These opportunities expand the mind, engage a sense of public duty and equip students with a raft of specialist skills and knowledge.
Chess
The enjoyment of this centuries-old game of strategy is alive and well at the school. The chess programme provides students with a positive environment, a focus on personal development and a sense of engagement with fellow students. Students are not only able to improve their chess skills, but also develop their critical thinking and problem solving abilities. Opportunities to compete in interschool tournaments, state championships and national finals take place throughout the year.
Conservation Club
For many students, an active interest in the conservation of our planet begins with participation in the school’s own Conservation Club. Students from Years Seven to Twelve can take part in a range of activities such as wildlife photography, field trips, camps, revegetation, ecological audits and events with guest speakers. Associations with leading organisations give students a vital understanding of biodiversity and environmental science.
First Aid
The First Aid programme provides participants with knowledge and hands-on experiences associated with first aid practices and procedures, while also fostering a commitment to community service. Students are given an opportunity to be trained in first aid and following preliminary training, they are capable of assessing and treating minor injuries, especially those relevant to sporting events. The opportunity to expand first aid experience is an important aspect of the programme with participants rostered, initially under supervision, at school venues throughout the winter and summer sport seasons.
Social Justice
The Social Justice Programme encourages students to consider issues of social importance and think about ways to make social change. Guest speakers help students to reflect on issues, and students research and present on topics they are passionate about. This, in turn, can lead to student advocacy on local, national, and international issues.
Public Speaking
Many opportunities to formulate and express opinions on current issues are offered to our students. Teams compete annually in the Debating Association of Victoria’s schools competition, with debaters relishing the experience of negotiating global issues in the United Nation Security Council styled Evatt trophy. Individual participation in public speaking events also encourages students at both Middle and Senior levels to communicate their views.