Middle Moments

CASE Space School

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From Wednesday 3 July to Thursday 18 July, six Middle School students took part in the CASE Junior Space School Expedition in the United States. 

They visited the Kennedy Space Academy in Orlando and the Johnson Space Centre in Houston. In this hands-on adventure, the students learnt about the development of space-related technology and were led through several simulated missions where they worked together to overcome challenges and adversities. The students also had a personalised presentation from NASA Astronaut, Nicole Stott. The expedition aims to develop critical thinking and problem solving skills as well as foster interest in STEM related subjects.

I would like to acknowledge Dr Nicholas Head for his outstanding planning and preparation of this activity and Ms Jennifer Chan for her leadership and guidance of our students during the expedition. 

Further information on the CASE Junior Space School can be found at http://www.actura.com.au/case-junior-space-school/

Below is a student reflection on the experience.

Student Reflection

CASE Space School was the most valuable, most interesting thing I have ever done. I learned so much about not only space, but the value and importance of teamwork, learning and always believing in myself. One of the most important things to me on the whole trip was learning about the 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens – how to be the best version of myself and the best ways to get there. It motivated me to try to be the best I can in my everyday life.

Another thing I learned that was very important to me, is to never give up. I heard Nicole Stott talk about how she is proof that you can get somewhere no matter the circumstances, and how you just need to keep trying. She went from being an everyday student to an astronaut and that was very inspiring. I learned a lot about space too, and experienced so much of what it be like to be an astronaut, which taught me some useful life skills. Finally, I made some amazing friends along the way that I hope I will stay in touch with over the years.

Stella Tisato
Year 9 

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Blessing of Catherine McAuley Statue

On Tuesday 13 August, Middle School students and staff joined with the rest of our College community for the Blessing of our Catherine McAuley Statue. 

The statue reminds us of Catherine’s hospitality.  Catherine saw in every stranger at her door in Baggot Street, in everyone who was different from herself, in every person, the hidden presence of Christ. 

The statue reminds us – as we Value Diversity in the Year of Integrity – of Catherine’s human empathy for strangers and for those out of their own cultural homes and it is a fitting reminder of our Mercy Keys which form an integral way of life for all members of our Mercedes community.

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Year 8 Camp and Bronze e-Lifesaving

Year 8 students have started receiving information about their upcoming camp and are no doubt eagerly anticipating this exciting opportunity. Students will be attending the Murraylands Aquatics Centre at Murray Bridge (during Week 7) and will be involved in activities such as sailing, kayaking, water skiing and knee boarding.

To help prepare students for this aquatics experience, in Physical Education lessons they have begun completing online modules as a part of Bronze e-Lifesaving, an interactive learning tool that challenges young people on issues such as risk-taking behaviour and peer influences when recreating in and around water. Further information about this learning tool can be found at http://www.royallifesaving.com.au/schools/in-the-classroom/e-learning

Jarrad McCabe
Head of Middle School