COLLEGIAN The MAGAZINE of Brisbane Boys’ College
This is History. This is College. Moments and Memories of 2020
December 2020
Be Confident. Be Challenged. Be Compassionate. Be Collaborative. Be Creative. Be Courageous. Be Connected. Be Collegial. Be Captivated. Be Certain. With BBC.
COLLEGIAN ISS U E 2 D E C E M BER 2020 UPFRONT
6
Foreword The value of a moment
8
From the Headmaster Words from Mr Paul Brown
9
The Power of Progress Creating a culture of continual improvement
16
Academic Matters and ATAR Results Highlights in the academic arena
BBC NEWS
20
Curiosity is Like a Super Power Embracing the joy of exploration
21
Educating the Educators An insight into the BBC Partnership Coaching Program
23
The Development of Reading Exploring the five pillars of reading
30
Student Leadership Student participation and 2021 Prefect Portfolios
37
The Power of Collaboration and Continuity Learning enrichment and extension programs supported by the Learning Diversity department
Published by Brisbane Boys’ College CRICOS Code 00491J Kensington Terrace, Toowong, Queensland 4066 T 07 3309 3500 W www.bbc.qld.edu.au A SCHOOL OF THE PRESBYTERIAN AND METHODIST SCHOOLS ASSOCIATION Editors Natalie Claut and Kristie Welsh Graphic Design Abbie Ongheen Photography Michael Marston ePixel Images and Jesse Smith Photography This publication is an initiative of the BBC Advancement Department with contributions from College Staff and the wider BBC community. The views expressed in this publication are those of individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of the College. Every effort has been made to ensure that information is correct at time of printing. To submit content for consideration, please email communications@bbc.qld.edu.au
BBC ARTS
BBC SPORT
38
44
View the 2020 Rising Tides Student Collection alongside the Bisset Gallery College Art Collection
Celebrating the College's historic maiden outright First XV GPS Rugby Premiership
Online College Art Show
40
Music by the Numbers Music program snapshot
A Win for the Ages
50
Seasons of Success Commemorating the College's eighth consecutive First IV GPS Premiership
INSIGHT
CONNECT
58
68
Tips on how to develop resilience in children
Images from the inaugural Raise Your Boater Day
Raising Resilient Children
61
People Power Activities of the BBC Parents & Friends’ Association
Raise Your Boater Day
74
Inspirational Old Collegians Prominent Old Boys who embody the character strengths of our ASPIRE Framework
78
Flashback Past College Captains commemorate a centenary of the OCA
81
As One Giving Day Celebrating the achievements of our 2020 As One Giving Day
82
OCA Centenary Celebration The SCI-FLEET Motors OCA Centenary Anniversary Gala Dinner will be held on Saturday 30 October 2021
COLLEGIAN The MAGAZINE of Brisbane Boys’ College
This is History. This is College. Moments and Memories of 2020
THIS IS HISTORY. THIS IS COLLEGE 2020 was a year for the history books. It was the year that saw our community rally to embrace Learning at Home programs and quick-thinking online initiatives in response to COVID-19 restrictions. It will forever be remembered as the year that our first senior cohort graduated under the new SATE system and received their ATAR results, the year that saw our online College Art Show and music performances showcase the creative talents of our students even when we couldn’t applaud them face to face and the year that our College secured three GPS Premierships - our maiden outright First XV Rugby Premiership, our eighth consecutive First IV Tennis Premiership and a joint Cricket Premiership. This is History. This is College.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
6 | UPFRONT
Foreword FROM THE EDITORS
The Value of a Moment "Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory." - Dr. Seuss If the past year has taught us anything, it is that you may never realise the value of a moment, the impact of a place, the influence of a person or the importance of a decision, until the moment has passed. It is often not until you take a step back that you can truly appreciate the progress made, the challenges endured, triumphs secured and the lessons learnt. Our students experienced this first hand when the familiarity of their daily school routine was turned on its head in 2020. Everyday moments, once taken for granted, saw classroom conversations with teachers, lunchtime interactions with mates, and participation in co-curricular activities suddenly cease. It was only in their absence that their true value was realised. As a College, 2020 forced us to face the unimaginable and we rose to the challenge. As a community we rallied to embrace Learning at Home to ensure our students didn’t miss a single day of scheduled classes, our Class of 2020 Seniors led the charge as the first cohort to tackle ATAR, our online College Art Show and music
performances showcased the creative talents of our students even when we couldn’t applaud them face to face and our athletes raised trophies and reached feats that will forever be engrained in College history. 2020 saw the generosity of our community come to the fore in support of Giving Day, and Old Boys, students and friends of the College joined together to raise their Boaters in celebration of a centenary of our OCA. In spite of all that 2020 has thrown our way, we have remained confident in the face of uncertainty and committed to our values. While this was not the year we had planned, it is sure to be remembered for years to come and we thank all members of our BBC community who have supported our staff and students through each and every season. As we reflect on the challenges and triumphs of 2020, we do so knowing that the lessons learnt, the skills gained and experiences shared have shaped our College forever. These are the moments we will take with us as we move boldly into the new year with confidence and purpose.
UPFRONT | 7
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
8 | UPFRONT
From the Headmaster MR PAUL BROWN Without wishing to replay the events of the rollercoaster ride we have experienced in 2020, the College continued to pursue it’s mission with purpose and our report card is on the whole very positive. Has the year been successful? Has it been a winning year?
2020 will be a year that lives in the collective conscience forever.
Well, how do we measure success and winning? For me, success has been about enabling students to achieve their best despite the complexities and the disappointments of the COVID-19 year. I believe we may well have gained something that we did not previously possess; how we rediscovered the sense of joy we find in being together, and celebrating the sight of young people growing more fully into themselves. Winning is not only about the scoreboard, or holding up the trophy at the end of the season, enjoyable though that is. The definition of winning is to gain something you previously did not have. Winning is about connecting, it is about protecting and about respecting one another. Despite the interruptions we have endured this year, we can say with a sense of humility that we have been successful in the things that matter and we rejoice in our blessings and in the strength of our community.
I would like to thank everyone who has contributed in some way, shape or form to the success of the College in 2020. To my Executive Team, to the staff and students, to College Council, Old Collegians, Parents & Friends, support groups, benefactors, business partners and the PMSA. It takes collective effort to ensure the success of a school such as ours and every contribution is highly valued. At BBC, we believe an education should allow students to develop convictions, to understand ethics, and to ask challenging questions. Our society benefits from people who are both robust and compassionate, who are not afraid of life or of other people. Our society benefits from people who develop virtues within themselves. An education helps students work out both what they want to do and who they want to be. If the College continues to focus on this fundamental aspect of education, then a BBC education can continue to provide each boy with the confidence to graduate from the College ready to face the challenges of the world.
Staff Farewells We acknowledge our retiring and departing long-term staff members and thank them for their service to the College. Mr Peter Horeczyj retires after 41 years of service. Peter has held many roles at BBC throughout his career including Boarding Housemaster (Rudd House), Housemaster (Knox), IB Teacher In Charge, Head of Commerce and Coordinator of Senior Economics. Peter was also involved in Debating, Rugby, Cross Country, Athletics, Cricket and Commerce co-curricular activities. Peter was a very active representative and executive member of numerous committees and associations at BBC and was acknowledged as an Honorary Old Collegian in 2020. We thank Peter for enriching the lives of many students at the College.
Mr Christopher Blood arrived at BBC 20 years ago as Head of Mathematics and has held that position ever since. Christopher has been actively involved in the co-curriculum program, particularly Cricket. We thank Christopher for his dedicated service and contribution to the BBC community. Mr Mark Griffith, Deputy Head of Junior School - Administration & Student Wellbeing has fulfilled various roles over the past 20 years including Acting Head of Junior School, Head of Early Years, Master in Charge, Advanced Skills Teacher, Year Level Coordinator, Subject Coordinator and Housemaster across the Junior and Middle Schools. Mark was welcomed as a Friend of the Vintage Collegians in 2018 and as
an Honorary Old Collegian in 2019. Mark is leaving the College to volunteer with DonateLife Queensland. We thank Mark for his service and leadership. Mr David Marriott, Director of Cricket and Year 10 Boarding Coordinator has accepted a position as Head of Senior Boarding at Scots PGC, Warwick. Congratulations David on this great career opportunity. David came to BBC as Director of Cricket and has held that role ever since as well as several years as Boarding Supervisor and Year 10 Boarding Coordinator. We thank David for his 19 years of service, his passion and energy.
BBC FEATURE | 9
THE POWER OF PROGRESS CREATING A CULTURE OF CONTINUAL IMPROVEMENT
“THE PRINCIPAL GOAL OF EDUCATION IS TO CREATE MEN WHO ARE CAPABLE OF DOING NEW THINGS, NOT SIMPLY OF REPEATING WHAT OTHER GENERATIONS HAVE DONE-MEN WHO ARE CREATIVE, INVENTIVE, AND DISCOVERERS.” – JEAN PIAGET, PSYCHOLOGIST
Over the past 118 years, Brisbane Boys’ College has grown to be a truly great school. A school of rich and proud traditions, the symbols of which are everywhere to be seen, such as the distinctive boater the boys wear, the pipes and drums which are heard at all significant occasions, our boarding, sporting and cultural history, all of which help to galvanise our inclusive community of students, Old Collegians, parents, staff and friends who contribute to the BBC story. Just as our culture and reputation is informed by our history and Christian values, it is synchronously created by what we do in the present. Director-General of the OECD’s Directorate for Education Mr Andreas Schleicher notes a key driver of educational progress is to be “open to the world and ready to learn from other experiences”. He states success will go to those individuals and nations that are swift to adapt, slow to complain and open to change, warning of the frailty of relying on past reputations and practices alone.
At BBC, we are committed to remaining open to new ways of thinking. We cannot be captive to past practices and complacent about the future or we will not be acting in the best interests of our students. If we are to remain at the forefront of boys’ education and develop the leaders of tomorrow, we must continue to innovate and be open to change, all while remaining true to our fundamental principles and values. Our current Strategic Direction, 2019 – 2021 articulates how we are taking action to continually improve our practices and create our pathway forward. As 2020 draws to a close and we embark on the final year of our current plan, we are pleased to report on the great progress made in advancing our strategic ambition to provide a world-class educational environment for learners of all ages. Our focus on student wellbeing has seen the introduction of a refreshed student wellbeing model that is grounded in the science of positive psychology, inspired by Christian example, and informed by the best pastoral care systems and evidence-based
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
10 | BBC FEATURE providing opportunities for our boys to grow spiritually, academically, pastorally, and in their cultural and sporting endeavours. Supporting our core business of delivering the best possible educational experience to our students, is our continued focus on the future development of the College. We engaged leading architectural firm, Cox Architects, to revisit and reimagine the College’s Master Plan so we can prepare for the future development of the College and prioritise the development of the campus to meet the needs of our students our staff. The re-emergence of the BBC Foundation and the successful initiatives they have introduced in recent years, such as Giving Day, will play a vital role in funding these projects and nurturing a culture of connectedness and philanthropy within our community. As part of our commitment to ensure continual improvement in the quality of education we provide to our boys, and in the knowledge that however good a school is it should seek to continually improve itself, the College recently commissioned MMG Education, a consultancy specialising in school research and strategy development, to conduct a survey of all parents. research from around the world. The program has built upon the College’s strong pastoral care foundations to promote a stronger alignment of wellbeing across the Junior, Middle and Senior Schools, so as to equip BBC boys with the skills and competencies to lead purposeful and meaningful lives. Our boys have benefitted greatly from this new framework, with our student wellbeing indicators demonstrating dramatic improvement (see page 15). Boys have also enthusiastically embraced our new portfolio-based student leadership model that privileges student voice and agency. This contemporary, vertically distributed, inclusive model provides opportunity for leadership development and impact to be distributed to the strengths, interests, passions and curiosities of all students. Just as our students have benefitted from working together, so too have our teachers, with key strategic staff leadership initiatives, such as the Middle Leaders Program, and collaborative professional learning opportunities delivering positive outcomes for teaching staff and students alike. One such example is the introduction of our innovative Partnership Coaching model, which, in addition to regular Learning Hubs, provides teachers with collaborative opportunities to share their knowledge, ideas and best practice to continually improve their skills and impact as educators.
Key initiatives to promote academic achievement under the current strategic plan have included the introduction of peer, after-school and boarding tutoring, study skills and time management programs; improved data analytics and academic tracking; a Prep to Year 12 literacy and intervention plan; whole-cohort experiential learning programs; the development of a Pedagogical Framework and the recasting of the school timetable to privilege class time, among others. Subject Application Ratings, which were introduced in 2019 to help report on the quality and consistency of a student’s effort and application to his studies, have helped facilitate particularly pleasing results, with all year levels maintaining or increasing their ratings, reflecting an increase in the boys’ academic motivation and engagement with their learning. In another exciting innovation, 2021 will see the introduction of the Honours Program, representing a new way of thinking, teaching and delivering academic talent development at BBC. At the heart of our strategic direction remains our commitment to providing boys with a holistic education that prepares them to move confidently into the world and make a positive contribution to society. It is our ambition to enhance every student’s wellbeing, alongside providing best practice teaching and learning, that focuses our decision-making around
The purpose of the survey was to gain a deep and well-informed understanding of our parents’ views of our performance across a variety of aspects relating to a BBC education, including the Learning at Home program. The feedback gathered will help inform our next phase of operational and strategic planning, helping to drive meaningful change and improvements for the benefit of all boys.
BBC FEATURE | 11 It will also assist us to benchmark our College against other like schools across Australia and enable us to track changes in performance over time. A total of 725 parents across the Junior, Middle and Senior Schools completed the survey, delivering an excellent response rate of 63 percent. The response from our parent body was overwhelmingly positive with families particularly impressed with the Learning at Home program.
The key areas where parent expectations are being exceeded are: 1. Focus on Student Wellbeing 2. Co-Curricular Program 3. Balanced Education / Quality Teaching (equal) Some areas requiring further investigation or refinement include our breadth of social action opportunities, navigation of Highlands, homework, facility improvements, and early identification/intervention of academic support needs.
Thank you to the many parents who gave of their valuable time to this most important project. Having gained a greater understanding of the diverse needs and expectations of our community, we can ensure these views feed into next year’s strategic planning process. The data confirms the College is in an excellent position moving forward, yet there are also areas where we can do better, and we look forward to addressing these areas in line with our commitment to continual improvement.
OUR AIMS TO PROVIDE A WORLD-CLASS EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT FOR LEARNERS OF ALL AGES BY: • Supporting the spiritual growth of each student within a caring Christian environment • Developing each student's self-identity, wellbeing and growth through a diversity of experiences • Drawing inspiration from the best educational systems around the world and from evidence-based research to create innovative practice • Providing engaging, creative and challenging teaching and learning curriculum through which students develop skills, knowledge and understanding • Crafting a culture of service to others where individually and collectively we will make a difference to the community • Developing highly accomplished and inspirational staff, committed to their practice and ambitious for the learning and wellbeing of their students • Creating a safe, caring and supportive environment that empowers all students to flourish • Maintaining and developing outstanding facilities to support quality curricular and co-curricular programs • Fostering close, open and respectful relationships with Old Collegians, parents, support groups and the wider BBC community for the benefit of all • Developing mutually beneficial partnerships with alumni, business and universities to enrich the education of students and staff
View our Strategic Direction (2019-2021) in full: www.bbc.qld.edu.au/strategic-direction
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
12 | BBC FEATURE
RESULTS SNAPSHOT MMG EDUCATION PARENT SURVEY INTERPRETING THE DATA MMG Education are leaders in tailored school stakeholder research and performance benchmarking. The MMG percentages listed provide a comparison of how BBC measures up against other like, independent schools. The benchmark of a top performing school is 80 percent. Scores of 80 percent and above are indicators of strong performance which translates to high advocacy and school of first choice status.
2020 BBC parents - Overall satisfaction with Son’s Education at BBC
OVERALL SATISFACTION WITH SON’S EDUCATION AT BBC
2020 BBC parents - Overall satisfaction with the Academic Program
OVERALL SATISFACTION WITH THE ACADEMIC PROGRAM
MMG
MMG
Junior School
85%
83%
Middle School
Middle School
Senior School
80%
Senior School
Overall
82%
Overall
OVERALL SATISFACTION WITH THE CO-CURRICULAR 2020 BBC parents - Overall satisfaction with Co-Curricular Music Program MUSIC PROGRAM
Middle School
Senior School
Overall
82%
79%
81%
OVERALL SATISFACTION WITH THE CO-CURRICULAR 2020 BBC parents - Overall satisfaction with Co-Curricular Sports Program SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES (GPS) PROGRAM
MMG
Junior School
83%
Junior School
MMG
86%
88%
85%
87%
Junior School
82%
Middle School
79%
Senior School
76%
Overall
78%
Top three aspects of overall satisfaction with Co-Curricular Music:
Top three aspects of overall satisfaction with Co-Curricular Sport:
1. The quality of facilities and resources (90%) 2. Opportunities for my son to participate in an activity of his choice (89%) 3. The way that the program provides opportunities to students of all abilities (88%)
1. My son’s enjoyment of sporting activities (86%) 2. Competitiveness when playing other schools (81%) 3. The way that the program provides opportunities to students of all abilities (80%)
m
BBC FEATURE | 13
IN THEIR WORDS
REASONS FOR SCHOOL CHOICE Parents were asked the importance they placed on reasons for choosing BBC for their children.
OPEN-ENDED PARENT RESPONSES FROM THE MMG EDUCATION SURVEY
The five most important reasons for choice are: 1. Quality of Teaching (97%) 2. Balanced Education (96%) 3. Focus on Student Wellbeing (96%) 4. The College’s Values (93%) 5. Facilities and Resources (91%)
OVERALL WITH LEARNINGwith AT HOME 2020 BBCSATISFACTION parents - Overall satisfaction Learning at Home MMG
Junior School
75%
81%
Middle School
Senior School
Overall
We entrusted the education of our son to the staff of the College - this is something we could not provide him ourselves. We are very grateful that there are so many passionate and talented staff who have been a part of shaping our son into who he is today. Their support, encouragement and rapport with him have helped him become a confident, proud, caring young man with purpose.
80%
79%
We value the friends that both we and our boys have made, some of whom are teachers at the College. The thrill of the pipes on game days, the tremendous music concerts and the pride of seeing our lads in that handsome uniform, complete with Boater. It has, and continues to be, a wonderful school for our sons, thanks mainly to the tremendous teaching and support staff from the Junior School up.
OVERALL SATISFACTION WITH CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS 2020 BBC parents - Overall satisfaction with Co-Curricular (non-sport) Clubs and Activities AND ACTIVITIES MMG
Junior School
83%
Middle School
81%
Senior School
81%
Overall
82%
My sons are happy at BBC, that is the most important thing for us.
BBC provides a safe and appropriately challenging environment for our son that is fostering his independence and growth. As parents, we feel welcomed and part of the BBC community. We are associated with a school of which we can be proud, that reflects our values and stands tall in the wider community.
Top three aspects of overall satisfaction with Co-Curricular Clubs and Activities: 1. The quality of facilities and resources (86%) 2. My son’s overall enjoyment of participating (86%) 3. Opportunities for my son to participate in an activity of his choice (86%)
I value seeing my son supported in his personal growth and confidence as he prepares to take on the next chapter of his life. I know he knows where to go for support should he need it. He has made some lovely lifelong friends.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
14 | BBC FEATURE
Our focus on continual improvement similarly drives us to measure the social and emotional growth of our students. There is an inextricable link between student wellbeing and connectedness, and success in the classroom. While schools regularly measure student academic success, it is incumbent upon us to also measure social and emotional wellbeing. Brisbane Boys' College has for the past three years annually deployed the ACER Social Emotional Wellbeing Survey for students in Years 3 to 12. The survey measures feelings and behaviours, emotional skills, social skills, values, learning skills, and perceptions of school, home and community life. This external evaluation helps the College to assess the wellbeing of students on an annual basis, identify the social and emotional needs of student groups, target resourcing to specific areas of need, measure the effectiveness of programs, and report on wellbeing to parents and the College community. Results from the 2020 survey are particularly pleasing with improvements recorded across each of the key categories surveyed. This indicates that the refreshed student wellbeing model and whole school ASPIRE Positive Education Framework, introduced in 2019, are proving very effective in improving the overall social and emotional wellbeing of our students. In particular, the survey reflects significant growth across the College, and against national means, in key areas including: a student's sense of belonging, student voice, resolving conflict, reduction in learned helplessness, learning how to make friends and solve problems, learning about different feelings people can have and how students can cope with stress, students having different opportunities for discussing how they can make school a better and safer place to be. Not surprisingly, with the increasing transparency of a young person’s world and the growing high stakes testing and expectations for their future, the areas of managing stress, personal organisation, and fostering an intrinsic love of learning were identified in the survey as being key areas of focus for the College in the immediate future. Strategies to focus on these key findings include increasing awareness of the value of advocates in each student’s life to address worries and concerns, continuing to explore stress management techniques, continuing to prioritise collaborative social emotional learning environments, modelling the diversity of learning journeys, and continuing the development and scope of student voice and agency.
BBC FEATURE | 15
RESULTS SNAPSHOT ACER SOCIAL EMOTIONAL WELLBEING STUDENT SURVEY
In school, I am learning about different feelings people can have and how I can cope with stress
At my school, students have different opportunities for discussing how they can make school a better and safer place to be.
12% IMPROVEMENT 2019-2020 BBC 75.3% NATIONAL MEAN 71.6%
I feel like I belong in my school
6% IMPROVEMENT 2018-2020
7% IMPROVEMENT 2018-2020 BBC 75.3% NATIONAL MEAN 71.6%
BBC 90.0% NATIONAL MEAN 80.2%
I feel very stressed
I am a happy person
8% IMPROVEMENT 2018-2020
4% IMPROVEMENT 2018-2020
BBC 37.4% NATIONAL MEAN 35.4%
When I don’t understand something I’m learning, I think that ‘I don’t really have what it takes to be successful’
BBC 94.1% NATIONAL MEAN 85.6%
11% IMPROVEMENT 2018-2020 BBC 23.2% NATIONAL MEAN 35.0%
*Percentages reflect the proportion of the student population (Years 7 to 12) who self-identify with the above statements
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
16 | BBC FEATURE
Academic Matters DR LEIGH HOBART DEPUTY HEADMASTER - ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE AND INNOVATION (P-12)
2020 has been an extraordinary year in many ways for many people, and the teachers at BBC have responded with agility, hard work and sheer determination to ensure that our boys’ learning continued without interruption. I recently heard someone say that high quality teaching and learning is a ‘given’ at a school like BBC. I believe that this is rather naive. True, a school like BBC has high expectations regarding learning, embraced by families and the community. However, teaching and learning at a school like BBC does not just happen, it involves a team of highly regarded professionals who are committed to continuous learning, to keeping abreast of the latest research, to innovate, to improve what we do and how we do it so we can offer the best learning experience possible. A lot of effort and dedication goes into allowing this to happen – from recruiting the best educators to ensuring they are encouraged and supported to rise to and maintain excellence. The world has changed from when many of us went to school. Learners have changed. Learning has changed. And teachers have responded in kind. Research and experience consistently prove that it is when we work together, using evidence to improve what we do – the outcomes and results can be better for our students, and in turn for their families. This year has highlighted this, like no other. One of my highlights for 2020 was how our teaching team collectively responded to a global pandemic. Given short timeframes, the teachers all engaged with professional learning to provide our boys with a Learning at Home program. Microsoft Teams was used as a method of choice based on quality evidence and in collaboration with our Technology Services Department. Superusers were trained to help support their colleagues and time was dedicated in the final weeks of Term 1 to implement and trial this model.
It was not easy, but the teaching staff worked diligently, learned, adapted and helped each other, with the result being our boys did not miss a single day of learning, positioning us as a leading example in how to deliver an exceptional educational service. Our Semester 1 results were impressive (as was the feedback from families) and outcomes achieved during this period were testament to the ingenuity of teachers and a mighty team effort. The complexity of teaching is difficult to capture, however a consistent approach is foundational to ensure quality practice. For many years the school has followed the pedagogical principles of the ‘Dimensions of Learning’ by Marzano. Over the years, Marzano has revised and adapted these dimensions to be reflected in new models and other theorists have added to our understanding of best practice. During 2020 we took the opportunity to revisit and build on the work of Marzano, to develop a Pedagogical Framework that incorporated the latest research, was agile and was context specific to the priorities of the College. Our new framework holds at its heart, the boy, and his developing global competencies – creativity, critical thinking, communication, collaboration, citizenship and character. From there, contemporary learning, learning domains, and teaching and learning practices emanate. This has been a major piece of work behind the scenes that provides a framework for teachers to use to inform, challenge and collaborate. To provide opportunities to further develop global competencies, our activities week in Term 3 continued to evolve. This year the Year 7 students worked with Shake & Stir to perform after a week learning about Shakespeare. Parents and families enjoyed the performance through a
recorded broadcast. Year 8 students had a wonderful time learning about the history and geography of Brisbane - and about themselves - during the Amazing Adventure. Year 9 students joined with the University of Queensland Ideas Hub to ideate, create and present their innovations to a panel including Steve Baxter (from Shark Tank and Queensland’s previous Chief Entrepreneur) and Nathanial Simpson (OC 2003 and SAFe Program Consultant and Trainer). Year 10 students had a varied week listening to inspiring guest speakers such as Andrew Stark (OC 1993 and General Manager of World Surf League and Kelly Slater of Wave Co Australia, Asia and Oceania), learning first aid, nutrition, and driver safety, rogaining the streets of Brisbane and visiting universities to explore their pathways post school. Providing excellence in literacy particularly for boys - is an area of high interest. After the successes we have had in our progress with literacy outcomes in the early years, writing was a focus for curriculum refinement during 2020 and will continue into 2021. Responding to longitudinal data, research is being conducted by key literacy leaders in the College as part of a ISQ Middle Leaders Research Project. Further to this, teachers in Years 4 and 7 learned about writing strategies from Write that Essay which they have implemented in their classrooms, leading to promising results from students. Further professional learning will occur for all staff in this transdisciplinary area during 2021. Building on the work of our Honours Research Committee, measures have been put in place to introduce our exciting new Honours Program in 2021. Evolving from the work of Gagne and GERRIC, combined with extensive research into programs from around the globe, the Honours Program will start in Years 5, 7 and 10.
BBC FEATURE | 17 The academic program at Brisbane Boys’ College attracts the best and brightest boys from across Queensland, interstate and overseas. We are proudly a non-selective school, and the proposal for an Honours Program will further support our highest performing students to flourish and extend beyond what they thought possible. As the program becomes more bespoke as students progress through the school, they will be able to engage with opportunities which extend beyond the classroom through super curriculum offerings and an Honours Society in the Senior School.
There are many things to celebrate about the year that was, but none more so than the success of our first Senior Assessment Tertiary Entrance (SATE) graduates. This fine cohort of young men were the first full cohort of Prep, the first Year 7 cohort to move into high school and now the first to graduate within the new SATE system after 13 years of schooling. We are proud of them and their results and acknowledge the work and dedication of the staff and families in supporting them to achieve so well. We look forward to celebrating their successes at our 2021 Scholars’ Assembly.
CLASS OF 2020 RESULTS SNAPSHOT TOP ATAR
99.95
MATTHEW CHEN, CODY FANG AND MAX FOREMAN
These boys represent
24.1%
Students in the top 5% ATAR OF 95+
9.3%
Students in the top 1% ATAR OF 99+
44.2% MEDIAN ATAR
88.30
Students in the top 10% ATAR OF 90+
(the ATAR of the middle student)
3 OF 30
YEAR 12 STUDENTS TO ACHIEVE THE TOP RESULT IN QLD
This information is based on data available to the College from the 83.7% of students who applied for tertiary entrance. An Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) is used for university entrance. The highest ranking on the 2,000 point scale is 99.95, with increments of 0.05.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
18 | SNAPSHOTS
Recognising Excellence Images from our 2020 Awards Presentations
JUNIOR SCHOOL AWARDS PRESENTATION 2 December
SNAPSHOTS | 19
YEARS 7 TO 11 AWARDS PRESENTATION
13 November
YEAR 12 VALEDICTORY AND PRIZE GIVING
15 October
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
BBC NEWS
22
Junior, Middle and Senior Activities 32 Farewell Class of 2020 34 Spotlight on Programs
Curiosity is Like a Superpower Curiosity is a human instinct. It is the joy of exploration. It is a hidden force that drives learning and is the key to our way of life. Curiosity has built our world and it remains an important driver for future economic prosperity, technological advancement and innovation. There is extensive research to indicate a shift in workforces from lower skilled manual work, to new workforces needing a set of new ‘work smarts’. A recent paper by Deloitte (2019), speaks of the great economic prosperity that Australia has enjoyed even through a period of global volatility. It cautions our future economic standing is not guaranteed and that our future relies on continued gains in productivity achieved by investing in the development of curiosity, creativity and innovation in the workplace and future workforces. Curiosity is associated with the release and flow of dopamine in the brain. These chemicals are part of the brain's reward pathway and they generate the sense of satisfaction we feel when our curiosity is fed. Researchers performed a meta-analysis from studies incorporating over 50,000 students. They found curiosity positively influenced academic performance. In fact, it had quite a large effect size, about the same as conscientiousness. When high levels of conscientiousness and curiosity are present in students the effect size on performance is as high as intelligence. Research has also linked curiosity to a wide range of important dispositions of character, including tolerance of uncertainty, positivity, humour, playfulness and a non-critical attitude. All these attributes are crucial for positive social interactions and productive future workplace environments. Our students will work in virtual workplaces and partnerships, and they will need to collaborate and communicate through new models of technology. It is this intensity of collaboration that will create opportunities to amplify curiosity. Collaboration will involve more than sitting around a table working to solve a problem. It will also involve sharing ideas and experiencing the infectious power of curiosity. Psychologists see curiosity as a life force, vital for happiness, intellectual growth, and wellbeing. It is like a human superpower. For educators, curiosity is a powerful driver of both student success and engagement. It also predicts better relationships, life fulfillment, and job performance (Kashdan & Roberts, 2004; Kashdan & Steger, 2007; Reio & Wiswell, 2000). At BBC, our educators invest time to develop and harness curiosity as our students’ superpower.
BBC NEWS | 21
Educating the Educators PARTNERSHIP COACHING MR SEAN RIORDAN | HEAD OF PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE AND PARTNERSHIPS
“When teachers stop learning, so do students.� - Jim Knight (University of Kansas) Throughout 2020, our Partnership Coaching program has remained focussed on developing teacher efficacy through an evidence-based focus on High Impact Teaching Strategies (HITS). Based on the work of Instructional Coaching guru, Jim Knight, this program seeks to support and encourage teachers to reflect on their practice through guided coaching from another colleague. Teachers are able to utilise video evidence of their lessons to explore key moments with their instructional coach. Coaches are highly trained in questioning techniques which draw out best practice in their colleagues. Research shows that onsite, contextualised learning, where teachers have meaningful conversations with their colleagues, produce the greatest positive impact on student outcomes. At BBC, we are committed to providing our students with access to teachers who are willing to demonstrate their enthusiasm to reflect, learn and improve their craft. To date, almost 100 of our teachers have engaged in this coaching experience, working
with an instructional coach on a teaching goal they believe will positively impact learning outcomes and classroom experience for their students. It is wonderful to see collaborative staff conversations and witness teachers working together to use video recordings as a powerful teaching and learning tool in class. Earlier this year, Mr Dominic Piacun, Senior School Curriculum Coordinator and I were invited to showcase the program at Independent Schools Queensland Big Ideas Forum. It was exciting to share our experience, wisdom and learnings with colleagues from across the state. In late March, when COVID-19 restrictions hit and BBC staff prepared to deliver our Learning at Home program, Partnership Coaches worked with teaching staff to support their learning, assisting them to deliver engaging and meaningful lessons through an online Teams platform. This year, we also produced two Illustrations of Practice videos to demonstrate the Coaching Effect Cycle in action and provide teachers with examples of High Impact Teaching Strategies (HITS) used to encourage deep learning.
To close the year, the Partnership Coaching team was pleased to receive incredibly positive feedback from our colleagues. We are excited to engage further with teaching staff in 2021, as we embark on an Instructional Rounds process that seeks to inform teaching across the College. We trust that our boys continue to reap the benefits of this Partnership Coaching program, through improved learning experiences and exceptional results.
Scan with smartphone camera to view the Illustrations of Practice videos
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
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Junior School activities
Character Conversations Coaching Program MRS LOUISE MORRIS HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL In the BBC Junior School we appreciate the importance and responsibility of laying strong foundations for future student learning. We understand that boys are capable and competent of thinking and working creatively, critically and collaboratively and that they can actively construct their own learning and knowledge. As a team of educators, we are driven to ensure that our boys are truly prepared to thrive.
This year BBC launched a peer mentoring program which saw our Year 6 boys engage in Character Conversations with students from across the Junior School. Through their leadership, Year 6 boys encouraged their peers to share thoughts and ideas about character strengths as they led activitybased learning and conversations. The primary goal for this program is for boys to develop common understandings and new ideas about character strengths, which we hope will be positively reflected in their behaviours and actions. By recognising and working with their strengths, boys will be supported to be the ‘best version’ of themselves. Another goal of this program is to provide an opportunity for Year 6 students to develop their leadership strengths and skills. Within Positive Education, leadership focusses on encouraging a group, of which one is a member, to get things done, and at the same time maintaining good relations within the group; organising activities and seeing things through to fruition. There are two types of leaders: Transactional leaders, who clarify responsibilities, expectations, and the tasks to be accomplished and Transformational leaders, who motivate their followers to perform at an extremely high level, foster a climate of trust and commitment to the organisation and its goals. Boys with
leadership as their top character strength excel at encouraging a group to get things done and preserve harmony within the group by making everyone feel included. Most adults can appreciate that being a leader can at times be a difficult job. Leadership is about much more than giving orders, managing people’s time, making schedules, or providing annual performance reviews - it is a task that requires dedication and a wide range of skills. The aim of this program is to create an opportunity where boys can experience how their leadership can inspire, empower and make a difference to others. Their participation will also nurture them to develop their communication and organisation skills, improve their ability to relate to others and encourage personal responsibility. The third goal for this program is to foster new connections between Junior School boys and provide opportunities for them to engage with different members of the community as they cultivate a sense of belonging. BBC enjoys a strong reputation for nurturing long lasting friendships and a sense of pride in our community. We hope this program assists boys to build strong foundations as they progress into their future years of schooling and connect through sporting teams, music ensembles, in the playground and in classrooms.
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The Development of Reading FIVE PILLARS OF READING MS JENNIFER WARWICK DEPUTY HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL (TEACHING AND LEARNING)
Reading is a basic life skill. It is a cornerstone for a child's success in school and throughout life. Without the ability to read well, opportunities for personal fulfilment and job success will inevitably be lost.
The phonemic awareness of preschool children is the single best predictor of their future reading ability, better than either socioeconomic status (SES) or intelligence quotient (IQ) (Adams, 1990; Bowey, 2005; Ehrie et al, 2001, Snow et al, 1998; Stanovich & Stanovich, 2003; Wasik, 2001). Being able to blend together and segment phonemes are the most crucial phonemic skills for reading and spelling.
milliseconds without even realising they are doing it! For example, some readers constantly ask and answer questions in their minds to clarify their understanding while reading. If a section of text doesn’t make sense, we question it, then go back and re-read it – often making assumptions about the meaning of an unknown word.
At Brisbane Boys’ College, we believe that reading consists of five components that build on oral language.
Phonics – understanding the relationship between written letters (graphemes) and the sounds in spoken language (phonemes).
Phonemic Awareness – the ability to hear, identify and manipulate individual sounds (phonemes) in spoken language.
There are 26 letters in the English language that in isolation or in combination with each other create the 44 sounds. As children develop understanding of these letter-sound relationships, they are able to use this knowledge to sound out words as they read.
The first vocabulary a child acquires is a listening vocabulary. Most babies are able to respond correctly to spoken words before they are able to produce those words themselves. When children start to read, they begin to acquire a reading vocabulary consisting of words they automatically recognise and understand. They also begin to use words as they compose written texts thus developing a writing vocabulary. Vocabulary is important in reading as the more words children know and understand, the easier it is to make sense of what they are reading.
As a parent, I believed that reading to my children would help develop their language and comprehension skills. As an educator, I realised the importance of reading to them from an early age.
The Read Write Inc program is implemented in our early years classrooms. It is a synthetic phonics program which is structured to cover all five pillars of reading. The program places a large emphasis on phonological awareness relating to the sounds of spoken language. It includes understandings about words, rhyme, syllables and relates to the sounds we make when we say a letter or word.
Comprehension – the ability to understand and make meaning from text. When reading text, all readers want to make sense of it. Successful readers implement different strategies while reading in order to comprehend the text and they do this in
ORAL LANGUAGE
• Discussing the vocabulary featured in a book that a child is reading provides an authentic context in which to expand their knowledge.
INTERRELATED ASPECTS OF READING
FLUENCY
While a child’s vocabulary develops indirectly, there are ways to support this development: • The more children read, the more vocabulary they are exposed to. Build their vocabulary by encouraging them to read from a variety of texts. Often new vocabulary can be determined from the context of the sentence.
PHONOLOGICAL AWARENESS
COMPREHENSION
Vocabulary – developing an ever-increasing base of known words and their meaning.
PHONICS
VOCABULARY/ GRAMMAR
• Reading to children, while being a pleasurable experience, can also expose a child to a richer vocabulary they may not yet be able to read for themselves. Discussion around new or interesting words and their meanings follows naturally.
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Fluency – the ability to read at pace with accuracy and expression. Being able to read fluently aids comprehension. Children who are unable to read fluently may have problems with decoding and are most likely frustrated and unmotivated. Reading fluently requires children to be able to read words and punctuation. Reading the punctuation helps with pause, flow and intonation – all helping to make sense of the text. Some ways to support fluency development include: • Practise re-reading the same passage. Re-reading the same text several times allows children to become familiar with the words, increasing their accuracy, so they can focus on their speed and expression.
• Every time children listen to someone read to them they can hear what fluent reading sounds like. Reading to a child and participating in shared reading activities provides great opportunities for this. Audio books are also helpful. • Record and listen. Children can use a device to record themselves reading a passage and then play it back. Not only do children like listening to their playback, the more they repeat, the better their fluency will become. A focus on all five pillars of reading will help to develop both decoding and comprehension skills in children.
WAYS TO BUILD YOUR CHILD'S VOCABULARY MAKE CONVERSATION A PRIORITY
USE WORDS IN SENTENCES
In all your everyday activities talk to your child and discuss what is happening around you. Trips in the car are a perfect opportunity to discuss the surroundings. Often this will expose your child to new vocabulary.
There is no point learning new words if your child doesn’t know how to use them correctly. Encouraging children to use a word in a spoken or written sentence will help them understand its meaning and context. Use extensive vocabulary and the correct scientific words. Children always have a bigger receptive vocabulary than expressive vocabulary: that is, they understand more words than they are able to use. This means that there is no need to oversimplify the way in which you talk to your child. Don’t water down your language, as we want children to pick up on the words we are using.
READ TOGETHER Keep reading aloud to your child, even once they are able to read independently. Kids love to hear stories, and you can build their vocabulary by choosing books that would be too difficult for them to read themselves. Don’t just stick to stories as reading non-fiction books, newspapers and comics will expose your child to a wider range of words.
USE LABELS Labelling items around the house when children first start to read not only develops their vocabulary but their writing as well. Encourage your child to write some of the labels and change them regularly. For example, ask them to find ten labels stuck around the house and read them each week.
PLAY WORD GAMES From ‘I Spy’ to Scrabble and Bananagrams, there’s a huge range of word games that will help your child learn new words. Making language-learning a part of games is useful, as it makes it interactive and fun. This is particularly useful for boys.
PLAY TOGETHER Playing with your child is crucial for developing communication skills. Children learn to make new sounds, talk in full sentences, ask questions, and understand how interactions work while at play. It also helps them communicate with other children.
ENCOURAGE LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT Praise and encourage your child for using new vocabulary. By encouraging this development, they will want to experiment and use a wider range of vocabulary.
Book Week 17 - 23 OCTOBER 2020 Each year since 1945 the Children's Book Council of Australia (CBCA) has brought children and books together for CBCA Book Week festivities. This year’s theme of ‘Curious Creatures, Wild Minds’ set the tone for schools and libraries to celebrate books and profile Australian authors and illustrators. Our Junior School Book Week Parade saw curious creatures and literary legends come to life as teachers and students embraced the importance and excitement of reading and celebrated our commitment to supporting our boys to master important literacy skills.
National Science Week In the Junior School, our boys are encouraged to get hands-on with science through a range of active learning experiences including investigations, demonstrations and experiments. In celebration of National Science Week, our boys enjoyed a range of Pop-up Science stalls designed to spark curiosity and inspire our budding scientists. From lemon volcanoes spewing lava, to paper plane design competitions testing flying forces, the boys were inspired to think and work like scientists. STEM learning remains important for students as our contemporary world embraces the rise of new technologies in biomedicine, microfabrication, robotics, and artificial intelligence. With these new technologies comes an increased focus on life skills centred around understanding and applying data, and developing solutions to complex problems. The World Economic Forum (2016) uses STEM literacy as a measure of the future-readiness of countries. Analysis of labour force data between 2014 and 2019 reports that STEM occupations grew by 19.7 percent. In recent years, the Australian Government has prioritised the development of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in education as a way to ensure our future workforces and leaders have the necessary skills to solve the ‘big’ problems of the world and safeguard our future productivity. In 2015, all Australian Education Ministers agreed to the National STEM School Education Strategy 2016–2026. This report focusses on foundation skills, developing mathematical, scientific, and digital literacy, and promoting problem solving, critical analysis and creative thinking. The rationale was that ‘a renewed national focus’ on STEM in school education is critical. The strategy focuses on two goals: • to ensure all students finish school with strong foundational knowledge in STEM and related skills • to ensure that students are inspired to take on more challenging STEM based subjects (Education Council, 2015). At BBC, we recognise the importance of laying strong STEM learning foundations as we support our boys to become citizens who live and work in a globalised world.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
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Supporting competent and creative writers MS JENNIFER WARWICK DEPUTY HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL (TEACHING AND LEARNING)
For many boys writing is a task that they avoid or try to finish as quickly as possible. Research published by the National Literacy Trust reveals that boys are half as likely to enjoy writing as girls and almost a third never or rarely write outside of class - yet writing remains a vital skill necessary for productive involvement in society. So how can we support our boys to become competent writers? DeFazio, Jones, Tennant and Hook state; “Effective writing is a skill that is grounded in the cognitive domain. It involves learning, comprehension, application and synthesis of new knowledge. From a student’s perspective, writing may instead be a laborious and even dreaded exercise of attempting to place thoughts on paper while developing mastery over the rules of writing, such as spelling, citation format and grammar.” The intricate and complex set of rules and conventions necessary to create skilled pieces of writing often seem overwhelming for students. When the task becomes too difficult, students may become disengaged and be hesitant to engage in further writing tasks. It is imperative that teachers and parents unite to develop a love of writing and encourage involvement in writing activities.
Creating opportunities for writing that are fun and engaging will assist in the development of competent and creative writers. The National Literacy Trust (2020) has published the following ideas to encourage children to write: • Choose subjects your child loves, whether that is dinosaurs, superheroes, shopping or football. Your child will write best if they write about topics they know about or that they enjoy as hobbies. • Lay a story out visually. Work with your child to develop a “story map” where you draw pictures of key elements of a story in a line and build a piece of writing from there. Boys are often visual learners so this can work particularly well for them. • Think about characters and location before beginnings, middles and endings. Start by asking ‘Where is the story going to happen? In space? In the desert?’ and ‘Who is the main character? Who are the other characters?’ • Ask your child to think ‘what if?’ to various scenarios. What if a film you have watched together had ended differently or the book characters met in a different country? Giving a child the freedom to adapt a story will make it fun.
PUBLISHED AUTHORS WALK THE HALLS Twenty-two of our most gifted and talented writers from Year 6 participated in an Author in Residence Writers’ Workshop conducted by award winning writer, Brian Falkner. These young writers participated in a number of creative writing activities and story sports sessions, learning how to hone their craft and create imaginative stories. Brian’s well-structured program entertained, challenged and supported boys to improve their writing skills as they focussed on different elements of successful stories. On completion of Brian’s guided workshop the boys had created and finessed an original idea and these stories were then printed into an anthology “Techno Takeover and other stories” which is now available for students to borrow from the Junior School Library.
• Keep a box of interesting objects to weave into a story, or get things started with an interesting first or last line. Play verbal games such as ‘Luckily, Unluckily’, where you make up a story by starting alternative lines with the word luckily or unluckily. This can also be good practice for thinking of plot twists! • It’s not just about fiction; boys in particular often enjoy reading non-fiction so may prefer writing other genres. Your child may prefer to draw a comic strip, write a report of a football match they have watched or a computer game they have played, or make up a recipe instead of writing a traditional story. • Put together a range of writing types to make your own family book, magazine or newspaper. Create a series of instructions for a treasure hunt or start a diary and encourage your child to write one thing they enjoyed about the day. • Be appreciative of the time and effort your child has put into a piece of writing; if they are having fun and feel good about their work, they will be more likely to persevere. Combining activities that boys enjoy with writing will also encourage them to write. My own children were reluctant writers but when armed with a bucket of sidewalk chalk they would spend hours writing messages that covered our cul-de-sac. Along with our neighbour’s children, they would eagerly await the afternoon walkers and giggle as they stopped to read their messages. Hopefully with encouragement and deliberate opportunities created for writing we can encourage our next generation of famous authors, novelists, and journalists
Passion Projects Our Year 6 boys, with the guidance of an adult mentor, have explored newfound interests and skills to produce and present their innovative Passion Projects. In an effort to explore the notion that work that fascinates, excites and engages you will never feel like work, our boys embarked on a semester long project to further explore one of their passionate pursuits. It was fantastic to see the variety of projects on display and to witness the hard work and extensive time and energy that boys had dedicated to their projects. From an automatic dog feeder to a gaming PC built from scratch and a metal trident forged from a mixture of bronze, manganese and aluminium, the innovation and scope of projects on display was outstanding. Many Year 6 boys donated their creations to the BBC community and now our Prep boys have a wonderful planter box in which they are growing peas and the Years 1 and 2 boys have a go cart to ride around on The Junior School Green.
A FOND FAREWELL Mr Mark Griffith, Deputy Head of Junior School Administration and Wellbeing, will be moving on from the College to pursue volunteer work for DonateLife Queensland, an organisation close to his heart. A long-standing and highly-respected member of staff, Mr Griffith has fulfilled various roles since joining the College in 2001, including Acting Head of Junior School, Head of Early Years, Master in Charge, Advanced Skills Teacher, Year Level Coordinator, Subject Coordinator and Housemaster across the
Junior and Middle Schools. In 2019, Mark was welcomed as an Honorary Member of the Old Collegians’ Association in recognition of his significant service and dedication to the College and for the positive influence he has had on so many BBC boys. In his letter to the Headmaster, Mark spoke of his wish to step away from his current role to honour a promise he made to his father just prior to his recent passing; an endeavour the College is proud to support. “As both the son of a father who sadly passed away from kidney failure having relied on dialysis for many years, and as an experienced educator with extensive expertise in teaching, marketing and business, I wish to combine my passion and skill set to dramatically increase the organ donation rate within Queensland,” he said.
“It is my intention to work tirelessly to personally spread the DonateLife message within schools, universities, businesses, sporting clubs and the broader community to raise awareness of the importance of organ and tissue donations to support lifesaving transplants and ultimately, save lives.” Well known around campus for his rapport with Junior School students and his commitment to cultivating a culture of mutual respect, Mark has led by example when nurturing our young students to become Gentlemen of Honour. We all wish Mark well as he embarks on this benevolent next chapter of his life and express our collective gratitude for his service, commitment and valuable contribution to the College.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
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Middle School activities
MR DAVID BELL HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL 2020 is a year unlikely to be forgotten when boys reminisce about their school days. I commend the staff and boys of the Middle School for their stoicism, resilience and good humour during what has been a challenging year. I especially commend the senior boys ably lead by College Captain, Alister Gomersall, for the way they proactively engaged Middle School boys through a variety of community initiatives. I thank our Middle School boys for their enthusiastic embrace of adolescence. Hopefully they have learned some lessons about life and have utilised the skills learned in Mentor Group sessions to consider their place in the world and how they can confidently contribute to the College and society.
Images from Be Confident Week
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Be Confident Week Be Confident Week saw Middle School boys from Years 7 to 9 engage in programs designed to enhance their essential human skills of creative problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, communication and teamwork. Activities experienced throughout the week required boys to think critically and creatively within and beyond the classroom context as they explored what they like – and what they do not like – in order to make more informed choices about their future endeavours.
Year 7
Year 8
Year 9
SHAKES IT UP
AMAZING ADVENTURE
INNOVATION INC
Year 7 boys immersed themselves in a week-long physical theatre workshop with Shake & Stir Theatre Company during which they learned a number of scenes from the works of Shakespeare and gained a greater appreciation of his timeless works. The boys’ contemporary interpretation of the works made for an interesting performance.
Year 8 boys demonstrated their growing independence as they embarked on an Amazing Adventure across the city, learning about local history and geography and creating video presentations about Brisbane. Working in small groups, the boys navigated their way to iconic city landmarks using public transport and displayed their evolving maturity as mistakes were made and issues resolved within their groups.
Working with the Ideas Hub from the University of Queensland, Year 9 boys were taught the various stages of building a great enterprise idea, from empathy to problem solving and learning to pitch their concepts. At the end of the week, boys showcased their ideas and the finalists were presented to Steve Baxter (from Shark Tank and previous Chief Entrepreneur of Queensland).
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
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Senior School activities
Student Leadership MR DAMON EMTAGE DEPUTY HEADMASTER - HEAD OF SENIOR SCHOOL AND STUDENT WELLBEING (P-12) When something is fragile, it breaks easily – a window pane, a crystal glass, a valuable antique vase. These things require careful handling because they do not perform well under stress and pressure. When we are dealing with something fragile, we handle it carefully and make exceptions to accommodate its delicate nature. The same is true of people. When we are feeling fragile, our world becomes smaller. We feel less able to deal with the challenges and engage with the opportunities of life. We are just getting through. So, what is the opposite of fragile? Words like strong, robust, sturdy, and resilient come to mind. And yet these do not capture the true opposite of fragile. If fragile is broken, overwhelmed, crushed, or defeated by adverse conditions, then the opposite would grow, develop, and improve in that same type of environment. The opposite of fragile thrives through disruption, challenge, and change. The opposite of fragile is antifragile. The word antifragile was coined by Nassim Nicholas Taleb in his 2011 book Antifragile: Things That Gain Through Disorder. Taleb uses it in the context of socioeconomic and political systems and their ability to withstand disruption and unpredictable events. The year 2020 has proven the College community to be antifragile. It has taken the global pandemic to highlight and even accelerate student wellbeing, student leadership, and student engagement.
The concept of student leadership is often used interchangeably with student agency, student voice, and student participation. Empowering students to have a discernible impact on their school environment is an optimal outcome of student leadership.
Since 2019, the College has continued to embed a contemporary, distributed, inclusive and student-led model of student leadership. This is characterised by Prefects chairing ten portfolios comprising Academic, Boarding, House, Peer Support, Performing Arts, Social Action, Spiritual Life, Sport, Visual Arts and Wellbeing responsibilities. Within each of these portfolios are opportunities for boys from Years 7-12 to form representative steering groups. This student leadership model provides additional opportunities for boys across the school to develop their skills in leading others, and themselves. The portfolio model of leadership fosters meaningful participation and experiences by modelling democratic processes, enabling boys to contribute to an area of school life that they feel connected to. This model draws upon the strengths, interests, and curiosities of a broad range of boys throughout the College, encouraging them to flourish and be active citizens within the College community. One of the features of the portfolio system is that both boys and teachers will co-create the vision and expectations within each portfolio.
In this sense, teachers and boys share the learning and leadership experiences and, significantly, boys have an authentic avenue for having their voices heard and validated. This vision has been powerfully represented through the portfolio-led initiatives during the Learning at Home Program, including the College Camp Out which raised more than $13,000 for the Red Shield Appeal; the participation of 170 boys in the College Hymn Choir project; the launch of a peer-led study hub and online tutorial support; the launch of lunchtime peer support and wellbeing pulse checks; the ‘Uncharted Waters’ art competition and the ‘Isolation Buddy’ program. It is our belief that this model of leadership will further encourage student participation. Essential human skills such as collaboration, problem solving, creativity, and critical thinking are the invaluable by-products of this student facilitated model of leadership. The College looks forward to the continued growth of our leadership possibilities in 2021 and beyond.
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2021 Prefect Portfolios COLLEGE CAPTAIN
FLYNN
WESLEY
SOCIAL ACTION
Mason Black
COLLEGE VICE-CAPTAINS
Jack Gersekowski Gian Gilhotra Max Nahrung
Lachlan Goffage Nicholas Munro Thomas Scott
Riley Nielsen James Roach Sacha Seeto
Matthew Bennett Nicholas Munro
HAMILTON
WHELLER
SPIRITUAL LIFE
HOUSE PREFECTS BIRTLES Joshua Bird Ryan Fletcher Gus Gannon
CAMPBELL Christopher Choi Tobias Cleary Archie McGown
COLE Max Cain Peron Faimalo William McIntyre
James Cartwright William Evans John Nguyen
KNOX Cadell Rees Thomas Walk Archer Wood
MCKENZIE Charles Mills Oliver Milne Hari Palanivel Murugan
RUDD Charles Archer Harry McLaughlin-Phillips Reuben Perceval
James Kininmonth Levi Lennon Gus McGregor
PREFECT PORTFOLIOS ACADEMIC Matthew Cranitch Orlando Hunter Isaac Jennings
PEER SUPPORT Hamish Buntain Jack Shekleton Jordan Smith
Lucas Roach Uhila Senituli Thorley Silins
SPORT Taj Annan Matthew Bennett Corban Burrowes
VISUAL ARTS Mugisha Mangwa Shinnosuke Takada
WELLBEING Sam Crook Zachary Davies Charlie Magdics
PERFORMING ARTS Aparaj Bogahawatta Noah Lynch Charlie White
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
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FAREWELL CLASS OF 2020 2020 has been a landmark year in the lives of our Year 12 students, one that they will always remember and speak about at every reunion from this time onwards. As individuals, these boys have brought their own unique qualities and talents to our College community, and as a cohort they have risen to the challenges of 2020 and have succeeded in making the year memorable. The Class of 2020 have made history by being the first cohort to graduate through the Senior Assessment Tertiary Entrance (SATE) system. They were the first full cohort of Prep, the first Year 7s into High School and the first group to receive an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) rather than OP in Queensland. They have shown agility, perseverance and determination and will be fondly remembered as the cohort who were pioneers of a new era in education. The way they have responded to the challenges of this year have highlighted how resilient and creative these young men are. We are proud to call them our Seniors and the College has been enriched by their contributions and leadership. As this formative chapter of their lives ends, we wish them well knowing that their time at BBC has instilled in them the knowledge, skills, faith, and wisdom to stride confidently into their future. We wish them every success and trust they will always have a great affection for their alma mater.
View a collection of memories via the College website: WWW.BBC.QLD.EDU.AU/NEWS/ FAREWELL-CLASS-OF-2020/
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Brothers not defined by distance MR MATT MCEWEN DIRECTOR OF BOARDING
They say “tough times will not last, but tough people will”. It’s a sentiment that certainly rings true in relation to our Boarders, who have faced plenty of challenges in 2020. The year started with many of our rural boarding families experiencing fire and drought and, in an unforeseen turn of events, it wasn’t long before COVID-19 restrictions closed down our Boarding House sending our boys back home and into the Learning at Home Program. When we were given the green light to open the boarding house again in Semester 2, we did so under stringent health and hygiene requirements, including daily health and wellbeing checks for both boys and staff, maintaining physical distancing in the dining hall and the separation of boys across the dorms. One of the toughest restrictions was the restriction on leave, which only allowed boys to venture beyond the boarding house twice a week for two hours to shop for essential items. For our remaining 74 boarders who could not return to boarding due to government restrictions, we were faced with the challenge of what to do next. While some boys were able to attend school as day boys, thanks to the generous help of BBC families and other logistical means, many were unable to return and needed to continue learning remotely. Through the hard work of many staff, the College was able to formulate a plan to continue the Learning at Home Program for these boys to ensure their continuity of learning and care. Year Team
Leaders and Rudd House staff maintained contact, conducting wellbeing checks and offering pastoral support through their continued isolation. Back on campus, Rudd boys found ways to ease stress and have fun as they participated in recreational activities, made the most of school facilities, received specialist tutorials hosted by teaching staff, and enjoyed the introduction of our ‘Good Bloke’ and ‘Mr Reliable’ Awards.
Term 3 also saw the opening of our stage 3B renovations of the Year 9 Dorms. This newly designed area houses 18 Year 9 boys as well as The Dr John Stewart (OC 1953) Rudd House Captain’s Room and a Residential Tutor’s room. As we reflect on 2020 I am proud to say the Rudd House spirit, pride and brotherhood helped us overcome every challenge that presented itself and we look forward to welcoming our Rudd House family back to campus in 2021.
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Bright Future for BBC Robotics MR NICK BARKLEY | DIRECTOR OF ROBOTICS Early in 2020, BBC Robotics received a grant from the Australian Government Local Schools Community Fund, supported by the Federal Member for Ryan Mr Julian Simmonds MP. This allowed for the transformation of two existing classrooms into designated Robotics Labs. The Rescue Lab renovation has allowed for the permanent setup of various courses, along with a more organised storage system for the Lego. As a result, students have been able to build their robots quicker and have been able to test them more extensively, ensuring the boys will be better prepared for future RoboCup competitions. The Soccer Lab now has two soccer fields, a maze field, improved workstations, two 3D printers and a CNC machine. This has allowed for more students to be introduced into the custom Robotics program. It has also accelerated the manufacturing process and allowed students to make components which they were simply unable to create before. The boys have thoroughly enjoyed the new facilities.
Noteworthy life experiences MR JAMES LENNON | CULTURAL PROGRAM COORDINATOR 2020 will go down as a year of noteworthy life experiences for the boys and staff of the BBC Cultural Program. What started out as a normal return to College quickly changed with the onset of COVID-19 restrictions. Within the first five weeks of Term 1, all Indigenous boys from north of the Cape York divide hopped on a plane and were then locked down in their own communities in a positive move to stop the transmission of this pandemic. This would be the first of many tests for the boys in the Cultural Program this year. Gerald from Aurukun and his fellow boarders all attended the local school where within one week they had used a full term’s allowance of internet data. For the remainder
of Term 1 and Term 2, Gerald was on a daily rotation to access his teacher’s personal mobile phone hot-spot so he could join in online Teams lessons and keep up-to-date with his BBC school work. “When I was Learning at Home during the pandemic, I had really bad wifi and was only able to access the internet a couple of days a week at the local school. I struggled to keep up with my work but when I came back in Term 3, I studied really hard and got good grades in my subjects. This made me really proud,” said Gerald, Year 8. Naz, Clifford and Chasten, who were still waiting for NBN to arrive in their local area, received land-mail parcels of work from
teachers for when the internet dropped out. This helped the boys to maintain their enthusiasm and keep up with their work. “It was really hard for me to work at home because we did not have internet and I had to go to the PCYC. We had to sit by ourselves and it was such a different way to learn,” said Naz, Year 9. With the commencement of Term 3 some normality was restored as our boarders returned to the College. The boys attacked their studies and co-curricular pursuits with enthusiasm and made great gains in many areas. The bonds of friendship that the boys have with boarders and day boys were strengthened and reinforced on their return.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
36 | BBC NEWS
“Even though it felt good to be home, I missed my classmates, and I thought I would never say this but, I even missed my school,” said Chasten, Year 10. Throughout 2020 the boys made valuable contributions to College life. Gauai (Year 12), was part of the First XV who become the first in College History to win an outright GPS Rugby Premiership. Billy (Year 11), was part of the First IV Tennis team that successfully retained the GPS Tennis title for the eighth consecutive year. Isaac (Year 11), Mayila (Year 10), Clifford (Year 9) all successfully made the premier teams in Tennis and Rugby, respectively. Improvement was shown by Chasten, Naz and Gerald. On the academic front, the gains for the boys this year have been remarkable. There have been many terrific results; one noteworthy effort was the movement of a D grade from Semester 1, 2019 to A- at the end of Semester 2, 2020. An outstanding result given the time away from College due to COVID-19 restrictions. All boys have shown remarkable resilience in their studies with most grades moving in the positive direction.
All boys contributed to the College’s Online Art Exhibition and were very proud of their efforts. In November we said farewell to departing Year 12 student, Gauai Wallace at the annual “See You Soon” event. Gauai will be a regular visitor to the College in 2021 having received, and accepted, an offer of early enrolment to QUT where he will study Criminology.
NAIDOC Week celebrations saw the program take a different approach to the festivities and rather than showcasing Indigenous heritage, the boys decided to join
in the 1,000 Dresses National Campaign. This campaign saw boys gather pre-loved clothing for the Marninwarntikura Women’s Resource Centre of the Pilbara, Western Australia. Over a period of two weeks the boys gathered more than 80 kilograms or 1,000 pieces of clothing in support of this initiative. It was an amazing display of College support with donations made from staff, families, and the wider community.
2021 will see the commencement of the program’s quarterly newsletter, and we thank Naz for his work on the watermark design. Our thanks to BBC and all our friends for the ongoing support of the Cultural program. We are very proud of the efforts of each and every boy this year. It has certainly been one to remember.
CULTURAL PROGRAM OVERVIEW BBC provides educational opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander boys focussing on the academic, co-curricular and spiritual growth and development of individual students. This occurs in a caring environment nurturing the boys’ development, through positive inclusion, authentic partnerships and respectful relationships.
The Power of Collaboration and Continuity All children learn differently. It’s a universal truth and a sentiment that sits at the heart of BBC’s Learning Diversity department. Formally known as the MAP Centre, this year the department introduced a number of new initiatives, as well as structural changes, designed to strengthen the delivery of learning enrichment and extension programs across the College.
“While we have always provided support to boys from Prep to Year 12, working collaboratively with academic staff to do so, in the past we looked to embed programs into the curriculum – setting them up and, in some ways, setting them free.
“We now have a dedicated coordinator for three of our core programs - Learning Enrichment, Gifted Education and Arrowsmith,” explains Head of Department, Mrs Sandra Lummis.
“Now we play a far more integrated role in everything we do. It’s about asking ourselves – and understanding – what is the full picture for each boy? And, how can we link with all components of the College, be it academics, co-curricular or pastoral?
“It’s been a really exciting move and one that has enabled greater and more consistent collaboration with classroom teachers and as a result, greater continuity for the learner,” she said.
“In formalising our ways of working together and the spaces we use to share insights and ideas, we are able to better respond to the unique needs of different learners as well as better map and track their journey.
“This holistic approach - and the fact that we are able to bring the perspective of the whole journey into our conversations - has also been reassuring for parents and that has been wonderful to see.” And just as the name suggests, the program honours both learning diversity and the value of diverse learning experiences.
Arrowsmith mastery exercises, supporting students who speak English as an additional language or connecting boys with student mentors to support positive social interactions – the opportunities we provide are wide ranging and focus on understanding and responding to the complex learning needs of our boys,” said Sandra. “Our new structure has also enabled us to strengthen connections with staff across the College and gain efficiencies in our program delivery, and this has allowed us to turn our attention to new initiatives and pilot programs too. “It’s been both an exciting and challenging year for the department with COVID-19 influencing how we all connect, but with our new foundations in place it’s been a rewarding year nonetheless and we are looking forward to what’s ahead.”
“Whether it’s Learning Enrichment programs like Technology for Independence or Lego Masters, events like Opti-MINDS and Ethics Olympiads facilitated as part of our specialised Gifted Education program,
PROGRAM IN FOCUS: ARROWSMITH In 2016, BBC introduced the Arrowsmith Program, making it one of only 15 organisations Australia wide to offer the program.
After completing an initial assessment, participants are given an individualised program to target their specific needs.
Developed by Barbara Arrowsmith Young, author of The Woman Who Changed Her Brain, the program is based on the application of neuroscience research and the premise that it is possible to address a range of learning roadblocks by identifying and strengthening cognitive capacities.
Students then work closely with specialised teachers, spending time in a dedicated Arrowsmith classroom, on targeted cognitive exercises designed to aid and strengthen the core skills that underpin their learning.
It offers students who have high intelligence but unrealised potential an alternative pathway to overcome difficulties they may experience in traditional academic learning.
The program can assist in strengthening cognitive function in areas like memory, reasoning, vocabulary, comprehension and the ability to understand relationships among concepts and ideas. According to Head of Learning Diversity Sandra Lummis, beyond cognitive
improvements, the program is also designed to improve self-esteem and confidence. “Our Arrowsmith program provides boys with an opportunity to connect with others who may be experiencing similar difficulties; an opportunity to find their tribe,” she said. “It’s important for them to know that everyone can be challenged with learning from time to time. “Knowing this can help them build a strong sense of self and in all instances it’s about showing them what they can do, as opposed to focusing on what they can’t – and this can be incredibly transformative for our learners.”
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
38 | BBC ARTS
BBC ARTS
40
Music by the Numbers 42 Online Music Performances 43 Music Competition Winners
Online College Art Show In lieu of a traditional College Art Show displayed on campus, the 2020 Rising Tides Student Collection is now available to view online. The digital collection, proudly funded by the BBC Foundation Bisset Fund, features works from our Prep to Year 12 Art students alongside artworks from the College’s Bisset Gallery Collection. Learn more about our Junior, Middle and Senior School Art curriculum as you peruse the works of our talented artists and explore the rationale behind their creations. Also on display is the College’s Bisset Gallery Collection, established thought the bequest of Old Collegian, Philip Yeats Bisset (OC 1939).
“THIS ONLINE GALLERY ‘RISING TIDES’ HAS GIVEN US THE SCOPE TO PROVIDE ACCESS TO THE ENTIRE BBC COMMUNITY AND BEYOND, IN SHOWING THE EXCELLENT WORK THAT OUR BOYS HAVE DONE IN THE VISUAL ARTS DURING A DIFFICULT YEAR. IT FULFILLS OUR NEED TO FIND AN AUDIENCE, TO BROADCAST AND TO COMMUNICATE, IN A WAY THAT WOULD NORMALLY BE DONE WITH A LIVE ART SHOW. IN MANY WAYS, GIVEN OUR DEPENDANCE ON AND FAMILIARITY WITH SOCIAL MEDIA, IT HAS REACHED A MUCH LARGER AUDIENCE AND GIVEN OUR ART STUDENTS AN OPPORTUNITY TO EXPRESS AND SHARE THEIR VIEWPOINT WITH A LARGER AUDIENCE.” – MR ADRIAN HUNTER, HEAD OF ART
Visit the College website to view the 2020 Rising Tides Art Show and Bisset Gallery collection: WWW.BBC.QLD.EDU.AU/ NEWS/ONLINE-COLLEGEART-SHOW
Year 9
BBC ARTS | 39
College Art Show 2020
Rising Tides
Bisset Gallery COLLEGE ART COLLECTION The College's Bisset Gallery Art Collection is dedicated to the memory of Old Collegian, Philip Yeats Bisset (1921 – 2010) and was established through his bequest to the College. Brisbane Boys’ College has been fortunate to receive this bequest which includes a substantial art collection of more than 500 artworks including a number of tapestries made by Phil Bisset (OC 1939) himself. In accepting this bequest it has become the responsibility of the College to fulfill Phil’s wishes and ensure that the collection is preserved and grows as a valuable asset and educational resource for future generations of BBC boys. “For our educational purposes at BBC the Bisset Collection offers our students the opportunity to focus on individual artists of note as well as organise thematic exhibitions to inspire art students – for instance, landscape, the human form, portraiture or observations of nature, (the collection includes a number of stylised animal based sculptures). We are now working on a detailed inventory, including photographic identification of the entire collection, so that we can explore these opportunities and extend the use of the Bisset Gallery across our Visual Art curriculum” – Mr Adrian Hunter, Head of Art It was Phil’s wish that this generous gift would be of benefit to all students, inspire passion for Visual Arts, and ultimately help facilitate a Visual Arts learning space at Brisbane Boys’ College. If you are considering donating an artwork to the collection or making a bequest of any kind to BBC, and would like to arrange a confidential discussion, please contact: Mrs Lea Walker-Franks, Director of Community Engagement & Foundation Executive Officer P (07) 3309 3513 E lwalker-franks@bbc.qld.edu.au
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
MUSIC BY THE NUMBERS MR THEO KOTZAS | HEAD OF PERFORMANCE MUSIC
ACADEMIC MUSIC 719 STUDENTS INVOLVED
49.6%
OF ALL BBC STUDENTS FROM PREP TO YEAR 12
ACADEMIC MUSIC PROGRAM
EVERY STUDENT FROM PREP TO YEAR 8
AT BBC, WE TAKE A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO MUSIC EDUCATION. CLASSROOM, INDIVIDUAL TUITION (PRIVATE LESSONS) AND PERFORMANCE EXPERIENCES ALL CONTRIBUTE TO MAKING QUALITY MUSICIANS WHO ARE CAPABLE OF PURSUING A CAREER IN MUSIC, ENGAGING IN MUSIC-MAKING FOR RECREATION OR SIMPLY UNDERSTANDING AND CONNECTING WITH THE MUSIC THEY HEAR AROUND THEM. OUR PROGRAM IS DELIVERED IN A WAY THAT IS ACTIVE. BOYS SING, PLAY, READ, WRITE, ANALYSE AND COMPOSE MUSIC AND IT IS PLEASING TO SEE SO MANY BOYS PARTICIPATE IN THE PROGRAM.
“Music is the literature of the heart; it commences where speech ends” - Alphonse de Lamartine, French Author Music has the power to transport us beyond the concerns of every day life. It can reach our soul and speak to the heart, as de Lamartine observes. Music moves us in a way unlike anything else. It is visceral and cerebral; compelling and affirming. These qualities are evident in our BBC Music program, as conveyed through the talent of our musicians and vocalists. 2020 will be remembered as a year of so many firsts, so many highs and lows and so much music. Our students have experienced lessons and rehearsals online, adapted to socially distanced rehearsals, recorded an online musical collage of our College Hymn, all while maintaining the high quality performance expectations set by our hard-working Music staff. Through all the challenges, our musicians have remained committed to the program and to providing wonderful performances whilst experiencing some of the greatest repertoire available. From our Prep students, through to the young men of Year 12, BBC musicians have engaged with quality music and created meaningful compositions and performances throughout 2020. The success of every program sits on the shoulders of many. This is true of the BBC Music Program. We congratulate and celebrate the achievements of our student body and acknowledge their commitment to the pursuit of excellence. We also recognise our dedicated staff for their tireless efforts and our families for their ongoing support.
MUSIC EVERYDAY PROGRAM Prep to Year 3 students receive five music lessons each week
JUNIOR SCHOOL CLASSROOM INSTRUMENTAL PROGRAM Years 4 to 6 students play an instrument in class
YEAR 7 CLASSROOM MUSIC PROGRAM Year 7 students develop listening, performing, composing and responding skills
YEAR 8 CLASSROOM MUSIC PROGRAM Year 8 students experience composing and performing on piano, guitar and drum kit
BBC ARTS | 41
ELECTIVE ACADEMIC MUSIC PROGRAM
INTERESTED STUDENTS FROM YEARS 9 TO 12 YEAR 9
44 STUDENTS YEAR 11
15 STUDENTS
YEAR 10
20 STUDENTS
SOLO COMPETITION RESULTS 2020 Year 4K 1st Place – Ferrell Dong (Piano) 2nd Place – Alex Zhu (Piano)
YEAR 12
8 STUDENTS
3rd Place – Alexander Ledingham (Violin) Year 4JD 1st Place – Curtis Kwon (Piano) 2nd Place – Alexander Rumsey (Violin)
CO-CURRICULAR MUSIC
3rd Place – William Keech (Piano)
541 STUDENTS INVOLVED
1st Place – Ethan Huang (Piano)
37.3%
31 REHEARSALS CONDUCTED EACH WEEK
OF ALL BBC STUDENTS
2020 PERFORMANCES 7 RECORDED CONCERTS Music Showcase Concert Indie Rock Concert Grand Concert 2020 – Together Term 3 Junior School Concert Junior School Gala Concert Nine Lessons and Carols Finale Concert 1 LIVE CONCERT Twilight Concert
Highly Commended – Alexander Rumsey (Voice) Year 4M 2nd Place – Bryan Sun (Piano) 3rd Place – Chase Cantwell (Voice) Highly Commended – Miles Easterbrook (Violin) Year 5
28 ENSEMBLES 4 VOCAL 4 PERCUSSION 4 STRINGS 4 SMALL GROUPS AND SOLOISTS 7 BANDS 5 ROCK BANDS
1st Place – Liam Beak (Violin) 2nd Place – Billy McGregor (Guitar) Equated 3rd Place – Frederick Shonhan (Piano) and Jonathan Su (Violin) Highly Commended – Sam Smith (Trombone) and Tom Werner (Snare Drum) Year 6 1st Place – Lachy Brown (Voice) 2nd Place – Alexander Middlemis (Snare Drum) 3rd Place – Nicholas Riemann (Voice)
PIPE BAND 3 PIPE BANDS 5 REHEARSALS EACH WEEK 55 STUDENTS IN THE BANDS
Highly Commended – Austin Chen (Violin), Rupert Gooding (Double Bass) and Hamish Down (Xylophone) Year 7 1st Place – Tobi Clark (Piano) 2nd Place – Bhavya Goyal (Marimba) 3rd Place – Nicholas Shelburn (Marimba) Year 8 1st Place – Leo Guo (Piano)
EXTERNAL MUSIC
2nd Place – Simon Wu (Guitar) 3rd Place – Jacob Aziz (Violin) Highly Commended – Sean Beak (Cello) Year 9
STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS 2 Licentiate of Music Australia Diploma Awards 3 Associate of Music Australia Diploma Awards 2 Certificate of Performance Awards
REPRESENTING BBC GPS MUSIC SHOWCASE CONCERT 46 BBC students (Symphony, Choir, Big Band and Concert Band) AUSTRALIAN HONOURS ENSEMBLE PROGRAM 2 BBC students STATE HONOURS ENSEMBLE PROGRAM 18 BBC students
1st Place – Leo Lynch (Violin) 2nd Place – Xavier Craddock (Voice) 3rd Place – Teddy Magdics (Piano) Highly Commended: Payton Willcocks (Cello) Year 10 1st Place – Mac Johnson (Piano) 2nd Place – Nathan Kim (Alto Saxophone) 3rd Place – Lachlan Jarvis (Voice) Highly Commended – Bruce Campbell (Bagpipes) Year 11 1st Place – Aiden Scott (Smallpipes) 2nd Place – Charlie Magics (Voice) 3rd Place – Ben Marshall (Bass Guitar)
“DURING MY SIX YEARS AS A PROUD MUSICIAN AT BBC, I’VE LEARNT THAT BBC MUSIC ISN’T JUST AN INSTRUMENTAL PROGRAM: IT IS A FAMILY OF HARDWORKING MUSICIANS AND TALENTED STAFF. THE WARM AND WELCOMING CULTURE OF OUR MUSIC PROGRAM PROVIDES ALL BOYS WITH AN OPPORTUNITY TO BRING OUT THE BEST IN THEMSELVES.” GAVIRU DEVENDRA, 2 020 MUSIC CO-CAPTAIN
Highly Commended – Jackson Proper (Voice), Harry Liu (Clarinet) Year 12 1st Place – Matthew Zhao (Violin) 2nd Place – Mitch Salisbury (Vocal/piano) 3rd Place – Matthew Zhao (Piano) Highly Commended – Oliver Dukino (Trombone), Ethan Lo (Violin), Colin Willcocks (Cello)
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
42 | BBC ARTS
Music short reads ONLINE PERFORMANCES
The events of 2020 have required the College to reimagine many of its regular activities. As we were unable to welcome an audience to our annual Sounds of Scotland Concert and Grand Concert performances, traditionally held in College Hall, our talented performers created full concert recordings to share with our community. Sounds of Scotland – At BBC, our spirit is our defining difference and our Pipe Band embodies it all. Our College may be located in Australia but our tartan speaks of our origin, the drum line our heartbeat, the bagpipes our voice. Enjoy our Sounds of Scotland concert with performances by Pipe Band Number 1, 2, and 3 and Drummers. Grand Concert – BBC Music presents Grand Concert 2020, Together. The theme, Together, describes how music is best created and enjoyed. Throughout 2020 we have been reminded of the joys, benefits and happiness that music brings to those performing and to those listening. Enjoy performances by Big Band, Symphonic Band, Collegians, Camerata, College Strings, College Symphony, Soloists and Rock Bands.
Visit the College website to enjoy full concert recordings: WWW.BBC.QLD.EDU.AU/COMMUNITY/NEWS
SOUNDS OF SCOTLAND
GRAND CONCERT
Together CONCERTO COMPETITION The BBC Concerto Competition Finals were held in August and our three finalists thrilled adjudicators with their amazing performances. All finalists demonstrated great musicianship, technical virtuosity, and incredible concentration. Their chosen repertoire represented some of the greatest music often performed in concert halls around the world. This year’s adjudicators brought wonderful knowledge and experience to our event. In attendance was Violinist Mr Alan Smith (Associate Concertmaster of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra) and Conductor Mr Simon Hewett (newly appointed Director of Music - Queensland Youth Orchestra and Conductor of Queensland Youth Symphony).
Both adjudicators offered feedback on the performances presenting a written report to each finalist. Congratulations to our 2020 Finalists - Matthew Zhao (Piano), Noah Lynch (Violin) and Andrew Namgung (Violin). At the end of the evening, Mr Smith and Mr Hewett announced Noah Lynch (Violin) as the 2020 BBC Concerto Competition winner. This was Noah’s second time winning the Concerto Competition, with his first time being in 2018. A special thank you to our competition official accompanist Ms Kathy Sander.
BBC ARTS | 43
BBC MUSIC COMPETITIONS Our 2020 Solo Championships were contested by a number of talented Junior, Middle and Senior School musicians. Congratulations to the following performers who took out the top honours. Senior School Solo Championship Winner - Matthew Zhao (Piano) Middle School Solo Championship Winner - Leo Lynch (Violin) Junior School Solo Championship Winner - Liam Beak (Violin)
WORLD ONLINE SOLO PIPING AND DRUMMING CHAMPIONSHIP We were delighted to enter so many of our young pipers and drummers in the World 'Online' Solo Piping & Drumming Championship. Congratulations to all prize winners. Fall 2020 Championships Nicholas Shelburn Liam Docherty James Byrnes
Summer 2020 Championships Matthew Stephen Liam Docherty Aidan Scott Cole Wilkinson William Gibson Doyle Kim Dowhan Kim
Full result list:
Full result list:
BAGPIPELESSONS.COM/ COMPETITION/RESULTS/FALL2020
BAGPIPELESSONS.COM/ COMPETITION/RESULTS/SUMMER2020
2021 CONCERT CALENDAR 4 MARCH
9 SEPTEMBER
Twilight Concert 6.30pm – College Hall
Showcase Concert 6.30pm – College Hall
27 MAY
9 OCTOBER
Autumn Sounds 1 5.00pm – College Hall
Sounds of Scotland 7.00pm – College Hall
1 JUNE
11 OCTOBER
Middle and Senior School Solo Championship 6.00pm – College Hall
Junior School Solo Championship Finals 5.30pm – College Hall
3 JUNE
19 OCTOBER
Autumn Sounds 2 5.00pm – College Hall
Junior Gala Concert 6.30pm – College Hall
4 AUGUST
29 NOVEMBER
Concerto Competition Finals 6.00pm – College Hall
Finale Concert 6.00pm – College Hall
27 AUGUST
Grand Concert 7.00pm – College Hall
Please note tickets will only be required for the Grand Concert and Sounds of Scotland and will be advertised for booking on the BBC website. For any further concert information please contact music@bbc.qld.edu.au or phone 07 3309 3520
2020 Pipe Band Seniors
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
BBC SPORTS
A WIN FOR THE AGES MR STEPHEN MEEHAN | DIRECTOR OF RUGBY THE 2020 RUGBY SEASON WAS LIKE NO OTHER AND UNDER THESE UNIQUE CONDITIONS THE COLLEGE FIELDED 17 TEAMS FROM U11 TO OPENS. MY THANKS TO CAPTAIN OF RUGBY, HUGO PERCEVAL, WHO LED THE PROGRAM WELL AND ENCOURAGED FIRST XV MEMBERS TO ASSIST IN THE COACHING OF VARIOUS TEAMS THROUGHOUT THE COLLEGE. The nature of the pre-season saw a gradual implementation of training incorporating one-on-ones, athletic development, non-contact and contact training. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the rugby community for their understanding and cooperation in complying with imposed restrictions this season. The BBC First XV won their First XV Rugby Premiership since 1954 in tremendous style. Undefeated through the season the team created many moments of history along the way in their pursuit of a maiden outright GPS Rugby Premiership. The First and Second XVs prepared as a squad and the efforts of the players in the Second XV deserve recognition for helping the First XV to win the title. Congratulations to Team Captain, Mason Gordon and Team Vice-Captains, Andrew Romano and Jack Howarth who led the team very well. The team coaches and staff did a fine job with reduced contact hours, congratulations, Shane Drahm, Stephen Phillpotts, Toutai Kefu, Steve Kefu, Rhys Van Nek, Matt Groom, Sophie Pidcock, Mike Burke and Mitch Birch. Our U11s, 12s and 13s persevered through the season, continued to improve and showed promise. The U14 teams played in a very competitive age group and both teams performed with great character each week. The U15 teams all experienced great wins throughout the season and performed very well.
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Seasons of Success 54 GPS Super Term
The U16 participation numbers grew throughout the season, with up to 10 reserves for the C team competition. All three teams played some great rugby and had winning seasons. Our Third XV had a fantastic season and the Fourth XV performed their best in the final game of the season, fittingly, on Miskin Oval. This season has required the assistance of many, special thanks to Headmaster, Mr Paul Brown, Head of Co-Curriculum, Mr Mark Pavone, Referee Coordinator, Mr James Lennon and Match Day Trainers Alexandra Stewart and Mandy Clarris. My thanks to the Rugby Support Group led by President, Mr Callum Stenson. This will be a season for the ages.
BBC SPORT | 45
BBC’S COACH OF ’54 WATCHES HISTORIC PREMIERSHIP PUSH AFTER VICTORY OVER NUDGEE COLLEGE This article has been reprinted with permission by Cormac Pearson and Andrew Dawson, The Courier-Mail and Quest Newspapers. It documents the BBC First XV's Premiership winning match against Nudgee College. A win against BSHS the following week secured the College's maiden outright GPS Rugby Premiership. Brisbane Boys’ College’s Premiership winning coach from 66 years ago watched the College’s First XV storm to within one match of a maiden outright premiership after victory against Nudgee College on Saturday.
BBC cannot lose the title after beating St Joseph’s Nudgee College 33-22, but need to win their last match against BSHS to ensure they claim the Premiership outright. Graham Thomson was mentor of the 1954 outfit which claimed a joint GPS First XV title. This afternoon Thomson, immaculate in a dark suit, posed for photos with BBC captain Mason Gordon whose kicking prowess was on show from the first minute until the last. Then, ushered into the winning team photo, Thomson addressed the team and such was the First XV’s respect for his utterings, you could have heard a pin drop while celebrations rained down around them from supporters.
“I am so pleased this team has broken the drought,’’ Thomson said on Saturday. “Sixty-six years ago was the last time, and I thought their performance today was the far superior to what my team was.’’ BBC could do it all this season. The 2020 team had pace, a wide passing game, attacking maul and aggression at the breakdown and also a No. 10 in Sunshine Coast border Mason Gordon who could kick the leather off the ball if needed. And the side needed all of that on Saturday to defeat a gallant Nudgee College. “We spoke a lot about that during the week, that it is going to be a game won all around the park,” said Head Coach, Shane Drahm. “We have the strike out wide, we have the maul, so really we just left it to the decision makers, particularly Mason who played a beautiful game.’’ Drahm had played in some big games in his career, but even he got caught up in the emotion, the unbridled scenes of joy, which were unfurled when the referee blew his full-time whistle. With COVID-19 restricting spectators at the ground to parents, officials and the like, crowds watched from outside in Miskin St where a BBC Old Boy army chanted and screamed. Then high up on the cliff, BBC war cries would carry across the playing field as the BBC school students hit top note. It was indeed a win for the ages. But Drahm said there was one more win needed next week against BSHS. “I am not going to put the hoodoo on it.
Top: 1954 Rugby First XV, Bottom: 2020 Rugby First XV
“We have set it up now to win the Premiership next week.
BBC SPORT | 47 “We will let them (the players) enjoy this, we can’t lose the Premiership now, but hopefully next week we finish it off.’’ Nudgee College Director of rugby Sean Graham said his side played well, they just did not have enough ball in the second half. He also praised BBC’s outstanding “scramble defence’’ which he said kept them in the game in the first half. “We started really well but I felt like we needed to put another try on in the early stages when we had all that momentum,’’ Graham said. “Halftime leading 12-7 just was not enough. If there had been more scoreboard pressure, it might have just helped our cause.’’ Graham said once BBC got a roll out, they kicked really well and it was hard to peg them back. “We just unfortunately struggled to get our hands back on the ball. “I was happy with how we played, we just needed the ball. When we had the ball our attack was effective.’’ BBC Captain Mason Gordon, who was the best on the field alongside flanker Zac Hough and Jack Howarth, was honoured to be a part of the potentially drought breaking team. “It’s pretty astonishing to be a part of this team, they’re a great bunch of blokes and there is a good brotherhood between us and it’s obviously been a big drought but we have got the team to do it and as we did today we showed up,” Gordon said after the match. “They came out firing 12 points early and then our star players came together and played down their end and capitalised on the opportunities.” Gordon said they still have to prepare for next weekend’s match against Brisbane State High but he has the best coach to do it. “He (Shane Drahm) has been amazing he is very specific with his coaching and that’s exactly what we need for this team, great knowledge and the best coach I have had so far in my Rugby lifetime,”
“It’s going to be good, we have to refocus and try and bring it home with both hands.
THE MATCH The desperation of Nudgee College was evident early when winger Robert Mapa amazingly tackled BBC winger Jarrod Homan into touch centimetres before the tryline. From there Nudgee used the wind behind their back and dominated the first half-hour of the match. Benn Dalle Cort was fantastic with the ball and with his boot and set up a fantastic break finding Tapuosi on the inside. The athletic winger drew in the defence before a brilliant right-hand offload to Mapa who scored in the corner. It wasn’t long until Nudgee scored again. A quick tap from a penalty on half way from scrum half Oscar Varricchio offloaded to Dalle Cort who beat several players to score a magnificent try. It would take something major from BBC to shift the momentum against the breeze and it came through some fantastic breakdown work from the forwards, forcing a penalty. BBC had minutes to score before the half and Nudgee weren’t giving in, but not many can hold out Jack Howarth. The competitions most dangerous ball runner streamed over to score a crucial try before half time. Nudgee led BBC 12-7 at the half. The second half was a completely different game. BBC were unstoppable. The forwards laid a platform giving the backs room to play, especially skipper Mason Gordon. He was nothing short of spectacular during the contest, making crucial tackles, deadly with the ball and controlled field position with his kicking game. But it was a smart grubber from inside centre Harry McLaughlin-Phillips who had two of the competitions best backs fighting for the ball, with Howarth winning the race.
Mr Graham Thomson and Mason Gordon following the BBC vs Nudgee College game Two more tries to Homan and hooker Uhila Senituli stretched the lead as the BBC forwards dominated the breakdown. Nudgee were never going to go away and despite losing Tapuosi to a serious leg injury, they picked up the pieces. They piled the pressure on the BBC line and went over from close range through Oahu Davey-Phillips with 15 minutes left. But arguably the best BBC side in the school’s history were just too good. The side kept the pressure on and scored through prop Harvey Guest with 10 minutes left. BBC’s first outright premiership was at the tip of their fingers. Nudgee substitute Hubert Elu had a blistering run and got them in the position to go over again through outside centre Robert Toia. But it wasn’t to be. BBC had done it, their first Premiership in 66 years. Now they just have to beat BSHS to make sure it is an outright Premiership win.
SCORE BBC 33 (J Howarth 2, J Homan, U Senituli, H Guest conversions H Mclaughlin-Phillips 4/5) Nudgee 22 (R Mapa, B Dalle Cort, O Davey-Phillips, R Toia, conversions B Dalle Cort 1/4)
THIS IS
FIRST XV 48 | BBC SPORT
2020 PREMIERSHIP WINNING FIRST XV
Back Row L-R: Dimitrius Williams, Carl Hansen, Jarrod Homan, Taj Annan, Oliver Milne, Tom Wheen, Hugo Perceval, Henry Pettit Centre Row L-R: Mr Toutai Kefu (Coach), Mr Shane Drahm (Coach), Mr Stephen Phillpotts (Coach), Harvey Guest, Lachlan Rubens, Blake Davis, Mr Mitchell Birch (Manager), Ms Sophie Pidcock (Manager), Mr Matt Groom (Coach) Front Row L-R: Peron Faimalo, Gauai Wallace, Uhlia Senituli, Mason Gordon, Andrew Romano, Jack Howarth, Zac Hough, Harry McLaughlin-Phillips Absent: Mr Steve Kefu (Coach)
COACHES COMMENTS DIMITRIUS WILLIAMS
CARL HANSEN
JARROD HOMAN
YEAR 11 | FLANKER
YEAR 12 | PROP
YEAR 11 | WING
Dimitrius made massive strides in his game. He has huge potential and is always looking to learn.
Carl played an integral role in the forward pack, competing for a place in the front row was no easy task. Carl proved himself again and again both through his efforts captaining the Second XV and his performance. This ensured he was able to consistently grab minutes in the First XV. Whilst battling injures he is a hardworking and coachable young man and the sky is the limit.
Jarrod is a defensive winger's nightmare and showed just that by steam rolling multiple wingers across the competition and scoring some fantastic tries. God help the wingers next year.
BBC SPORT | 49
TAJ ANNAN
OLIVER MILNE
TOM WHEEN
YEAR 11 | FULLBACK
YEAR 11 | SECOND ROW
YEAR 11 | NUMBER EIGHT
Taj is a natural No 10 or No 12 but was earmarked as the perfect fullback option to complement one of the best First XV backlines of all time. With his beautiful left foot and precise decision-making at the back, Taj was key in executing the attack system. Taj is another player with a very bright future.
Oliver has a great attitude and was a pleasure to coach. He made some really big improvements in his game. I look forward to seeing him play again next year.
Tom had a really strong season. Always looking to get better by reflecting on his own performance. He is a great team man and an important part of the team.
20
HUGO PERCEVAL
HENRY PETTIT
HARVEY GUEST
YEAR 12 | SECOND ROW
YEAR 12 | PROP
YEAR 12 | HOOKER
Hugo made a huge contribution to the team this season both on the field as our lineout leader who played every minute of the competition this year, and off the field as BBC Captain of Rugby. His work ethic and personal ethics meant he always played to his best ability and gave a total commitment to the team effort. Hugo has a bright future in the game either in the second row or back row.
Henry worked hard in the off season to cement his place in the squad as our number one tight head prop before injury stalled some of his progress inseason. His sense of humour endears him to his team mates and they appreciate his total commitment always in the Green, White and Black jersey.
Harvey is a front rower who is able to play across all three positions though a specialist hooker. His throwing was a step above the rest being the most consistent thrower in the competition. When asked he seamlessly slotted into both prop positions with ease proving his hard work and student of the game mindset. Harvey will be a player to watch in the future, he is well above his age in scrummaging IQ and if given the opportunity to play higher honours he will excel.
LACHLAN RUBENS
YEAR 12 | WING
Lachlan won the wing spot as a result of his hard work and constant improvements throughout the season. Lachie adds so much to the personality dynamics within the team. His strength was his defence and ability to work hard for his team mates. He is always asking questions to learn and be better after every game. A fantastic team man.
GAUAI WALLACE
YEAR 12 | WING
Gauai was an absolute pleasure to coach. He got better and better as the season went on. We were so proud to see him suit up for the First XV and play to his potential. We hope he continues his rugby endeavours but most of all I hope he doesn’t change who he is which is his real strength.
ANDREW ROMANO
YEAR 12 | PROP
BLAKE DAVIS
PERON FAIMALO
YEAR 11 | HALFBACK
YEAR 11 | HALFBACK
Unfortunately Blake was affected by injuries this season and couldn’t showcase his full potential. We saw glimpses of his ability and can’t wait to see him explode next season. A fantastic team man amongst the boys with a big personality.
Having played most of his footy at No 10 or No 12, Peron was given the opportunity to contest the No 9 position due to the quality of players filling the No 10 and No 12 spots. He took the opportunity with both hands and used his natural ability to play an outstanding season.
UHILA SENITULI
MASON GORDON
YEAR 11 | HOOKER
YEAR 12 | FLYHALF
Even as a Year 11 student, Uhila never looked out of place, he is a tough versatile defender that provided consistent performances throughout the year. He was able to use this year to grow his set piece and there is no doubt that he will play a very important role next year giving the forward pack a spike of experience.
Mason was clearly the best flyhalf in the state, if not the country. His skillset across the park was outstanding and his decision-making capability far exceeded his age. Mixing his playing ability and his leadership, he will no doubt be a Wallaby one day.
JACK HOWARTH
ZAC HOUGH
YEAR 12 | CENTRE
YEAR 11 | FLANKER
Andrew proved to be the form front rower of the GPS competition this season with his dominant scrummaging, a dynamic ball carry and bruising defence. Injury robbed him of the last few games of the GPS season however Andrew has great potential to play at the highest level. A strong season from our team co-Vice Captain.
Jack played in his third year as a First XV player and was once again one of the best players in the country. He is blessed with incredible size, strength and speed, but what makes Jack one of the best is his competitive yet humble nature. He is tipped to play State of Origin within two years.
In his second year of First XV Rugby for the College, Zac was the outstanding No 7 of the GPS competition this season. His dynamic ball running and precision at the tackle contest stood him apart from his peers. Zac promises much to the BBC First XV next season as well as at the representative level.
HARRY MCLAUGHLIN-PHILLIPS
YEAR 11 | FLANKER
YEAR 11 | FLANKER
Harry is one of few players across the competition to excel in an U/18 competition as a 16 year old. He is a natural footballer equipped with an outstanding skill set, and was an incredibly important link between Mason and the outside backs. His work ethic is outstanding and he has a very bright future ahead of him.
Will has a high rugby IQ and understands the players around him. He can adapt to different players to help them play better for the team. He is strong over the ball but showed us his attacking capabilities this season. We loved coaching Will and can’t wait to see him grow into the game and as a team member. A pleasure to coach.
Cadell made fantastic contributions off the bench especially in defence. Great kid with a great attitude looking forward to seeing him go around again next year.
YEAR 11 | CENTRE
WILL MCINTYRE
CADELL REES
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
50 | BBC SPORT
SEASONS OF SUCCESS 2020 GPS TENNIS RESULTS
MR ETHAN WILKINSON | DIRECTOR OF TENNIS
FIRST IV SECOND IV THIRD IV FOURTH IV 11A 11B 11C 11D 10A 10B 10C 10D 9A 9B 9C 9D 8A 8B 8C 8D 7A 7B 7C 7D 7E 6A 6B 6C 6D 5A 5B
THE BBC TENNIS PROGRAM CONTINUES TO GROW FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH WITH OUR FIRST IV TENNIS TEAM CROWNED 2020 GPS PREMIERS, SECURING THE COLLEGE’S EIGHTH CONSECUTIVE TENNIS PREMIERSHIP.
Undefeated Premiers Second Second Second Second Third
THIS YEAR MARKS THE FIFTEENTH TIME BBC BOYS HAVE TAKEN THE TOP HONOUR IN THE HISTORY OF THE GPS COMPETITION, WITH BBC AWARDED ITS FIRST TENNIS PREMIERSHIP BACK IN 1934.
Second Second First Second Second Second Second Third Second Second First First Second Second Third Second Second Second Second Second
The 2020 GPS season saw BBC field 31 teams from Year 5 to Open, with all teams finishing in the top three and achieving an overall win percentage of more than 76 percent. Under the circumstances of limited training and very limited match play due to COVID-19, this result reflects the deep-rooted culture of excellence and professional coaching that prepares each boy for the rigours of GPS Tennis. A big congratulations and thanks to this year’s Captain of Tennis, Thomas Taylor, a long-term participant of BBC’s Performance program and GPS Tennis. Congratulations also to the Captain of the First IV, Max Nahrung, who led his side to an unprecedented eighth consecutive Premiership title. Together with Billy Bougoure, Jack Fanshawe, Eric Padgham, and Ben Slater, the team compiled an undefeated season under the guidance of First IV coach, Ben Mitchell, despite all being in Year 11. Entering the season with a completely new
side and considered underdogs for the Premiership, the team decided that doubles was a key area they would focus on. The match against Brisbane Grammar School showcased all their hard work in this domain, coming out of the blocks with a 2-0 lead after the reverse doubles was played first due to wet courts. This put BGS on the backfoot, from which they never recovered, handing the College their first upset of the year. The highlight of the season came against the highly ranked TSS in a match that would decide BBC’s fate of an outright Premiership. GPS Tennis is a team sport unlike normal tournament tennis, and BBC’s focus from Year 5 to First IV is that every game counts no matter the score. At the completion of the TSS match rubbers were tied 4-4, sets were tied 8-8, yet the College was ahead on games 77- 66, handing BBC the victory and outright Premiership, and cementing our culture of fighting for every point.
BBC TENNIS THROUGH THE YEARS
Third Third Second Second Second
1934 First GPS Tennis Premiership Equal first with BGS in Inter-School fixtures
1934 First IV
1983 Second GPS Tennis Premiership “We have waited since 1934! Now at last, BBC has enjoyed a great success. We have won the Premiership, and what’s more, won it outright.” – Danny Chiu, Tennis Captain, Portal 1983
2006
2011
Fourth GPS Tennis Premiership and Queensland Secondary Schools Team Champions
Seventh GPS Tennis Premiership, Queensland Primary Schools Team Champions and Third at Queensland Secondary Schools Team Championships
1983 First IV
2006 First IV
1987
2007
2013
Third GPS Tennis Premiership
Fifth GPS Tennis Premiership, Queensland Secondary Schools Team Champions, fourth at International Tennis Cup played in Warsaw, Poland
Eighth GPS Tennis Premiership, Queensland Schools Tennis Champions, Queensland Primary Schools Team Champions and Third at Australian Schools Tennis Championships
“The First IV started their season’s preparation early, established doubles combinations well before the season commenced and used numerous tournaments to sharpen up skills, and to iron out problems.” – Portal 1987
2008
Sixth GPS Tennis Premiership and Queensland Secondary Schools Team Champions
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2014 First IV
2016 Eleventh GPS Tennis Premiership, Queensland Secondary Schools Team Champions, Eighth at Brisbane International Primary Teams Competition May Jack Jaede (OC 2014) takes the court for the University of Southern California in the NCAA Division 1 Nationals in America December Dane Sweeny (Year 10) defeats No 3 seed in the First Round of the U16 Australian Tennis Championships while Billy Bougoure (Year 7) defeats No 9 seed to move into the Third Round of the U12 draw
2014
2017 First IV
Ninth GPS Tennis Premiership, Australian Schools Tennis Champions and Queensland Schools Tennis Champions
2017 Twelfth GPS Tennis Premiership, Australian Secondary Schools Team Champions, Queensland Secondary Schools Team Champions and Seventh at Brisbane International Primary Teams Competition June The first time in College history that BBC has achieved five consecutive GPS Premierships in any sport. Rowing and Gymnastics come close in the 50s and 90s
January Jack Jaede (Year 12) receives a wild card to the Australian Junior Tennis Championships singles qualifying tournament and defeats theNo 60 and No 30 world ranked Juniors in a lead up event
December Dane Sweeny (Year 11) takes out the Australian U16 Singles and Doubles Titles, qualifying for the Junior Event at the Australian Open
November BBC qualifies for 2015 Tennis World Titles in Qatar
2015 Tenth GPS Tennis Premiership, Queensland Schools Tennis Champions, Third place at Australian Schools Tennis Championships, Fourth place at World Secondary School Championships in Doha, Qatar BBC’s National Team are invited to Government House to play on the oldest grass court in Queensland in preparation for National Grass Court title in Albury
2015 National Team
September BBC boys named Queensland Age U/16 Doubles Tennis Champions (Bryn Nahrung, Year 10 and Colby Norman, Year 11) and U/16 Queensland Age Champion (Casey Edwards, Year 11)
October BBC is recognised as Most Outstanding School at the Australian Tennis Awards held in Melbourne. This award acknowledges schools that have aligned with a Tennis Australia qualified coach, have a dedicated staff member assigned to tennis, have strong links with local clubs and coaches and have incorporated tennis as part of the curriculum
BBC SPORT | 53
FIRST IV PREMIERSHIP WINNING TEAMS
2018 First IV
1934 Douglas Cumming, Stuart Cumming, John “Jack” Lock, Douglas McMaster and Alexander McNab 1983 Danny Chiu, Peter Lewis, Sean Morrison and John Owen 1987 Nicholas Brownrigg, Dugald McMaster, Paul Yared and David Willcox
2018
2006 Pat Baldock, Hugh Clarke, Isaac Frost and Jakob Richardson
Thirteenth GPS Tennis Premiership, Queensland Secondary School Team Tennis Champions and Australian Secondary Schools Team Championships Runners up Finn Macnamara (Year 11) wins Queensland Schoolboys Single Title. Liam Franklin (Year 11) is Runner Up February Five BBC Senior students and Tennis staff commence sessions at Mt Ommaney Special School, teaching students of various abilities the basics of tennis. The initiative forms part of the Tennis Australia Inclusion Plan. BBC boys run the program during lunchtimes over four weeks
2007 Hugh Clarke, Mitch Thams, Jonathon Knowlman, Ethan Wilkinson and Nick Northcott
2016 Casey Edwards, Bryn Nahrung, Colby Norman and Dane Sweeny 2017 Liam Franklin, Ryan Hayes, Jacob Hegedus, Finn Macnamara, Bryn Nahrung and Dane Sweeny 2018 Sam Bajracharya, Bryce Collins, Liam Franklin, Luke Jones, Finn Macnamara and Eric Padgham 2019 Sam Bajracharya, Liam Franklin, Finn Macnamara, Eric Padgham 2020 Billy Bougoure, Jack Fanshawe, Max Nahrung, Eric Padgham and Ben Slater
2008 Hugh Clarke, Jonathon Knowlman, Nick Northcott, Mitch Thams and Ethan Wilkinson 2011 Mitchell Cook, Thomas Douglas, Harrison Such and Lucas Such 2013 Jie Dong, Jack Jaede, Nicholas Liddy and Harrison Such 2014 Jie Dong, Jack Jaede, Nicholas Liddy and Mitchell Wilson 2015 Jie Dong, Lewis Edwards, Nicholas Liddy, Thomas Liddy and Mitchell Wilson
2019 Fourteenth GPS Tennis Premiership, Queensland Secondary School Team Tennis Champions
BBC TO USA COLLEGE PLAYERS
2020 First IV
2020
Fifteenth GPS Tennis Premiership and eighth consecutive BBC Tennis Premiership. Congratulations to Ben Slater, Billy Bougoure, Max Nahrung, Eric Padgham, Jack Fanshawe
2008 Hugh Clarke – Pepperdine University, California 2008 Ethan Wilkinson – Mississippi State University, Mississippi 2008 Jonathan Knowlman – University of San Francisco, California 2008 Mitchell Thams – University of Central Florida, Florida 2008 Nick Northcott – Loyola Marymount University, California 2010 Cameron Lee – University of Utah, Utah 2011 Mitchell Cook – Texas A & M University, Texas 2011 Tom Douglas – University of New Mexico, New Mexico 2014 Jack Jaede – University of Southern California, California 2015 Hamilton Walker – Ventura College, California 2015 Nick Liddy – Cowley College, Kansas 2015 Tom Liddy – Fairmont State University, West Virginia 2015 Lewis Edwards – Auburn University, Alabama 2020 Sam Bajracharya – Barton Community College, Kansas 2020 Finn Macnamara – University of Buffalo, New York
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GPS SUPER TERM The return of GPS competitions in a combined ‘Super Term’ format in Term 3 saw our Basketball, Chess, Cross Country, Football, Gymnastics, Rugby and Tennis teams take centre stage from July to September. Following the cancellation of Term 2 competitions due to COVID-19 restrictions, the implementation of GPS Return to Play Protocols ensured the continuation of competition for boys from Years 5 to 12, albeit without the sideline support synonymous with crowds of students, parents and community spectators. The crowds might not have been there to cheer on our boys but our Green, White, Black spirit was alive and well as the College achieved Premierships in Rugby and Tennis, following earlier success in Cricket, to secure three GPS Premierships in 2020.
BBC SPORT | 55
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
56 | BBC SPORT
BBC SPORT | 57
2020 BBC GPS RESULTS ACTIVITY
OFFICIAL TEAM
RESULT/OVERALL POSITION
Basketball
First V
6th
Chess
First IV
4th
Cricket
First XI
First XI Co-Premiers
Debating
Senior A
4th
Football
First XI
9th
Rugby
First XV
First XV Undefeated Premiers
Tennis
First IV
First IV Undefeated Premiers
Volleyball
First VI
4th
PREMIERSHIP ACTIVITIES
CHAMPIONSHIP ACTIVITIES Cross Country
10-12 Years 13-Open
6th 2nd
Gymnastics
Combination of Divisions 1, 2 & 3
3rd
Rowing
Old Boys Cup 1st VIII
6th 6th
Sailing
Competition Cancelled Competition Cancelled
Swimming
10-12 Years 13-Open
3rd 5th
Track & Field
10-12 Years 13-Open
4th 2nd
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
INSIGHT
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People Power Activities of the Parents & Friends’ Association
64 Staying Safe Online 64 Connect With Us
RAISING RESILIENT CHILDREN RECOGNISING THAT KNOWLEDGE-BASED LEARNING IS NO LONGER ENOUGH, BRISBANE BOYS’ COLLEGE HAS ADOPTED AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO EDUCATION THAT INTEGRATES BEST-PRACTICE TEACHING AND LEARNING WITH THE SCIENCE OF WELLBEING, PLACING AN EMPHASIS ON BUILDING RESILIENCE AND CONFIDENCE. IN PARTNERSHIP WITH PARENTS, AND THROUGH A FRAMEWORK OF POSITIVE EDUCATION, WE ARE PREPARING BOYS TO LEAD PURPOSEFUL AND FULFILLING LIVES. THE FOLLOWING ARTICLE PROVIDES PARENTS WITH TIPS FROM RESPECTED CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST, JUDITH LOCKE ON HOW TO DEVELOP RESILIENCE IN CHILDREN.
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In his book The Optimistic Child (2011), psychologist Martin Seligman discusses the negative consequences of overdoing ‘good’ parenting actions. He hypothesised that when parents focus too much on improving children’s good feelings, by giving plentiful glib praise, regardless of effort, it stops children from performing feats that have a greater likelihood of building genuine self-respect. It is only when given the chance to overcome challenges that children should earn appropriate recognition for their efforts. Terms such as helicopter parenting and overparenting are used to describe a type of parenting that involves an excess of care, including being overly protective, not letting a child make their own decisions, over-the-top affection, and holding overly high academic and social expectations for the child. This parenting approach has been associated with harmful consequences for children both at the time and later in their lives, including increased anxiety, poor leadership skills and creativity, increased narcissism, reduced self-regulation skills, increased alcohol use, reduced life satisfaction and limited distress tolerance. Overparenting is a well-intentioned approach and this can make it difficult to see the harm that it is doing. Like other ostensibly altruistic actions with inadvertent harmful results, we are less inclined to question the merits of overparenting because, on the surface, the aims seem positive. Parental interventions such as helping teens with their homework, freeing children from any chores (so that they can enjoy their childhood) or querying a teacher’s judgment when children’s results are disappointing, can appear to be good and loving choices. In reality, they risk thwarting children’s independence, confidence and skill. What makes the long-term risks of overparenting actions particularly insidious is that there can be benefits in the short term. For example, when a child expresses a reluctance to participate in a school swimming carnival and a parent allows them to avoid it, this might well prompt an immediate improvement in
the child’s mood. But repeated too often, the same or similar scenarios raise the risk of the child developing long-term issues with facing challenges. Likewise, consider parents who consistently remind their teenage son to do his schoolwork. He will likely continue to do well at school but, if the situation never changes, he will not face the consequences of his own disorganisation, nor have the opportunity to learn self-regulation and personal motivation. Unfortunately, overparenting is reinforced by its welcome short-term effects. It can be counterintuitive for loving parents to insist that an uneasy child participate in the race, or to permit a teen to forget his homework and temporarily do badly at school.
AT BBC, IT IS PARAMOUNT FOR US TO ENSURE THAT OUR BOYS ARE RESILIENT. OUR WORLD IS CHANGING AT AN EVER-INCREASING RATE AND WE MUST ‘FUTURE-PROOF ’ OUR STUDENTS BY DEVELOPING YOUNG MEN WHO NOT ONLY HAVE STRONG FOUNDATIONAL KNOWLEDGE, BUT WHO ARE ALSO CRITICAL THINKERS, WITH CREATIVE AND CURIOUS MINDS, AND A COLLABORATIVE DISPOSITION, SO THEY CAN REALISE THEIR POTENTIAL AND THRIVE IN TODAY’S MODERN WORLD. So, what is a parent to do? How can you comfortably trust your choices if what feels right is often wrong? Perhaps parents should be encouraged not to focus purely on ensuring their child is always happy and successful in the here and now, but rather to develop in him the five skills that will be helpful in the long term: resilience, self-regulation, resourcefulness, respect and responsibility. Focussing on these abilities will give your son a much better chance of thriving in the future, regardless of any challenges he might face.
RESILIENCE Resilient children have the capability to bounce back from challenging circumstances and overcome difficulties, no matter what situation they might face now or in the future. Resilience gives them the confidence to face the world on a daily basis because they believe that they will manage regardless of what happens. This will enable them to live interesting lives uncowed by fear of failure or difficulty.
Parental overprotection reduces children’s ability to develop resilience, because it deprives them of the opportunity to learn to cope with the discomfort or occasional awkwardness that they might feel when stretching themselves in the pursuit of a goal. Cossetted children will start to narrow their lives and only do activities in which they are assured of success and stay in complete control of their immediate environment. A boy’s resilience can be enhanced by allowing them to face age-appropriate challenges. Start small, and do not immediately step in when he is faced with slightly frustrating results. For instance, let him continue with his efforts of stacking the blocks or tying his shoelaces, even when he encounters initial difficulties. At the same time, be sure to praise your child for his genuine efforts and persistence. When he succeeds, this will help him understand the qualities that enabled him to overcome a challenge or learn a new skill. Noting his resilience in the face of tricky tasks will also encourage your child to believe that he has the required strength to face future trials.
SELF-REGULATION With greater self-regulation, your children will be better able to resist doing something immediately pleasant, in pursuit of a greater future goal – such as finishing homework in the afternoon rather than flopping in front of Netflix; resisting buying sweets on the way home from school so they can save for a new Nintendo game; or working hard on practising their skateboarding moves to master new tricks, despite occasional tumbles and failures. Everything good in life – successful careers, businesses, relationships, creative endeavours – depends on the self-regulation that is involved in sustaining the ‘slow cook’, rather than succumbing to the lure of immediate gratification. If you always ensure your children are happy and successful in the here and now, they will not get the chance to discover the value of ignoring their current preferences or temporary moods for their future benefit. There are many ways to develop your children’s self-regulation skills. Set up consistency in the three Rs: rules, routines and repercussions. Establish a few ground rules and predictable routines for your children to follow, such as morning habits of getting up, having breakfast and getting dressed in their school uniform. Consistent and calm consequences help too.
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Your children will be less likely to push the boundaries if they know that ignoring an instruction means they will lose some type of privilege, even if only momentarily. Over time, resist the temptation to always remind them of their responsibilities. In the long term, their internal motivation will be a more effective incentive than your reminders acting like an external alarm clock that always rings for them.
RESOURCEFULNESS Resourcefulness describes your children’s ability to adjust their actions to suit the current situation. It involves more than being resilient to changed circumstances. Resourceful children can adapt their behaviours and respond appropriately to an altered situation. It depends on finding solutions amid chaos, choosing to focus on ways to cope rather than looking for someone to blame or sinking into victimhood. If you use your own resourcefulness to solve your children’s problems, they will not get the chance to learn how to adapt. You risk setting yourself up as the solver and your children might continue to look to you for resolutions, even at an age when they should be solving situations themselves. Indeed, the term helicopter parenting was popularised when university staff noticed parents continuing to hover and solve their university-aged children’s problems, such as calling lecturers to request extra time for their child to complete an assignment, or seeking to hire a nanny to cook and clean for their university-aged child. When children are not required to pivot, even in adulthood, then they will never learn how to adjust and cope and will be more adversely affected by the inevitable challenges that come their way. Developing your children’s resourcefulness is simple - stop solving their problems for them. Start by allowing your children to face a few more age-appropriate challenges each year, such as asking the waiter where the bathroom is rather than asking for them, or encourage them to talk to their teacher about where their essay went wrong, rather than stepping in to enquire for them. You could also prompt them to do more problem-solving for themselves at home, such as when they argue with their siblings over the TV or computer. Another strategy is to role-play hypotheticals. For example, ask them what they would do if they ever forgot their school lunch.
RESPECT Respect is essential for fitting in with wider society. Although typically associated with giving appropriate regard to authority figures and following social conventions at home and at school, teaching children respect goes beyond that to considering other people’s rights and feelings. If you make your children believe that they are the most important people in the room, they will not develop respect and the ability to fit in to a range of environments. Manipulating situations to allow your children to win or triumph means that they will not learn to be comfortable when others shine. This will harm them in the long run, making them less attractive as team members or work colleagues. When a child is born, the family has to totally adjust to the child’s needs, but slowly, over time, the child needs to learn to adapt to being part of the team and fit in with everyone. Thus, it is essential to start building your children’s respect for other’s needs and encourage them not to expect to be the centre of attention all the time during their younger years. Teach your children to take turns in games, listen to others at the dinner table, and cooperate over the use of scarce resources, such as sharing the TV with their siblings, or not insisting on getting the last piece of cake or pizza. Praise them when they show these skills and be careful not to give too much attention to any obnoxious, attention-seeking behaviours that they exhibit.
RESPONSIBILITY Responsibility is an extension of respect and involves your children doing things that benefit the people around them and society in general. It could be minor activities, such as speaking at a soft volume in a public place, or letting an older person take their seat on the bus. It means being accountable for the mistakes that you make and owning up and making amends when you do the wrong thing.
When you prioritise your children’s rights over their responsibilities, you prevent them from learning the skill of accountability and from experiencing the wellbeing benefits of contributing to society. Remind your children that there is equal, if not more, happiness in what they do for others than in what others do for them. One of the most effective ways of teaching your children responsibility is to give them chores from a young age. Children as young as three can help set the table and feel like they are contributing members of the family. The earlier you start this, the more your children will accept that they need to contribute to the family through acts of service. Encourage their motivation by linking their rights, such as screen time and pocket money, to their responsibilities, such as doing regular chores. Other ways to help develop your children’s sense of responsibility include: inviting them to donate some of their pocket money or possessions to charities; offering them the chance to be solely responsible for a pet’s need; giving them the chance to help your neighbours; and giving them opportunities to do volunteer work. Acknowledgment Judith Locke - Clinical Psychologist
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People Power PARENTS & FRIENDS' ASSOCIATION It takes an entire community, working in partnership and staying united in a common purpose, to build a great school. By joining the BBC community all current families become part of a large network of parents and friends who work alongside the College for the benefit of all BBC boys. The College benefits from the active support of the Parents & Friends’ Association, and its volunteers, who work in partnership to promote the interests of the school and facilitate its development and further improvement to achieve the best possible outcome for students.
WHO ARE THE P&F? The Parents and Friends’ Association is the College’s main parent body. It supports the College to provide educational facilities and experiences for students and provides parents with an opportunity to play an active role in their son’s education, strengthening the link between the College and the wider community. The P&F Association works closely with other members of the College community including BBC staff, the Foundation and the Old Collegians’ Association to provide and promote community support through fundraising, donations and events.
The P&F Association employs a full-time Executive Manager who reports to the P&F President and is responsible for the day-to-day running of business operation. The President of the P&F Association is supported by an Executive Committee, consisting of Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary and other general committee members. There are currently 12 non-paid parent volunteer positions on the Committee. In addition to this, the Headmaster is also part of the Committee. The P&F Executive Committee meets monthly during term-time to discuss matters relating to its business operations. Operating under a Constitution, the P&F Association holds an Annual General Meeting each year and all current parents are invited to attend. At each AGM, every position on the Executive Committee is declared ‘open’ and nominations are made and accepted for either new members to join or existing members to re-nominate for another term in office.
WHAT DO THEY DO? P&F BUSINESSES The P&F Association is responsible for the operation of two on campus businesses, the P&F Tuckshop and P&F College Shop, incorporating the Uniform Shop and the Second Hand Textbook and Uniform Depot. These operations provide a valuable service to students and the wider College community. As such, the P&F aims to keep Tuckshop and Uniform Shop costs low to lessen the financial impact on parents and serve current families. Businesses run under the P&F Association are ‘not for profit’. As such, any money that is surplus, after operating costs and expenses, is reinvested back into business operations and/or reinvested directly into the College to assist with projects and capital works for the benefit of all students.
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TUCKSHOP
COLLEGE SHOP WEBSTORE
Proudly operated by the P&F Association, the Tuckshop provides breakfast, morning tea and lunch each school day. On average the Tuckshop prepares up to 500 home cooked meals per day and processes almost 20,000 online orders per school year through an online ordering system which is available to all Junior, Middle and Senior students. At BBC, we understand that a healthy diet can improve student behaviour, educational success and performance at school. As such, the BBC Tuckshop offers healthy food and drink choices that are tasty and affordable, mirroring the nutrition message taught in classrooms and in support of Strength and Conditioning programs. A Nutrition Committee comprised of staff, sports directors and a dietitian provide input and guidance to the Tuckshop to ensure that the nutritional requirements of boys and young men are met.
As an extension of the College Shop, the webstore provides easy online access to purchase a full range of BBC uniform items and College gifts.
COLLEGE SHOP College Shop carries a full range of formal and sports uniforms necessary for boys to attend BBC. All compulsory uniform items, stationery items, novels and selected text books are stocked along with a range of BBC supporter apparel, College branded memorabilia and gifts items. The P&F College Shop holds in excess of 1,500 different uniform and BBC merchandise items. All items are available in-store or online via the College Shop Webstore.
SECOND HAND TEXTBOOK AND UNIFORM DEPOT The P&F Association Second Hand Depot stocks a variety of good quality second hand uniform items - both formal and sports uniforms - and textbooks. This service assists parents in finding affordable, quality inspected and approved school uniforms and current textbooks. Items are sold on consignment and parents are encouraged to bring in uniform items and textbook items that are no longer required.
SUPPORT GROUPS AND P&F ACTIVITIES In addition to their business operations, the P&F Association is responsible for numerous Support Groups and subcommittees, organising social and fundraising activities and representing the wider parent body on various decision making committees within the College. Most Support Groups are aligned to co-curricular activities, while other groups such as the Junior School Support Group and Parent Connections service a larger section of the community. All these Support Groups carry out valuable work on behalf of the P&F Association.
BBC parents have a wonderful tradition of supporting co-curricular activities and social events facilitated by the P&F Association with the funds raised by Support Groups re-invested to improve co-curricular activities at the College. A flagship College event, facilitated by the P&F Association is the Gathering of the Clan which attracts hundreds of Junior, Middle and Senior School parents at the start of each academic year and fosters a sense of community.
RECENT ACHIEVEMENTS The P&F Association considers a wide variety of issues and requests as they seek to best support College initiatives and provide benefit for students. Over the past few years, the P&F have re-invested more than $500,000 into projects such as: • refurbishment of senior classrooms in the Main Administration Building • implementation of an online ordering and contactless payment system at the Tuckshop • development of an online College Shop platform • construction of the P&F Pavilion, a multi-purpose pavilion overlooking John Noblet Oval and the Tennis Courts • Sports Hall roof replacement project • refurbishment of the small lecture Theatre in Birtles Library • ongoing refurbishments to the Boarding House.
2020/21 P&F EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE President Paul Martin Vice President & BBC Foundation Representative Vanessa Taylor Kelly Secretary & Parent Connections President Susie Dash Treasurer Tiffany Bell Committee Member Hamish Baird Committee Member Lachlan Brown Committee Member Jonathan Cauldwell Committee Member John Hudson Committee Member Terriann MacDonnell Committee Member Fiona Owen Committee Member Heather Stafford Committee Member Steph Walker
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CONTACT THE P&F To volunteer your time and serve the BBC community pandf@bbc.qld.ed.au
PARENT AND FRIENDS’ ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE OFFICE Sharon Jack, Executive Manager P +61 7 3309 3541 E pandf@bbc.qld.edu.au W www.bbc.qld.edu.au/community/ parents-friends-assocation
TUCKSHOP P +61 7 3309 3537 E bharvey@bbc.qld.edu.au
COLLEGE SHOP In association with the BBC Foundation the P&F has launched a P&F Bursary for boys seeking to enrol at Brisbane Boys’ College as well as current students whose families are experiencing financial hardship. The P&F also offers Uniform Shop credits to families in need of financial support and assistance.
LOOKING FORWARD The BBC Parents and Friends’ Association will continue to support College programs and initiatives, invest into P&F business operations and contribute to the ongoing enhancement of College facilities. Future plans include renovations to the College Shop as well as an upgrade to
back of house operations, including further development and customisation of the online College webstore.
P +61 7 3309 3523 E shop@bbc.qld.edu.au W www.shop.bbc.qld.edu.au
GET INVOLVED
THE BOOK DEPOT
The P&F Association provides parents and friends of the College with opportunities to be actively involved in the development of activities and initiatives which directly support the College and strengthen links between the College and the wider community. The BBC Tuckshop, College Shop, Support Groups and the P&F Association are always looking for highly energised and committed parent volunteers.
P +61 7 3309 3540 E shop@bbc.qld.edu.au
COLLEGE SHOP NOW ONLINE As an extension of the College Shop, the webstore provides online access to the full range of compulsory uniform items, stationery requirements, supporter apparel, College branded memorabilia and gift items. Visitors to the College Shop webstore enjoy: • Convenient 24/7 online shopping • Access to more than 1,500 different uniform and merchandise items • Fast secure credit card payments • Same day click & collect service
VISIT THE COLLEGE SHOP WEBSTORE TODAY
SHOP.BBC.QLD.EDU.AU COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
64 | INSIGHT
INSIGHT | 64
Get Connected
Putting you in touch with resources STAYING SAFE ONLINE Young people’s brains are continuing to grow and develop throughout their adolescent years. Especially in early adolescence, many young people are unable to predict the consequences of their actions. It’s imperative that parents continue to teach, monitor and protect their children when it comes to cyber safety. Adolescents must learn how to use the internet in a safe, smart and responsible way. It’s just as important for parents to teach their children about cyber safety as it is to teach them how to swim or to safely cross the road. Tips to help limit young people’s exposure to harmful content online: • Engage in your child’s online activities - ask what apps, sites and games they are using and make sure they are age appropriate • Use parental controls on devices to help limit what your child is exposed to • Help them report and block upsetting content they see on social media sites or apps • Let them know they can come to you about anything upsetting they see online Young people may feel scared, embarrassed, or confused about seeing inappropriate content, so it is important to communicate in an open and supportive manner. They may also fear that adults may not be able to help them or fear reprisals like ‘device denial’ if they do share harmful content they have been exposed to online. Any member of our community who encounters harmful and disturbing content online, is encouraged to report it immediately to the social media platform on which they have seen it, and then to eSafety the National online safety hub, eSafety.
CONNECT WITH US We invite you to discover our unique BBC spirit for yourself. Connect with us online or contact our Admissions Team to arrange a tour of the College.
facebook.com/BrisBoysCollege/
instagram.com/brisbaneboyscollege/
linkedin.com/school/brisbane-boys'-college
bbc.qld.edu.au/join-us/visit-us/
Additional advice and resources: SchoolTV:
BBC.QLD.SCHOOLTV.ME/NEWSLETTER/SOCIAL-MEDIA-AND-DIGITALREPUTATION
National online safety hub: WWW.ESAFETY.GOV.AU
BOOK RESOURCE In the book Let the Children Play: Why more play will save our schools and help children thrive, Pasi Sahlberg and William Doyle discuss the importance of play. “Play is how children explore, discover, fail, succeed, socialise, and flourish. It is a fundamental element of the human condition. It’s the key to giving school children the skills they need to succeed–skills like creativity, innovation, teamwork, focus, resilience, expressiveness, empathy, concentration, and executive function. Expert organisations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, the National Academy of Sciences, and the Centers for Disease Control agree that play and physical activity are critical foundations of childhood, academics, and future skills–yet over crowded curriculum and policies are destroying play in childhood education.”
Admissions +61 (7) 3309 3658
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CONNECT O LD COLLEGIAN S
F O U N D AT ION
COM MU N ITY EV EN TS
66
From the OCA President 68 Raise Your Boater Day 74 Inspirational Old Collegians
78 Flashback 80 From the Foundation Chair
66 | CONNECT
From the OCA President MURRAY MCNAUGHT (OC 1992)
It has never been more important to stay connected. Therefore, the activities of the OCA Executive Committee remain focused on facilitating engagement amongst Old Collegians, raising the Association’s profile across the broader BBC Community and increasing enrolments of sons and grandsons of Old Boys at the College.
This year the OCA has made donations to the Old Collegians’ Rowing Club, Basketball Club and Pipe Band, and we continue to promote these clubs as a great way for Old Collegians to connect over a shared interest. We introduced our inaugural Raise Your Boater Day on 27 August in honour of the 100th anniversary of the first meeting of the Association. To celebrate, we asked Old Collegians to dust off their boaters, raise them to their BBC brothers, and send us a photo. The event attracted support from Old Boys of all ages from Australia and across the globe including Ireland, New Zealand and the USA. Many of our current BBC boys and families joined in the spirit and sent in a great collection of photos and videos, all of which were shared on our social media platforms. We look forward to making this an annual fixture on our OCA calendar of events. Our Vintage Collegians gathered at Mt Mee for their annual Christmas in July Lunch, where they were welcomed by an OCA Piper. Decade reunions were celebrated by the Class of 2010 at the Jephson Hotel, the Class of 2000 and 1990 at the Port Office Hotel and the Class of 1980 at the Grand Chancellor Hotel. Members from the Class of 2005, 1995, 1985, and 1975 also celebrated their respective 15, 25, 35 and 45 Year Reunions at a lunch at Barolos Restaurant on what was meant to be Old Boys’ Day. The event included a live feed of the history making Rugby First XV victory against Nudgee College, as well as a visit from the victorious Tennis First IV with their
Premiership trophy. Both wins received loud congratulations from the Old Boys! The year finished off with the Vintage Collegians’ End-of-Year Lunch celebration incorporating the 50, 55 and 60 Year Reunions for members of the Class of 1970, 1965 and 1960 at Gambaro Restaurant. A focus of the OCA Executive Committee is to increase enrolments of sons and grandsons of Old Boys at BBC (now at 16 percent). The OCA donated $38,585 in 2020 to enable four boys to attend the College on an OCA Bursary. Without this support they would not be able to receive a BBC education. The OCA worked in conjunction with the BBC Foundation as a matching donor for their As One Giving Day, and we were proud to be part of the staggering $563,815 outcome of the day! This year the OCA also donated $100,000 towards the OCA Centenary Gates Project to be built on Moggill Road in 2021. This year has certainly not seen the Centenary Year celebrations that we had hoped and planned for but, looking back over what has been a very challenging period, we have been fortunate to have the support of a community which has enabled us to achieve so many of our goals. The Centenary Gala Dinner, our flagship centenary event, has been moved to later in 2021 in the hope that the whole community will be able to join us. With over 60 table captains already confirmed, the event will no doubt sell out! See the 2021 OCA Calendar for further details.
Stay in Touch Keep connected with the OCA via Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn www.facebook.com/ BrisbaneBoysCollege OldCollegiansAssociation
@bbc_old_collegians_assoc
Brisbane Boys' College Old Collegians' Association
director of community engagement and foundation executive officer
Mrs Lea Walker-Franks Phone +61 (07) 3309 3513 Email lwalker-franks@bbc.qld.edu.au community engagement manager
Mrs Carol Stephens Phone +61 (07) 3309 3526 Email oca@bbc.qld.edu.au college archivist
Ms Helen Jackson Phone +61 (07) 3309 3629 Email hjackson@bbc.qld.edu.au
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OCA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Back Row: Arthur Palmer (OC 1970), Graham Sagar (OC 1969), Andrew Stephen (OC 1994), Wade Ruffin (OC 1984), Cameron Wallace (OC 2012), Isaac Vincent (OC 2009), Lea Walker-Franks – Secretary Front Row: G rant Rynne (OC 2000), Russell Byrnes (OC 1985) – Vice President, Murray McNaught (OC 1992) – President, Peter White (OC 2013) – Treasurer, Paul Brown – Headmaster.
UPCOMING OCA EVENTS 2021 CALENDAR
REUNIONS: 20 AND 30 YEAR REUNIONS Friday, 13 August
OLD BOYS' DAY (HOME GAME VS CHURCHIE) Saturday, 14 August
FOUNDER'S DAY ASSEMBLY Thursday 11 February
VINTAGE COLLEGIANS LUNCH TOOWOOMBA
REUNIONS: 15, 25, 35 AND 45 YEAR REUNIONS Saturday, 14 August
RAISE YOUR BOATER DAY
Friday, 19 February
Friday, 27 August
OCA PRESIDENT'S DRINKS AND 5 YEAR REUNION
OCA GOLF DAY
Friday, 26 February
SYDNEY VINTAGE COLLEGIANS MORNING TEA (TBC) Friday, 19 March
SINGAPORE REUNION EVENT (TBC) Saturday, 17 April
VINTAGE COLLEGIANS LUNCH SUNSHINE COAST Wednesday, 28 April
OCA/P&F NETWORKING BREAKFAST Friday, 30 April
OCA AGM
Tuesday, 4 May
VINTAGE COLLEGIANS CHRISTMAS IN JULY LUNCH - MT MEE Wednesday, 28 July
Friday, 3 September
REUNIONS: 40 AND 50 YEAR REUNIONS Saturday, 18 September
GIVING DAY
Tuesday, 12 October
SCI-FLEET MOTORS OCA CENTENARY GALA DINNER Saturday, 30 October
REUNIONS: 10 YEAR REUNION Friday, 19 November
VINTAGE COLLEGIANS ANNUAL LUNCH AND 55 AND 60 YEAR REUNIONS Wednesday, 24 November
Dates are correct at time of printing, however may be subject to change.
68 | CONNECT
RAISE YOUR BOATER DAY
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27 AUGUST 2020 On the 100th anniversary of the first meeting of the Old Collegians’ Association our BBC community raised their boaters to salute a centenary of the OCA and celebrate BBC boys; past, present and future. Current students, parents, staff and Old Boys from Australia and across the world paused to reconnect with the
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Green, White, Black spirit. Thank you to all those who embraced this inaugural event and sent in photos from near and far.
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COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
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1. Cameron Imrie (OC 1978) from Ireland 2. Kain Mahboobi and Liam Beak 3. Old Collegians Rowing Club 4. Naz McLean 5. Alister Gomersall (College Captain 2020) 6. Andrew Lapa (OC 1983) 7. Dan Struble (OC 1971) from NY, USA 8. Hugh Sagar (OC 1973), James Sagar (OC 2001), Graham Sagar (OC 1969) 9. Ross Cameron (OC 1985), Jonathan Cameron (OC 1946), Alexander Cameron 10. BBC Staff 11. Year 1 students 12. Joseph Adsett (OC 2000), Julian Adsett 13. Sam Kelly-Knowles (OC 2019), Jake Tierney (OC 2019), Jono Hides (OC 2015), Barton Shields (OC 2006) 14. Mclaren Smith, Josh Wells, Nic Rees 15. Charles Kitsman (OC 1966) from TX, USA 16. Year 6 students 17. Jim McKenzie (OC 1992) and daughter Heather 18. John McCabe 19. Tim Williams (OC 1966) from WA, USA 20. Brooklyn Howson 21. James Rodgers (OC 1991), Murray McNaught (OC 1992) with sons 22. Year 12 students 23. Peter (Pedro) Dun (OC 1968) 24. Matt Stephen, Doug Stephen (OC 1963), Andrew Stephen (OC 1994) 25. Brian Davey (OC 1969) 26. Hamish Woolmer and Jamie Woolmer (OC 1991) 27. John Watter (OC 1960) 28. Scott Young (1969) from Houston TX, USA 29. Richard Jack (1986) from NZ
72 | CONNECT
REUNIONS
1
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A snapshot of images from reunions held throughout 2020 1. Class of 2010: Thomas McWilliam, Will Read, Tobias Clarke, James Burgin, Mark Charlton 2. Class of 2010: Timothy Baumann, Ben Gibson, Toby Weston, Mitchell Peyre, Matthew Joyce 3. Class of 2000: Andrew Harwood, Adrian Wells, Joseph Adsett, Brad Armstrong, Justin Kelly, Josh Mould and Andrew Ewan 4. Class of 1990: Rob McPhee, Michael Ackerie, Doug McNaught and Harry White 5. Class of 2010 6. Class of 2010: Lewis Nicholls, Angus Barnes, Jordan Ryan, Jack Dodgson, Nicholas Connolly 7. Class of 1980 8. Class of 1960 accepting 2020 As One Giving Day Team Trophies at their 60 Year Reunion 9. Class of 2000: Andrew Jarvis, Michael Watt, Will McVay, Matt Hollis, Tony Jo, Donovan McKenzie
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VINTAGE COLLEGIANS CHRISTMAS IN JULY LUNCH
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22 JULY 2020 1. Quentin Maclean (OC 1962), John Beard (OC 1964), David Rathie (guest), Peter Roe (OC 1966) 2. Phillip Waugh (OC 1963), Bill East (OC 1955), Russell Kerrison (OC 1955) 3. Friends since 1955: Quentin Maclean (OC 1962), Robert Gillespie (OC 1963) and Win Fowles (OC 1962) 4. Janet and Peter Hughes (OC 1959), John Stafford (OC 1954), Bill Sanderson-Slade (OC 1962) 5. Hugh Sagar (OC 1973) 6. John Drewe (OC 1957), Jim Hutchinson (OC 1955), Robert Pollock (OC 1955)
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COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
74 | CONNECT
Inspirational Old Collegians In celebration of the OCA centenary, the College has compiled a list of inspirational Old Collegians who exemplify the character strengths we wish to foster in our current students. By profiling Old Collegians who embody aspirational elements of the College’s Positive Education Framework, we hope to inspire BBC boys to face the world with confidence, compassion and creativity as future-minded and inquisitive life-long learners, caring citizens and resilient individuals. This centenary project models how Old Collegians have used their strengths to achieve great things in their lives, and hopes to inspire current students to learn more about, and embrace, their character strengths now and into the future. We wish to acknowledge the ongoing work of Peter Roe (OC 1966) and Dereke Seeto (OC 1991), whose contributions have been vital to this project.
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COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
76 | CONNECT
Aspire Positive Education ASPIRATION
Character Strengths
ASPIRATION
ALTRUISM
Fairness, Leadership and Teamwork
INTELLECTUAL Creativity, Curiosity, Openmindedness, Love of Learning and Perspective
Character Strengths
SPIRITUAL
Bravery, Honesty, Perseverance and Enthusiasm
RELATIONAL
Kindness, Love and Social Intelligence
PHYSICAL
Forgiveness, Modesty, Common Sense and Self-control
EMOTIONAL
Appreciation of Beauty and Excellence, Gratitude, Hope, Humour and Belief
Visit our website to view the Year 8 Legacy Projects: WWW.BBC.QLD.EDU.AU/NEWS/LEGACYPROJECTS
This centenary project builds on the 2019 Legacy Projects which saw Year 8 students research prominent Old Boys to produce short films which highlighted their character strengths and aspects of College history using modern technology. college archivist
Ms Helen Jackson Phone +61 (07) 3309 3629 Email hjackson@bbc.qld.edu.au.
Honourary Old Collegians In recognition of their significant service to the College, the OCA Executive have proudly welcomed the following BBC staff members as honorary members of the Association in 2020. Peter Horeczyj (Commerce) Andrew Jenkinson (Junior School) Paul MacDonald (Social Sciences) Chicri Maksoud (Mathematics) Gary Musson (Junior School) Michael Smith (Catering Manager) Malcolm Staniforth (HPE)
Gary Musson
Michael Smith
Andrew Jenkinson
Paul MacDonald
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Community Announcements In each edition of Collegian, we include a number of community announcements including births, weddings and Vale. If you have an announcement you would like to share with us, relating to either yourself or a fellow Old Boy, please contact our Alumni Office.
VALE Mr Joshua Barclay (OC 2018)
Mr Scott Pegg (OC 2013)
Mr David C Carmichael (OC 1970)
Mr Noel W Preston (OC 1959)
Mr John D Humphreys (OC 1955)
Mr Garth I Palethorpe (OC 1939)
Mr Alexander McCartney (OC 1950)
Mr Craig Beioley (OC 1980)
Mr William S Ott (OC 1988)
Mr James Shaw (OC 1980)
Col Goldburg and Ted Lawson Col Goldburg, 1957
VALE
Colin Goldburg (1926-2020)
Col Goldburg and Graham Thomson
BSc, BEd (Hons)
Master who gave 43 years of service to BBC Having completed a Science degree at the University of Queensland, Mr Colin Goldburg arrived at BBC in 1947. He was appointed by Headmaster, Dr T.R. McKenzie, and remained a Chemistry teacher during the leadership of three more Headmasters; Mr A.J Birtles, Mr G.E Thomson and Mr G.M Cujes, for a total of 43 years. In 1947, Colin was immediately made a member of the Sports Committee and coached Cricket, Tennis, and Athletics during his tenure. When Boxing tournaments were held it was his careful behind the scenes organisation that enabled the matches to proceed smoothly and efficiently. However, the two sports synonymous with Col Goldburg were Rowing (during the 1950s) and Gymnastics (from 1953 until he was appointed Senior Master in 1977). At the time of his retirement, in 1990, it was recalled
that during the Annual Staff versus First XI matches, ‘Goldie’ drove the fast bowlers to distraction with his favourite shot, the controlled snick over the heads of the slips to the boundary for four. Taking on numerous roles and responsibilities as a Resident Master, Colin was appointed House Master of Campbell House in 1955, until the amalgamation with its co-boarding house, Rudd in 1963. During the 1960s, Captain Goldburg was an Army Officer in the BBC Cadets. Colin contributed a column, Reflections, in 13 editions of the newspaper Collegian from its inception in 1987. As Science Coordinator, he introduced new courses as the syllabus and curriculum demanded. He also supervised the Photography Club for 15 years. In 1977, Headmaster, Mr Graham Thomson appointed Colin as his Senior
Master - someone whose dedication, loyalty and support he relied upon. In 1988 Colin unselfishly stood aside to allow space for his successor. He remained Science Coordinator for the next two years before his retirement. In 1988 Colin Goldburg was eloquently remembered by Graham Thomson who, in gratitude, wrote: “…those who know him best deeply appreciate the sustained dedication, the devoted, loyal, painstaking and meticulous attitude he has so responsibly brought to every aspect of his duties. I want the teaching staff, particularly to know that he has been their unflagging champion and his compassion towards their needs has been the most solicitous. This seems meagre praise for a man who has done his job faithfully and, as well, has devoted his entire professional life to Brisbane Boys’ College.”
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FLASHBACK
Celebrating a centenary of the OCA IN THEIR WORDS As part of our centenary celebrations we asked some of our past College Captains, from 1963 to 2003, to reflect on what it means to them to be a BBC Old Collegian.
STUART GREGORY (OC 1963)
My first year at the College was its 40th anniversary and in my final year the AW Rudd Science Wing was officially opened, in honour of our Founder. The College has come a very long way since then and its pleasing to know that the original qualities of mental flexibility and moral stability are still amongst the guiding principles of a BBC education.
PETER ROE
(OC 1966)
The Old Collegians are charged with sustaining the traditions of the College. Forty years on, 100 years on, the traditions live on!
SHARR WELLS
(OC 1992)
I have always been proud to be called an Old Boy of the College and take great comfort that the legacy of past, current and future Old Boys is fostered through the OCA. The OCA activities, support and resources contribute to the bond and what it means to be an Old Boy. I look forward to my six year old son being a “BBC Old Boy� in the future.
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MATTHEW MARSHALL (OC 1996)
Five years of high school is a short period of time to have such a profound impact and it’s a privilege to be a small part of such a significant milestone. For me, 1992 to 1996 was the foundation of many fond memories, lasting friendships, life lessons and gratitude for the opportunity to contribute towards a great legacy. Congratulations on 100 years.
LACHLAN CAMPBELL
(OC 1997)
When I walked through the gates of BBC for the first time I was a child with an oversized boater and a life that stretched in front of me which could have taken any number of paths. By the time my head fit that hat I was a young man confident to walk into the world on a path of my choosing, BBC gave me the gift of a well-rounded education, an understanding of our world, and most importantly, the values and character to act as a compass in a changing world. For more than 100 years boys have walked in through those same gates and walked out as young men, and as a school, BBC focused that journey of growth. I believe that the College’s best days lie ahead.
SAM POLSON (OC 2003)
A resounding congratulations to the Old Collegians’ Association for a storied century of service to our community. The OCA plays an integral role in post campus life and continues to outperform in the fulfillment of its mission. For me, the OCA’s tireless efforts ensure I stay connected with College life. Congratulations and thank you to all who are the custodians of the OCA for past, present and future Old Collegians.
CELEBRATING A CENTENARY OF THE OCA Fostering relationships between Old Collegians and the College remains an important focus for the OCA as they continue to honour the unique BBC spirit and traditions that keep generations of BBC Old Boys and their families connected to the College.
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
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From the Foundation Chair DON O'RORKE (OC 1977)
The Foundation’s philanthropic purpose is to raise and manage funds for the benefit of all BBC boys. It always has been and always will be.
It was an honour to be asked to join the BBC
this year alone donors provided $1,454,975
A warm welcome to Carol Stephens,
Foundation Board in the position of Chair in
in new pledges - an outstanding result,
Community Engagement Manager, in the role
June 2020. The mission of the Foundation is
especially given the uncertainty of a global
of Company Secretary and Lauren Davies,
to nurture a culture of philanthropy throughout
pandemic. These donations and pledges
College Accountant, in the role of Assistant
the whole BBC Clan, and to generate
represent a significant rise in the number
Company Secretary. Special thanks to Trish
donations to the Building Fund and Bursary
of people deciding to support the BBC
Whellum, College Financial Controller for all
Fund which are granted exclusively to
Foundation; testament to the impact we are
her hard work. To our Foundation Executive
Brisbane Boys’ College.
making, and a sign of the faith the BBC Clan
Officer, Lea Walker-Franks, we salute you
has in the BBC Foundation of today.
for helping us navigate through these rough
2020 has built upon the increased
waters with spectacular results from which
support from last year as we focussed on
The BBC Foundation worked in conjunction
transparency and delivering the projects
with the Old Collegians’ Association to
and programs enabled by our donors.
conduct the second annual online Giving
All thanks to donations received from our
This year has seen a complete overhaul
Day on 13 October. Thanks to the generosity
supporters, the Board is on track to grant
and streamlining of our financial reporting,
of the BBC community, our As One Giving
well over the $601,000 goal set for specific
delivery of the 2019 Giving Day classrooms,
Day exceeded all expectations, raising a
building and bursary programs by the end of
approval for the 2020 Giving Day classrooms
staggering $563,815 and far surpassing our
2020. Each board member looks forward to
to be transformed, as well as a total of 17 new
initial goal of $250,000 and revised target of
personally thanking as many supporters as
bursaries awarded to boys to start on day one
$350,000. What an incredible and tangible
possible for entrusting us with your gifts at the
of 2021.
legacy from our 2020 Valedictory Gift initiative
2021 Donor Thank You Event.
The Foundation had provided $150,000
for the benefit of current and future BBC boys.
towards the Boarding House refurbishment
Another 2020 initiative saw the establishment
completed this year and an appropriate event
of College Corporate Partnerships. The
to acknowledge our donors’ contributions
Foundation would like to thank Sci-Fleet
is scheduled to take place next year. In
Toyota and Green Options for their support
recognition of her late husband’s dedication
and valuable contribution towards our College
and support of this project, Mrs Margaret
Bursary Program.
Stewart was invited to tour the newly named ‘Dr John Stewart AM (OC 1953) Rudd House Captain’s Room’ of which Mrs Stewart thoroughly approved.
every BBC boy will benefit.
I am pleased to report that the Foundation Board doubled this year with the appointment of three new Elected Directors. I would also like to thank those who retired during
At date of print we have received $649,081 in
2020 for their dedication and diligence:
donations, with a further $50,000 pledged to
Mark Gray (OC 1969) as College Council
be banked this year. Written pledges secure
Representative, and Chris Duffy, Head of
our future commitments to our College, and
Business Operations as Company Secretary.
Mrs Margaret Stewart and Hugo Perceval, Rudd House Captain, at the reveal of the 'Dr John Stewart AM (OC 1953) Rudd House Captain's Room'
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AS ONE GIVING DAY 2020 OUR GOAL WAS
$250,000
WE RAISED
$563,815
459
GIFTS RECEIVED FROM
382
DONORS
Foundation Chair, Don O'Rorke (OC 1977) presents Headmaster, Paul Brown and student, Hemish Dubey with a cheque from the 2020 As One Giving Day donors.
146
(32%) OF THESE GIFTS WERE FROM FIRST TIME BBC FOUNDATION SUPPORTERS
Gifts ranged from $1 - $95,000 91 people pre-registered to receive a reminder on Giving Day from our cheery Year 12 Student volunteers Every ‘Team’ from Prep (8 supporters) to Year 12 (78 supporters) participated and it was wonderful to see so many Old Boys and Staff get involved.
Old Collegians Current students and families (Prep-Year 12)
25%
68%
7% Staff
Bruce McPhee (OC 1960) accepting the trophy for the team with the highest number of donors.
Alister Rogers (OC 1960) accepting the trophy for the team that raised highest amount.
6 DONORS
$107,800
DONATIONS RECEIVED FROM Hong Kong
Northern Territory
THE IMPACT OF YOUR GIFT
Queensland New South Wales
Western Australia
Victoria
Our 2020 goal was to transform two more Senior classrooms into state-of-the-art learning hubs. Because of you, we can transform three classrooms. The new classrooms will be named after our major contributors; the ‘Parents & Friends' Association’, ‘Parent Connections Support Group’ and the ‘Seniors of 2020 and their Parents’. Our goal was to provide one new boy with a means-tested bursary to start in Year 7 in 2021. Thanks to your Giving Day gifts, we can provide a BBC education to three boys.
31%
69%
Classrooms Project
College Bursary Program
The bursaries will support three deserving young men from varied backgrounds to access a BBC education, including a boy from the bush, a boy with an OCA family connection and a boy who is the first in his family to attend BBC.
Singapore
Papua New Guinea Iowa
New York
Texas
The 2020 As One Giving Day clip, featuring current students and Old Collegians, was viewed over 6,000 times
COLLEGIAN DECEMBER 2020
ALL MEMBERS OF THE BBC CLAN ARE WARMLY INVITED TO JOIN US AS WE CELEBRATE 100 YEARS OF THE OLD COLLEGIANS’ ASSOCIATION
Gala THE SCI-FLEET MOTORS OCA CENTENARY ANNIVERSARY
DINNER
AN EVENING OF THANKSGIVING AND CELEBRATION
Revised 2021 date
SAVE THE DATE
SATURDAY 30 OCTOBER 2021 FROM 7.00PM UNTIL LATE THE PLAZA BALLROOM, BRISBANE CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE
Calling all Table Captains If you would like to celebrate with your family, friends or colleagues, please register your interest to fill a table of ten, by contacting Carol Stephens, Community Engagement Manager at oca@bbc.qld.edu.au or phone (07) 3309 3526.
This is not a fundraising event and will be an adult-only celebration. Due to changing restrictions placed on social gatherings, the Gala Dinner has been rescheduled from its original 2020 and March 2021 dates.
Confidence springs from mastery. It is the self-belief required to embrace the unknown. At Brisbane Boys' College, we integrate best practice teaching and learning with the science of wellbeing, and in doing so, safeguard the most important ingredient to a boy’s success: confidence. We refer to this as A New School of Thought.