As we come to the end of Term 4, I would like to reflect on the wonderful learning experiences and achievements of students in HSIE. It has been a productive and engaging year for our students, filled with inquiry, creativity and critical thinking.

Highlights of 2025

This year, our faculty proudly participated in Education Week, showcasing the variety of dynamic learning happening across HSIE. Students from Years 7-10 demonstrated their skills through interactive displays, hands on activities and classwork that highlighted their understanding of History, Geography, Commerce and Work Education.

Our standout highlight was the Year 7 History unit exploring Otzi the Iceman. Students engaged in tactile, project-based learning, working collaboratively in groups to investigate Otzi’s life, death and significance. Using a range of artefact replicas, visual sources and digital tools, students applied critical thinking skills to piece together evidence about the purpose and meaning of Otzi’s tattoos, and what they reveal about early medical or cultural practices. His possessions and tools, sparking discussions about survival, trade and technology in the Copper Age. The contents of his stomach, helping students understand diet, health and lifestyle. Possible rituals or sacrifices, comparing interpretations and building arguments supported by evidence. Theories surrounding his death, with students analysing injuries, environmental factors and archaeological evidence.

This inquiry rich task not only strengthened students’ historical analysis skills but also fostered collaboration, communication and curiosity- key skills we aim to develop across all HSIE subjects.

Another major highlight for our HSIE students this year was the Year 10 Geography excursion to the Georges River Environmental Education Centre. Students undertook an in- depth investigation of the Georges River catchment, exploring how natural and human processes shape the environment. They conducted hands on fieldwork, assessing the quality of the river water through scientific tests including turbidity, temperature and water clarity. Students also examined aquatic and surrounding flora and fauna, identifying species and discussing how biomes support life and how human impacts may affect their long-term health. This authentic geographical inquiry helped deepen their understanding of environmental sustainability and ecosystem interconnections.

In Year 7 Geography, students engaged in a hands-on diorama project to demonstrate their understanding of landscapes and landforms. Using tactile learning strategies, students created detailed dioramas representing deserts, mountains, rainforests, river systems and coastal environments. These models not only strengthened their geographical knowledge but also served as visual supports for their description writing genre, helping students build vivid, accurate written responses based on constructed landscapes.

Students also sampled different writing genres as part of their studies in geography. Year 7 studied the topic of "Place and Liveablity" The following is a sample from Luniva D. of 7U - Writing activity 'My Favourite Place'

Another key highlight for this year was the Year 10 Commerce excursion to the Police and Justice Museum, organized by Mr. Arvidson. Our students explored historical crime exhibits, investigated real case studies such as the Pyjama Girl mystery case, and gained valuable insights into Australia’s legal system. The experience deepened their understanding of laws, justice and the role institutions play in society, making it an engaging and memorable learning experience.

Throughout the year, the HSIE faculty continued to deliver high quality lessons, incorporating visual aids, structured discussions, hands on activities and real- world case studies. Our students engaged deeply in a variety of topics including environmental change, sustainability, ancient civilisations, global biomes.

As we conclude another school year, I would like to thank my dedicated HSIE staff for their commitment and professionalism and our students for their enthusiasm and willingness to learn.

On behalf of the HSIE faculty I would like to wish everyone a safe, restful and enjoyable holiday break.

Warm regards,

Maria Doulakis I Head Teacher HSIE