The Power of Public Education

The Power of Public Education On Friday, 1st November, educators from Elderslie Public, Mawarra Public, Spring Farm Public, and Cobbitty Public Schools, joined Camden’s Director of Educational Leadership, Gary Graham, for an inspiring visit to Elderslie High School. This “day in the life” experience revealed the school’s vibrant learning environment, filled with enthusiasm, respect, and a shared commitment to student success. The visit began in the Tech Elect classroom, where students engaged deeply with geography through digital tools. This innovative approach brought their geography lesson to life, with students proudly sharing their work and insights. In the music classroom, creativity and collaboration flourished as students experimented with rhythms and instruments. In the hospitality kitchen, students showcased culinary skills and teamwork, offering refreshing drinks and demonstrating real-world applications of their studies. The iSTEM class was equally captivating, with students flying drones to apply physics principles, merging classroom theory with hands-on experience. A visit to the agricultural plot deepened the sense of pride in Elderslie High’s unique offerings. Here, students care for animals, including ducklings and alpacas, and practice sustainable agriculture. The visitors were especially moved by a Year 12 student who shared her journey, explaining that despite not growing up on a farm, her time in the program had inspired her to pursue a Bachelor of Agriculture. Her story was a powerful testament to the transformative impact of these experiences and the lasting connections that students form with their studies and future ambitions. In the Creative Arts faculty, the visiting teachers were amazed by students’ improvisational talents, showcasing the arts as a platform for self-expression and confidence-building. The visitors saw how Elderslie High’s supportive environment fosters creativity, critical thinking, and a genuine passion for learning among students and teachers alike. Teachers were impressed by the school's careers-focused approach and the clear paths from classroom learning to future opportunities. Visiting Year 9 electives, the educators were amazed by the diversity of subjects, reinforcing the strong sense of connectedness between local primary and high schools. This visit confirmed the shared commitment to creating engaging, well-rounded learning experiences for all students in our community. For more on Elderslie High’s programs, visit https://elderslie-h.schools.nsw.gov.au/ or visit our school office to pick up a pamphlet.