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You are here: Faculties >> History >> History Report 2007 History Report 2007
As reported in the Sydney Morning Herald (October 12, 2007), the Prime Minister has stated that many schools had neglected history and in some cases it was lumped in with other subjects. The “teaching of Australian History is no longer a stand-alone subject”.
At MGHS every student from Year 7 to Year 10 studies History. In Years 9 & 10 all students study the mandatory Australian History course. It is interesting, that in teaching students, we emphasise to them the pitfalls of making broad generalisations about people and events. Making generalisations does not mean something applies to all. There is a need to qualify what is said or believed.
The students are the most important component at the school and we pride ourselves in providing them with the opportunities to develop a love of learning.
Students in Year 7 experienced two different excursions to Sydney. In June this year 7A1, 7A3, 7B1 and 7B3 visited the IMAX Theatre for a screening of Mummies – Secrets of the Pharaohs and Mysteries of Egypt. In October 7A2, 7A4 and 7B2 travelled to the National Maritime Museum in Darling Harbour for-a-hands on approach to marine archaeology and history. The students stepped aboard HMB Endeavour to experience the life of those who sailed on board in the 18th century. Most were amazed at the tiny cramped quarters of the great navigator Captain James Cook. A flit through the museum was followed by a visit to the destroyer, HMAS Vampire. By contrast, this ship was luxurious. The behaviour of both sets of students was exemplary making the experience enjoyable for all.
Year 8 was fortunate enough to witness a performance by Phil Geia called ‘An Indigenous Rap’. The performance combined traditional and modern dance, didgeridoo playing and stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. The show was most entertaining and Phil connected well with the audience.
“Like Hay Before the Mower”, a performance that brought to life the stories of the men and women who served Australia in WWI, was a great experience for the students of Year 9.
Morpeth was again invaded by Year 10 students in a combined excursion with Geography. This experience satisfied a mandatory field study requirement of the syllabus. Once again, the football match on the oval met with the ‘boys’ idea of how an excursion should be organised.
The students in Years 11 and 12 continue to excel. We are encouraged by their dedication and concern for detail. To those sitting for external exams this year we once again 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 and there are definitely some who have given their all.
To my staff I extend a big thankyou. You have continued to go the extra mile in all that you do for the students, the faculty and the school. Mrs Jardine, Miss Bower, Mr Durell, Mr Proctor, Mrs Stephan and Mr Endacott have all worked tirelessly in the delivery of quality programs. They have been helped along the way by the ever efficient Miss Everingham (only one of Mr Durell’s many minders) and Ms Rae (the organiser of the Maritime Museum extravaganza).
Remember, 2008 offers many new horizons that require exploration. Enjoy them all.
Mr G Vassie
HT History
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