Incursions and Excursions

Elevate Study Sessions

Year 11 and 12 VCE students recently had sessions during STRIVE to help them improve their study skills. Year 11s had a 'Study Sensei' session which focused on time management and avoiding procrastination. They also learned how to take notes and make an effective study timetable. These skills will be followed up in future STRIVE sessions. 

The Year 12s had an 'Ace Your Exams' workshop that helped them to prepare for their practice exams and formal exams at the end of Year 12. The workshop was run by engaging presenter who is currently studying at Monash University and she shared strategies for exam success including: spaced practice, time management for marks and mnemonics. 99% of students said they highly recommended the workshop and one student said it was "the most helpful study session ever."

“Oedipus the King” Comes to Life

Year 12 English students had the opportunity to experience Sophocles’ “Oedipus the King” beyond the classroom, attending a live performance of the play presented by the Complete Works Theatre Company at East Doncaster Secondary College. 

The performance provided students with a different perspective on the text they have been studying, particularly the conventions of ancient Greek theatre. The use of masks, expressive acting and dramatic staging helped recreate elements of the theatrical traditions of Sophocles’ time, while bringing the play’s characters and conflicts vividly to life.

For students, seeing “Oedipus the King” performed rather than simply reading the script offered an opportunity to consider how Sophocles’ tragedy can be interpreted and communicated on stage. The experience also encouraged students to think more deeply about the play’s characters, themes and dramatic impact.

The excursion was a valuable addition to students’ study of the text, giving them the chance to engage with “Oedipus the King” in a dynamic and memorable way.

Olympic Inspiration: Be Fit with Stacey Hymer

Last week students in Year 9 and 10 had the exciting opportunity to hear from Australian Olympic taekwondo athlete Stacey Hymer as part of the Victorian Institute of Sport’s Be Fit program.

Having represented Australia at both the 2020 and 2024 Olympic Games, Stacey shared her experiences of life as an elite athlete, giving students an insight into the dedication, resilience and determination required to compete at the highest level. Her stories highlighted not only the highs of elite sport, but also the challenges, setbacks and moments when staying motivated can be difficult.

The students were engaged throughout the session, with many asking thoughtful and insightful questions about Stacey’s experiences as an Olympian, the number of medals she had attained and the places she had travelled to. One of the highlights of the visit was seeing some of our students take part in a practical taekwondo demonstration with Stacey, giving them the chance to learn some techniques from an athlete who has competed on the world stage.

Stacey also explored the important role that sport and physical activity can play in supporting physical and mental wellbeing. Students heard how teamwork, perseverance, confidence and a positive mindset have contributed to her journey and how these qualities can be applied well beyond the sporting arena.

The session was an inspiring reminder that success is not simply about talent or achievement, but about setting goals, responding to challenges and continuing to work towards what matters. Stacey encouraged students to approach their own goals with confidence, commitment and resilience whether in sport, their studies or other areas of their lives.

What an amazing experience for our students.

Sport and Society Students Experience Goalball

Our Year 9 and 10 Sport and Society students showed incredible engagement during a recent incursion run by ExSight Sports, where they had the opportunity to participate in Goalball, a Paralympic sport designed for athletes with a visual impairment.

As students are currently learning about accessibility and inclusion in sport, the session provided a fantastic opportunity to put their theoretical understanding into practice and experience firsthand some of the considerations involved in participating in sport without relying on vision.

Students began by exploring different types of visual impairment using simulation glasses before gearing up with blindfolds, elbow pads and knee pads to take to the Goalball court. Throughout the session, they developed skills in orientation, safe blocking and using touch and sound to navigate and participate in the game.

There were definitely some nerves as students lost their usual reliance on vision, but it was fantastic to see everyone step outside their comfort zone, embrace the challenge and give the experience their all. Students participated enthusiastically throughout the session and gained a greater appreciation for the skills, resilience and experiences of people who navigate visual impairment every day.

It was a valuable and engaging learning experience that brought the topic of accessibility in sport to life. A fantastic effort from everyone!