This week, the Middle School assembly took a fascinating look into the world of economics. Far from being just about money and markets, the session challenged Year 5, 6, 7 and 8 girls to think of economics as “the study of the ghost” – the invisible forces and the “invisible no” that shape every decision we make.
At the heart of the discussion was the concept of opportunity cost. The girls explored the idea that every time we say “yes” to one choice, we are effectively saying an “invisible no” to another. From simple daily decisions to complex global dilemmas, the hall was filled with critical thinking as students weighed the trade-offs involved in different choices. The assembly also considered how governments face these same “ghostly” decisions, having to choose between competing priorities such as building new hospitals or schools – demonstrating that economic trade-offs affect everyone.
What made the 20-minute session particularly impressive was the high level of cross-year discussion. There was a palpable buzz in the room as girls from Year 5 through to Year 8 collaborated to solve thought-provoking problems. Younger students offered sharp and insightful ideas, while the older girls acted as exceptional role models, guiding discussions with maturity and thoughtful enquiry.
It was an engaging start to the morning that left everyone, including staff, continuing to ‘Think It Out’ for the rest of the day.