HSIE - Key Learning Area in Focus 

The Human Society and Its Environment (HSIE) faculty is dedicated to giving students a deeper understanding of the world—its past, present, and the intricate ways we interact with it. Our curriculum is designed to explore History, Geography, the Law, Society and Commerce, equipping students with essential knowledge and skills to comprehend social and environmental complexities and make informed decisions as global citizens. 

This year, students have engaged in a range of enriching activities that have brought the HSIE curriculum to life, connecting classroom learning with real-world experiences. One highlight was the Year 11 Ancient History visit to the Chau Chak Wing Museum, where students had the invaluable opportunity to interact with ancient artefacts. This hands-on experience not only made history tangible but also allowed students to examine cultural legacies and understand the significance of preserving human heritage.

Year 10 students visited the Sydney Jewish Museum, where they learned about the Holocaust, an event that stands as a profound reminder of the consequences of prejudice and intolerance. Hearing accounts from some of the few remaining Holocaust survivors was not only a privilege, it also reinforced the importance of remembering and learning from history to promote a just and compassionate society.

Our Geography students have also enjoyed the chance to carry out fieldwork using newly acquired equipment, allowing them to collect and analyse data about environmental issues around the school. This practical experience in data collection and analysis prepares students to address contemporary geographic challenges and apply knowledge gained in class.

As part of their studies, Year 10 students completed a Geography Interest Project, a research-based assignment where they selected topics of personal interest connected to either human wellbeing or the environment. Conducting primary research by creating a formal survey, the students uncovered sometimes surprising data from the student body.

Requiring students to create a report, a pitch and an awareness campaign, this project developed their ability to gather and interpret information, encouraging curiosity and independent thinking.

The upcoming Commerce Market Stalls promise to be an exciting event. Students have been designing and planning a small-scale business venture which will culminate in a market day. Not only does this project enable students to explore the fundamentals of entrepreneurship and teamwork in a hands-on way, it also fosters social responsibility as the students have set an aim of raising $1000 to be donated to the Cancer Research Foundation.

Through experiences like these, the HSIE faculty aims to build a solid foundation of knowledge and foster skills that empower students to navigate and contribute thoughtfully and responsibly to our world. We look forward to continuing this journey of discovery with your children, inspiring them to understand and shape the world around them.