Specialists

Secondary 9/10 

Term 3

Digital Tech

The ‘Code with Robots’ unit has had a great start, with the students becoming Intelino Smart Train experts. We have learned to use the coding principles of sequencing (putting instructions in order) and debugging (fixing errors) to give the trains instructions with coloured tiles. We are now using loops (repeated instructions) to direct our Rugged Robots around obstacle courses. The students are having a fun time learning to code in hands on ways.

Music

Music elective groups have produced some excellent band work on songs of their own choosing. Different classes have selected a range of pieces, including Die on This Hill by Sienna Spiro and Billie Jean by Michael Jackson, and have been refining their ensemble performance skills. Students are showing growing musical independence as they adjust arrangements and rehearsal strategies to suit their groups.

PE

Students who chose the Striking and Fielding elective completed an introduction to softball and baseball, trialling different ball-striking skills such as bunting and driving. Students refined their ball-striking technique to improve the accuracy and distance of their hits. They enjoyed playing competitive matches on Loyola Oval, where they practised their batting and fielding skills on the diamond.

Selected students also joined the Track and Field team, where they competed in the 100m, 200m, 800m, Shot Put and Long Jump events at the School Sport Victoria (SSV) Northern Metro Region Track and Field Championships. Many students qualified to compete at the SSV State Track and Field Championships in Term 4.

Social Competencies

This term, Year 9/10 students explored the different relationships in their lives, from close friendships and family relationships to connections within the wider community. Students developed their understanding of the characteristics of healthy and safe relationships, including respect, consent and boundaries. They also explored the steps involved in building a healthy romantic relationship, discussing how relationships can develop over time and what respectful behaviour looks like at each stage.

Students practised recognising body warning signs and explored strategies for responding when they feel unsafe or uncomfortable in a relationship. Through role-plays, scenarios, sorting activities and collaborative discussions, students also considered peer pressure, public and private spaces, and appropriate behaviours in different settings. Their thoughtful participation and growing confidence in applying these skills to everyday situations have been wonderful to see.

Visual Arts

Year 9/10 Art Elective students are exploring the vibrant world of Pop Art this semester. They have been using bright colours, bold patterns and creative design techniques to create expressive artworks. Students developed personalised name pieces featuring primary and secondary colours, strong contrasts and repeated line elements. They also began investigating the distinctive style of Keith Haring, experimenting with movement, shape and visual storytelling. These artworks were displayed at the Section Showcase. It has been wonderful to see students embrace new ideas, take creative risks and grow in confidence as artists.

Creative Media

This term, Year 9/10 students have been exploring prop, costume and character creation, with a focus on the history of masks across cultures and popular media. Students followed a design process of research, planning, creation and reflection to create physical masks ranging from favourite animals to original characters. It has been wonderful to see students apply their creativity and problem-solving skills throughout the design process.

Food Tech

Term 3 has been exciting for students in Food Technology. We have been ‘Cooking like a Chef’ and making a variety of dishes from many different chefs. We have made jacket potatoes with various toppings, chicken pot pie, hamburgers from scratch, falafel wraps, sausage rolls and macaroni and cheese. These were all popular with students and required them to use a range of cooking and food preparation techniques to complete the recipes. Students will finish off Term 3 with churros and chocolate dipping sauce.

Science

Students in the Secondary 9/10 elective From Earth to the Stars have taken a deep dive into learning about the structure of the Earth, identifying its different layers and creating models to represent them. During our learning about the Rock Cycle, students had the opportunity to look at some really cool igneous rock samples from a real volcano in Iceland. We also used UV light to view fluorescent rocks containing natural minerals that made them glow in the dark. Students learnt about fossils and used air dry clay to create replicas of mould, cast and trace fossils.

Outdoor Education

This term, students have embraced the swimming program at La Trobe Indoor Sports Centre, building their skills, confidence and water awareness. Across the sessions, they have strengthened their understanding of water safety, including how to correctly use life jackets. Students have worked on treading water, improving their swimming strokes, and developing both kneeling and standing dive techniques. It has been fantastic to watch their endurance increase as they challenged themselves to swim further and complete the length of the pool. Overall, students have made great progress and enjoyed a positive and rewarding term in the water.

Jess Mitchell

Specialist Team Leader