Cocurricular Clubs

Crafting with Nature: Beekeeping Club’s Lip Balm Workshop

During Tuesday lunchtime at the Beekeeping Club, students from Years 7-10 recently had the opportunity to make their own lip balm using natural ingredients such as beeswax, shea butter, cocoa butter, almond oil, jojoba oil and vitamin E oil. They also had the chance to personalise their lip balm with a variety of essential oils, making the experience both creative and hands-on. Partnering with Rooftop Bees, the club continues to offer enriching and sustainable activities, with sessions held every lunchtime on the rooftop in Week A. This experience gave students a unique insight into the versatile uses of beeswax while encouraging them to explore sustainable practices. 

UN Youth Voice Competition

On Tuesday 15 October, Year 7 and 8 students from Redlands participated in the United Nations Youth Voice Competition. This public speaking competition encourages critical thinking and problem-solving to address issues affecting our community, country and the world.

Students explored topics ranging from the negative impacts of tourism to languages at risk of extinction. They not only showcased their speaking skills but also pitched innovative and creative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

The following students participated in the preliminary round held at James Ruse Agricultural High School.

  • Aryana Mishra Mall
  • Sophie Wong
  • Hugo Steadman
  • Oscar McHattan
  • Aaron Oh
  • Connor Price
  • Lachlan Carter
  • Clementine Roumanoff
  • Natalie Bain

“Affordable housing must be a priority. We need to build affordable homes closer to city centres and develop mixed-use areas where residential, commercial, and public spaces coexist. This reduces travel times and fosters community. The UN can facilitate collaboration between governments, NGOs, and the private sector to tackle housing affordability. By creating international partnerships to share ideas and technology, the UN can help provide affordable housing solutions across different regions. Collaboration between countries facing similar challenges accelerates the development of effective housing strategies on a global scale.” – Clementine Roumanoff (Y8)

“Tourism has a cultural cost. It leads to wear and tear on famous landmarks. I’m sure everyone has seen walls in gorgeous locations marked with names and dates. Take a look at Uluru. Despite pleas from the Indigenous people, tourists used to climb Uluru, which is considered deeply disrespectful because it’s a sacred site. This has been banned since 2017, but the damage and disrespect over many decades still linger. Tourism offers incredible experiences and economic growth, but it also brings significant challenges to nature, humanity, and culture. With stricter regulations and more conscious travel choices, we can diminish these effects. The key is balance, responsibility, and respect for both people and the planet.” – Aryana Mishra Mall (Y7)

 “The installation of renewable energy is essential for a city’s liveability. Renewable energy, such as wind and solar, can be reused without depletion. It has positive environmental impacts and is significantly more effective than fossil fuels like coal, gas, and oil. Yet, renewable energy powers only 9.8% of New South Wales, with fossil fuels accounting for the remaining 90.2%. Since renewable energy produces no greenhouse gas emissions and helps mitigate climate change, a shift to renewables is crucial for Australia, particularly for New South Wales.” – Oscar McHattan (Y8)

If students wish to get involved in competitions like the UN Voice Competition, Model UN runs every Thursday lunchtime in LH4.9 and LH 4.10 and Public Speaking Club occurs every Monday afternoon in LH 4.3, 4.4 and 4.6. 

The 10 Benefits of Joining Cocurricular Clubs in Secondary School

Joining Cocurricular Clubs in Secondary School is an excellent way for your child to enrich their educational experience. These clubs offer more than just a break from academics; they provide a platform for your child to explore their interests, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships. Engaging in club activities can significantly enhance your child’s personal and social growth, making their school life more fulfilling and enjoyable. Here are some key benefits of participating in cocurricular clubs:

  1. Social Connections: Cocurricular Clubs provide a great opportunity for your child to meet new people and make friends with similar interests, expanding their social network.

  2. Skill Development: Cocurricular Clubs focus on specific activities or hobbies, allowing your child to develop new skills or improve existing ones.

  3. Networking Opportunities: Cocurricular Clubs bring together individuals from diverse backgrounds, offering valuable networking opportunities that can benefit your child personally and professionally.

  4. Sense of Belonging: Being part of a Cocurricular Club creates a sense of community and belonging, which can boost your child’s overall wellbeing and happiness.

  5. Leadership Experience: Cocurricular Clubs often offer leadership roles, helping your child develop leadership and organisational skills.

  6. Support System: Cocurricular Clubs provide emotional and social support, offering camaraderie and understanding among members, which can be beneficial for your child’s emotional well-being.

  7. Increased Motivation: Being part of a Cocurricular Club with shared goals and interests can increase your child’s motivation and commitment.

  8. Fun and Enjoyment: Cocurricular Clubs offer fun and engaging activities that can make your child’s school life more engaging and fun.

  9. Volunteer and Community Involvement: Many Cocurricular Clubs engage in community service or volunteer work, allowing your child to give back and make a positive impact.

  10. Diverse Perspectives: Cocurricular Clubs bring together people with different viewpoints and experiences, enriching your child’s understanding of various issues.

In Secondary School, there’s a club for every child. Whether your child wants to make friends, learn new skills or have fun, joining a club can significantly enhance their school life. Encourage your child to discover the benefits and join a club today!

Nick Walker
Coordinator of Activities
nwalker@redlands.nsw.edu.au