Year 11 Biology Fieldwork Trip
In March, Year 11 Biology students visited the Awabakal Environmental Education Centre in Dudley to fulfil their mandatory fieldwork requirements. During this excursion, students employed various sampling techniques to collect data for the analysis of differences among four ecosystems within the Awabakal Nature Reserve. The students engaged in a day of hands-on activities under pleasant sunny conditions, demonstrating exemplary teamwork throughout the experience.
Year 10 Science and Engineering Challenge
31 Year 10 students participated in the Science and Engineering Challenge at the University of Newcastle in August. This is a nationwide STEM outreach program presented by the University of Newcastle in partnership with communities, Rotary clubs, universities and sponsors. Students competed against eight local high schools, working in groups to construct bridges, fish traps, model planes, wind turbines, and earthquake proof structures. This enabled students to demonstrate teamwork, problem-solving, creativity, lateral thinking and collaboration skills.
Year 11 Fieldwork Trip
Year 11 students from Earth and Environmental Science, Geography, and Investigating Science engaged in an enriching fieldwork experience at Blackbutt Reserve and along the stunning Newcastle coastline. At Blackbutt Reserve, they explored various soil and rock types, investigating how topography influences soil characteristics and assessing the impact of human activities on the natural environment.
During their coastal excursion in Newcastle, the students meticulously observed and documented evidence of the region's geological history at several key locations, including:
- Nobby's Headland, where they examined fascinating volcanic formations and their historical context.
- Strzelecki Lookout, to study the processes of deposition and uplift along the coastline.
- Merewether Headland, where they analysed stratigraphy and the ongoing processes of weathering and erosion.
This hands-on experience provided students with valuable insights into the dynamic interplay between geological processes and environmental changes.
Year 12 Dorrigo Rainforest Excursion
Students in Year 12 Earth and Environmental Science travelled to Dorrigo Rainforest Centre to examine the Gondwanan Rainforest that grows along the escarpment. They learnt about the formation of the escarpment, the separation of Australia from Zealandia, the history of volcanic eruptions and the significance of rainforests along our east coast. The students then walked through the rainforest and observed the changes and features of this unique and significant environment.
Year 11 Chemistry Australian Museum Excursion
Students studying chemistry visited The Australian Museum to gain a better understanding of how various elements combine to make minerals. The students explored and interacted with the displays, asking questions and increasing their knowledge and understanding of how chemistry helps shape the modern world.
Year 12 Biology Museum of Disease Excursion
In March, Year 12 students undertook an educational excursion to the Museum of Human Disease at the University of New South Wales. This visit was designed to enhance their understanding of the relationship between genetics and disease. During the excursion, students had the unique opportunity to observe actual specimens of the human body, allowing them to deepen their comprehension of the various impacts that diseases can have on human health. The experience was particularly enlightening as students explored the effects of both environmental and genetic factors on the human body.
NSW AECG and John Holland STEM DAY
Six of our Year 9 and 10 Aboriginal students participated in a STEM day at the Murrook Cultural Centre, an event designed to integrate cultural education with scientific inquiry. During this engaging experience, the students created seed bombs using native plants, which they were encouraged to take home and release as part of their environmental science and sustainability curriculum.
Following this hands-on activity, the students embarked on a journey in 4WD vehicles to the nearby dunes. This excursion provided them with an opportunity to observe the dynamic changes occurring in the environment, as well as to learn about various Aboriginal artefacts situated within the dune system. This part of the program emphasised the importance of cultural heritage and its connection to the natural landscape.
The day culminated in a visit to the Hunter Water Treatment Facility, where students engaged in a comprehensive review of the Year 7 curriculum on mixtures. Here, they observed large-scale processes such as froth flotation and filtration, allowing them to see firsthand the practical applications of the scientific concepts they had previously studied. This experiential learning opportunity not only reinforced their understanding of environmental science but also highlighted the relevance of these concepts in real-world contexts.
Science Week at Valentine Public School
During Science Week, Mr. Turner and Mrs. Lewis visited Valentine Public School to engage in their Science Week celebrations. They conducted a series of experiments aimed at illustrating various scientific concepts, including colour change reactions. The staff and students at Valentine extended a warm welcome and thoroughly enjoyed the demonstrations. Mr Turner and Mrs Lewis were joined by several Year 10 students who had attended Valentine during their primary education; these students exhibited exemplary conduct and served as exceptional role models for the school community.
