Technology and Applied Studies

Ms Sabnam Kanta – Leader of Learning – TAS

It has been a busy and productive Semester 1 in the TAS Faculty, with students across all year groups engaging in a wide range of practical and design-based projects. 

Stage 4 Technology saw our students donning their safety glasses, firing up their creativity and stepping into the shoes of real-world designers. In Year 7 Material Technology rotation students got hands-on in the workshop, learning how to safely measure, cut and sand timber to create their very own custom phone holders whereas in the kitchens, in Food Technology students took on the Snack Hackers project. They investigated nutrition, analysed chemical and physical properties of food and ‘hacked’ standard recipes to create delicious and innovative snacks.

In Year 8 Technology, in engineering, students explored the mechanics of motion, propulsion and friction. They designed and manufactured balloon-powered cars, putting their knowledge of aerodynamics and energy transfer to the test. The project wrapped up with some highly competitive test runs to see whose design could go the distance!

In Timber, Year 9 students demonstrated their developing skills through the production of smartphone docking stations, focusing on accuracy and workshop safety. Year 10 students expanded their capabilities by constructing mantle clocks, applying more advanced techniques and design considerations. Our Year 11 students are currently completing their bar stool projects, showcasing both structural understanding and craftsmanship, while Year 12 students have continued to make steady progress on their Major Works.

In Design and Technology, Year 9 students explored both lighting design and architecture, culminating in creative shipping container home concepts. Year 10 students engaged in a jewellery for a cause unit, combining design with social awareness, alongside a designer case study to deepen their understanding of professional practice. Year 11 students are finalising their lighting projects, demonstrating innovation and problem-solving, while Year 12 students continue to develop their Major Design Projects (MDPs). 

In Computing Technology, Year 9 students have been developing their understanding of data analysis within digital systems, investigating how data is collected, interpreted and used to inform decision-making. Year 10 students have focused on designing for user experience, applying principles of usability and interface design to create effective and engaging digital solutions. 

Food Technology students have also been actively engaged this semester. Year 9 classes have explored Australian food evolution and healthy eating, building both practical skills and nutritional knowledge. Year 10 students have investigated food for specific needs and food traits, developing a deeper understanding of how food choices impact individuals and communities. 

Overall, it has been fantastic to see students applying their creativity, technical skills and critical thinking across a variety of engaging and meaningful projects.