Learning & Teaching News
ICAS Competitions Presentations
At Monday's assembly (24/11), we presented certificates to students who completed any of the Mathematics, Science or Spelling Bee Competitions.
Overall, students in OHR achieved 7 High Distinctions and 26 Distinctions. This is by far the highest number of these awards students have achieved in a year. There is no class time spent on preparing students for these voluntary competitions. As such, these outstanding results are a testament to the learning that is occurring in each of our classrooms.
House Debating
As part of their English learning in Term 4, all students in Year 5/6 participate in a House Debate. The benefits of debating are immense, and can be categorised into 4 areas:
Thinking and research skills
Analytical thinking skills.
The ability to think clearly under pressure.
A strong sense of curiosity and a love of learning about issues and the world around them.
An ability to gather and evaluate information from a range of sources.
Informed exchange of ideas.
Initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively.
Communication skills
Coherent and confident expression of ideas in collaboration with teammates.
The ability to coherently and convincingly argue a point of view for their team, which they may not personally support.
Public speaking skills.
Word power and strength of language.
Social skills
Self-esteem and self-confidence.
A sense of understanding, tolerance and acceptance of different views on issues.
Respect of the right of others to hold differing and alternative ideas.
Sportsmanship
Generosity of spirit between participants, across all school sectors.
Teamwork and sportsmanship.
Valuing participation more than the outcome.
A sense of responsibility to be humble in victory and gracious in defeat.
The ability to respond appropriately to constructive feedback.
Students in the other levels attend these debates in support of their house and this exposure is a valuable asset when it is their turn to debate for their house when they are older.
The schedule and topics are below. Parents and friends are most welcome to come and watch.
The results of Round 2 are below as well as the ladder after 2 rounds.
Round 2
Perkins (281) def Jackson (272) - Best Speaker: Kiara C. 2nd Best: Kate M
Fraser (278) def Clarke (269) - Best Speaker: Mia C. 2nd Best: Anna H
Nick Byrne
Learing & Teaching Leader
Bebras Computational Thinking Competition- 2026 Form
We are incredibly proud of the exceptional way our OHR students embrace opportunities to extend and challenge themselves. This week’s awards in a variety of competitions across Maths, Science, and Digital Technologies are a testament to their growth mindsets and enthusiasm for learning. Their achievements reflect not only strong academic skills but also curiosity, creativity, and perseverance. We celebrate their dedication to exploring new ideas, tackling complex problems, and demonstrating excellence through effort and collaboration, qualities that embody the spirit of lifelong learning at Our Holy Redeemer.
Early in 2026, our students in Years 3-6 will have the opportunity to participate again in the Bebras Computational Thinking Challenge during the week of Monday 9 February. A specific date will be set within Week 3 of Term 1, 2026.
As the competition is so early in Term 1, we ask you to complete this form by Wednesday 3rd December if you would like to register your child for this computational thinking opportunity in 2026. Payment of $5.20 registration fee can be made to Heather in the office or via eft.
Bebras is one of the largest international computational thinking challenges involving over 2.9 million students from 60 countries. There are 15 questions, answered online – a combination of multiple choice, integer and interactive responses. Example questions are shown below.
Please feel free to email with any questions phansen@ohrsurreyhills.catholic.edu.au
Penny Hansen
Maths Leader
Digital Technologies Leader
Year 3 & 4: Middle Primary competition example questions
Year 5 & 6: Senior Primary competition example questions
