STEM
Whittlesea Tech School
This semester in the Year 9 Project STEM class, the semester project is to design an innovation lab that focuses on three areas: Well-being, Sustainability, and space for collaborative learning. The students participated in an all day workshop with the Whittlesea Tech School.
“On a crisp, sunny morning, we the students of Ms Alexander’s Project STEM class, embarked on a memorable excursion to Whittlesea Tech School with Ms Ferris and Ms Alexander. Packed with anticipation, we were eager to explore the world of technology and witness first hand the power of Autodesk and 3D design. Little did we know that this day would be filled with inspiration, creativity, and a glimpse into the future of innovation.
After a smooth bus ride, we arrived at Whittlesea Tech School promptly at 9:15 am, our knowledgeable guide for the day, greeted us warmly and wasted no time in introducing us to the wonders of Autodesk. With passion and enthusiasm, he explained how this leading company revolutionized the realm of 3D design and its applications in various fields worldwide. We were thrilled to discover that Autodesk offers free access to students, unlocking endless possibilities for our own creative journeys.” – Aquinas (Year 9)
Fusion 360 Familiarization and Design Exploration:
Eager to dive into the world of design, we were guided to the computer labs where Fusion 360 awaited us. Whittlesea Tech School had thoughtfully prepared walkthroughs and helpful videos to familiarize us with the software. With each click and keystroke, we delved deeper into the realm of 3D design, immersing ourselves in the potential of bringing our ideas to life. The hands-on experience empowered us to envision our projects and embrace the possibilities of innovation.
Starting off designing the “Sustainable Innovation Lab”
Following a rejuvenating lunch break, the attentive staff at Whittlesea Tech School provided us with writing materials and encouraged us to start designing our very own “Sustainable Innovation Lab”, as part of our school assignment. Guided by our facilitator, we marveled at the fusion of creativity and technology, as he showcased how different parts of the tech school had been meticulously designed using Fusion 360. Inspired by his demonstration, we eagerly set to work, designing intricate components that would later be transformed into tangible objects through the magic of 3D printing.
As the clock neared 2:10 pm, we reluctantly wrapped up our projects, realising that time had flown by in the midst of our creative fervour. Though we wished we could have stayed longer, the bus awaited our return to school. However, the impact of the day lingered, and we eagerly shared our experiences during the bus ride back. Upon arriving at school, we gathered in the library, excitedly recalling and reflecting on everything we had learned and achieved throughout the day.
The excursion to Whittlesea Tech School was a day of discovery, inspiration, and hands-on exploration. From the warm welcome by our teachers and the facilities staff, to our immersion in the world of Autodesk and Fusion 360, we experienced first hand the power of technology and design. Our minds brimmed with newfound knowledge and our hearts with a sense of creative possibility. This excursion proved to be an invaluable experience, offering us insights into the innovative future that lies ahead.
On Friday 12 May, Year 11 Vocational Major students visited Whittlesea Tech School and participated in The Future of Work inquiry program. Students were given the opportunity to explore a topic that will directly affect them in the future and were able to gain an insight into some of the key changes to the workforce. They explored the impacts of artificial intelligence, big data, automation, and globalisation. Lily D’Ambrosio, the Minister for Climate Action and representing the electorate of Mill Park was also visiting the tech school on the day and spoke to some of our students about the Future of Work program as well as their future career plans.
Progressive Achievement Test
Over the past two weeks, students in Years 7-10 have been actively participating in the ACER PAT testing program.
This program is aimed at assessing the skills and knowledge of students in various subject areas, including Reading, Science, and Mathematics. It has been impressive to see the students’ level of engagement and commitment towards improving their academic performance.
One of the significant benefits of the Acer PAT testing program is that it provides detailed reports on students’ performance, which can be used to identify their strengths and weaknesses. This information can then be used to tailor the teaching approach to each student’s specific needs and help them achieve their academic goals.
It is essential to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of teachers who have been working tirelessly to organise and conduct the ACER PAT testing program in our school.
As the testing program continues, we encourage students to continue putting in their best effort and to approach the tests with a positive mindset.
We look forward to receiving the results and using them to improve the teaching and learning experience in our school.
Bake Off
The heightened state of excitement, pressure and pure competition filled the food room of Mill Park Secondary College on Thursday 11 May. The class of Year 10 Urban Cuisine students paired up to put their baking skills to the test and participated in a Bake-Off.
The Bake-Off competition asked students to investigate, design and produce a fully decorated cake in celebration of an event of their choice. On the day of the competition, our Food Technology kitchen transformed into a lively blend of intense concentration and creativity, where students constructed cakes and demonstrated their talents.
The judging was performed by a team of Mill Park Secondary College staff members; Ms Quayle, Ms Serdar and Ms Gorsevski.
Congratulations to students Viktoria and Ana who won the competition and Shibaani and Siraprapa who were our runners-up.
Year 8 Food Tech students Katia, Willow and Lilian completed their ‘Design your own pizza’ practical task which was a massive success! Congratulations everyone.
