Learning @SVC 

A glimpse in to some amazing learning experiences for our boys this week! 

'Step Out Into Bricks Program’ 

Year 10 students, Zac Griggs, Jack Pritchard and Cameron Smith were given the exciting opportunity to participate in the ‘Step Out into Bricks Program’ hosted by TASTAFE. Selection was based upon the boys excellent work ethic and performance in 'Introduction to Construction' which opened up this fantastic vocational opportunity. 

The ‘Step Out into Bricks Program’ provides students with an opportunity to experience bricklaying in a hands-on, three day training course at TASTAFE. There is currently a shortage of qualified bricklayers in the building industry in Tasmania, and so the course enables students to experience bricklaying within an industry context to see if it is an opportunity they may wish to take up int he future. Learning objectives from this program include the planning and organisation of a worksite including understanding OH&S requirements, the use of hand tools including cement mixers, and how to lay bricks and blocks. 

“In ‘The Step Out into Brick Program’ we have been learning the skills and techniques of brick laying. We started practicing laying bricks  and mastering the basic elements of the trade.  We then started building a wall, including mixing mortar, the importance of the foundation and ensuring that the structure is level the whole way through. Doing ‘The Step Out into Bricks Program’ has inspired me and given me confidence that I will hopefully be able to put to good use in the building environment. Being in the bricklaying program has helped me develop skills and understanding on how to complete a brick wall. Bricklaying is a tricky trade to master, you have to make sure you have got everything right and that you are concentrating on the job and not anything else. I am very grateful to be given the chance to do this course.” 

Zac Griggs, Year 10 

Thank you to TASTAFE for providing this opportunity to the College, and we hope that the ‘Step Out Into Bricks Program’ will continue to be as successful for students as the College transitions to Year 11 in 2023*. 

*subject to all approvals 

Outdoor Education

 This week the Outdoor Recreation A class were out and about making the most of the beautiful spring weather. After their trip was cancelled due to lockdown, boys chose some fun and exciting activities to make up for it. On Tuesday we went surfing due to popular demand and the boys did not disappoint with their positive attitude, persistence and support for one another. 

On Wednesday they came face to face with a 30 metre abseil in the Lost World on Mount Wellington. Again the boys supported each other while taking in the views on one of those elusive blue Skys and beautifully still days on kunanyi. 

Thank you to the boys, their families, and staff for being so flexible and understanding in what is a busy term before the unforeseeable challenges arrived.