School Infrastructure NSW

Student assistance sounds great

Release date: 08 September 2021

Plans for the redevelopment of Wee Waa High School are progressing quickly, with assessments being finalised ahead of lodging the Environmental Impact Statement in the coming weeks.

Due to travel restrictions, the project’s sound and vibration specialist could not travel to Wee Waa to conduct the field work required. Thinking quickly, the school leadership team identified that Year 10 students engaged in the STEM science program were ready and willing to help.

The specialist couriered all equipment necessary to the school and led the students virtually as they set up the equipment, calibrated it and conducted the assessment with the assistance of the Year 10 science teacher. 

Year 10 student, McKenzie Jones, said she found it really interesting learning how sound is measured and the process of setting up the recording devices.

“It’s fascinating how the sound data that is captured is then used to assist designers and engineers to determine the right materials to be used in our new school”, McKenzie said.

Not one to let a valuable learning opportunity for students slip by, Wee Waa High School Principal, Annabel Doust stepped in.

“When we found out that the specialist could not get here, we saw this as an opportunity for a real-life learning experience for our students and a way of bringing science to life”, Annabel said.. 

The project team delivering the project have worked closely with the school and broader community to embed a sense of shared purpose for the project. This approach has supported the project team as they navigate the hurdles of our work during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Students from Wee Waa High School undertaking field work on sound measurement.
Image: Students from Wee Waa High School undertaking field work on sound measurement.
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We recognise the Ongoing Custodians of the lands and waterways where we work and live. We pay respect to Elders past and present as ongoing teachers of knowledge, songlines and stories. We strive to ensure every Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander learner in NSW achieves their potential through education.

We recognise the Ongoing Custodians of the lands and waterways where we work and live. We pay respect to Elders past and present as ongoing teachers of knowledge, songlines and stories. We strive to ensure every Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander learner in NSW achieves their potential through education.