Luke Kelleher

Year 8 Science 

This term, our Year 8 science class has been exploring extraction and filtration techniques through a hands-on investigation. Students began by extracting tannins from oak galls, a natural source of plant compounds traditionally used in ink-making. After carefully filtering the tannin solution to remove any solids, they combined it with an iron (II) sulphate solution to produce iron gall ink. This ink, historically used for centuries in manuscripts and artworks, is known for its deep blue-black colour and permanence once it oxidises on paper. Using their freshly made ink, students created their own artworks, showcasing both their scientific skills and creativity.  

Year 9 Marine Studies  

The Marine Studies Core + elective class has spent a lot of time this year designing and cycling our fish tanks. After much deliberation and debate, the fish were ordered and arrived.  The students are very excited to introduce a few of the friendly faces that students will see in the Marine Studies room. 

Mental Health and Wellbeing 

This term in the Mental Health and Wellbeing elective, students have been deepening their understanding of mental health conditions. After exploring the signs, symptoms, and impacts of conditions such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, they have channelled their learning into creative artworks. These pieces express the lived experiences of these conditions, giving students an opportunity to combine research, empathy, and creativity. The resulting artworks are powerful, thoughtful, and reflective, showcasing both students’ artistic talents and their growing understanding of mental health. 

	By Claire Robinson
	By Grace Ridgway
	By Trinity Bland
	By Violet Wimmer

Next term, students will begin their Major Project: Contributing to Positive Mental Health in a Community. This exciting project has three parts: 

1. Research into a specific mental health condition and a community that would benefit from greater awareness and support. 
2. Interview with an individual connected to the community, gathering real-life insights and perspectives. 
3. Pitch of an innovative idea (such as an app, event, programme, or initiative) designed to make a positive impact on the chosen community’s mental health. 

This project encourages students to bring together research, creativity, and empathy to design real-world solutions for promoting positive mental health. We are looking forward to seeing the diverse, thoughtful, and practical ideas they develop. 

Humans 

In the Humans elective, students have been exploring different aspects of culture and how these shape the way people live and express identity. They have investigated elements such as clothing, housing, food, and significant events, comparing practices across different times and places. To showcase their learning, each student is designing their own “museum exhibit”. These exhibits highlight key aspects of culture and present them in a creative, engaging way incorporating all of the senses in their creations. This task encourages students to think critically about culture, make connections between societies, and communicate their understanding in a visual and interactive format. 

We are looking forward to seeing the variety and creativity of the museum exhibits as students bring culture to life in their own unique ways.