2006 saw History debated hotly in the media and in parliament. This debate challenged Australians to think about the way History is taught in schools. Politicians want Australian History to be compulsorily experienced by all students. Students will take from school a body of knowledge that reflects what society in general believes is important.
In this school Australian History is taught in both years 9 and 10. It traverses the twentieth century and includes a study of Federation, Wars (World Wars I and II, Vietnam), The Great Depression and the post 1945 era in political, social and cultural terms. This program of work is both extensive and detailed. Students are expected to develop competencies in historical skills enabling them to question that which they learn, appreciate perspective and purpose, understand usefulness and reliability and communicate their knowledge in both written and oral ways that incorporate the use of ICT.
The study of History is facilitated at MGHS by a dedicated, experienced and committed group who are passionate about their craft. In 2006 I thank the following for their hard work: Mrs Jardine, Ms Bower, Mr Durell, Mrs Blanshard, Mr Endacott, Mr Proctor, Mrs Stephan and the various casual teachers who have filled in when required.
 2006 was busy. Year 9, 10, 11 and 12 students visited the Jewish Museum in Sydney. It was a most moving experience as those who survived the Holocaust are a diminishing group because of their age. The students in Year 9 (Elective) were taken in order to interact with the remaining survivors as they represent a resource so valuable to historians because of their first hand knowledge. Years 11 and 12 Ancient Historians went to the Nicholson Museum at Sydney University to take part in the hands-on archaeological program and to view the valuable exhibits displayed in the museum. These exhibits included a mummified human as well as mummified animals and artefacts that can be cited as evidence in the HSC exam.
In 2005 students in year 10 sat for the School Certificate external test in History, Geography, Civics and Citizenship. Three of those students gained band 6 results. This was very encouraging. Our HSC candidates also performed most creditably in Modern and Ancient History. In Modern History five students gained a Band 6 result as well as two students in Ancient History – congratulations to Caitlin Dixon, Elayn Moran, Libby Mullin, Hannah Osborn, Dusanka Vujikovic and Errin Walker. Students in Extension History did very well indeed. Under the direction of Mrs Jardine (with many sugar enducements) these students achieved an amazing 11.76 value added result. Well done team.
To the students sitting for those external exams this year we extend our best wishes. In doing so we reinforce the point that good results are only achieved by those who put in a concerted study effort both in the classroom and at home. Hard work brings its own rewards.
Take up the challenge and maintain the rage.
G Vassie
Head Teacher - History
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