TERM 3 NO 4 Wednesday 30 August 2017

Transcription

1 TERM 3 NO 4 Wednesday 30 August 2017 Winifred West Schools Limited. ABN PO Box 34 Mittagong NSW Phone: frensham@frensham.nsw.edu.au

2 Gratitude...infectious...and essential In the novel The Inconvenient Child (2009), Lindsay Lewis (Frensham ) co-wrote a biography of the life of Sharyn Killens whose childhood experiences of life in the Parramatta Girls Home and the Hay Institution for Girls are related in a way that speaks of the deprivation of love for a child, and is deeply moving. However, as noted to the School this week, it was also a story of inspiration. Sharyn speaks loudly of her gratitude to those who believed in her to her childhood friends, later to her grown-up children and her husband, and to Lindsay (Frensham Old Girl) who helped her write her story. It is the kind of story that makes you feel fortunate to have grown up differently and that leads you to ring your parents to say thank you. For something so vital, gratitude is surprisingly hard to pin down. Melbourne philosopher, Christopher Cordner notes that gratitude can t be commanded or summoned at will, yet in its absence people recognise that something fundamental and necessary is missing: If it's given only because it's felt to be required, it isn't gratitude...of course there are expectations and duties, but everyone knows that what matters in human relations is the motivation behind things that are done. Gratitude in this sense does not mean gratitude for particular things - like health, a good meal, a sunset - though they come into it, it is about a lens through which one filters the world, a mode of trust, an affirmation that the world is good. Psychiatrist Patrick McGorry (Australian of the Year 2010) reportedly noted at the time of his Award: Some people have difficult lives, and may not feel grateful, but the one thing we have control over is how we interpret what happens to us - and gratitude helps us to flourish. Roman philosopher Cicero held that gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues but the parent of all the others. *** At Gib Gate, there has been a strong sense of gratitude generated over the past week, in response to the opportunity for students to host visitors from Hokuriku Gakuin School appreciation for the opportunity to be part of such an important schoollife experience. In response to series of showcase events for HSC Drama, Music and Visual Arts we have received a number of notes expressing gratitude for Frensham and Sturt teacher inspiration and sustained support through the individual and collective process of resolving and finalising major works. [From: A A Milne s Winnie-the-Pooh: Piglet noticed that even though he had a Very Small Heart, it could hold a rather large amount of Gratitude.] Acknowledgement to: Gib Gate families for their generous hosting of Hokuriku Gakuin students and families taking such care to ensure our youngest visitors (Years 4 to 6) had such a positive experience on their first visit to Australia as part of a special, ongoing relationship spanning 27 years [See Ms Robson s Report]; Gib Gate Tournament of Minds Purple Team, Elizabeth Shadbolt, Sophie Alexander (Year 4), Cate Horsfall, Cassia Berry (Year 5), Sophie Hassall, Savannah Linde, Romeo Atra (Year 6), winning the Language Literature section; Gib Gate ICAS Writing High Distinction/Distinction recipients: High Distinction: Jade Neilson, Olivia Quilty, Lucia Semple, Matilda Telford (Year 3); Distinction: Nina Castleman, York Doyle, Mollie Fitzpatrick, Amelia Hazlett (Year 3); Sophie Goodisson, Amelia Hartnell, Georgina Lewis, Elizabeth Shadbolt (Year 4); Laura Barnsley-Adams, Eva Telford (Year 5); Frensham and Gib Gate Snowsports Teams for their successes at the NSW State Interschools Snowsports Championships, Perisher, with many progressing to the National Championships, Mount Buller, Victoria; Gib Gate Year 6 students for their selection in representative sport teams: Jessica Savage (Cricket); Spencer Lewis (Soccer); Tom Milner (Hockey); Emily Senior, Lily Huggins, Ella Hopperton and Ella Clark, South Coast Public Speaking Competition placegetters; Years 8 and 9 students involved in the Junior Production, Roald Dahl s Revolting Rhymes (Mrs Hannah directing); Year 12 Visual Arts and Design & Technology students for the high standard of their Major Works, in the 2017 HSC Exhibition (Cooper Hall and Sturt Design and Fabrication Studios); Frensham MUNA (Model United Nations Assembly) team of Georgia Gresham, Lucy McMaster and India Shead (Year 10) representing our region in the three-day National MUNA event in Canberra; Frensham s IGSSA Athletics Carnival team. [Paige Wilson (Year 12) will represent IGSSA at the NSW Combined Independent Schools Athletics Carnival]; Antoinette Inglis for her achievement at the National Cross Country Championships, finishing in a personal best time as part of the NSW Team and placed 7 th in NSW; Mr Lex and Mrs Joy Webster, Monica (Year 11), for hosting the Year 11 Agriculture class during the recent Farm Cast Study Tour. WWS Foundation, on the successful Annual Dinner held in support of the Dining Room Project, with thanks to Nina Jephcott, Georgia Richardson and the Madrigals who performed on the night; Current Parents and recent Old Girls assisting with hosting of Information Evenings in Wagga Wagga, Young and Singapore. Particular thanks to Alex and Kiki Hill (Phoebe, Year 11) and Paul and Viv Latimer (Daisy, Year 9) for providing their homes in Singapore and Wagga Wagga, respectively, as the venue for these events. 2

3 Past student news - Gib Gate Dominic O Shannessy (Year 6, 2014) and Ravi Wikramanayake (Year 6, 2013) have been chosen to play in the ACT/NSW Country Cricket team in the upcoming U17 Australian Cricket Championships. Dominic has also been named in the recently announced Cricket Australia Rookie Squad. Gib Gate - Centre for Research In 2017 five Hokuriku Gakuin staff accompanied their students for the Gib Gate/Hokuriku Exchange. These included Principal Kensuke Nakajima, and two University Researchers, Dr Sakiko Yoneda and Dr Yoichi Nishimura. Dr Yoneda and Dr Nishimura are involved in a research project based on the regular skype sessions conducted between Gib Gate and Hokuriku Gakuin School in which students from the same grade levels talk, class to class. The students have been enjoying using Skype for the past three years as part of the Japanese K-6 Language Programme at Gib Gate, and the researchers are interested in how these sessions enhance the students communication and confidence in their language use. Ahead: Frensham Sample Boarding (current Year 5 for Year 7, 2019) We have 36 girls registered to attend our annual Sample Boarding programme (14-15 September) and look forward to hosting them for this important opportunity to experience life on campus, cared for by senior students. Julie A Gillick Head of Frensham Head of Winifred West Schools Hokuriku Gakuin and Gib Gate Staff and Representatives L-R: Dr Sakiko Yoneda, Ms Kate Chauncy, Mr Kensuke Nakajima (Principal), Ms Kimiko Tateishi, Mrs Adrienne Bradney-Smith, Mrs Lisa Gemell, Ms Sally Robson, Ms Keiko Nakagoshi, Mr Yukihide Sakamoto, Dr Yoichi Nishimura. 3

4 Frensham Advisory Committee 2017 Gib Gate Advisory Committee 2017 Mrs Caroline Begg Ms Ruby Curtis Mrs Penny Hanan Mr John Hayes (Chair) Mrs Kiki Hill Mrs Erica Holcombe Mrs michelle McGufficke Mrs Angela Macken (Sec) Mr Gavin Martin Mr Sam Paradice Mrs Nicola Robertson Mrs Tina Scales Ms Jo Thomson Dr Guy Bashford (Chair) Mrs Rowena Bendror (FOGG Representative) Mrs Holly de Manincor Mrs Chelsea Doyle (Chair of FOGG) Mr David Griffin Mrs Kate Iori Mr Trent Johns Mrs Sara Moylan sesiahs.health.nsw.gov.au TERM DATES 2017 Gib Gate and Frensham TERM DATES Gib Gate and Frensham Term 3 Gib Gate & Frensham Tuesday 18 July- Thursday 21 September, 3.00pm (Boarders always return evening before classes start) Frensham (Year 12 Dinner with Parents and Staff is evening of Thursday 21 September) Term 4 Gib Gate: Tuesday 10 October-Friday 8 December, 3.00pm Frensham: Tuesday 10 October-Sunday 10 December from 12noon (after 11.00am Carol Service) (Boarders always return evening before classes start) Term 1 Gib Gate & Frensham Wednesday 31 January-Thursday 12 April, 3.00pm (Boarders always return evening before classes start) Term 2 Gib Gate & Frensham Monday 30 April -Thursday 28 June, 3.00pm (Year 10 Work Experience ends Friday 29 June) (Boarders always return evening before classes start) Term 3 Gib Gate & Frensham Tuesday 24 July-Thursday 27 September, 3.00pm (Boarders always return evening before classes start) Term 4 Gib Gate: Monday 15 October-Friday 7 December 3.00pm Frensham: ends Sunday 9 December 12.00pm (after 11.00am Carol Service) (Boarders always return evening before classes start) 2018 PARENT WEEKENDS Confirmed dates for attendance of all students Years 7-12 Term 1: Year 7 Saturday 3 March-Sunday 4 March Frensham Open Day Saturday 3 March Year 10 Saturday 17 March-Sunday 18 March Term 2: Year 8 Saturday 19 May-Sunday 20 May Year 12 Saturday 2 June-Sunday 3 June WWS Birthday Friday 1 June Frensham s 105 th Birthday Sunday 3 June Term 3: Year 11 Saturday 11 August-Sunday 12 August [Year 10 Saturday 11 August Year 10 planning for Senior Studies (with parents on Saturday)] Year 9 Saturday 1 September-Sunday 2 September Ranier Uniform Shop All fittings for uniforms are by appointment, during shop hours: Mondays and Thursdays 12.00pm-5.00pm Shop Manager: Mrs Michelle Wynn. To order items, please call the Shop: (02) [BH], frensham@ranier.com.au 4

5 12 Weeks to go. Produce Stall get in early for the strawberry jam! With strawberries at a very reasonable price it was the perfect opportunity to make strawberry jam last weekend. Overseen by Michele Scamps, with assistance from Old Girl Judy Cohen (1960), current staff member Rose Massey and past staff member Sue Trudeau, a particularly delicious batch of strawberry jam was made for the Produce Stall. The Produce Stall is looking for more jams and relishes please let Anna Massey know if you can contribute: annamassey@bigpond.com Pyjama Trousers on sale at Gib Gate The pyjama trousers, size 6 and larger, will be on sale at Gib Gate on Wednesday afternoons 3.00pm-3.45pm. Reminder: Sewing Bees Thank you to all attended last week s sewing bee it was a great response and much was achieved. Cute children s bunting has now been added to the list of jobs for cutters and sewers. Weekly sewing bees will be held at Frensham on the following dates: Friday: 1 September, 15 September Thursday: 7 September, 21 September (last day of term) Contact Annette O Connell if you can help - annette@mocelectrical.com.au Cake Stall Christmas Puddings Cooking Bee Jane Camilleri is organising a cooking bee to make Christmas Puddings on Friday 6 October in the kitchen at Frensham. Please contact Jane if you are able to help on that day. jane.camo@icloud.com For more information or to arrange a delivery, please contact Michele Scamps Iris Country Fair Coordinator mscamps@frensham.nsw.edu.au

6 Foundation Annual Dinner Ninety guests enjoyed being entertained by the Madrigals and a convivial evening at Foundation s Annual Dinner in support of the Dining Room Renovation Project. The evening raised $35,600 to assist with the cost of this project. Thank you to all who attended and generously donated on the night. For more information regarding Foundation, please contact Michele Scamps mscamps@frensham.nsw.edu.au Year Reunion for Class of It was wonderful to see many of the Class of 87 attend the reunion weekend s activities. There was much merriment over Afternoon Tea, with lots to catch up on and much news to impart. Careers are varied, ranging from education to law and management to leadership. President of Fellowship, Mrs Annette O Connell was on hand to greet the group, with Head Ms Julie Gillick meeting the group briefly on Saturday afternoon and welcoming them to Sunday s Year 9 Parents Weekend Service. Year 10 tour guides proved themselves excellent ambassadors, taking the group around the campus. The highlight of the tour was the opportunity to see the Year 12 HSC Visual Arts and Design and Technology Exhibitions. Sunday saw the group attend the Year 9 Service and Concert in Clubbe Hall. They were impressed by the confidence and talent of presenters and performers and noted outstanding facilities in which girls have the good fortune to learn and grow. Overall comments from the Class of 87 at the end of the weekend were all very positive the main one being that they would love the opportunity to return to Frensham and be a student again now! Upcoming Events: Lunch at Young, Saturday 16 September all welcome! Old Girls, partners, current and former parents and Friends of Frensham. For a full list of events and Reunions, please visit: 6

7 The values of Learning to Learn through Adventure, Service, Challenge and Excellence have certainly been in evidence over the past two weeks at Gib Gate. Welcoming and sharing our school and homes with 30 Japanese students has been, in the words of one Gib Gate student, one great, big adventure! The friendship between Hokuriku Gakuin and Gib Gate, one that spans 27 years and ten years of exchange, is greatly valued by our two schools, both of whom understand the importance of experiencing life in cultures other than our own, and who understand the importance of making global connections and maintaining international friendships. Through sharing experiences, dancing, laughing, learning, playing and living with one another, the children transcended language barriers to find so much in common, forming friendships and very special memories that all will treasure for many years to come. The families of our guests were deeply grateful for the kindness demonstrated by the Gib Gate host families who warmly welcomed the children into their homes, caring for them and ensuring they enjoyed a uniquely Australian experience. In 2017 five Hokuriku Gakuin staff accompanied the students. These included Principal Kensuke Nakajima, and two University Researchers, Dr Sakiko Yoneda and Dr Yoichi Nishimura. Dr Yoneda and Dr Nishimura are involved in a research project based on the regular skype sessions conducted between Gib Gate and Hokuriku Gakuin School in which students from the same grade levels talk, class to class. The students have been enjoying using Skype for the past three years as part of the Japanese K-6 Language Programme at Gib Gate, and the researchers are interested in how these sessions enhance the students communication and confidence in their language use. What was abundantly clear as the exchange programme was coming to an end and new-found friends were about to leave, is that nothing can replace the experience of getting to know one another face to face. However, all were excited to know that they would be seeing one another s smiling faces and hearing their happy voices each time we Skype one another, which has made our virtual connection even more meaningful and important. Gib Gate students in Year 4 and Year 5 are now looking forward to the opportunity to continue this friendship when it is our turn to visit Hokuriku Gakuin School in Japan in Adventure, Challenge and Excellence were also experienced by the two highly successful Gib Gate Tournament of Minds Teams, both of which enjoyed an exciting competition on Sunday 20 August. The Purple Team were awarded First Place and is now focusing on the State Competition held at the University of NSW on 10 September. The Gib Gate RoboCup Teams enjoyed a rigorous competition in Canberra on 9 September, with three teams awarded first, second and third place, thus qualifying for the national competition. The large Gib Gate Snowsports Team performed exceptionally well at the Interschools State Competition last week, Gib Gate placing overall third behind two Alpine Schools, Jindabyne and Snowy Mountains Grammar. For full details of the successes of the Tournament of Minds, RoboCup and Snowsports Team please see complete reports below. Ms Sally Robson, Head of Gib Gate Curriculum Highlights 2017 Tournament of Minds Competition In 2017, for the first time, Gib Gate entered two teams in the Tournament of Minds Competition. The regional round was held on Sunday 20 August at Nowra High School and primary school teams of 7 members represented 30 schools in the Illawarra and Southern Highlands. Gib Gate Purple elected to enter the Language Literature section and Gib Gate Green, the Social Science section. Both teams competed with flair, enthusiasm and spirit performing at their highest level in both their prepared long-term challenge and the spontaneous challenge. We congratulate both teams on their achievements and Ms Katie Horan for the preparation and guidance of the children throughout Terms 2 and 3. Gib Gate Green team comprised Isabella Atra, Sophie Goodisson, Georgina Lewis (Year 4), Charlie Johns, Amy Wimalaratne (Year 5), Hannah Bendror and Camilla O Brien (Year 6). They selected two countries China and India - to pair for a trial colonisation on an artificial island. They selected five of the features, for example; icons, language, and cultural aspects, which they then merged to support this new connection. The Team developed a promotional presentation on the success of the new colony for INSPIRE (the Inter-National System Promoting Island Relocation and Evolution) to use as they develop more islands. We were thrilled that the Purple Team (pictured over) were announced as the winners of their Language Literature section. The team comprised Elizabeth Shadbolt, Sophie Alexander (Year 4), Cate Horsfall, Cassia Berry (Year 5), Sophie Hassall, Savannah Linde, Romeo Atra (Year 6). Their winning presentation was based on hidden gems in classic literary texts - 7

8 characters who, along with the central characters, also contribute to achieving the final outcomes of the narrative. The Team identified and evaluated the contributions of hidden gems from four literary texts and examined how they helped to solve the main conflict or issue in another text of their own choosing. They will now compete at State level at the University of NSW, Kensington on Sunday 10 September, ICAS Writing 2017 In the 2017 Writing Competition students in Years 3 to 6 were required to write a persuasive text to the following stimulus: You have been invited to participate in a national writing competition. You have to write an argument based on the following topic: Would you rather be rich or lucky or intelligent? Gib Gate students have achieved outstanding results being awarded four High Distinction, 11 Distinction, 25 Credit, seven Merit and 12 Participation Certificates. Certificates will be awarded to the students at Performance Assembly on Friday 8 September. Year 3 - High Distinction (note this is the top 1% of all students who competed nationally) - Jade Neilson, Olivia Quilty, Lucia Semple, Matilda Telford. Distinction - Nina Castleman, York Doyle, Mollie Fitzpatrick, Amelia Hazlett. Credit - Elizabeth Griffin-Peters, Hamish Murray, Scarlett Shadbolt. Merit - Chloe Hannah. Year 4 Distinction - Sophie Goodisson, Amelia Hartnell, Georgina Lewis, Elizabeth Shadbolt. Credit - Sophie Alexander, Sophie Baldwin, Eliza-Grace Bashford, Maxime Trudeau. Merit - Tempe Arnott, Isabella Atra, Madeleine Bendror, Charles Byrne, Eve Murray, Bliss Ow-Yang. Year 5 Distinction - Laura Barnsley-Adams, Eva Telford. Credit: Luca de Manicor, Kyle George, Kate Nicholl, Rocco Perrotta, Elizabeth Taylor, Amy Wimalaratne. Year 6 Credit - Monique Andersson, Sophie Hassall, Chloe Kennedy-Green, Spencer Lewis, Savannah Linde, Angus Mackie, Tom Milner, Elizabeth Nesci, Camilla O Brien, Amelia O Shanassy, Joe Quilty. Ms Kate Chauncy, Director of Teaching and Learning, P-12 and Coordinator of Gifted and Talented Programmes Enrichment/Activities RoboCup 2017 Fifteen students participated in the RoboCup Junior competition which was held at Saint Francis Xavier College in Florey, ACT. Duncan Greig, Angus Mackie and Alexander Martinek (Year 6) and Kyle George (Year 5) entered the Primary Rescue Division. Lucia Semple, Scarlett Shadbolt (Year 3) Tempe Arnott, Isabella Barber, Madeleine Bendror, Charles Byrne, Gordon Greig, Eve Murray (Year 4) Chloe Kennedy-Green, Elizabeth Nesci, Amelia O Shanassy (Year 6) entered the Primary Dance Division. The competition was held over two days, commencing with a workshop on Friday afternoon which the students found informative and valuable. Saturday 19 August was an exciting day with a record number of students entering the competition. The Gib Gate students performed exceptionally well in both divisions. In the Primary Dance Division, The Explosive Rockets Charles Byrne and Gordon Greig gave an energetic performance which was well received by the audience. The Three Gorillas Tempe Arnott, Isabella Barber, Eve Murray were awarded Gib Gate robot, RoboCup first place. Tallulah Three Lucia Semple, Scarlett Shadbolt, Madeleine Bendror were awarded second place. Lizamiloe Chloe Kennedy-Green, Elizabeth Nesci, Amelia O Shanassy were awarded third place. The students in the Primary Rescue Division, The Apples Duncan Greig, Angus Mackie and Alexander Martinek and a solo entrant, Kyle George competed against at least fifty teams and worked diligently to overcome technical challenges and complete the rescue course in less than two minutes (pictured over). 8

9 All team members displayed perseverance and a willingness to learn. They worked co-operatively and gained a great deal from the experience. Mrs Berman and Mr Berman worked with the team over two terms in preparation for the event and she noted how enthusiastic and determined the students were. Students were interviewed as part of the competition and the organisers were impressed with how well they could articulate the processes involved in building and programming their robots. Years 1 and 2 Outdoor Education Years 1 and 2 are looking forward to participating in their Outdoor Education Day on Tuesday 5 September at The Outdoor Education Group s Wombaroo site. They will participate in bush cooking, fire making, camp craft, orienteering, low ropes, vertical challenge (high ropes) and bush walking activities. RoboCup Rescue course Personal Development Programmes Gib Gate is excited to have Year 3, 4 and 5 participating in the URStrong Day of Friendship programme this week. This is an internationally-recognised friendship program that empowers students with the skills, language, and self-confidence to be better friends and develop healthier relationships. In the workshops students will learn Friendship Facts, qualities of a great friend, and how to assess healthy versus unhealthy friendships. They will also discuss the importance of standing up for yourself and how to put out Friendship Fires through an open, honest conversation. Interrelate Interrelate will be visiting Gib Gate over two weeks to conducting separate sessions focusing on puberty and self-care for Year 5 and Year 6. These sessions were rescheduled by Interrelate from earlier in the term. Mrs Anne Graham, Gib Gate Coordinator (Administration) Sport Winter and Summer Sports Winter sports are coming to an end and we congratulate all Basketball, Hockey, Soccer and Water Polo teams on their efforts and success this season. All Soccer and Hockey games finished last weekend with the U9 and U7 Hockey teams involved in Gala Day activities at the Welby Hockey centre. The Gib Gate Water Polo team won the Primary school competition. Summer sports nomination forms have gone home for children to nominate their Summer Sports preferences. Gib Gate children can participate in a range of sporting teams over summer including Basketball, Cricket, Water Polo and Tennis. Also promoted is participation in community based clubs such as Little Athletics, Gymnastic, Swimming. Snowsports Last week, 24 Gib Gate Children were involved in the NSW State Interschools Snowsports Championships held at Perisher. Congratulations to all those who competed and especially the following teams and individuals who for the National Championships to be held at Mount Buller in Victoria next week. Sebastian Atra (Year 2) - won the Gold medal in Boys Division 6 Alpine and Skier Cross Romeo Atra (Year 6) - 9 th in Division 4 Boys Moguls and 8 th in Boys Division 4 Cross Country Freestyle Luca de Manincor (Year 5) - 12 th in Division 4 Girls Alpine and Skier Cross Sophia Atra (Kindergarten) - 15 th in Girls Division 6 Skier Cross Salvatore Perrotta (Year 5) - 7 th in Boys Division 4 Cross Country Freestyle Isabella Atra, Madeleine Bendror and Tempe Arnott (Year 4) - 4 th place in Girls Division 5 Skier Cross with Isabella 7 th place overall. Isabella, Madeleine, Tempe and Isabella Barber were 5 th in the Girls Division 5 Alpine event with Isabella Atra taking individual 10 th place Isabella Barber, Tempe Arnott and Elizabeth Shadbolt (Year 4) - 3 rd in Girls Division 5 Freestyle Cross Country with Isabella 5 th and Tempe 7 th individually. The team took the Bronze medal in the Girls Division 5 Cross Country Relay Romeo Atra, Matteo Perrotta, Rocco Perrotta and Salvatore Perrotta (Year 5) were Bronze medallists in the Boys Division 4 Alpine event. Romeo, Rocco and Salvatore came 4 th in the Boys Division 4 Cross Country Relay event. 9

10 L-R, Sebastian Atra in action and with his Gold Medal. Sophia Atra, Isabella Atra, Madeleine Bendror. Rocco Perrotta, Romeo Atra, Salvatore Perrotta (Bronze Medal Cross Country). Gib Gate Sports Representatives We congratulate the following students on their representative selections in other sports. Jessica Savage (Year 6) has been selected for the NSW CIS Primary Girls Cricket team. Jessica will be competing at the NSWPSSA State tournament in October. Spencer Lewis (Year 6) has been selected for the Southern Zone Under 12 Soccer team to play in the NSW State carnival next month. Tom Milner (Year 6) with CIS Primary Boys Hockey team, competing in the NSW PSSA tournament on the Central Coast this week. Past Gib Gate student update Dominic O Shannessy (Year 6, 2014) and Ravi Wikramanayake (Year 6, 2013) have been chosen to play in the ACT/NSW Country Cricket team in the upcoming U17 Australian Cricket Championships. Ravi was chosen after an outstanding ACT/NSW Country v City challenge in Coffs Harbour last week. Ravi, opening the batting for the Country team finished the challenge as the second top scorer with an average of 49 and a top score of 80. Express bowler Dominic, was chosen in the team earlier this year after an outstanding representative Cricket season. Dominic has also been named in the recently announced Cricket Australia Rookie Squad. Mr Michael Standen, Co-ordinator of PDHPE and Sport Preschool (Pre-Kindergarten) The students have been investigating how to promote a sense of welcome within our preschool. Laying the foundations for promoting empathy in a preschool environment assists the children in becoming more aware of other s needs. With the Japanese students from Hokuriku Gakuin School coming to visit the preschool, the children decided to help them feel welcome by making each visitor a clay sculpture to take home. The children were keen to create masterpieces but this time extra effort and care was put in as they wondered what the students might like. The children created a variety of items ranging from worms with jackets, to snails, people and a house. To continue interest in promoting a welcoming environment, the children recorded their thoughts on how to make the preschool entrance more inviting. To gather ideas, they began by sketching the area and adding in items that would make it look more inviting. This information was shared with the school via a poster and older students were invited to add their thoughts. The Pre-school students were delighted to see that the older students liked a lot of their ideas and that they had added some of their own. To extend the children s knowledge of the local Aboriginal culture, Wendy from Platypus Dreaming was invited to visit Preschool. She showed them how to make soap from rubbing leaves together and how to use long grass for weaving. She also showed them some bush medicine, such as how some plants can be used to relieve itchy skin / eczema. The children crushed ochre and mixed it with water to make paint which was used on a canvas and also used charcoal to draw. Wendy accompanied the children on a bush walk and was shown the wombat homes. She told the children how the Aboriginal people drew in caves, on leaves and on bark to share their stories. Learning about other ways other than print to share knowledge is an important link in learning about communication tools. Mrs Tinna Loker, Preschool Coordinator 10 Anna-Sofia Psarakis enjoying the Aboriginal Cultural experience

11 FRIENDS OF STURT Denise Sumner (President), Penny Hoskins (Secretary), Ruth Wright (Roster Secretary), Joan Dinning, Bill Dinning, Anne Thomson, Julie Musgrave, Michael Harris, Libby Hobbs, Jill Dyson Exhibitions Music to my eyes photographs by Chris Donaldson - continues to 17 September Pizza and Plate - Date for the diary - 24 September On Sunday 24 September, we will be opening a new exhibition by Master Potter, Jeff Mincham AM, who will have completed a short residency at Sturt. On the same day, we will be holding the annual community event in Sturt Pottery where a wide variety of hand-made plates will be on sale all made by students in Sturt pottery as well as our Friends of Sturt with freshly cooked pizza available straight from our wood fired pizza oven. The day is always a terrific success and raises funds through Friends of Sturt, to contribute to important acquisitions. Ephemeris - Some notes from the natural World - 24 September-12 November An Exhibition of new work by Jeff Mincham AM. This exhibition includes work made at Sturt Pottery during the artist residency in September. Opened 24 September at 11.00am, the work represents the artist s observations of the natural world. From these observations form and image evolve through the ceramic process and they acquire a unique expression of their own. Summer School 2018 Wednesday 3-Sunday 7 January brings our 20 th Summer School over that time we have built something unique in Australia, an unparalleled creative learning experience of breadth and depth in a very special setting led by inspiring and experienced tutors. This year we present a programme of 23 adults courses and five daily courses for children. Details will be available shortly on the website and at the Gallery. Full details of all Sturt courses, exhibitions, residency programmes and events can be found on the website or to make a booking or enrolment call Sturt Shop on or shop@sturt.nsw.edu.au Mr Mark Viner, Head of Sturt Deputy Head At the recent Year 9 Parent/Teacher discussions we discussed the Cambridge IGCSE Global Perspectives course and the impact this is having on Year 9 students. The course is designed to provide an opportunity for enquiry into, and reflection on, key global issues from a personal, local, national and global perspective. Students are challenged to explore stimulating topics that have a global significance. Some of the topics that have been studied to date include Biodiversity and Ecosystem Loss, Conflict and Peace, Disease and Health, Education for All, Law and Criminality, Poverty and Inequality, Sport and Recreation, Urbanisation and Water, Food and Agriculture. The Year 10 Cambridge AS General Paper students have now completed more than half of the course. The girls have been challenged to consider a wide range of issues and they have been given the opportunity to focus on a number of areas of particular interest to them. They have begun to understand the complexities involved in many of the major issues facing the global community today. It is also worth noting that the research, analytical, collaborative and evaluative skills required to complete the Global Perspectives course and the AS General Paper will be of great value for their senior secondary studies and beyond. Mr Geoff Marsh, Deputy Head 11

12 Boarding News The Year 9 Weekend was most enjoyable as we showed off the Boarding Houses and other facilities to our many visitors, those on the Head s Tour as well as the 30 Years On Reunion group. They were appreciative of the Tour Guides, commenting on their friendliness and willingness to explain the values we consider important. The Art and Design and Technology Exhibitions were seen by most and all had a good time at the Junior Production as well as activities on Sunday afternoon which included Ten Pin Bowling and a local shopping trip. Weekend Exeats To assist with weekend planning, parents are reminded that weekend exeats are to be submitted by 12 noon the Friday before the requested weekend leave. Please send all Exeat requests to boarding@frensham.nsw.edu.au. to ensure all details are clear in time for passing on to Houses. Thank you for your support. A reminder travel arrangements have now been submitted to SSTS. No further booking can be made. If cancellations occur for booked services please contact Mrs Wansey. In support of interest, we are trialling the Yass Bus extension to Harden on Sunday 3 September. Sunday 3 September return to Frensham: - Departure (Harden): 5.00pm pick-up at Jackson s Bakery, East St, Harden. - Departure (Yass): 6.00pm from Yass Junction. McDonald s - Carpark. - Arrival (Frensham): approximately 8.00pm. Cost: $50 per student. The cost will be charged to Student Account. (This service is for current Frensham students only.) [Please note that there is no scheduled meal break.] For further information, please contact Mrs Wansey. Mrs Ros Buick, Director of Planning & Events; Mrs Amanda Wansey, Deputy Head of Boarding Director of Teaching and Learning Release of NAPLAN 2017 Results information for all parents The NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) has released all 2017 performance reports for students in Year 7 and Year 9 who completed the tests in Reading, Writing, Spelling, Grammar and Punctuation and Numeracy between 9-11 May this year. Parents have received their daughter s report and the School has access to the school specific, secured, online database to enable us to study the data in great detail to design additional teaching and learning activities to develop students skills and knowledge across each area. This also allows teachers specific insight into individual student data so programmes can be personalised to suit student needs. We acknowledge and celebrate the achievement of each student in all aspects of literacy and numeracy, yet we are particularly keen to ascertain their growth and development. We also recognise that NAPLAN tests students skills on one day every two years, thus these tests are only one piece of data we use to study student progress and inform our teaching and learning programmes. School-based subject and cross-curricular classwork, quizzes, timed in-class and long-term research assessment tasks, formal examination data and standardised tests and competitions allow us to gain a fuller and ongoing picture of individual student progress. We also care deeply about developing in our students a love of reading across all genres and formats, the ability to write creatively and express considered points of view, both in handwritten and word-processed formats, and to solve real world problems by utilising their mathematical skills in a variety of contexts. As a result of their time with us at Frensham, we want them to take away the capacity to integrate knowledge and modes of thinking from a range of disciplines, or established fields, in order to create products, solve problems, raise questions and offer explanations in a purposeful, disciplined, considered and reflective manner. NESA has now introduced a literacy and numeracy minimum standard for the HSC from This means NESA has used Year 9 NAPLAN results to identify students who have met the minimum standard required early (Band 8 or above) and those who will continue to develop their skills and have further opportunities to demonstrate this standard by taking new, short online tests when they are ready in Years 10, 11 or 12. From 2018 online tests in Reading, Writing and Numeracy will be available on specified school days in Terms 1, 2, 3 and 4. Students do not have to sit all the tests on the same day. Teachers will be working with students to decide when the best time would be on an individualised basis. NAPLAN Online Update All schools are required to participate in a school readiness test between August and September 2017 as NESA begins planning to move from pen and paper to online assessment. This is a practice run for schools and is not an assessment of student ability. It will allow us to become familiar with the NAPLAN Online test format and processes, check our technical 12

13 capacity and devices to administer NAPLAN Online and provide our teachers and students with the opportunity to experience the question types and formats of the online test. Ms Kate Chauncy, Director of Teaching and Learning, P-12 and Coordinator of Gifted & Talented Programmes Director of Studies Year 10 students have begun the subject selection process for Year 11, by indicating their initial subject choices. These choices will be used to create the subject groupings (lines) from which students will then be asked to make their final choices. This process takes several weeks and much discussion, and will be finalised towards the end of Term 4. As noted at the Senior Studies Seminar earlier this term, please contact me should you wish to discuss any aspect of the process. Year 11 girls are approaching the completion of Preliminary courses at the end of this term and will commence their final examinations on Friday 8 September. The examination timetable has been available to students on Schoolbox to plan their study programme. They will also be considering making their final course selections and applying for extension courses for the HSC. Students may arrange an interview with the Director of Studies to discuss their final choices. A letter confirming subject selection will be sent to parents during the vacation, as formal sign-off, prior to commencement of HSC courses from the start of Term 4. Year 12 students are actively completing course content in some subjects and consolidating revision of topic areas identified from the recent Trial examinations. This period, prior to HSC Examinations in October, is crucial to student performance, as it allows fine-tuning of examination technique and skills and time to work with teachers on specific areas of need. Years 7 and 8 students commence the examination period next week, Week 8 of this term. Class teachers have been preparing students in the knowledge and skills of their subject and recommending and modelling appropriate study methods. The examination timetable has been available to all students to allow for planning and organisation for this assessment period. The timetable is available on Schoolbox and will also be sent in an to all Years 7 and 8 parents this week. The examination is part of the assessment programme planned for Years 7 and 8 in Further assessment will occur in Term 4. Ms Janene van Gogh, Director of Studies in Residence English It is through the idealism of youth that man catches sight of truth, and in that idealism he possesses a wealth which he must never exchange for anything else. Albert Schweitzer The above quote is a fitting tribute to Frensham students who represented the school in the South Coast Public Speaking Competition on 22 August. This week s article shares a little of their insight and passion, expressed on a range of topics. It is common knowledge that women have been traditionally underrepresented in many workplaces and this is also true of rural industries. Did you know that it took until June this year for Queensland to have its first female in its state-wide young auctioneer competition, and that of Tasmania s dozens of stock and station agents there is only one female? These facts are carefully researched support for the argument of our winning Year 7 speaker. Her speech began with a passionate challenge to both the audience s perceptions and the workplace status quo of our society: Who says I can t run a country? Who says I can t control Australia s stock exchange?... Who says I can t be or do whatever I want just because I am a female? South Coast Public Speaking - Emily Senior 2 nd ; Lily Huggins 1 st ; Ella Hopperton 3 rd, Ella Clark 2 nd. A Year 8 Frensham student cited Amelia Earhart, Cathy Freeman and Rosa Parks as examples of women who have made a difference in the world. The focus of her speech was Malala Yousafzai, who refused to remain silent despite being shot in the face for not wearing a burqa on a public bus. Our speaker concluded: I may be only 13, I don t have my driver s licence and I haven t taken my HSC nor have I been to university. But I believe that if I have determination and passion, I too can make a difference. In a speech with a similar feminist focus, a Year 9 girl addressed the issue of everyday language that reinforces gender stereotypes by quoting from the National Pro Fastpitch team: We have girls who make boys wish they threw like girls! 13

14 The conviction of these students is unsurprising in the light of Frensham s emphasis on the values: the unselfish pursuit of excellence; and the responsibility to be the best one can be in order to be of service to others. In her speech, a Year 10 student continued the theme of reducing gender inequality, stating that there is no chance of succeeding if only half the world s population is part of the feminist movement. Gender equality is not a woman s issue, it is an issue for all humankind. That student also acknowledged the privilege of her own personal circumstances: Unlike thousands of women, my parents didn t limit me or love me less because I was born a daughter. I am lucky because my teachers did not expect or ask less of me or treat me differently because of my gender. A practical way to raise awareness of youth suicide and the dark side of technology was addressed by a Frensham Year 9 student, who promoted the idea of a #speaktome app and social media forum as a means of giving someone the courage to talk to their parents or trusted friends about how they are feeling in a way that could essentially save lives. A humorous speech with a serious message, delivered by a Year 10 student, began by promoting ice-cream as food therapy, to make the insides of your mouth glow with delight. However, the entertaining speech also warned against comforting ourselves with diabetes in a bowl and using food as a crutch, concluding with statement: Food is fuel. Not therapy. Several Frensham students chose the topic Journey of a Lifetime, which elicited a range of exciting possibilities, including Year 7 students who spoke about journeying through space through a virtual reality headset and aspects of our life s journey encompassing birth, education and life role models. One Year 8 competitor spoke about journeying to South Korea, where she found the people to be remarkably laid back, despite the threat of neighbouring North Korea s nuclear weapons testing hovering in the background of everyday life. She concluded with an expression of her deep fondness for that part of the world and the hope that sanity will prevail and that ordinary people will have justification for their optimism. Also speaking on this topic, Frensham s Year 11 competitor gave a moving tribute to the influence of her father in her personal lifetime journey. From him she learned that courage, wisdom and the capacity for loving are necessary qualities to live a full life. From the intensity of the girls vision and the wide range of topics addressed, we can see that our young people, who recognise their privilege in living the Frensham lifestyle and values, have the passion and the capacity to truly make a difference in the world. Ms Jennie Mickle, Director of English Drama On Saturday 26 August, the Junior Production for 2017 was an adaption of Roald Dahl s Revolting Rhymes which took place at Clubbe Hall as part of the Year 9 Parent Weekend. Revolting Rhymes was first published in 1982 and was the first of Dahl s collection of comic verse for children. It sees Dahl take four well-known fairy tales and give them a wholly new set of Dahlesque twists. Directed by Mrs Hannah and Mrs Stevens, students in Years 8 and 9 adapted Dahl s twisted tales into a series of short plays. The four stories featured were: Cinderella; Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs; Goldilocks and the Three Bears; and Three Little Pigs. The students enthusiasm and energy was commendable and they were amply supported by the Junior Production crew on lighting, sound and backstage. On Wednesday 30 August, Year 12 Drama students completed their HSC Drama External Practical Examination, which is 60% of their final mark. With three Group Performances and nine Individual Performances, students and staff are proud of the work achieved. Mrs Sally Hannah, Head of Drama French Last Saturday, the HSC French Oral examinations took place at Chevalier College for the nine Frensham students, along with all other French Continuers candidates from the Southern Highlands area. (The oral examinations for the Extension course will be held in Frensham s Esther Tuckey Library in three weeks.) The HSC Examiner came from Sydney to interview each girl for 10 minutes and sent her dialogue by computer-link directly to NESA, to be marked later by a highly-trained team. The conversation consisted of a free and wide-ranging enquiry about the candidate s personal world, her family, school, interests, past and her future plans. The students reported that the Examiner was kind, the questions reasonably straightforward in keeping with their expectations - and the entire experience was enriching. This section represents 20% of their HSC mark and the girls are to be commended for the thoroughness of their preparation. 14

15 Meanwhile, in Years 7-11 French, the girls are also preparing for challenges of different kinds: Years 7, 8 and 11 are receiving Notifications informing them of the imminence of their school-based exams and are doubtless revising diligently, while Years 9 and 10 have Writing Assessments due soon and so are practising their written communications in a variety of genres. Alors, félicitations de tous vos efforts, les élèves, et continuez ce bon travail! Mme Mary Kidner, Teacher of French Human Society and Its Environment (HSIE) In a recent lesson with my Year 11 Ancient History class, they were surprised at how much they knew about the topic they had been studying. They were encouraged at the extent of learning that had happened, much greater than they had expected. This was primarily because they were only looking at the content through their own eyes and not thinking about the expertise of their peers. Students often do not understand the power of collaborative learning and, while they may not have a detailed knowledge of a topic, one of their peers often will. HSIE subjects are often taught in this collaborative manner (as are all subjects around the school), as HSIE subjects require students to have a shared understanding of the content they are investigating. This means that not only should students research together, but they should discuss their views and learn to consider other people s views, incorporating what they like about other opinions. At this time of the year, particularly with the HSC starting next term, it is a timely reminder for all students to think about how to use the shared learning experiences to strengthen their own. Teaching and Learning Highlights in HSIE Year 12 students have finished their Trial HSC Examinations and are now completing their courses and preparing for revision of content. Students are being supported by their teachers to complete detailed revision notes, complete practice papers and schedule one-on-one meetings. Year 11, Year 7 and Year 8 students are preparing for examinations in the coming weeks. Year 11 Geography will be undertaking fieldwork at Killelea Beach on Thursday 31 August in order to study the nature of the ecosystem in this location. Year 10 students are currently deciding on subject choices for study in their Preliminary HSC Course. Should there be any questions about the nature of a course in HSIE or what will be studied, they are encouraged to ask questions to clarify their understanding. Mr Stephen Clarke, Head of HSIE Rotary Model United Nations Assembly (MUNA), Old Parliament House, Canberra, ACT On Friday 18 August 2017, the Frensham MUNA team comprising India Shead, Lucy McMaster and Georgia Gresham travelled with Mrs Webb to Canberra to participate in the three-day National MUNA event. Over the course of the weekend, the students were involved in an extensive programme of debates at Old Parliament House, with 26 countries being represented by schools Left, Georgia Gresham, Lucy McMaster and India Shead, Old Parliament House; Right, India Shead, 1 st Speaker, Germany 15

16 from across the east coast of Australia. The Team's participation in MUNA was sponsored by the local Southern Highlands Rotary Clubs following Frensham's success at the recent Moss Vale event. We greatly appreciate Rotary's generosity and provision of such a tremendous learning opportunity for our students. Furthermore, we recognise the support of parents over the course of the weekend who were able to attend and witness strong and vigorous debate. India Shead (1st Speaker) The Model United Nations Assembly in Canberra was a competition and experience I will never forget. It taught me many skills in collaboration, politics and debating. I learnt how hard it is for countries to agree on resolutions and policies, and how traditions and cultural customs play a massive role in diplomacy. I also learnt that to get anything done or passed at the United Nations (UN) level, countries must work together and support each other to accomplish the ultimate UN goal of world peace. In representing Germany, I learnt a lot about how developed countries must help those in developing countries to ensure their safety and development. My highlights of the weekend included the Saturday debates where we discussed important world issues, including violence against women, nuclear weapon proliferation, human rights while countering terrorism and immigration and refugees. I also enjoyed the formal Saturday night dinner at the Australian National University (ANU), where we received a lecture from the highly experienced and respected Australian diplomat, Mr Ric Smith AO. However, one of my favourite experiences was the meetings with other countries where we discussed our views on the resolutions and issues, and talked about our plans for the debate. The MUNA experience is one I will never forget and the skills in collaboration and debating, I will use in the future. Mrs Machelle Webb, MUNA Coordinator Jamieson Programme The Jamieson Programme is built on the belief that The very experience of being confronted by physical, intellectual and emotional challenges in a stimulating environment is inherently exciting and immensely rewarding. Year 9: Students took part in Caving at Bungonia State Recreation Park on Thursday 17 and Friday 18 August. Despite their initial nervousness about venturing into the cave, they all participated enthusiastically in the experience. The girls also took part in a lengthy walk around the various lookouts overlooking Bungonia Gorge. Students were most grateful to staff members - Mrs McBride, Miss Morrison, Ms Chuvand, Mr Green and Ms Fittler - who also braved the cramped conditions, heights and claustrophobia. Students continue to work on the Global Perspectives group project. Each group focuses on a key global issue and works as a team to design an outcome that either raises awareness or initiates a solution of some sort. Some of the group topics include: Drug and Alcohol use, Child Abduction, Gender Inequality, Terrorism and Gun Violence. The biggest challenge for each student is to work as a valuable team member a vital life skill. Year 8: continue to enjoy their Jamieson activities of Farm Management and Riding for the Disabled each week. Year 7: are looking at different study methods and examination techniques leading up to their examinations. Mrs Merrilee Harris, Jamieson Programme Coordinator Mathematics Revisiting mathematical ideas from topics across the year has been a current focus as students prepare for their assessments. This aligns closely to the cyclical nature of the NSW syllabus which aims to develop knowledge, skills and understanding through Number and Algebra, Measurement and Geometry, Statistics and Probability. These topics, together with working mathematically, are continually reviewed to ensure foundations are strong and new concepts are introduced. Working mathematically involves the development of understanding and fluency in mathematics through inquiry, exploring and connecting mathematical concepts, choosing and applying problem-solving skills and mathematical techniques, and communication and reasoning (NSW mathematics syllabus for the Australian Curriculum p.16). The best way to reinforce a mathematical concept is to use it in different ways rather than practice methods over and over again. It is pleasing to see so many students who are already feeling confident in this complex topic, and who can focus on the 16

17 connections between the concepts, challenging themselves by choosing harder questions. Please encourage your daughter to seek help from her teacher if needed. Students are being supported in their examination preparation with regular quizzes, past papers being made available on Schoolbox, and instructions on how to study and learn mathematics. Effective methods can include flash cards, summarising notes, practising examples, solving a wide variety of questions from different sources, using games and seeking help. Answering questions, engaging with the work and having a growth mindset are vital. If this is not what you believe to be your daughter s experience, please talk to the class teacher or encourage your daughter to see her teacher. Year 11 students are currently preparing for their Yearly Examinations in Week 9. They have been issued with practice papers and solutions to assist with working under timed conditions and in recognising and correcting their own errors. It is a rewarding time for the Mathematics Faculty as we observe the senior girls demonstrating, as they prepare for their final examinations, that they understand the process of becoming good learners in the field of Mathematics. Mrs Yvette Semler, Head of Mathematics Music Last week, Year 12 students enjoyed a rewarding evening as they presented their performance programmes for the school in the HSC Music Concert. Younger musicians would have been inspired to see the candidates performing repertoire ranging from a tango on the violin, through Rachmaninoff on the piano, to rock guitar and beautiful Jazz vocals. Year 12 composers are currently recording and submitting their works to NESA for marking and performers are preparing for the arrival of external markers on Wednesday (Music 1) and Thursday (Music 2) in Week 9. At the Foundation Dinner, Nina Jephcott and Georgia Richardson provided pre-dinner music and then the Madrigals enriched the evening with two polished performances. More recently, the Year 9 Service and Concert presented musicians with another opportunity to perform at a high level for parents and the wider community. The first item on the programme featured the 9MU music class performing a movement from Handel's Music for the Royal Fireworks. Then Years 9 and 10 trumpeters played an antiphonal fanfare with the departing Year 12 trumpeters responding from the balcony. A group of Year 9 guitarists played Mr O Neill s arrangement of Attention by Charlie Puth. Sybella Harris and Cate Watson sang Joni Mitchell s Big Yellow Taxi as a duet. The Kennedy Strings performed an arrangement of music from The Phantom of the Opera. The Madrigals sang a song written by Frensham old girl Isabella Street with all the Year 12 girls featured as soloists. Finally, all of Year 9 performed their joyous version of the song Unwritten. Mr Michael Spencer, Head of Music Science The Science and Engineering Challenge is a day-long competition designed to provide Year 10 high school students with a positive experience of science and engineering. After achieving first place in our local Southern Highlands competition this year s team were invited to attend the Super Challenge held at Newcastle University, Callaghan on Tuesday 15 August. Frensham finished in 6 th place overall, with the girls working in eight teams of four, with some completing full-day activities and some two half-day activities. Activities included: - Confounding Communications students were provided with two terminals, which they used to communicate with each other using various coloured lights transmitted through an optical fibre; Left, Georgina Ridge, Annabelle Hickson, Joanna Hicks, Emily Gubbins with their catapult. Right, Building a Bionic Hand Jacqueline Wilkins and Sophie Robertson 17

18 - Grasping at Straws students were required to design, build and use a bionic hand constructed from PVC pipe, string, straws and timber coffee stirrers; - Catapult students constructed a catapult from timber dowel, packing tape and rubber bands. Points were awarded for the catapult s ability to propel a tennis ball over a distance and accurately hit a target; - Bridge students build a small bridge from balsa, pins, tape and paddle pop sticks. Points were awarded for strength and load-carrying capacity; - ElectraCITY Using electrical wires, students are required to power up certain parts of the city. Left, Hayley Hunter, Imogen Senior, Kora Fripp, Isabella Gale testing their Turbine. Middle, Isabella Allen, Amelia Thomas, Rebecca Glanville, Gina Macken doing ElectraCITY. Right, Bridge builders Emily Williams, India Shead, Bardie Thompson, Kate Crawford. The Year 10 Science Frensham Drone Academy project had a successful start in Week 5 of this term. Every Year 10 student has been provided with a Codrone kit consisting of a micro-drone and the parts to construct a remote control. In the past fortnight students have installed the Arduino software and drivers to allow them to program their remote and drone; constructed their remote control; and begun the process of programming (coding) their remote to communicate with the drone. Right, Lucy Hayes working on her drone. The first stage of the coding involved pairing, by first getting the remote to connect to the drone, then receiving feedback from the drone to learn its unique serial number. That information enabled students to programme their remote to communicate only with their drone (a vital step when there are 64 drones across the Year 10 cohort). Some students have begun the next stage of the project where they add some unique colour and sound customisation to their remote and drone. This involves them writing code for sound and light commands to operate the speaker on the remote and the LEDs on the remote and drone. This part of the project is designed to allow students to become proficient at the Arduino programming language before they start using that language to control the flight commands for the drone. In the next fortnight students will complete their customisation, learn the language of flight control such as pitch, roll, throttle and yaw through a range of activities, and start to program their drones take-off, landing and emergency stop commands. Year 10 is to be commended for the positive and enthusiastic participation in this new programme. To date they have faced a number of electronic and ICT hurdles, glitches and puzzles, but have persevered with determination. The Science department looks forward to seeing their creative customisation and their first steps toward flight in the next fortnight. Mrs Alison Andrew, Head of Science 18

19 Agriculture & Show Cattle Team On Saturday 19 August, the Year 11 Agriculture class travelled to Bingari, Cowra, the property of Frensham parents, Joy and Lex Webster, for a four-day Farm Case Study tour. The Websters grow crops such as wheat, canola and chick peas and also run sheep and cattle, which provided the class with a great variety of agricultural enterprises from which they could further their knowledge. The students firstly looked at the range of cropping machinery on site, such as tractors, spray rigs, air seeders, headers and hay making equipment, and learnt how GPS technology is used in sowing, growing and harvesting the crops. A farm tour on Sunday gave the class an opportunity to see more of the property and to see how the topography, infrastructure, water sources and vegetation (both native and introduced) impacted on agricultural production. The students also assessed the Merino, Border Leicester and Poll Dorset rams used in the prime lamb production enterprise on the property. An early start on Monday had the class travel to Wagga Wagga, firstly to watch the cattle sales at the Wagga saleyards and then on to Charles Sturt University to explore courses and career options in agriculture. The two-hour tour of the University, led by a 3 rd Year Bachelor of Science (Agriculture) student, included a course talk with one of the lecturers, visiting the agriculture and veterinary facilities, looking through a range of campus student residences as well as other University facilities. The tour provided the students with an insight into University life and information about the courses available at the campus. The trip back to Cowra included a visit to the Junee Liquorice factory to learn how liquorice root and locally grown Spelt wheat is used to produce liquorice. On the last day of the trip, the class learnt more about crop production while they toured the wheat and canola paddocks accompanied by the local agronomist. This was complemented by a visit to the grain silos in Cowra where the post-harvest receivals process was explained and the class had an opportunity to analyse some wheat and canola samples. Before heading back to Frensham, the class visited a fully automated lamb feedlot in Cowra. The students gained some first-hand agricultural experiences and furthered their understanding of crop and livestock production and the decision making processes involved in farm management. On behalf of the Year 11 Agriculture class, I would like to thank Joy and Lex Webster for their generous hospitality as well as for sharing of their valuable time and expertise with us. Ms Leonie Harris, Co-ordinator of Agriculture PDHPE Year 8 students are currently studying the unit Daily and Lifelong Physical Activity. Students have been discussing the benefits of physical activity as an integral part of a balanced lifestyle and explaining how different strengths and abilities contribute to enjoyable and successful participation in physical activity. They are participating in a variety of lifelong physical activities in practical lessons to demonstrate this knowledge and understanding. Year 10 students, as part of the Jamieson PDHPE programme, attended a talk by Constable Mutton from the local police force. He spoke to students as part of the consolidation of the drugs unit of work earlier this term. Students were able to gain valuable information about drugs and the law, classification of drugs and the costs to the community, particularly with legal drugs such as alcohol. Year 11 students are completing their final topic in their course, Fitness Choices, which examines what exercise means to different people, the ways people choose to exercise for fitness, and the influences of people s choice of fitness activities. Specifically, the commodification of fitness and the extensive advertising of products and services are analysed, as well as the barriers and motivations relating to participation. Ms Janene van Gogh, Acting Head of PDHPE Sport Wet Weather arrangements for Saturday Sport Cancellations of Saturday Sport are rarely made before Saturday morning, unless a venue notifies IGSSA that the facilities will not be playable prior to this. [See details on Schoolbox re three ways to access information direct from IGSSA.] Athletics On Thursday 17 August, a team of 30 competitors and 24 spectators travelled to Olympic Park, Homebush for the 94 th IGSSA Athletics Carnival. A great day was had by all with all girls doing their best and cheering on the team. Results: Year 7 - Paris Ow-Yang 2 nd in Division 3 12 Years 100m; Zé McGrath 3 rd in Division 3 Junior Javelin. Year 8 - Amy Thompson 2 nd in Division 3 Junior Discus; Annabelle Ranken 3 rd in Division 3 Junior 1500m; Lilith Parker 3 rd in Division 3 13 Years Hurdles. Year 9 - Charlotte Menzies 1 st in Division 3 Intermediate Discus; Christina Richardson 1 st in Division 3 19

20 Junior High Jump; Mabel Gowland 3 rd in Division 3 Intermediate Javelin. Year 10 - Georgina Ridge 2 nd in Division 3 16 Years Long Jump; Alexandra Maciver 3 rd in Division 3 16 Years 100m. Year 11 - Antoinette Inglis 2 nd in Division 3 17 Years 800m. Year 12 - Valentina Aliprandi 3 rd in Division 3 Senior Relay; Chloe McCrabb - 3 rd in Division 3 Senior Relay; Emily Ives - 3 rd in Division 3 Senior Relay, 3 rd in Division 3 17 Years Shot Put, 2 nd in Division 3 Senior Discus; Paige Wilson - 3 rd in Division 3 Senior Relay, 2 nd in 18 Years 100m, 1 st in 18 Years Long Jump and 1 st in Senior High Jump. Paige Wilson will now represent IGSSA at the NSW Combined Independent Schools Athletics Carnival to be held on Wednesday 20 September. Miss Erin Gray, Acting Head of Sport Snowsports An outstanding achievement by Frensham at the Interschools State Championships placing 6 th in the State for Skiing, 4 th for Snowboarding, 6 th for Cross Country and 8 th place for Overall Points. The teams successfully competed in Alpine, Skiercross, Moguls, Snowboard, Cross Country (Freestyle and Relay) and a new event called Slopestyle, having four teams and 10 individuals invited through to the National Competition. The teams competing were as follows and those marked * qualified for the Australian Championships at Mt. Buller in two weeks: Snowboard GS - Division1: Jessica Latimer (individually placed 13 th )*; Division 2A: Daisy Latimer, Amelia Thomas (team placed 10th). Boarder Cross - Division 1: Jessica Latimer (individually placed 10 th )*; Division 2A: Daisy Latimer, Amelia Thomas (team placed 3 rd )*. Cross Country - Freestyle Division 2A: Emily Gubbins (individually13 th )*, Alexandra Hill, Teya Blunck (no placing); Freestyle Division 3A: Georgia Hill, Matilda Arnott (individually placed 15 th )*, Elke Arnott (team placed 5 th )*; Relay Division 2A: Emily Gubbins, Alexandra Hill, Teya Blunck (placed 8 th ); Relay Division 3A: Georgia Hill, Matilda Arnott, Elke Arnott (team placed 6 th )*. Slopestyle - Ski Division 3A: Sophia Pernice (individually 4 th ), Lucy Pernice (ind.9 th ) (team placed 3 rd ). Moguls - Division 1A: Catherine Talbot (individually placed 14 th )*, Madeleine Johnston (team placed 8 th ); Division 2A: Emily Gubbins (placed 19 th ); Division 3A: Sophia Pernice (ind.11 th ), Lucy Pernice (ind.9 th ), Matilda Arnott (teamed placed 2 nd )*. Alpine - Division 1A: Catherine Talbot, Tara Penton, Madeleine Johnston, Rosie O Neil (teamed placed 7 th ); Division 2A: Dimity Crowe, Emily Gubbins, Teya Blunck (teamed placed 10 th ). Skiercross - Division 1A: Catherine Talbot, Madeleine Johnston, Tara Penton (ind.14 th ) (team placed 8 th ); Division 2A: Dimity Crowe, Emily Gubbins, Teya Blunck (team placed 12 th ); Division 3A: Lucy Pernice, Sophia Pernice, Ella Clark (team placed 15 th ). Individual top 15 results (all qualified for Nationals) include: Matilda Arnott, Emily Gubbins, Jessica Latimer (2), Daisy Latimer, Tara Penton, Lucy Pernice, Sophia Pernice (2), Catherine Talbot, Amelia Thomas. The success of our team is always due to the exceptional enthusiasm and commitment by both students and families and our team captains, Arabella Jones and Rosie O Neil. Many thanks to the team of parents, both on and off the snow, who always assist and support where necessary. Pictured left, Division 1 Alpine A team: Catherine Talbot, Rosie O'Neil, Madeleine Johnston, Tara Penton Ms Joanne Allison, Snowsports Coordinator 20