Term 1, Week 7 2026

Year 7 Classroom Insights: Ancient Innovations – Surviving on Country 

This term, Year 7 students have been exploring the unit “Ancient Innovations: Surviving on Country.” In this unit, students investigate the knowledge, technologies, and sustainable practices of Australia’s First Nations Peoples, discovering how communities have cared for Country over the years. Through inquiry and design challenges, students are learning how these innovations reflect deep environmental understanding and continue to inspire sustainable thinking today. 

Below, some of our Year 7 students share their experiences and learning from the unit: 

Ethan White: 

In Ancient Innovations, we have been learning about the Gunditjmara people and their way of life. As part of this learning, we were asked to create a model that showed a technology used by the Gunditjmara people. 

The technology I chose was a fish trap. I was excited to make my fish trap and built it using mulberry tree sticks, twine, and zip ties. I had to adapt because the twine ran out and it was taking too long to use, so I improvised with zip ties instead. 

I think my model would work if we put it in the water to trap some fish. 

Mackenzie Rush: 

My Ancient Innovations model is about the Gunditjmara people’s permanent house. My model was made from natural materials from my garden, and I used a lot of plants to represent how the Gunditjmara people designed their houses. For the base, I decided to use papier-mâché made from flour, water, and newspaper. 

For this task, we could choose from a stone fish trap, fish trap, permanent house (which is what my model is), or create an interactive poster about any of the listed topics. I also created an interactive poster about my model, which includes some fun facts. For example, the Gunditjmara people built their houses 50 cm underground to help keep them strong. 

Ashlee Bowe: 

In Ancient Innovations, we have learnt about the Gunditjmara people and what their lifestyle was like back in their days (the very old days). Throughout this time, we learnt about stone fish traps, eel traps, and permanent houses that helped them survive through the years. 

During the process of learning about Budj Bim and the Gunditjmara people, we were asked to create a model of either a fish trap or a permanent house. My model was a permanent house. 

I had so much fun creating this and I loved how it turned out. To make it, I used papier-mâché, laying newspaper over and over again. Then I added dirt and rocks to create the look I was going for, and finally I placed dried grass on top to create the finished look. 

Year 8 Insights: Building Teamwork and House Spirit 

While our Year 7 students were completing NAPLAN this week, our Year 8 students took part in a series of House rotations filled with fun challenges. These activities were designed to strengthen teamwork, encourage collaboration, and build House spirit. 

Throughout the rotations, students worked together to complete tasks and support one another. It was wonderful to see students encouraging their teammates and showing great sportsmanship. The energy and enthusiasm across all Houses were fantastic. 

Experiences like these help build strong connections between students and foster a positive, supportive school community. 

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Upcoming Due Dates (Weeks 8-9)

Year 7

Upcoming Due Dates (Weeks 8-9)

Year 8