Workshops with Ms Christina Waterson

On Wednesday 12 February, our Year 10 Visual Art students had the exciting opportunity to work with artist Ms Christina Waterson. Ms Waterson shared her artistic practices and facilitated a workshop with students to engage them in manipulating 3D forms, with a focus on transforming found objects into sculpture. These skills will inform students’ experimental folio of artworks.

On the same day, Ms Waterson kicked off the first workshop of our Artist in Residence Visual Art Enrichment Program for Selective Entry – Visual Art students. Ms Waterson  will undertake a series of workshops with these students, to deepen their artistic practice, over the course of the semester.

Year 7 Music

Students in Year 7A have been using their iPads in Music to complete theory and aural skills activities. The students have adapted quickly to the use of technology in Music and have demonstrated an impressive level of responsibility as the newest citizens of our digital environment at State High.

Students in Year 7A using their iPads in Music to complete theory and aural skills activities.

Ms Jane Iszlaub Music Teacher

Health & Physical Education
Ms Leisa McGiffin Head of Health & Physical Education

Yoga and Meditation Workshop

Last Thursday, Year 11 Health students completed a workshop at the Australian School of Yoga and Meditation in West End as a part of our Resilience unit. As a class, we have been investigating mindfulness strategies that help us to develop resilience and improve our wellbeing. As Health students, we knew yoga had many health benefits and we were excited to practise what we had been learning about during class. The yoga lesson introduced us to new breathing exercises, body conditioning and relaxation techniques. We completed some guided meditation as well as some asana (movement) practice. This included a sun salutation, ‘tree pose’ and the very comforting ‘child’s pose’. We also participated in a hula hoop activity that allowed us to feel a lifting energy in the room and understand how focussing on our breathing can assist to calm our internal environment and shift this energy.

“I think the aim of yoga is to relieve stress, confusion and provide a sense of calm in the body. By the end of the lesson, I felt clear headed and relieved.”

– Connor McMillan

“I enjoyed the complete feeling of control over my body which was achieved by certain stretches and the three part breathing strategy we learnt.”

– Minnie Hazell

It was extremely rewarding to feel the positive mental and physical effect of a yoga class after just one lesson. The class felt more mindful, focussed and re-energised. As a result, the Year 11 Health students are looking forward to implementing yoga as a wellbeing strategy as part our assignment.

Minnie Hazell & Connor McMillan Year 11

Senior Humanities

Welcome

This year, the Senior Humanities Department has welcomed two new teaching staff members to the team: Ms Monica Tracy (Senior Geography) and Mr Justin Virly (Senior Economics). Both teachers have had an impressive start to the term and are quickly adapting to the State High ways of working.

I have been inspired by work ethic and determination that has been demonstrated by our students at the start to term. As I have walked between classes, I have seen students engaged and active in their lessons. Today, our Year 12 Ancient History and Philosophy students have embarked on their first (IA1) assessment, with Modern History and Economics IA1 assessments in Week 5. In the lead up to the assessment period, it has been great to hear the thoughtful questions that students have been posing to their peers and teachers.

Please reach out to the Senior Humanities team at any point if you would like to discuss your child’s learning; email is usually the best way to make initial contact with us. All the very best for a safe and successful year.  

Mathematics Competition Opportunities

Mathematics competitions and contests provide a wonderful opportunity for students to apply their skills and expand their learning. At State High, we conduct several competitions at school throughout the year.

The Australian Mathematics Competition and ICAS Mathematics are our two largest mathematics competitions in which our students can participate. Please note that where payment is required for the competition, we cannot accept applications after the due dates. For details on these competitions, please download the document below.

Please contact your child’s Head of Department for further information about these competitions.

Science Competition Opportunities

Science competitions and contests provide wonderful opportunities for students to apply their skills and expand their learning. At State High, we conduct several science focused competitions at school. Please note that where payment is required for the competition, we cannot accept applications after the stated due dates. The details of the competitions are listed in the document below.