BEST Specialism

Be a Vet 

Year 9 & 10

Last term the Year 9 and 10 students studying 'Be a Vet' had the opportunity to participate in some hands-on farm experience at Myuna Farm. They learnt some important skills in identifying signs of animal health and how to treat and care for a range of small and large animals. They measured up and administered worming treatments, collected data on vital signs such as heart rate and weight, practiced animal dentistry, and prepared enclosures for different poultry varieties. 

The highlight of the day was the equine workshop where students worked with the horses, learning how to handle, walk, groom and clean their hooves.

Not only will we be revisiting the farm this term, but we are very excited that Beaumaris Secondary has developed a partnership with Moonlit Sanctuary where students will have the opportunity to be a zookeeper for a day working with native animals.

GTAC Excursion 

Year 8

In the last week of Term 3, Year 8 students visited the Gene Technology Access Centre (GTAC) as part of the Body Systems unit. Students worked with Researchers from Melbourne University to investigate a case study of coeliac disease and how malfunctions in the digestive and immune systems of patients can contribute to its development. The students:

• Performed an ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) test with the latest equipment to diagnose if the patient’s immune systems are producing rogue antibodies that target cells of the intestine. 
   
• Used research grade microscopes to view healthy and affected samples to learn about the damage that can occur when such antibodies are present. 
   
• Made predictions and proposed explanations, drawing on evidence to support their views so they can design interventions to improve the health of patients.

This was a great way for students to create linkages between the body systems we learned about at school and gave them an opportunity to develop their practical and analytical skills.

Ms Chelsie Millar

BEST Teacher