Year 10 Business and Civics Day
This term we focused on Australia’s Political System as well as the concept of People and Democracy. We began to create our own political parties in groups and looked at many overarching issues that were present in our society today. We studied our issue in detail and sought realistic solutions that our political parties could implement. We further refined these solutions so they could be carried out in a quick and efficient manner. Our learning provided us with a solid foundation on how Australia’s democracy operates in addition to guiding us on how we can be active participants within it. It has empowered us as young people, who cannot yet vote, with the knowledge that we do possess the power to stand up to the issues we feel strongly about.
On Monday, September 11th, the Year level Business and Civics classes convened for Year 10 Humanities Day. The day kicked off with a quick briefing in the hall, followed by each political party eagerly preparing to educate their peers on their significant issue through posters, brochures, slideshows and the like. Following on, we had the privilege of an online meeting with a guest speaker from the Victorian Electoral Commission, who enriched us with insights into the voting system and the principles of democracy. Then, we showcased our issues, expressing our concerns and passionately advocating for our proposed solutions. Afterwards, every student participated in a voting session where they had the opportunity to show their support. The day continued with a panel of guest speakers who shared their experiences in the fields of both business and civics, swiftly wrapping up our Civics unit while also introducing the upcoming Business unit. Finally, we concluded with the Young Workers Centre Workshop, absorbing crucial knowledge about work safety.
Something that stood out to us the most throughout the day was the panel that was presented to us consisting of the guest speakers. It gave us important insight into what days were like working as a politician and as a finance manager– particularly as a woman. Another experience that stood out to us was the guest speakers speaking on social justice, and worker rights. They voiced with remarkable vulnerability their experiences, the difficult situations workers can face, and how to deal with them. Overall, it was inspiring to know how young people are still able to make change on big issues that impact us, and ways that we could be politically engaged without having to vote.
Thank you so much to our brilliant humanities teachers: Mr. Regalo, Ms. Tao and Ms. Moloney. We applaud you for all your hard work and dedication in organising a day brimming full of thought-provoking guest speakers and fun activities.
We’ll definitely remember you and this day fondly when we vote for the first time! As well as the lessons you’ve taught us; throughout our lives, work and as we begin growing into more engaged members in our communities.
Tivona (10G), Claire (10G), Kathryn (10C), Annie (10D), Simran (10K)