Bursaria 

Upper Secondary Years 

ENGLISH

This term, students have been exploring a variety of engaging texts and writing styles. In poetry, they are learning how rhyme, rhythm and structure can be used creatively to share ideas, while also experimenting with writing poems of their own. Our focus on persuasive writing has given students the chance to practise forming strong arguments and using evidence to influence an audience. Alongside these skills, students are studying two of Roald Dahl’s much-loved stories, The BFG and Fantastic Mr Fox. Through these texts, they are examining how authors use language to build memorable characters, create humour, and capture the imagination of readers. The combination of poetry, persuasive writing, and literature study is helping students to develop confidence and creativity across different forms of writing. It has been wonderful to see their enthusiasm as they connect ideas from class texts to their own writing projects.

 

MATH

This term in Mathematics, students have been building their understanding of two important concepts: fractions and time. They are learning how fractions can represent equal parts of a whole, and are practising recognising, comparing, and using fractions in different situations. Alongside this, students are developing their skills in telling the time on both digital and analogue clocks. They have been focusing on reading o’clock, half past, quarter past and quarter to, as well as exploring other times throughout the day. These skills are helping students make connections between classroom learning and real-life contexts, such as daily routines and timetables. It has been exciting to see their growing confidence as they apply their knowledge in practical activities and problem-solving tasks.

 

STEM/SCIENCE WEEK

Science Week was a fantastic celebration of creativity and problem-solving. Students designed and built their own playable games using recycled materials, showing both ingenuity and teamwork. The highlight of the week was when the whole learning place came together to share these creations in a lively carnival atmosphere, where everyone had the chance to play and enjoy the games. In STEM, students have been learning about fungi by exploring how mushrooms grow and discovering a range of interesting facts about them. They investigated the conditions mushrooms need to thrive and gained a deeper appreciation for their role in ecosystems. Both Science Week and STEM have provided hands-on opportunities for students to experiment, collaborate, and think critically about the world around them.

 

INTEGRATED

In Integrated Studies, our topic this term has been Wonderful Weather. Bursaria students explored different climates around the world, with a focus on temperate, tropical, arid, and polar regions. They investigated how each climate affects the environment, animals, and the way people live. To celebrate all of this learning, the principal class was invited on a special learning walk, where students proudly shared their discoveries. As part of their projects, students also learned how to make quadramas, using this creative format to display their information in an eye-catching and engaging way. The combination of research, creativity, and presentation skills made this topic a rich and rewarding learning experience for all.

 

SPECIALISTS

This term, students have been busy developing a wide range of skills through their specialist classes. In Physical Education, they have been building fitness, practising teamwork, and enjoying a variety of games that encourage active and healthy lifestyles. Art lessons have given students the chance to explore their creativity, experiment with different materials, and express ideas through imaginative artworks. In Life Skills, the focus has been on cooking and kitchen safety, with students learning how to prepare simple recipes while also practising important safety routines in the kitchen. These specialist programs provide students with valuable opportunities to learn in hands-on, practical ways, and to develop skills that extend well beyond the classroom.