Talented students visit college

Talented primary school students from across the Peninsula, Empire Bay and Pretty Beach, had their first taste of high school last week.

Brisbane Water Secondary College's Umina campus staged an enrichment day for students with talent in mathematics, science and technology.

"All indications were that students revelled in the challenging activities presented to them," said college principal Mr Pat Lewis.

In the library, mathematics teachers challenged students with a variety of numerical puzzles and problems.

"The mixed school groups buzzed with excitement as they worked their way to solutions," he said.

At the same time, other students created web pages and participated in programming robotics as part of challenges on offer in the computer room.

"The technology teachers kept another large group of students totally enthralled.

"All of this work builds up quite a hunger and students and staff joined together for a barbecue lunch on the campus lawns."

The lunch was served by Year 9 students who were participating in leadership and mentoring opportunities, which the college has increasingly made available to them.

In the afternoon, more mathematics and technology options were offered but a science option was added where students experienced the wonders of the Bunsen burner, colourful chemistry, and the power of air pressure to crush drink cans.

The day was topped off by an evening for parents where students demonstrated the experiences they had had during the day.

Again Year 9 leaders were on hand to prepare a barbecue tea and show a multimedia presentation of the day's activities.

"The day was such a success that further activities are planned throughout the year focussing on other curriculum areas," Mr Lewis said.

Email, March 3