Pre VCE Physics Road to Zero Excursion

Recently, the Pre VCE Physics students at Maddingley and Woodlea travelled to the Melbourne Museum to take part in an engaging and interactive learning experience designed to deepen their understanding of motion and forces in relation to driving or being a passenger in a vehicle and how to best survive vehicle accidents.

Throughout the day, students participated in hands-on activities and explored museum exhibits that brought key scientific concepts to life. They investigated how forces influence the movement of vehicles, how energy is transferred on the road and the people in a car, and why these principles are essential for keeping all road users safe.

The museum’s interactive learning spaces allowed students to test ideas and observe scientific principles in action. By examining the physics behind everyday transport, students strengthened their understanding of how motion and forces shape the way we travel, from the acceleration of a bicycle to the braking distance of a car.

The excursion proved to be both educational and memorable for students, enhancing their knowledge of physics and safety in the world around them.

Sarah Thomson – Head of Science (Maddingley)
Ben Northcott – Head of Science (Woodlea)

Maddingley

VCE Hospitality Excursions

On 19 March, the Year 12 Hospitality class were hosted by The Plough in Myrniong to conduct their sensory evaluation assessment for SAT 1. Students were treated to a 5-course degustation menu, carefully curated by head chef and owner Mark Mills.

Mark took the time to explain each of the dishes created and the culinary concepts behind them. He explained the cooking processes they use and the local produce they source, including decadent truffles from Gordon, as well as their nose-to-tail concept of using as much of their meat products as possible.

The students eagerly discussed the interesting flavours, textures, aromas and presentation techniques used in each of the dishes and were pleasantly surprised by the high-quality fine dining experience they received in a small regional town.

Mark and Ruth have graciously hosted this assessment for several years now and we are incredibly appreciative of this real-world learning opportunity for our students.

On 26 March, the Year 11 Hospitality classes were hosted by Craig’s Hotel in Ballarat to participate in a formal High Tea as part of their folio assessment requiring them to organise and host their own High Tea event in Term 2.

Students were treated to a three-tiered tower of decadent petite fours, freshly baked scones, delicate finger sandwiches and mini savouries served alongside their chosen tea. Students engaged with the host, asking questions about the history of Craigs and high teas in general.

Students also gathered as much relevant information as they could in order to adequately plan and design their own high tea experience for the BMG community next term.

Nicole Garner & Nadelle Kiley – Hospitality Teachers

Pre VCE Environmental Science Barwon Heads Fieldwork

As part of their Pre-VCE Environmental Science studies, students at Maddingley recently participated in some fieldwork activities designed to enhance their understanding of ecosystem dynamics and scientific investigation techniques.

A key component of the fieldwork was their visit to the Marine and Freshwater Discovery Centre where students engaged in an in-depth exploration of marine and freshwater environments. Through guided activities, they examined a variety of aquatic organisms and strengthened their knowledge of ecosystem structure and function. The Centre’s specialised facilities provided an excellent platform for students to connect their theoretical learning of ecology and apply this to many real scenarios.

Students also travelled to the Barwon Heads rock platform where they had planned to conduct a field investigation using transect lines and quadrats to analyse the distribution of plant and animal species across different geological surfaces. Although adverse weather conditions prevented the completion of this component, students conducted themselves with commendable respect and maturity throughout the excursion. They were still able to observe the environment and gain an understanding of how fieldwork techniques would be carried out in this type of area.

Sarah Thomson – Head of Science (Maddingley)