The Year 6 HASS Unit, ‘The Ayes Have It’, has centred on history, civics, and citizenship. Throughout this Unit, the students have explored the topic of Federation and its key proponents.  

To delve deeper into this subject matter, the students employed a question matrix to formulate insightful inquiries about influential figures and their contributions to Federation, the writing of the constitution, and the development of our democratic system of government. 

The students undertook a comprehensive study of Australia’s system of government, delving into its key institutions and their foundations in the Westminster System.  

The girls explored the fundamental values and beliefs that underpin western democracies, gaining a deeper understanding of the principles that guide our democratic society. Additionally, the students examined the roles and responsibilities of the three levels of government in Australia, further enhancing their knowledge of how power is distributed and exercised within our nation.

In early Term 3, our Year 6 Cohort will embark on a journey to Canberra for a Study Tour. This exceptional opportunity will allow them to explore these topics further and gain insights into various institutions closely linked to our Federal government.  

During the Study Tour, the girls will visit these institutions firsthand, deepening their understanding of how our nation’s governance functions and providing them with a tangible connection to their civics and citizenship education. 

“I really enjoyed our research project on a person from Federation. I chose Henry Parkes. I found out he got the conversation moving towards Federation. I’ve also loved learning about voting and how parliament works. I learnt about the House of Representatives and the Senate. It amazed me to learn that there are a lot of people involved in parliament.” Imogen Herron 

“Recently, we have been learning about Federation, and Parliament House. In early Term 3 we go on a Study Tour to Canberra. I’m very excited about it, and I’m sure others are too. We have just finished a project about Federation where we had to develop five questions then answer them and make a poster or a booklet. We had to choose between Alfred Deakin, Henry Parkes, and Edmund Barton.” Ellyse Buckley 

“Something I have learnt about Federation is that the States in Australia used to be colonies and there was no Northern Territory. I also learnt that Australia only became ‘one’ in 1901 which was not too long ago. I have also learnt about key people in the Federation that I did not even know existed, such as Edmund Barton, Henry Parkes, and Alfred Deakin. I also wonder what would have happened if we had not federated.” Anna Roosenburg  

“I have learnt that the government makes most of the laws. There are local, state, and federal governments. They are each responsible for different things. The local government looks after houses and waste collecting. The state government looks after schools and public transport and the federal government looks after social security, trade, and currency.” Emma Hessell