Student Voice

Science Spotlight: Students Reach for the Stars!

Congratulations to our two Year 9 students, Xen and Matei, who have been accepted into the Emerging Sciences Victoria (ESV) program. They are the first students from Donald High School to take part in this exciting opportunity.

Emerging Sciences Victoria is a 15-week specialist STEM program delivered by John Monash Science School. Through live virtual classrooms, students from across Victoria can study specialised science subjects that are not typically available in schools. The program is delivered by expert teachers from John Monash Science School, alongside researchers, academics from Monash University and industry professionals, providing students with an inspiring and engaging learning experience.

Xen has been selected to study Biotechnology, where he will explore the rapidly advancing world of DNA, genetic technologies, cells and proteins. As part of the course, he will even have the opportunity to build his own gel electrophoresis tank, an important piece of laboratory equipment used to separate DNA.

Matei will be studying Astrophysics, taking an incredible journey through the universe. The course explores everything from our own solar system to black holes, quasars, dark matter and dark energy. Students will investigate how stars and planets are formed, consider the possibility of life beyond Earth, and discover the enormous distances and timescales that astrophysicists use to understand our universe.

We are incredibly proud of Xen and Matei for embracing this unique opportunity and wish them every success as they begin this exciting scientific journey.

2026 Marrung Scholarships 

Ethan & John Clapham receiving their 2026 Marrung Scholarships during Naidoc Week.