.
There were also knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff members who assisted us whenever we had questions, helping to deepen our understanding of the topics discussed.
As a Year 12 student, I appreciated the chance to revisit key concepts and to connect with the Year 11s as they began their own journey in Earth and Environmental Science. We asked each other questions, worked in groups, and completed the interactive activities prepared by the museum. I can confidently say we learned a lot and thoroughly enjoyed discovering the different properties of rocks and minerals in such an inspiring setting.
In addition, we explored how Australian Indigenous peoples have traditionally used rocks and the land in meaningful and resourceful ways. I found it fascinating to learn about the diverse practical and cultural purposes different types of rocks served in their daily lives and traditions.
Overall, it was a highly enjoyable and enriching experience. It was a valuable opportunity to step outside the classroom and see real-world applications of what we have been studying in the Earth and Environmental Science course.
- Caryssa S (Year 12)
Mr. P Lofitis
Year 11 Student Advisor
ABCN Scholarship
As part of our work as Student Advisors, we work hard to encourage and support students as they make applications towards various external agencies and non-profit organisations that aim to support students through their education. One such organisation, Australian Business and Community Network (ABCN), provided our students (then year 10 students in 2024) with an incredible scholarship opportunity that allowed students access to nationwide networking opportunities with similar students, access to a mentorship program with successful young women from a range of participating businesses as well as significant financial assistance.
We are excited to celebrate the fact that two of our students were successful in their applications for this scholarship, which is extremely competitive. Mai Le, who achieved the full scholarship, engaged in a range of opportunities that she recounts below.
On the 15th and 16th of May, I attended the ABCN Leadership Summit Camp in Sydney as one of their scholars. This event was an amazing opportunity for all ABCN first-year scholars to gather in one place and share our experiences and unique journeys. On the first day, we participated in various fun and engaging sessions at Optus, along with our mentors. One of which was the Find Your Purpose workshop, which enabled me to deeply reflect on my values and aspirations and apply them to my future goals. I was truly inspired by various figures in the room, and obtained great advice from those around me, and it was an extraordinary experience that boosted my confidence. Later on, that day, we visited PVH, the parent company of Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger, and had the chance to meet the CEO of PVH, as well as Allegra Spender, who was the CEO of ABCN and in the present, a member of parliament for Wentworth. They both shared their passion for their occupations, challenges and obstacles in their career, how they overcame them and lastly, words of encouragement for all scholars to be the best version of themselves and never stop striving for the better.
On the second day, we did a tour around the Sydney Harbour and took many memorable photos. We then visited the Museum of Contemporary Art, where we gained meaningful insights and creativity by immersing ourselves in the artistic productions of Australian artists. In one of our activities, we were asked to choose a painting and express our feelings towards our chosen artwork with just a word. It was an activity that showed me the diverse perspectives and interpretations each individual possesses, which makes everyone unique in their own ways.
This event is truly one of the most memorable experiences of my life. I have made many new special connections with the scholars during this short period, and they are the people who have motivated me further to work hard and achieve my goals.
- Mai L - Year 11
