A trip to the nation's capital

On Monday 20 November 2023, Year 9 Commerce students had the opportunity to visit Parliament House and National Electoral Education Centre in Canberra to support the unit of work on Law and Political Involvement. The students were able to see how Parliament and elections work. The 29 students who attended got to participate in the Parliamentary Education Office’s role-play activity, which is a hands-on experience on how laws are made through Parliament and to learn about the responsibilities of representatives.

Here's what Kareem, one of the participating Year 9 Commerce students, had to say:

“Getting the opportunity to visit Canberra was a great chance for our classes to really see what we have been learning about over the past year, and was one which I am sure we all enjoyed thoroughly. 

Arriving in Canberra, we were instantly met with Parliament House, one of the most iconic buildings in Australia. We were able to go inside and visit the House of Representatives and the Senate and learn a bit about what goes on in these important rooms. Soon after, we entered a smaller replica of the House of Representatives, where we participated in a mock House, where it was up to us to decide which laws to be introduced and debate them. 

After exploring Parliament House some more, we went and ate lunch on the edge of Lake Burley Griffin, right next to the High Court of Australia. Soon, we entered the National Electoral Education Centre at Old Parliament House. We explored multiple rooms with engaging games and videos, and even took part in our own election. 

Sadly, it was time to head back to school, but the memories, experience and knowledge we gained on this excursion will stay with us for a lifetime. Overall, this was a wonderful opportunity, and a great way to end our first year of commerce with a truly unforgettable experience.” 

Srey Heng

Social Sciences Teacher