AISHK The Lion Rock Magazine, Term 4 2021, Volume 36

Rock

THE LION

AUSTRALIAN iNTERNATIONAL sCHOOL hONG kONG tERM 4 2021 | vOLUME 36

SEASON’S FROM AISHK One flourishing SchoolGREETINGS Many in sport Stories Take sport AISHK and physical activity at AISHK. Q & aAdeep withdive theinto diverse Community

‘Tis The Season to Sports Finishing with VALEDICTORY RECAP Be Thankful A Festive staff and @ aishk 2019 sECONDARY CommunityRoundup:BOOK Week aishk inFlourish action Students,Community

ACTIVITY WEEK

Bringing the Re-live the Term’s events with community together Students share videos! their stories with our mini-musicals recap and aaround Festivethe Picnic! from globe

chinese Week @ aishk

Thank you to our Re-live all the action! parents celebrate the supporters and Sports and ECA highlights Get to know the 9/Fateam and Students celebrate the education journey and Students celebrate week of sponsors for their of AISHK students their favourite AISHK memories Meet Get to two know new the AISHK students Families! and onward pathways of culture curriculum magicand of reading contributions in families of AISHK the Class of 2021 2021!

Spotlight Spotlight

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CONTENTS 1 Message from The Board Chairman 2 Message from The Head of School 3 A Festive Flourish for All! 5 Valedictory Recap 7 AISHK PA Saturday Night Dinner 8 Thank You to Our Event Sponsors 13 Prep - Year 3 Musical Performances 17 Sport and ECA Report

THE LION

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MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD CHAIRMAN

Term 4 2021 | Volume 36 Produced by the Development Office. Feedback and submissions to: development@aishk.edu.hk

Professor Richard Petty AISFL Board Chairman

On behalf of your Board of Governors, welcome to the final edition of The Lion Rock for 2021.

This issue provides a snapshot of the events and achievements of Terms 3 and 4 at AISHK. Though challenges remain, the strength of our staff, students, and parent community ensured that at every appropriate opportunity curricular and social activities were offered.

After a number of adjustments due to COVID-19, the school has facilitated ways for students to proudly showcase their work and skills across a spectrum of areas, including Visual Arts Exhibitions from both Primary and Secondary, the Year 6 Australian Stories exhibition, AISHK and interschool sports tournaments, and a host of Christmas performances to end the year.

During the final weeks of the year there were several community events, including a second off-site Father’s Day event in September, a dinner on Saturday 30 October and a Festive Picnic; all attracting a strong turnout. Thank you to the Parent Association for providing these events. Thank you to staff and parents who attended these occasions, often lending a helping hand to make them not only possible, but also memorable.

Congratulations to all students and staff on the many achievements of 2021. It has been my honour to serve AISHK again this year. To the families of AISHK who are departing the School or Hong Kong, I wish you safe and enjoyable travels.

I wish you all a relaxing holiday and I look forward to being in touch with the AISHK community again in 2022.

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MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

Mr. Howard West Head of School

As we near the end of 2021, this issue of The Lion Rock allows us to reflect on the many achievements of AISHK during the later part of the school year.

Many significant events took place, including the annual Valedictory Dinner and Valedictory Assembly, both held in October. The events were warm and convivial, with much pride felt and displayed by students, staff and parents of the Class of 2021. We look forward to reporting back in 2022 on the diverse and varied pathways of this year’s graduates.

Throughout Terms 3 and 4, AISHK students enjoyed increasing opportunities to take part in representative sport in Hong Kong, with a number of friendly fixtures on the calendar. Students also connected with sport in the wider community in various ways, a summary of which is provided in this publication.

I take this opportunity to thank all staff, students and parents of AISHK for the support and dedication shown, and in collaboratively ensuring a successful year for the school. This is only ever made possible by the continued commitment of our unique school community.

Whether you are travelling abroad or remaining in Hong Kong, I hope that the holiday break provides an opportunity for rest, relaxation and a safe and happy festive season.

I look forward to commencing the new school year with you and seeing you all in 2022.

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AISHK A Festive Flourish for All! It was a joy to see so many attendees at the Festive Picnic on Friday 3 December. As the first end-of-year community event of its kind since December 2019, the school and Parent Association were truly delighted to be able to provide this opportunity for AISHK families in 2021. In the interests of COVID-19 safety, some adjustments were made to the event and we appreciated all attendees embracing this, including a very impressive display of picnic expertise all round!

Thank you!

Special thanks must go to the AISHK Parent Association for their contributions of time and particularly the AISHK PA’s sourcing and sponsorhip of all the student activity sets, arts and crafts materials, and also donation of the the very popular Photo Booths!

These aspects of the event helped to crate lasting memories of a long-awaited celebration and the event would not have been the same without them. The sponsorship and ongoing support is greatly appreciated.

The newly elected Secondary Prefects and other senior students supervised and guided younger students in the activities arena with enthusiasm, patience and kindness. They are also to be commended and thanked for their display of leadership and community spirit. Thank you to the stellar musical stylings of the senior Rock Band, who had the field singing and jiving with tunes for everyone - from pop and rock favourites to Christmas carols.

The field was buzzing with an atmosphere that had been missed for a long time. For many families, this was their first ever experience of such an occasion at AISHK. We hope all attendees enjoyed the event as much as we enjoyed providing it!

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in Action

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AISHK Valedictory Recap The word valedictory is derived from the Latin “valedīcere,” which means “to say goodbye”, hence this rite of passage is a poignant time for all members of the AISHK community.

For the teachers it is a moment to reflect on the success and development of our young people; for parents, an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and growth of their child. For the student body, a juncture to consider their own goals and aspirations, and to appreciate the contributions of their student leaders.

For the graduating class, it is a time to be grateful for their opportunities, a time to celebrate all their achievements, and a time for excitement for their next adventure.

All of these stakeholders had an opportunity to come together and celebrate the AISHK Class of 2021 during the Valedictory Dinner on Friday 15 October and Valedictory Assembly on Monday 18 October.

On the Friday night, teachers, parents, and Year 12 students came together to share a meal and to toast each other’s contribution to the feat of finishing secondary school.

In her toast to the class of 2021, The Head of Year, Ms Aileen O’Donnell best captured the essence of the valedictory celebration: “Each and every one of you is a credit to your parents and to our school, Year 12, and we love and admire you just the way you are. If I may give you one last piece of advice, it would be to stay true to the ‘you’ of today. Of course I know you will change as you will grow, but please do it at your own pace and on your own terms. No matter where your future endeavours take you, you will forever remain a valued part of AISHK’s international family.”

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in Action The following Monday morning, Year 12 graduates and their families, joined the entire school community: students, staff, the executive, and board members, for the Valedictory Assembly.

The community heard from the graduating class about their memories, their defining traits, and what they are most proud of. Janice Hung and Moses Chan shared their stories of being AISHK students. Sheree Tsang and Ethan Ward spoke about the importance of the rite of passage of the Valedictory celebrations.

Our 2021 school captains, Mariko Walsh and Marcus Chan, spoke on behalf of the graduates and thanked the community for all their support. Subject prizes were awarded and each student was presented with a portfolio to mark their time at AISHK. The assembly finished with the lovely AISHK tradition of our Prep students escorting the class of 2021 out of the auditorium for the last time.

Peter Phillips | Head of Secondary

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AISHK Saturday Night Dinner!

The AISHK Parent Association and the School thank all attendees and supporters of our event “Saturday Night Dinner!” on 30 October, at the USRC. We hope you enjoyed this evening and the opportunity to meet and celebrate with our school community members. With around 130 attendees, we take this opportunity to acknowledge the members of the ‘AISHK Family’ who ensure such events are a success.

We received much positive feedback from our guests and we offer our special congratulations to all Raffle Prize Winners!

Thank you to our generous prize donors for creating such an exciting raffle for us! A huge thank you also to the live band, Loose Agenda, on the evening. Comprising of Andrew Steadson, Steven Dear and Scott Adams, the band’s musical stylings and on-point set list gave the event the perfect atmosphere we all needed!

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in Action

Thank you to Gold Sponsor JL Finance Jason Lam Finance

Help our school by getting the right Australian mortgage.

Jason Lam Finance is helping Australians who live and work abroad with their Australian mortgage needs. Whilst we aim to satisfy your primary objective, we want to provide you with a holistic service by working with like minded professionals to assist you with the unique requirements of our customers. Help our school by getting the right Australian mortgage.

We’ll also donate $500AUD/$3000HKD (conditions apply) for every loan settled to the Australian International School to help our kids.

Call me today to find the right loan for you or to just discuss options! +852 5407 8725 | jason@jlfinance.com.au | jlfinance.com.au |

Jason Lam

Senior Mortgage Advisor

Jason has 20 years of Australian banking experience in Australia and Hong Kong, specialising in foreign income loans.

With a holistic approach to your overall financial strategy in mind, and access to industry experts, Jason can help you take advantage of the unique opportunities available to you as an Australian in Hong Kong.

George Pomeroy Pty Ltd T/As Jason Lam Finance | ABN 90 141 910 901 Finsure Finance and Insurance Pty Ltd | ABN 72 068 153 926 Australian Credit Licence Number 384704

Thank you to Gold Sponsor

Australian Chinese Association of Hong Kong

Australian Chinese Association of Hong Kong (one of AISHK’s Founding Associations) is a non-profit making organisation established with the mission of: Promoting fellowship and friendship amongst Australian Chinese and those with ties with Australia.

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Thank you to Gold Sponsor EMR Capital EMR Capital is a specialist resources private equity manager with extensive operational experience and a proven track record in successful mining operations, development, investment and with deep linkages in the Asian and global markets.

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Thank you to Silver Sponsor Odin Mortgage

Australian Mortgages for Expats & Overseas Residents

OUR SIMPLE PROCESS

ABOUT US Odin Mortgage is a leading Australian mortgage brokerage for Australian expats and overseas residents globally.

We strive to provide you with insightful, expert advice so you can make the best decision when it comes to purchasing a property or refinancing your mortgage while overseas.

From application to settlement, our mortgage experts will guide you through the entire process to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience.

OUR SERVICES Pre-approvals and Purchases Mortgage Refinancing Cash-out Equity Loans

Get a free assessment from your dedicated broker over the phone, in-person or via email Select your preferred lender from a personalised list and finalise your loan structure Upload your documents to our secure online portal quickly and easily Receive the final approval and sign in-person or electronically Enjoy our entire service completely free-ofcharge (we are paid by lenders)

W: odinmortgage.com | E: support@odinmortgage.com | P: +852 5744 3422 A: 8F, Ovest, 71-77 Wing Lok Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Australian Credit Licence : 520379

Thank you all Raffle Sponsors and the AISHK Parent Association Thank you to our generous prize donors for a fantastic array of prizes with a total value of over HKD 50,000! Thank you to the Parent Association for their various sponsorships towards this evening, including the ever-popular photo booth which helped to create lasting memories of this successful and longawaited event.

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PREP - YEAR 3

Musical Performances Student performances returned to the stage in Term 4 and were met with great applause from our parent community! Our Christmas themed mini-musicals were just one example of these on-stage productions. Experience the highlights with us here!

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Celebrations of Christmas couldn’t have been better than with our mini musicals this year. Four musicals, allowed children in every class from Prep to Year 3, to appear in a wonderful Christmas production.

The four shows were: Santa’s Hat – Prep The Elfis Impersonator – Year 1 The Greatest Snowman – Year 2 Elfis and the Sleighreiders – Year 3 Our stage was once again re-united with a gorgeous Christmas backdrop. Complete with spectacular lighting, and the ever so endearing costumes from sassy elves to clever snowman, a huge number of helpful reindeer and insightful fairies, the stage also welcomed Santa Claus, who seems to becoming a little forgetful these days!

Luckily “Elfis” has also been on hand to help put his band back together again and show everyone that Christmas is more than just giving presents, it’s about kindness, consideration and looking after everyone to ensure that good times are had by all.

The shows were all put together, produced, and directed by Ms Aliki Watson-Jones and Ms Jaime Ashton. Each class had their chance to shine in 4 separate individual shows of each play thus bringing us to a total of 16 shows in a little under two weeks and there were some beautfiul soloists from every class. Sheer Christmas joy!

All of this happened on top of shows from Years 4 to 6 as well, and one or two other smaller-scale events around school! Overall, more than 700 students have had opportunities to tread the boards in December 2021, a dazzling feat compared to where we were this time last year.

Huge congratulations go to all the students who were involved in these shows as well, of course, to Ms Ashton and Ms Watson-Jones for their bravery in planning these shows, but also to their huge commitment and dedication to ensuring that this would be such a successful event and one that our students would remember for a long time to come.

Peter Stapleton | Head of Performing Arts

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AISHK

SPORT & ECA REPORT Tim Tait | Director of Sport and Activities

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2021 Sports Round-up With sport in schools still somewhat hampered by the COVID-19 pandemic, our local leagues have not yet resumed for sports seasons. Although ISSFHK and HKPSSA both have been unable to proceed with sporting competitions, schools with high vaccination rates have been involved in friendly fixtures. AISHK has been lucky enough to provide students with some experience representing the school in a range of sports that would usually be ‘in-season’. With promotion to the ISSFHK Gold Division before the pandemic, we were able to coordinate and line up fixtures with other Gold Division schools.

Volleyball

Volleyball continues to develop at AISHK, and we had great participant numbers throughout Terms 3 and 4. We were able to compete in U14, U16 and U20 in the girls and U16 and U20 in the boys, against two schools. Firstly, we travelled to International Christian School over two afternoons to enjoy some tight competition. Up against a well-organised Volleyball program, our players learnt a lot from ICS and competed well, winning several sets. We then had Chinese International School host us and, once again, our teams fronted up well, winning their fair share of sets. Overall, we saw huge development in our basic volleyball skill sets which bodes well for the future once competitions resume again.

Soccer

Our Soccer program kicked off with our U14 Boys and Girls teams training in the early mornings and were fortunate enough to play a couple of friendly fixtures each. We hosted ICS boys A and B teams, drawing one and winning the other in front of excited parents and friends. The girls followed up with a win also against ICS the following day. The girls then visited CIS for a 9-aside thriller, winning 3-2 and showing some fantastic skill and development. Meanwhile, a strong CIS boys A and B squad came to AISHK showing their abilities and depth. Our boys showed a lot of heart and determination to stay in the games and nearly pulling off a great come from behind win.

Netball

We have had three netball teams training, two U16 and an U20. Our teams played fixtures against CIS, managing to win two and losing one. This was a great prelude to the high intensity matches against Kellett School a week later, where, although not coming out on top, our U16 teams pushed hard and performed well in extremely tightly-contested matches.

Swimming

The swimming season has been one of hope and disappointment as meets and championships were cancelled due to COVID-19 related rules regarding pool use. However, we eventually managed to compete in one friendly meet at Hong Kong International School. This was a small meet, with Kellett being the only other school invited, but was against two of the strongest swim programs in the International School system here in Hong Kong. Our swimmers excelled in this meet and can use this experience as we move forward toward more such events in the future.

Basketball

Our basketball program is continuing to evolve and develop, and our numbers were looking strong with six teams this year. Unfortunately, with our calendar, we could only work in one fixture for our U16/20 girls against CIS. We have a lot of emerging young players who are very enthusiastic, and we hope to capture this talent and interest for future tournaments and leagues.

Looking forward to 2022, we will continue to look for opportunities to compete locally until the local leagues are up and running again. In the meantime, the continued development of our athletes, young and old, will be paramount.

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AISHK STUDENTS'

EQUESTRIAN ACHIEVEMENTS Although many interschool competitions have had to be put on hold over the last year, a number of individual events have been able to proceed, including equestrian programs.

Several AISHK students have trained during the school year, which has resulted in two students being able to represent our school in the Hong Kong Equestrian Interschool Competition for 2021-2022. Sarah Broderick (Year 8) and Kathy Chang (Year 10) have recently competed in the first part of the interschool competition, which will continue through to 2022.

Kathy, competing in her first competition, performed exceptionally well, especially considering she was riding in a very strong field and with a horse which she had never ridden before (horses are drawn out at random). Despite not placing, Kathy is to be commended on her fantastic achievements and should be extremely proud of herself, Sarah, who has gained exceptional results for herself and AISHK in the past, has started her campaign well, once again. Sarah also competed on an unfamiliar horse and is currently in 2nd place overall as an individual. This has contributed to AISHK’s overall position of 3rd on the leader board.

We wish Sarah and Kathy all the best with the remainder of the competition, and look forward to updating the community with their results.

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MINI & JUNIOR DUKE AWARD 2021 was the inaugural year of the Mini & Junior Duke Award at AISHK, with the community jumping at the chance to be involved. The aim of the program was for students to complete ten challenges (out of 14), specific to their year level. Challenges ranged from cookery, art and horticulture, to music, writing, sport, first aid, sustainability and much, much more.

Evidence of completed challenges were to be produced and presented for signing off by our Duke Leaders.

The aim of the Mini & Junior Duke Award is to encourage independence, selfmotivation and to gain knowledge of new experiences and skills. With the help of parents, siblings and helpers at home, students embraced the opportunity wholeheartedly. In December, we had the pleasure of awarding over 75 students from Year 1 to Year 6 with their Mini or Junior Duke badge and certificate. Our Duke ambassador (mascot), Joey Duke has been super impressed with the work that has been submitted this year and sends her congratulations to all.

We encourage those that have not yet completed their Duke challenges, to continue over the holidays and we will have another Dukey Drop Day on 28 January, 2022. We can still award students their badges and certificates once completed then. Soon after Chinese New Year, we will look to enrol students to the 2022 year of the Mini & Junior Duke award at AISHK.

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AISHK students welcome back Olympic champion and record-breaking athlete

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Our AISHK swimming team students were very lucky to participate in the ‘Welcome Back Siobhan Haughey’ event, organised by Arena Hong Kong on Friday 20 August.

Siobhan Haughey won two Silver medals (100m and 200m Freestyle) at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, making her the first Hong Kong swimmer to win an Olympic medal and the first Hong Kong athlete to win two Olympic medals in any sport.

It was a special moment for our swimmers who heard Siobhan speak about her Olympics experience. Our students had the chance to ask her some questions and even got to see and touch her Silver Medals! We are very thankful to Siobhan who shared lots of inspiring messages and insights, including some advice on time management, noting that swimmers must strike a balance between training, academics and social time. This event was very meaningful for our swimmers and it was also inspiring for me as Head Coach. Thank you to all who made it possible.

More recently, Siobhan has broken the women’s 200-metre freestyle record at the 2021 World Short Course Championships, becoming Hong Kong’s first World Record holding swimmer. Congratulations Siobhan!

Eric Yeung | Aquatic and Swim Program Manager

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www.aishk.edu.hk

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