Deputy News: Topic Learning

This term, our students throughout the school will be engaging in rich, hands-on learning across the Victorian Curriculum areas of Earth and Space Sciences and Design and Technologies. Students will investigate fascinating concepts such as the movement of the Earth, Moon and Sun, the impact of natural events like earthquakes and bushfires, and how scientific knowledge helps us understand and care for our planet. Alongside this, students will take on real-world design challenges that encourage them to create, test and evaluate solutions to environmental and technological problems.

This term, a big focus for students in all classes will be engaging in the design process as part of their topic learning. As a key element of our units of work, students will apply their new knowledge and skills by planning, creating and refining solutions to real-world problems. By taking part in purposeful, hands-on design tasks, students are more likely to retain their learning, especially when they can transfer it to new and meaningful contexts.

This design learning will be closely linked to our studies in Earth and Space Sciences, with a particular focus on solving real-world environmental challenges. Students will explore climate issues faced by different cultures and nations across the globe, such as water conservation in drought-affected regions, transporting locally grown produce to an area it can be easily sold, and sustainably growing crops in flood affected regions. These investigations will also connect with our Religious Education learning, where students will reflect on the Catholic social teachings of stewardship and compassion. Through their projects, students will be encouraged to consider how science and design can be used to support those in less fortunate circumstances, helping them to become thoughtful, active citizens who use their learning to serve others and care for our common home.

To enrich our students' learning this term, we are seeking parents or family members who work in the fields of architecture, engineering, or related areas to volunteer as guest speakers. If you have experience in environmental science, space science, sustainable design, urban planning, or any STEM-related profession, we would love for you to share your knowledge with our students. Hearing from real-world professionals brings learning to life and helps students see the real-world impact of the concepts they are exploring. If you're interested in getting involved, please contact your child’s classroom teacher.

Authentic audiences play a vital role in deepening student learning by giving purpose and relevance to their work. When students know their ideas will be shared beyond the classroom, they are more motivated to communicate clearly, think critically, and take greater pride in their efforts. Last term’s Learning Expo was a powerful example of this, students confidently presented their projects to peers, parents, and staff, and received genuine feedback and questions in return. This experience not only strengthened their understanding of the content but also built valuable skills in public speaking, collaboration, and reflection. We look forward to continuing to provide these real-world opportunities that help students see the impact and value of their learning.

We can't wait to see what innovative ideas our students across the school bring to life this term. We look forward to sharing them across the term. Let the learning journey begin!

Tom Hartney

Teaching and Learning Leader