Term 3, Week 3, 2026

This Week in Explo 

Today, we heard presentations for four potential new courses for the Exploration Phase. A panel of students gathered in the boardroom to hear about the next generation of subjects. The proposed subjects were Forensic Science, Architecture, Sketch to Scale (Graphics), and Heroes and Villains in Asian Pop Culture. Whilst it is our talented staff who are presenting these subjects for consideration, it was evident today that they understand our students and where their interests lie. A panel of 20 students listened to and critiqued these presentations and will determine if these courses progress to the next level. Keep an eye out; they may be on offer in 2028.

Emerge Women in Sport has been running for five years. It is a programme that started as a project and has gone from strength to strength in the intervening years. Tanya Harding, Softball Olympian, is our guest speaker this year, as well as Lauren Ball, UQ Professor of Community Health and Wellbeing. These ladies will be addressing this year's theme of #UnleashGreatness. Laidley State High School, Lockyer District High School, Sofia College, and St Peters Lutheran Springfield are also sending representatives to participate and learn from these impressive women. The main aim of the day is to promote women in sport, encouraging them to find their place in all aspects of sport, striving to be their best. We wish them all the best for the day on 5 August.

During SET Plans and Flight Plans this term, Aaron Teeling, our Head of Digital Learning, is running a session on AI in Education. The influence of AI presents a new frontier in education; it can be used to enhance learning when used appropriately. However, it can also be a detriment, with students looking for an easy way out from the harder aspects of learning. Aaron's session will help parents gain understanding in this brave new world. Flight Plans are on 13 August, where there will be two sessions running at 4pm and another at 5pm. Registrations are via the link in the communication regarding Flight Plans.

CIA Awards 

This week's Community in Action student winner is Kaylee H. For those who know Kaylee, she is being recognised for hard work and the high standards she maintains in class.

Congratulations also go to Mrs Christine Taylor for all the work she does behind the scenes with the service team and the Emerge Women in Sport event. Your efforts do not go unnoticed.

Curriculum Spotlight 

Our ancient historians are investigating the mysteries of the ancient world, covering topics as diverse as the death of Tutankhamun, why writing was invented by the Mesopotamians, and who built Stonehenge. This course allows our history buffs to explore the past and to find an area which sparks their interest. From one student, Ivy, “History is an important part of who I am, I've always loved exploring the past, and doing it in a classroom is no different.” We look forward to seeing what they uncover. 

The course is a taster into the studies of ancient history; a topic not covered in school since Year 7. It allows students to explore this as an option for the Graduate Phase or to simply develop an area of interest. Perhaps a trip to Ancient Greece might enhance these keen beans' learning Mr Castray, just a thought?