Humanities

Throughout the 2025 academic year, the Humanities faculty has identified a common goal for all classes: to continue to build the skills of all students studying a Humanities subject. Through the dedication of the teaching team, the students at St. John's will learn lifelong skills that will best prepare them for senior studies and life beyond St. John's.

Year 10 students have been learning to use senior study skills and apply them to their learning at the Year 10 level. It Is hoped that these skills can be transferable to all aspects of students learning:

In year 10 History, we were asked to consider the various causes of World War Two and provide a commentary on a particular cause. Our group focused on the ideology of Communism and the rise of Joseph Stalin.

The Study skills we have learnt include evaluating the reliability of historical sources and interpretations. Historical interpretations are the process by which we describe, analyse, evaluate, and create an explanation of past events. We base our interpretation on primary and secondary historical sources. We analyse the evidence, contexts, points of view, and frames of reference.

I found it memorable how Hitler's rise and ideology came about. It was interesting to witness the transformation of an individual who seemingly lived unnoticed by everyone to soon be the one who brought chaos to World War Two.

Jayden Rouxelin (PH2) and Adrian Veli (AQ3)

In year 10 History, we have been focusing on the heavy subject 'the rise of dictators', which refers to one of the main topics, the rise of Hitler. During the past couple of periods, our classes have gained the knowledge of how Adolf Hitler significantly contributed to World War Two, how he, the other dictators and how the Nazi's ideological beliefs shaped Europe in the 1930s. Expanding on their opinions, the key terminology we have learnt in history is 'antisemitism' and how propaganda was used to create fear and division. We have also discovered how Hitler completely obliterated Germany's National democracy and transformed the country into an environment of hate. Our class has been asked to critically question whether people are born evil?’ and what factors lead to evil deeds.

Brooklyn Leach (LE3)  and Christabel Gomes (DE3)  

In Year 10 Commerce, we have been studying how to start a business and the cash accounting that comes with it. We have been learning how to fill out receipts and payments journals, a cash flow statement, and the difference between operating, investing, and financing. I love commerce because it’s somethinit'sat I can use in the future, and it will help me down the road. This is an introduction to what we would be completing in Year 11 Accounting if we selected this subject.

Hannah Gercovich (PH5)