Clyde North Campus News

Students lead the way in innovative creativity, thinking and sharing

Innovation is something we all strive for in education, but how does this translate into student voice and action. I take the opportunity to share three examples of student led initiatives that embrace innovation and creativity, showcasing the importance of student voice enacting each component of our ROCKS.

1. Year 10 Design Technology Metal Work Class

This photograph, you might assume is of a typical metal work class and you would be correct. However, it is so much more. The real story behind the welding started with a wondering, which became a journey and will end with a remarkable outdoor space.  The students in this class wanted to do something different and when they noticed an outdoor area for staff which they felt was understated but had enormous potential their creativity formed and idea which lead to a discussion with their teacher. They wanted to create an outdoor space with modern, attractive, and multi-functional furniture. 

The process was to first identify the design opportunity by consulting with the Client (Mrs Julie Banda on behalf of all staff) as well as to observe the area in which the product will be located. Next was to supply six possible design solutions for the client to reference for the final design. The consultation process was where the creativity and passion of the students began to shine through.

I am extremely confident that the final product will be stunning, and the staff are very excited. What has drawn the students to this project has been the level of ownership that they have been able to develop. Observing and engaging with the class, their teacher Mr Damien Cardona and I have reflected on the level of collaboration and organisation that has been shown by each student leading to a most respectful and safe process. Kindness is also very evident in their desire to produce a inviting and practical outdoor space for all staff. 

Well done and thank you.

 2. PODCASTING – Sharing the news with the College Captains

Question: How do we keep students up to date, encourage participation in school events, showcase talent, share great ideas, have fun, and keep everyone informed on really important issues?

Answer: Today Clyde North – a weekly podcast produced and starring the College Captains. 

What a success this has been. With the reduction of time for Tutor Group this year, the Captains felt there had to be a better way of delivering news rather than just reading it on SPACE. And they were right. Every Tuesday at their executive meeting, the captains plan the production of the Podcast including focus, content, interviews and who will take the lead in front of the camera. This is a highly collaborative enterprise resulting in a quality product. Apart from the weekly news and events special topics and focus have included:

• Interview with the winning Swimming Carnival House Captains
• Interview with the campus Counsellors highlighting the critical topic of Where to get help when we feel down or sad or worried.
• The 2023 College Musical, Legally Blonde 
• Harmony Day, 28 March 2023 promotion
• Celebrating International Women’s Day.

The success of the News Clyde North podcast sits with the College Captains and their desire to give back to students and staff. Special thanks is given to Mr Brad Pulley who works closely with captains on facilitating the podcast production. Skills in broadcasting are being learnt and again our ROCKS are being clearly modelled by the Captains.

Thank you to all the special guests, Ms Paten and Ms Cardenas, and all future special guests. 

The interview with our College Counsellors will be put on Facebook as a quick resource for parents and guardians on how to support our young people seek help. 

3. International Women’s Day – student tributes

On the back of podcasting, the College Captains wanted to invite students to send a message of love and thanks to the special and influential women in their lives as part of celebrating International Women’s Day. Over the past few days, the captains have been ‘taking it to the streets’ so to speak, inviting students of all ages to send a shout out to the women in their lives.  Another great initiative.

Term one is coming to an end very soon but there is still so much more to come including:

• 13/03 – Labour Day Holiday
• 14/03 – Student Free Day
• 15/03 – 27/03 Naplan (yrs 7 & 9)
• 23/03 – Discovery Evening 7-9pm
• 30/03 – Yr 12 students and parents Evening 7pm-8:30pm (not to be missed)
• 05/04 – Parent Cyber Safety Program – Geode Centre at 6.45pm for light refreshments and starting at 7pm.   Please see the flyer with this newsletter and the link to book your free tickets. This is a professionally run program, not to be missed, all your questions and concerns about online safety will be answered.
• 06/04 – Last day of term, students finish at lunchtime.

Cyber Safety & Wellbeing Parent Information Session

I wish you all a safe and productive week.

Julie Banda

Deputy Principal - Head of Clyde North Campus