As we approach the end of term the HSIE staff would like to wish our students and families a wonderful summer break and hope that you take the opportunity to enjoy the natural and built environment, and learn a bit about the history of any places you may visit wherever you are and whatever you do. As Head Teacher of this amazing faculty for the past 15 years, and a proud teacher in the public education system for 35 years, it is time for me to call it quits. I have been honoured to be part of this fantastic school, working with so many talented and beautiful people, students, staff and parents. I will miss NHSPA dearly. Hans Mayerhofer will be taking over the reins in 2024 and I know he will do an amazing job. Finally, all of us in HSIE eagerly await the release of the HSC results and can't wait to see our wonderful Year 12 students at the final BBQ, and wish them all the very best as they embark on the next exciting stage of their lives. Signing off for the last time....

Rachel O'Neill, Head Teacher HSIE

Year 9 Geography students have been learning about population pyramids: how to draw them, how to interpret them, and how to create a 'human' population pyramid. This one is an example of a population pyramid for a typical developing country, with a large population under 4 years old (the boys at the back) and a small population over 70 (Josie up the top)!

On Friday 17 November, the senior Geography students met at Railway Square in the city for the start of the annual street tour of Pyrmont, Ultimo and Darling Harbour to investigate firsthand some of the urban dynamics that are present in this area and that are shaping Sydney’s development into the future. Some of the key sites along the ‘trail’ included Spice Alley (although being 9am, there was not much action or any tasty treats to sample – that would have to wait), the Central Park development, the Goods Line renewal project, Pyrmont Bridge - taking in vistas of the city skyline and the Barangaroo development, Union Square, the spectacular views from Ways Terrace Public Housing, the Finger Wharves, and back along the foreshore of Darling Harbour to Darling Square. Throughout the day the students were able to get a thorough understanding of some of the HSC Urban Dynamics including urban decay, renewal, consolidation and urban villages, as well as investigating elements of Sydney’s culture of place. Feedback from the students on the day and subsequently emphasised how useful they found it to get out of the classroom and experience learning in the ‘real world’. After such an extensive tour (well over 10,000 steps according to one person’s step-counter), a hearty feed of dumplings from one of the local Yum Cha establishments was the perfect way to conclude the day out. All the students were fantastic throughout the day, showing great spirit and interest and representing the school extremely well.

In Week 4, our new Year 12 Business Studies classes were treated to a guest speaker (and some tim tams!) from Arnott's. Harvey McGeorge worked as a process engineer at Arnott's Huntingwood factory in Sydney. He was able to bring the Operations syllabus to life by giving students real world examples of the operations processes and strategies that Arnott's use at their factory. From sourcing raw materials to discussing Australia's favourite shapes, Harvey generously shared his knowledge with students. By the end, students could easily see why Arnott's products can be found in over 95% of Australian households. Students are now integrating this case study example into their essays as they prepare for their first HSC assessment task. As a former Business Studies student himself, Harvey also gave Year 12 his top tips for success in the HSC subject. Thank you Harvey for providing your time and expertise to our students. We hope to see you and the tim tams back next year!