Humanities and Languages
As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the incredible achievements of the Humanities Faculty at RVSSC. From dynamic classroom experiences to enriching excursions and engaging excursions, this year has been a testament to the value of studying the humanities
Our History students delved deep into the stories that shaped our world, exploring and investigating topics from ancient civilizations to modern conflicts. Students in Years 7-12 have been using documents, artifacts and oral histories ranging from ancient cultures through to personal experiences in recent global conflicts.
In Geography, students expanded their understanding of the natural and human environment through hands-on learning. Field trips have allowed them to study the human impact on the world around them and well as looking at sustainability and conservation in action.
Our Business classes buzzed with innovation this year as students took a deep dive into researching varying types of businesses (from the small-scale to the large multi-national corporations).
Legal Studies students took a closer look at the justice system through mock trials and debates, enhancing their understanding of legal principles and critical thinking. A visit to the Brisbane Magistrates and Supreme Courts provided a real-world glimpse into the legal process, leaving many inspired to pursue careers in law or public service.
The Tourism program continued to inspire students with a mix of practical learning and cultural exploration. Highlights included planning simulated travel itineraries for international destinations and excursions where the topic of eco-tourism was explored.
In Social and Community Studies, students tackled big questions about society, culture, and global interconnectivity. Activities and topics that are grounded in the ‘real world’ had students exploring moral and ethical issues, as well as gaining hands-on experience in the finance systems.
Across all our subjects, collaboration was a cornerstone of success. Teachers worked tirelessly to create engaging lessons that connected classroom learning to real-world issues, sparking curiosity and critical thinking in our students. We are proud of how our students embraced the challenges of 2024, growing not just as learners but as thoughtful, informed citizens of the world.
As we look ahead to 2025, we are excited to build on this year’s successes with even more opportunities for innovation, exploration, and connection.
Wishing everyone a safe and restful end to the school year.
Cecilia Hall
Head of Humanities and Languanges (Year 7)
Recently, our college marked an exciting milestone as we hosted our first-ever international school visitors—a group of 25 students and 2 teachers from Morimura Gakuen Junior High School, hailing from Yokohama, Japan. The visit was filled with energy and cultural exchange, with our students acting as "buddies" to introduce school life in Australia.
The day featured a variety of activities, including an AFL workshop, Indigenous art, bridge-building teamwork challenge, and a tour of our campus. A delicious Australian-style lunch, prepared by our talented catering team, brought everyone together to share stories and laughter.
A huge thank you to our teachers for making this event such a success. This visit highlighted the joy of connecting across cultures, and we hope it’s the start of many future exchanges!
Miss Emmalene Stevens has been teaching students in ‘Japan Club’ which also starts again in Week 2 in J121 on Thursdays after school. Everyone is welcome!
Emmalene Stevens
Japanese Teacher
As the year is coming to a close, our Japanese students have completed their assessments this week.
I am looking forward to marking the mini-movies for Year 8 to hear and see how they showcase their preferred hobbies whilst they have imagined meeting Japanese people for the first time, as well as reading the Year 7 brochures promoting Ipswich’s Nerima Gardens and the traditional Tea Ceremony.
Hosting a Japanese student in your home through an Australian homestay program offers a unique opportunity for both your family and the visiting student to experience new cultures, build lifelong friendships, and enhance global understanding. It provides teenagers with the chance to practice language skills, gain international perspectives, and develop a deeper appreciation for diversity. For parents, it's a chance to enrich your home environment while helping to shape the future of young global citizens. Join this exciting cultural exchange and open the doors to new experiences for your family in Term 3 of 2025!
Wishing you all a wonderful holiday this summer season.
Georgina Wellwood
Japanese Teacher