Class 8 & 9 News

Class 8 & 9 Newsletter Update – Term 2 Adventures and Learning

As the crisp mornings begin to settle over our desert home, the Class 8 and 9 has been full of movement, inquiry, and anticipation. The classroom has been buzzing with discovery, both through practical experiments and the deepening of abstract thought.

Class 8 – Into the Elements: Air and Water

Our Class 8s have ventured into the elemental world of Air and Water in their current physics Main Lesson with Robert Sutherland. This immersive block brings science to life through hands-on observation and thoughtful questioning. From the properties of air pressure and buoyancy to the foundational principles of meteorology, the class is uncovering how air and water shape the world around us—weather systems, ocean currents, and the atmosphere itself. There’s been a lot of wonder and lively discussion about the invisible forces that govern our everyday experiences.

Class 9 – Curves of Inquiry: Circles and Ellipses

Meanwhile, Class 9 has been delving into the elegant world of conic sections. With the circle and ellipse now under the hammer, students are discovering how slicing a cone can unveil a world of symmetry, geometry, and mathematical beauty. These shapes may be ancient in origin, but they remain deeply relevant—from the orbits of planets to the curves of bridges. This exploration invites not only precision but a kind of mathematical imagination that stretches the students' thinking into new spaces.

Firesticks and Festival Spirits

Both classes have also turned their focus toward rhythm, flow, and fire—preparations for the upcoming Winter Festival are in full swing. Our firesticks rehearsals are a beautiful mixture of focus, laughter, and cooperation. Students are stepping up to refine their timing and presence in what promises to be a luminous and moving performance under the winter night sky.

Looking Ahead – Farm Camp!

There’s one major highlight still to come this term: Farm Camp on the Sunshine Coast in Week 5! This annual experience is a rich opportunity for hands-on learning, community living, and a deeper connection to the land and food cycles. Anticipation is building as we pack our boots and prepare for early mornings, meaningful work, and warm memories.

As always, thank you to our parents and guardians for your ongoing support of these adventures in learning. The term is unfolding beautifully, and we’re looking forward to what the next few weeks will bring.

Warm regards,

Dan