Magis report
The first round of the WA Debating League (WADL) Schools Debating Competition (SDC) finals took place Tuesday evening at Perth Modern School. Many thanks to the family and friends who came in support. Our two teams, which made it to the double octo-finals, debated the topic: This House would elect judges. The adjudicators were thoroughly impressed by the team’s exceptional passion, ability and sportsmanship, and we commend all our debating finalists on an outstanding effort. Congratulations to Zachary Sartorello, Joshua Standen and Samuel Watts, who have made it through to the next round of the finals. These students will be competing this Tuesday at Hale School, and wish them the very best of luck with their next debate.
On Wednesday, our Junior Ethics Team took part in an Ethics Training Clinic in preparation for the Middle School Ethics Olympiad Competition which will take place next term. This Clinic provided our ‘eth-letes’ (as they are known in the competition) with a unique and fascinating opportunity to hear from global experts. In the morning program, students heard from Archie Stapleton of Harvard University, Dr Andrew Cullison of De Pauw University, and Jack Wells from the New School of Social Research. In the afternoon, students heard lectures from Dr Rachel Robinson-Greene of Utah University on Consequentialism and Dr Tim Dean, a Senior Philosopher at the Ethics Centre in Sydney on ethical principles and rules. These lectures were followed by breakaway mentor sessions with several leading academics, including Dr Joe Naimo from the University of Notre Dame, Fremantle.
Samuel Watts (Year 8) said:
The Ethics Olympiad Training Clinic was a fun and engaging day. I learnt valuable insight into key principles and strategies which I can use in our upcoming competition. The knowledge I gained will certainly serve me well in years to come. The Training Clinic is something I highly recommend to anyone who wants to push themselves to do more.
Our Creative Edge Team has been very busy rehearsing and putting the final touches to their props and costumes this week. I commend the team members on their dedication and hard work throughout the Term, and we wish them the best of luck as they compete in the regional finals of the Creative Edge Competition this Saturday at Curtin University.
MAGIS: OPPORTUNITIES TO DO MORE!
Raise Our Voice
Raise Our Voice Australia has partnered with federal MPs and Senators who will read a 90-second speech written by a person aged 25 or under. If you'd like the chance to hear your words read in parliament, or on social media if your MP is a Minister, you're in the right place! Our question this year is: What change would make Australia a better place for future generations? Speeches are to be submitted through the link below. Submissions close on 15 September 2023, with Youth Voice in Parliament week taking place from 16 to 20 October 2023. If you would like to bounce your ideas off someone, or need assistance writing your submission, please don’t hesitate to contact the Magis Coordinator. What a terrific way to get involved in Australian Democracy.
Chevron Focus Environment Photography Competition
Entries are now open for the 2023 Chevron Focus Environment Competition – so grab a camera, get outdoors, and start photographing WA’s biodiversity. It could be as simple as some spring wildflowers or a neighbourhood magpie! Include a short caption with your photo and submit it online. Jasper Bailey (Year 9) was one of last year’s winners. His photo, titled ‘The Thoughtful Owl’ is featured on the 2023 competition flyer. What an amazing photo! For further details please click on the link below. Entries are due Friday 22 September.
$25,000 to be shared between winning students and their schools!
Intergenerational Project
Do you like watching the TV show ‘Old People’s Home for 4 Year Olds’ on ABC? Well, Expressions of Interest are now open for students who wish to participate in an intergenerational program – where students will interview Mercy Care residents and record some of their stories in a Memories Book. For more information, please get in touch with the Magis Coordinator.
Shakespeare Club
Are you a fan of the Bard? Or interested in extending your literature knowledge further? Why not join our College Shakespeare Club! The mission of the Club is to encourage all people to enjoy readings and discussions of Shakespeare and his contemporaries. For further details or registration, please email the Magis Coordinator.
Model UN Club
Model UN is a popular activity for those interested in learning more about how the United Nations (UN) operates. Hundreds of thousands of students worldwide take part every year at all educational levels. Many of today’s leaders in law, government, business and the arts – including at the UN itself – participated in Model UN as students. For further details, or to register your expression of interest, please email the Magis Coordinator.
Term 3 Calendar
You can keep up to date with Magis and Altiora events by following the Term 3 calendar – which can be accessed by clicking on the link below.
Daisy Farley
Magis Coordinator – Gifted and Talented