What’s happening in Year 6

Debating

The IPSHA Debating team has made an impressive start to the season, approaching their first two rounds with confidence and enthusiasm. They have worked cohesively, supporting one another both in preparation and during each debate. Their strong collaboration has helped them navigate challenging topics while maintaining clarity and poise. It has also been encouraging to see the students genuinely enjoying the experience and growing more assured with each round. These early successes reflect their commitment to learning, improving and representing the school with pride. We look forward to seeing their skills continue to develop as the season progresses.

Ann Milicic
Year 6 teacher and Debating Co-ordinator

NSW PARLIAMENT EXCURSION AND ST MARY’S CATHEDRAL

Year 6 students recently enjoyed an exciting and educational excursion to NSW Parliament House. The visit provided a wonderful opportunity for students to learn about Australia’s democratic system and gain a deeper understanding of how laws are made and how Parliament operates.

Throughout the day, students explored the historic building, participated in engaging activities, and learned about the roles of members of Parliament. The students were fascinated by the rich history and enjoyed seeing first hand where important decisions are made. The opportunity for students to sit in the House of Representatives Chamber and the Senate Chamber, where they actively participated in a role-play, helped strengthen their understanding.

While we were in the city, all students visited St Mary’s Cathedral, where they were able to enjoy a moment of prayer and peace. The students learnt that St Mary’s Cathedral is the largest cathedral in Australia. They admired the stained-glass windows, rich history and beautiful architecture. This was a lovely way to end our day in the city, before travelling back to school.

This excursion was both informative and enjoyable, with students demonstrating a genuine interest in what they were seeing, experiencing and learning. We are proud of our Year 6 students for representing our school so positively and making the most of this valuable opportunity to deepen their appreciation of active citizenship.

Honouring Mary in the month of May

The month of May is for Mary, the most significant woman in the Catholic tradition, the mother of Jesus. Throughout this month, we are invited to pause, reflect and allow Mary’s example of humility, courage and unwavering faith to shape our own journey of discipleship. As we honoured Mary throughout May, we were reminded that holiness grows in the quiet choices we make each day: choosing kindness, choosing prayer, choosing to listen for God’s voice. Our Gioia House students paid their respects to Queen Mary by joining together to pray to Mary at our beautiful College grotto.

Marisa Maks, Eamonn Dunphy, Ann Milicic, Georgia Wheatley, Rebecca Seidman
Year 6 teachers