Middle School

Year 9 Sailing Camp

I went on a MyOutdoors sailing camp in just the 2nd week of school. It was quite unprecedented to us that we had a two-day camp so early in the term, but it was an amazing experience nonetheless. 

As anyone could tell from the name, the main point of this camp was for us to learn to sail a boat. We were arranged into groups and took turns sailing with their friendly coaches for an hour. We learnt how to steer the boat and cooperate with one another when adjusting the sails - it was a little difficult at first but we all eventually got the hang of it! It was relaxing to just focus on the scenery around us under fine weather. 

We also learnt that the commander of the boat is called a skipper. We got to stay at nearby cabins and buy ingredients to cook our own dinner. It was actually the part I looked forward to the least since I wasn’t quite adept at cooking. However, my group mates and I ended up preparing a really nice dinner for all of us. 

We also happened to see a lot of jellyfish in varying sizes out in the sea on the second day! It was a fascinating sight for all of us who only ever saw jellyfish in photos and museums. I also happened to catch sight of a stingray at the pier! 

Overall this was a very valuable experience for me as I got an opportunity to learn to sail a boat with others and socialise with my MyOutdoors classmates. I’m grateful this event was arranged and we were able to enjoy it safely.

• Ruby Y., 9D 

Check out the video below and watch us sailing with dolphins!

Being a peer leader

One of the many great things about being a peer leader is that you get to guide others to a better and brighter future and I am so lucky to do that. I was lucky enough to be able to go on the year 7 camp at camp Weekaway. On this camp l helped and led year 7s around all sorts of activities such as; canoeing, yabbying, ziplining and a fun maze game. This helped me grow strong relationships with some of the year 7s and that helps them transition from primary school to high school. Another thing is that they can always come to me to ask for help and I will always be there to help find where they need to go and who they need to find.

• Royce I., 9D

Melbourne Museum Excursion 

On the 1st of March, MyCity students ventured to Melbourne Museum to learn and explore the wonderful exhibitions on display. For this excursion, the team organisers and excursion leaders were – Carys H., Mesha T., Maddison T. and Hannah B.. They understood the assignment and challenges in organising and their roles in directing their classmates on where they needed to go and managing our time in the Museum. The itinerary for the day was packed with gallery viewings and it included learning about the natural world such as Dinosaurs, Bugs and Insects and Geology.

Probably one of the most surprising galleries in the museum was the ‘Mini Mega Model Museum’. Students explored the shifting-scale world of models and miniatures which gave a sense of quirkiness and also enabled students to take really interesting photos. There were plenty of models of different scales and it forced students to really focus and notice the intricacies and details of how some of these models were made.

The main highlight and intention of our visit was to view ‘The Melbourne Story’. It was important for students to be aware about the history of our city and how it has changed over time. This exhibition focuses on significant events, places and people, and is organised around successive periods in the city’s history.

Simon Tay

Visual Communication Design & Art teacher

Zoo Comes to You

As part of their Ecology unit in Science, our Year 9 students enjoyed a hands-on workshop delivered by Wild Life Encounters. Students learned about the differences between the animal kingdoms and how animals adapt to their environment.  

My City: Melbourne Zoo

On the 1st of March a yr 9 class went to the Melbourne Zoo as a part of their My City experience. This opportunity allowed the students to plan the day, as well as the transport on the way to the city, and the way back to school. What was a rainy morning, turned into a a beautiful sunny afternoon. The kids had an absolute ball, and enjoyed watching and seeing all the animals with their friends. 

This educational experience, allowed the students to learn more about the animals they love, but don’t always get to see. It was great seeing all the kids participating and enjoying their time. Dimitri, one of the students, claimed he had an amazing time, especially when he got to see the penguins, as he had never seen one before. Other students said they enjoyed the fact that they got to go to the zoo with their friends, which allowed it to be a new experience, some even claimed they couldn’t wait to bring their families with them next time.

Kiera H., Wellbeing Placement Student

MyCity: Ice skating 

The day was filled with fun, teamwork, and adventure! It was challenging for students, but they all participated in their own way, each of them challenging themselves and working up the courage to test their resilience and push themselves. 

It was great watching the students participate and get involved as well as assisting the students that needed help. Overall, they all did really well and had a great time. 

When I asked some of the students how they were going at the start to the end they had gained a lot more confidence in themselves which was great to see. 

Had a little skate myself and built on getting to know the students a bit more which was great. 

Cathy Gucciardo

MySelf Teacher