Science

Throughout the 2025 academic year, every student in a science course took part in observing and experimenting to answer questions about how the universe works.

Of note, were the following research projects by students from across all year groups and courses, who demonstrated scientific curiosity and applied themselves diligently to find their answers:

Curtis Q (Year 7) researched the hairy-nosed wombat (Lasiorhinus krefftii) and designed a zoo exhibit to house and display them.
Ryrie E, Stefan V and Arthur W (Year 8) conducted a first-hand investigation to determine whether free-range or cage-raised chicken eggs contained more protein. They dissolved the shells of eggs from free-range and cage-raised chicken eggs in acetic acid, and measured how high they could be dropped until their membranes burst.
Enoch I (Year 9) produced an outstanding presentation on the research he did about the Ebola virus and the epidemiology of the disease it causes.
Justin P (Year 10) carried out a highly technical first-hand investigation that measured how light pollution at night affected the number of visible stars, specifically in the Beta Centauri region. He traveled to different locations in urban and regional NSW to make observations of the night sky.
In senior Biology, Ben C (Year 11) conducted an extensive review of the literature on the effects of e-cigarettes on pulmonary emphysema in mice. Caden J (Year 12) looked into the epidemiology of malaria – its causes and strategies for its control and management.
In senior Chemistry, Joe F (Year 11) collected data and investigated electrochemical potentials between combinations of different metal electrodes. Aaron S (Year 12) reported on the production and logistics of sulfuric acid by the Solvay process and wrote a proposal for a chemical production plant in NSW, employing this process.
In senior Earth and Environmental Science, William J (Year 11) meticulously investigated the ability for water to infiltrate compacted soils. Owen C (Year 12) conducted a geological study into the Mt Pelee volcano and how its eruption affected the people and environment around it.
In senior Physics, Luke C (Year 11) made a quantitative comparison between static and kinetic friction. Christian L (Year 12) experimentally verified the relationship between launch velocity and the range of a projectile.

These young scientists deserve to be commended for their enthusiasm and engagement in their quests to understand the natural and physical world.

Michael de la Pena

Congratulations Mr Bradford!

On Tuesday 9 December, Ron Bradford, who has worked at Epping Boys High School since 1996, attended the 2025 Service of Recognition Dinner at Parliament House. The event celebrated contributions across multiple sectors, notably the NSW Department of Education, which honored 48 educators for 50+ years of service.

Epping Boys High School has been privileged to benefit from Ron Bradford’s many years of dedicated service to the teaching profession. The following is a formal citation recognising his outstanding contributions to education.

Ronald (Ron) Bradford commenced his teaching career in NSW public education on 28 January 1975 at Picton High School, beginning a lifelong dedication to science and student learning. His passion for the subject and calm authority in the classroom saw him transition to Cumberland High School in 1980 and then to Greystanes High School in 1981, where he continued to inspire curious young minds. In 1996, Ron joined the staff at Epping Boys High School, where his depth of experience, quiet leadership, and genuine care for students and colleagues left a lasting impact. In 2011. his commitment was formally recognised when he was appointed Head Teacher, a role in which he fostered excellence in science education and mentored the next generation of educators. Though officially retiring from full-time teaching in July 2014, Ron's devotion to teaching and leading never waned. Drawing on his extensive knowledge of the curriculum and teaching strategies, he served as a teacher mentor in Physics and Science, first at Blacktown Boys High School for two years, and then at Epping Boys High School from 2015 to the present. His service helped to upskill beginning teachers, empowering them to implement effective classroom practices.

He remained a steadfast presence at Epping Boys High School, contributing not only as a mentor and science teacher but also through his dedicated work in the Autism classes, supporting students with diverse learning needs until his final day in the classroom. On 9 December 2025, Ron will have served an extraordinary 50 years, 9 months and 14 days in NSW public education. His unwavering dedication stands as a testament to the power of quiet influence and a life spent nurturing knowledge.

Stephanie Dwyer

Head Teacher Science