Mathematics: Have Sum Fun Online Competition

This term, 9 teams from Years 4, 5, and 6 participated in the Have Sum Fun Online Mathematics Competition. Organised by the Mathematical Association of Western Australia (MAWA), this competition challenges students to work collaboratively in teams to solve a series of complex and thought-provoking maths problems under timed conditions. It encourages teamwork, critical thinking, and mathematical reasoning. At the time of writing, final results are not yet available.

Science: Mini ROV Challenge

Eight students are currently preparing for the Mini ROV Challenge, which will take place in Term 4. Our four teams each consist of a Year 6 leader and a Year 5 student. This STEM-based challenge involves designing, building, and operating a mini Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) capable of performing underwater tasks.

With the expert assistance of Mr. Rutherford, a technician from the Secondary School’s Technology Department, students have learned to solder and used these skills to build their own control boards for their ROVs. In Term 3, students will test their vehicles in water, refine their manoeuvring skills, and prepare for the seven underwater challenges they will face during the final event. In addition, each team will develop a unique business idea for their ROV and present it to a panel of judges in Term 4.

IPSHA Speakers’ Challenge

Twenty-seven students auditioned for the IPSHA Speakers’ Challenge, a prestigious inter-school public speaking competition. This year, we will be selecting two students to represent the College in each of the following categories:

• Years 3 & 4: Two finalists will be chosen to perform in Term 3.
• Years 5 & 6: Two Year 5 students and two Year 6 students will be selected.

The auditions showcased outstanding speaking skills, original ideas, and confident delivery. We look forward to announcing our selected representatives next term.

History Enrichment: Unearthing Rockingham

Five Year 5 students have been engaged in a History Enrichment project titled Unearthing Rockingham, where they researched historical events and explored their connection to the Rockingham region. The program has deepened students’ understanding of local history, enhanced their research skills, and allowed them to discover how the past shapes our present.

The course will conclude with student presentations to their peers, followed by an excursion to Fremantle. Students will visit the WA Shipwrecks Museum and walk a historical trail through Fremantle, pausing at key sites to explore the rich heritage of the area.

Bible Enrichment: Discovering Eternity

Six Year 5 students have continued their Bible Enrichment journey through the course Discovering Eternity, based on The Case for Heaven – Young Readers Edition by Lee Strobel. Now halfway through the book, students have engaged in deep discussions around life, death, and the hope of Heaven.

This has been a meaningful study, strengthening each student’s understanding of God’s promises and deepening their personal faith. The program will culminate in a reflective walk at Stacey’s Loop in Jarrahdale, providing space to consider what they’ve learnt in a peaceful natural setting.

Financial Literacy: Barefoot Kids

Six Year 6 students have participated in a Financial Literacy Enrichment Program based on Scott Pape’s book Barefoot Kids: Your Epic Money Adventure. This practical and engaging course has seen students apply key financial principles, including ways to earn, save, and grow their money.

Each student has developed a system of earning money by doing jobs at home and has committed to dividing their income into three separate savings categories:

• Splurge – money to enjoy now on something fun,
• Smile – money saved for a bigger or meaningful future purchase,
• Give – money set aside to support others or contribute to a cause they care about.

Several group members have also begun developing small business plans—so watch this space as their entrepreneurial ideas come to life!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Numero Regional Competition

Several teams from our College will be representing us in the upcoming Numero Regional Competition. Numero is a fast-paced, strategic mental maths game that sharpens students’ number skills while encouraging teamwork and quick thinking. We look forward to seeing our teams rise to the challenge and represent our school with enthusiasm and skill.

Reading Enrichment: A new Reading Enrichment group will be launched for students who demonstrate advanced reading skills. Once a novel is selected, students will engage in rich literary analysis, explore character development and themes, and take part in thought-provoking discussions and creative responses that deepen their understanding and appreciation of the text.