Year 7 History classes stepped back in time to explore Ancient Rome. From the grandeur of the emperor's palace to the harsh realities of slavery, students gained a comprehensive understanding of Roman society.
They delved into the world of status symbols, learning how clothing, jewellery, hairstyles and slaves reflected one's position in the social hierarchy. The stark contrast between the opulent lives of the elite and the gruelling existence of slaves was a powerful lesson in inequality.
Students also discovered the Romans' surprising focus on hygiene, with public baths and advanced sanitation systems. However, the less glamorous side of Roman life was also revealed, including the use of communal toilets along with the function of the toilet brush.
Through interactive demonstrations and discussions, students learned about the different types of gladiators, their training, equipment, and the brutal reality of their lives. This gave each class a deeper understanding of the warriors, from their arduous drills to the brutal spectacles that captivated Roman crowds. The incursion also encouraged students to reflect on and question the morality of such spectacles.
Students were thoroughly engaged throughout the incursion and clearly enjoyed the activities. Our goal was to immerse students in ancient Rome to foster a deeper appreciation of the triumphs and challenges of this ancient culture and its enduring legacy. I believe we achieved that.
Darren was appointed Principal of Sacred Heart College in January 2019. Darren has had almost 30 years experience in teaching and leadership across a number of Victorian Catholic secondary schools. These include eight years as Principal of Mercy Regional College, Camperdown; nine years as Deputy Principal and Director of Mission at Mount Lilydale Mercy College; seven years as a Chemistry, Religious Education and Science teacher as well as REC at Sacred Heart College, Geelong.
Darren has been committed to a lifetime of study and professional development. After completing his initial degree of Bachelor of Science and Graduate Diploma of Education at the University of Melbourne, he continued his study by completing a Graduate Diploma of Religious Education, a Masters of Religious Education and a Doctor of Education, all at Australian Catholic University. In 2018, Darren participated in the Enhancing Catholic School Identity programme in Leuven, Belgium.
Darren has a deep and passionate affiliation with the Mercy tradition and charism and believes that Mercy schools must be “…committed to holistic education; determined to ensure that each student flourishes academically, spiritually, emotionally, socially and physically”.
The purpose of the Catholic school is to provide “… an authentic Christian education, where students are called to embrace the essence of the Gospels, to flourish as whole human persons” and “… to provide exemplary learning experiences for the students who attend”.
Darren was appointed Principal of Sacred Heart College in January 2019. Darren has had almost 30 years experience in teaching and leadership across a number of Victorian Catholic secondary schools. These include eight years as Principal of Mercy Regional College, Camperdown; nine years as Deputy Principal and Director of Mission at Mount Lilydale Mercy College; seven years as a Chemistry, Religious Education and Science teacher as well as REC at Sacred Heart College, Geelong.
Darren has been committed to a lifetime of study and professional development. After completing his initial degree of Bachelor of Science and Graduate Diploma of Education at the University of Melbourne, he continued his study by completing a Graduate Diploma of Religious Education, a Masters of Religious Education and a Doctor of Education, all at Australian Catholic University. In 2018, Darren participated in the Enhancing Catholic School Identity programme in Leuven, Belgium.
Darren has a deep and passionate affiliation with the Mercy tradition and charism and believes that Mercy schools must be “…committed to holistic education; determined to ensure that each student flourishes academically, spiritually, emotionally, socially and physically”.
The purpose of the Catholic school is to provide “… an authentic Christian education, where students are called to embrace the essence of the Gospels, to flourish as whole human persons” and “… to provide exemplary learning experiences for the students who attend”.