By Shivani Arivuchelvan and Kate Borton
Year 10
Science brings society to the next level; ethics keeps us there. This quote allows us all to ponder upon the modern scientific marvels being constructed to mend our society’s breaks, alongside the intertwined ethics within them. Before you begin reading, I would like you to think about this open question: “Are we headed to a world filled with science to improve the quality of our lifestyle and the ability to apply ethical ideas within these scientific concepts in order for us to sustain our lifestyles?”
On 5 August this week, a keen group of Junior Westlake learners from both Year 9 and 10 filled their minds with science and excitement as we eagerly participated in the Science and Ethics day held at St Cuthbert’s. This event was organised by incredible and inspiring doctors of both Philosophy and Bioethics from the Centre of Science and Ethics who held their audience captive with activities and discussion aimed at encouraging our younger generation, during a workshop designed to challenge and peak our interest in how we can shape our future.
Throughout the event, which called for collaboration amongst like-minded students from several schools across Auckland, we reflected on our passions and interests for scientific solutions regarding genetic modification, synthetic food sources, household / industrial energy and much more. The format of the day consisted of a range of practical activities that flourished with futuristic conversations and progressed on to ethical debates around topics such as: “do you mind whether the meat sold in the supermarket is farmed or grown in a lab?” This led to discussion around sustainable farming solutions that may reduce energy usage.
We happily collaborated and were motivated to expand our knowledge and interests within science and philosophy by critically analysing the connections formed between traditional and innovative contemporary issues within our global society.
The start of this article asks us to think about how we can make improvements to our lifestyles but to do so ethically. After this event, we weren’t sure we had an answer to this question as it gave us more questions to ponder upon, but it surely motivated us to keep researching and forge a drive to action in science and ethics.
We are grateful for the time devoted to us by our teachers in getting us to this event and for encouraging and motivating us to grow and become change-makers for the future.
Nasrin Sotoudeh is a human rights lawyer in Iran who is now a prisoner of conscience. Amnesty is fighting to free Nasrin as she has had many of her human rights violated and for this cause, the Westlake Girls Amnesty Group held An Amazing Race.
A small group gathered at 6.30am for the ceremony, including Senior Leadership Team members, Board of Trustees, and people involved in the building’s construction and design. Our Matua Eddie Hudson, and Kaumatua Jerry Norman (both pictured above), officiated the ceremony.
Year 10 student Emily Sullivan performed brilliantly at the National Brass Band Championships held in Christchurch during July.
Eggs are really nutritious: They are a great for a quick snack or meal.
Health is more than just your weight – it is about so much more: It encompasses mental health, spiritual health, physical health and social health. Focus on maintaining all areas of your health not just one small aspect
We are delighted to announce that trousers are now an official part of the WGHS uniform, along with our knee-length skirt, long skirt, and culottes.
The tour started on Sunday 4 July, with a long scenic drive along the Desert Road to Palmerston North. Here, the Westlake students worked with the students and music staff from Palmerston North Boys High School. The exchange began with an impressive powhiri, and followed with musicians from both schools workshopping joint pieces that they performed together in the evening concert. It must have been a record for the Speirs Centre to have around 160 musicians on stage for the final item “Pokarekare Ana”.
In Napier and Hastings, the Westlake groups performed to a packed school hall full of Napier Girls’ High School students. The next day, our groups enjoyed another musical exchange with local students from surrounding high schools at the amazing new auditorium “The Blyth” situated at Iona Girls High School. The facilities were state of the art, acoustically designed with a very fine Faziolli grand piano for the pianists to enjoy playing.
Congratulations to Lucy Brunton, who competed in the NZSS Judo Championships over the holidays.
Rotary Interact officers and Mrs McDermott were fortunate to get a tour around Auckland City Mission, discovering how they help those in need in the community. They offer holistic support in three main areas: Homelessness, Hunger and Health. Auckland City Mission is full of caring people with a beautiful vision to get people off the streets and into a loving community where they can learn, grow, and benefit from one another.
