Dunhelen
Mrs Francis Scuderi
Year 8 Werribee Gorge Excursion
On Friday 25 October, the Year 8 students and staff visited the Werribee Gorge State Park. The purpose of the excursion was to provide students with a real-world experience of the geology content they learnt in Science last term, and afford them the opportunity to do something out of their comfort zone. Research suggests time spent in natural environments is good for people’s health and wellbeing. The 9km circuit walk certainly tested the resolve of several students, but it was so pleasing to see many of them thoroughly enjoy the experience and take the challenge in their stride. May it be the start of a lifetime spent admiring our natural world. Next year, they will get to explore even more of the natural world as they head off to Central Australia.
2020 Leadership Interviews
We have commenced 2020 leadership interviews. It will be a hard task to determine who will be our Captains for next year and I wish all the candidates the very best. Please note that not all nominees will be interviewed, as there is a selection process in place. Students interviewed will be those who have displayed a positive attitude to the College and its rules, demonstrated an awareness of College values, demonstrated courtesy to all, have good communication skills, have been involved in a variety of areas of College life and have displayed perseverance and resilience in all areas. Congratulations to all students who applied and I encourage them to continue to apply for positions that arise in the future. Students and parents will be advised by mail of the outcome.
Time Management
As we are coming to the end of the year, the workload is increasing. Please assist your child in finding the time to complete their work, manage their out of school activities but, to also enjoy some leisure time. Research suggests that free time is extremely important to a child’s wellbeing. I have included an extract from an article by Michael Grose, for your information.
“Author and research professor of psychology, Dr Peter Gray, attributes the rise in anxiety, depression, suicide and narcissism among children to the decline of play. Unstructured play is vital for the healthy development of children and teenagers. Through play kids learn to interact with others, develop physical skills necessary for school success and gain confidence they need to interact with peers.”
If you would like to read the whole article click on the link provided.