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ASC NEWS ISSUE 68 | JUNE 2020

FEATURE SCHOOL

ASC Language School Language hub for near and far

FEATURE SCHOOL

Frederick Irwin Anglican School Loving the job

From the Chief Executive Officer THE REVEREND PETER LAURENCE OAM Dear Colleagues SCHOOL VISITS It’s been a great joy to visit each of our WA schools over the past six weeks. From Alkimos in the north to Busselton in the south-west and Esperance in the southeast, each visit has been a chance to reconnect with our staff and students after the period of COVID-19 ‘lockdown’ for everyone. With the reduction in WA restrictions, teachers and students alike have told me how good it is to be back on campus again. Once the ‘hard border’ between WA and the rest of Australia is eased, I plan to visit our three Eastern States schools. We are keeping in touch with our NSW and Victorian colleagues via Zoom and email, but nothing replaces the experience of a personal visit and face-to-face engagement. School communities are essentially about relationships – with each another, with learning and with the wider world. The opportunity to talk with staff and students was a highlight of these visits. I was particularly interested

Contents From the CEO 2 Peter Moyes Anglican Community School

Georgiana Molloy Anglican School

Frederick Irwin Anglican School

John Septimus Roe Anglican Community School 8 Staff Spotlight 9 ASC Language School

Trinity Anglican College

Esperance Anglican Community School

St James’ Anglican School

Cathedral College Wangaratta

Peter Carnley Anglican Community School

St Mark’s Anglican Community School

Cobram Anglican Grammar School

Anglican Identity 19

Cover Image: Staff at Swan Valley Anglican Community School

to hear feedback from them on the remote learning experiences at the end of Term 1 and into the start of Term 2. In an unprecedented time, requiring creative and timely solutions, it was valuable to review the learnings of our schools; the opportunities and the challenges that COVID-19 restrictions imposed on teaching, learning and care. In this edition of ASC News, we cover some of the elements of responding to the educational demands in 2020 during a global pandemic. From teachers and support staff rapidly upskilling in new technology, or students discovering the beauty of ‘old school’ hobbies and habits, to the appreciation of the valuable work of our cleaning and maintenance staff, this year has challenged the status quo for all of us. RECOGNITION OF SERVICE Another reason for my visits was to present the 2020 ASC Service Recognition Awards to long-serving staff members. Usually these awards would be presented at our Christian Purposes Day when all WA teaching staff gather at HBF Stadium in Mount Claremont for a day of professional challenge and reflection on our Anglican identity. While this year’s Christian Purposes Day was cancelled due to the restrictions on large gatherings, the upside is that it has allowed recipients to be recognised and presented with their 20, 25 or 30 year service awards in their school. Whether presenting awards in the staff room or surprising teachers in their classrooms, it’s been a real delight to see the appreciation of these staff members by their colleagues and students. Read more on the ASC Service Recognition Awards recipients in this edition.

COBRAM ANGLICAN GRAMMAR SCHOOL (CAGS) There’s change in the air at our two Victorian schools! The end of this term marks the completion of Mr Stephen Gale’s Principalship of CAGS. Steve came to CAGS in 2012 as Principal and oversaw the School’s development through the ASC’s acquisition of the former ‘Christ the King Anglican College’ in 2014/15 and its expansion since. His leadership has been instrumental in securing and shaping CAGS, bringing together a capable leadership team and dedicated teachers and support staff. As he retires, Steve leaves CAGS in a great position, with enrolments forecast to exceed 400 students next year. Go well Steve and Rhonda in your retirement and thank you Steve for your leadership these past eight years. We welcome Mr Keith Willett as the new Principal. Keith is a well-known school leader in the region, having spent the past six years as Deputy Principal and Head of Senior School at sister ASC school Cathedral College Wangaratta, just over an hour ‘down the road’ from Cobram. Keith has spent all his teaching career in North East Victoria, some thirty of those years in Wangaratta. Keith has been a teacher of English, History, Geography and Physical Education. Over many years, Keith has been highly involved with both junior football and cricket in the region. Keith is married to Caroline and they have four children - Isaac, Tessa, Paris and Oliver. The ASC congratulates Keith on this appointment which commences on 13 July. We look forward to Keith’s leadership of CAGS over the coming years Appropriate ‘farewells to Steve’ and ‘welcomes to Keith’ will be scheduled once COVID-19 restrictions in Victoria permit such gatherings.

VALE BISHOP BRIAN KYME It was with great sadness that we heard of the passing of Bishop Brian Kyme in mid-April. He died at home as a result of cancer. Bishop Brian was Deputy Chair of the ASC Board in the early part of this century. He was a passionate supporter of the ASC’s core purpose of establishing and supporting low fee Anglican systemic schools which provide a high quality, inclusive, caring Christian education. Bishop Brian’s work in the field of religious studies underpinned our work today in this important curriculum area. Archbishop Kay has written: Bishop Brian came to Western Australia from Melbourne in 1969 to the Diocese of North West Australia as Dean of Geraldton Cathedral, then to Perth as Rector of Christ Church, Claremont. He was consecrated bishop in 1982 with oversight of the Central and North Regions of the Diocese. He and Doreen spent seven years in Sydney when Bishop Brian was National Director of the Anglican Board of Mission. From 2000-05 Bishop Brian was Episcopal Assistant to the Primate. Religious education was a passion and he was a great supporter of the Anglican Schools Commission as well as education programs in St George’s Cathedral. We give thanks to God for Bishop Brian’s life. All in the service of Christ to the Glory of God. Rest eternal grant to him O Lord, and may light perpetual shine upon him.

Keith Willett

Steve Gale

ASC News

From the Chief Executive Officer THE REVEREND PETER LAURENCE OAM Cont’d

ASC RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN This year’s National Reconciliation week theme is ‘In this together’. How appropriate. As the CEO of Reconciliation Australia, Karen Mundine says: “That theme is resonating now in ways we could not have foreseen, but it reminds us whether in a crisis or in reconciliation, we are all in this together!” There is a truly special significance this year for the ASC. In the final week of term, we launched the ASC’s first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). The acceptance of our RAP by Reconciliation Australia sees the ASC join over 1,000 dedicated corporate, government and not-for-profit organisations that have formally committed to reconciliation through the RAP program. The ASC ‘Reflect’ RAP provides us with a roadmap to begin our reconciliation journey. As Karen Mundine acknowledges, “Reconciliation is hard work – it’s a long, winding and corrugated road, not a broad, paved highway. Determination and effort at all levels of government and in all sections of the community will be essential to make reconciliation a reality.” Our RAP launch date of Wednesday 1 July has been specially chosen. In the Anglican Church of Australia, the First of July is recognised as the ‘Coming of the Light Festival’. Missionaries of the London Missionary Society arrived in the Torres Strait at Erub Island on 1 July 1871, introducing Christianity to the region. 1 July marks this important day for Torres Strait Islanders, who are mainly of Christian faith. They celebrate the day with cultural and religious activities. I am grateful to the Principal’s Working Group (comprising Ms Felicity House, Mr Adrian Pree and Mr Adrian Farrer) who have worked closely with our Director, Mission and Planning Mr Philip Goldsworthy to frame the RAP. The document is available on the ASC website. This is a significant moment for the ASC in our journey of indigenous engagement in pursuit of reconciliation. Finally, I wish all in our schools who are enjoying some well-deserved time off a refreshing mid-year break. This year you won’t be venturing far, but to wherever you are journeying, go well and stay healthy and safe.

PETER MOYES ANGLICAN COMMUNITY SCHOOL

STUDENTS HIT THE ROAD Students from Peter Moyes Anglican Community School are moving around the community in style, with the arrival of the School’s new 25-seater bus.

The bus was purchased to be used primarily for Outdoor Education excursions, including surfing and kayaking excursions at the local beach in Mindarie. Principal Ben Lomas said a decision was made to design the outside of the bus to feature the school colours, silhouettes and key messages. “It’s a great opportunity to promote our school to the local community as we move our students to outdoor education activities,” Mr Lomas said. “The design on the bus features our key messages of ‘I Belong’, ‘Everyone Matters’ and ‘Together We Achieve’.”

GEORGIANA MOLLOY ANGLICAN SCHOOL

‘IN THIS TOGETHER’ FOR NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK Students at Georgiana Molloy Anglican School (GMAS) recognised Australia’s Indigenous people, culture and heritage during this year’s National Reconciliation Week, in a vibrant display of art, music and storytelling.

Primary School students were introduced to the heritage and history of the Indigenous people in the weeks leading up to the ‘In this together’ National Reconciliation Week, before taking part in various activities including clay animal sculpting, rock art painting, Indigenous dance, song, dreamtime storytelling, and a live didgeridoo performance. For some students, this was their first experience of Aboriginal culture, and the start of their journey throughout their school years in appreciating our country’s Indigenous heritage. Situated in the heart of Noongar Boodja, the ancestral lands of the Wardandi people, GMAS works collaboratively with local Aboriginal organisations to cultivate a school culture that understands and respects Aboriginal people and their heritage.

Plans are underway to create an Indigenous garden, to use Noongar language around the school and to engage with the Wardandi community in documenting the Indigenous history of the land where the school stands. GMAS’ approach to reconciliation takes inspiration from the school’s namesake, Georgiana Molloy, an early Busselton settler in the 1800s who strived to strengthen relationships with the Wardandi people. “We honour our Indigenous community through the school’s curriculum, daily protocols and how we care for the land,” Principal Ted Kosicki said. “Reconciliation is everybody’s business. We all have a shared responsibility to learn all that we can about the challenges faced by Indigenous persons, not just historically, but in today’s world. “We teach our students to be active participants in standing up for what is right, and to treat all humans with kindness, compassion and respect.” ASC News

FREDERICK IRWIN ANGLICAN SCHOOL Georgina Solomon receiving her reward from ASC CEO, Peter Laurence in the presence of Frederick Irwin Anglican School Principal, Kerry Robertson.

LOVING THE JOB When Georgina Solomon saw the advertisement for a Deputy Principal - Curriculum at Frederick Irwin Anglican School, she knew it was her dream job. Twenty-five years later, her love of the job has not diminished one bit.

Mrs Solomon is one of nine staff at Frederick Irwin who were recognised with ASC Service Awards for their commitment to the school. She said after 25 years, she remained grateful that then-Principal Geoffrey Arnold had taken a chance on her, despite her inexperience. She advised teachers new to the school to embrace the opportunity. “Get to know your students. Teaching is all about building relationships,” she said. “I still get a buzz when I am part of something special and Freddie’s is it. It is a wonderful School, and whilst it is very different from when I started 25 years ago, the values are still the same and that is what makes it the School it is today.” She said while there had been many changes over the years, the best parts of her job were the people and the diversity of the role. “I have been the Year Coordinator for Years 11 and 12, the Equal Opportunity liaison person for staff, the 6

timetabler for the secondary school and a mentor for many. There are so many more roles and variation is one of the reasons why I have always loved what I do,” she said. “The best part of my job are the people I work with. The admin staff are amazing, the teachers work so hard and the students and families are inspirational to work with. “I love seeing the wonderful people our Year 12 students become by the time they leave. They are proud of their school as we are proud of them.” Mrs Solomon said there had been many changes during her time at Frederick Irwin, and none bigger than the incorporation of technology into the life of the school. This was particularly evident during the recent online learning during COVID-19 restrictions. “Teachers adapted and worked incredibly hard to provide the best learning environment they could for their students. When students were able to return to school, both students and teachers had a new appreciation for each other,” she said. “Certainly, a positive to come out of the pandemic experience is the view that teaching as a profession is irreplaceable and a school community is very valuable to students, teachers and parents.”

SERVICE AWARDS ASC Service Awards are presented to staff who have worked in ASC schools for 20, 25 or 30 years. 1

The awards are usually presented at the annual gathering of ASC staff at Christian Purposes Day. With the cancellation of large events this year, ASC CEO The Reverend Peter Laurence OAM visited each school to present the awards. 30 YEARS OF SERVICE St Mark’s Anglican Community School Ian Edwards Caroline Giles

John Septimus Roe Anglican Community School Patricia Tan 25 YEARS OF SERVICE Frederick Irwin Anglican School (see opposite) St Mark’s Anglican Community School Julian Spada Peter Carnley Anglican Community School Karen Layman John Wollaston Anglican Community School Irene Terpon

20 YEARS OF SERVICE Frederick Irwin Anglican School (see opposite) Peter Moyes Anglican Community School Jacky Harrison

Larry Parkes Cindi Starcevich

Swan Valley Anglican Community School Julie Myles 7

8 Images. 1. Award presented to Peter Skeggs (25 years) 2. Award presented to Dianna King (25 years) 3. Award presented to Craig Winter (25 years) 4. Award presented to Helen Stephens (25 years) 5. Award presented to Gillian Cooling (25 years) 6. Award presented to Michael Rogers (25 years) 7. Award presented to Karren Redden (20 years) 8. Award presented to Christopher Ryland (20 years)

John Septimus Roe Anglican Community School Diana Champion Jillian Healey Craig Pillion Peter Carnley Anglican Community School Felicity House John Wollaston Anglican Community School Gary Bordoni St Mark’s Anglican Community School Vanessa Birsa Sue Brown Angie Elliott Michele Wrathall

ASC News

JOHN SEPTIMUS ROE ANGLICAN COMMUNITY SCHOOL

CAREER WEBSITE SHOWS THE WAY Finding information on the transition from school to work or further study has never been easier for students at John Septimus Roe Anglican Community School.

A need to impart ever-changing information to students and parents in a way that was both accessible and easy to manage, led to a shift in the way the school approaches career development in 2020. This year the school has developed a website called JSRACS Career Tools to fill the information gap for students and their families. CareerLink Coordinator Nicole Anderson said the website was customised to allow students, parents and staff to navigate independently through many areas. “It has become a ‘One stop shop’ for many of our students and parents seeking information relevant to the age of the student,” she said. “Many of the tabs have direct links to organisations such as Government departments, educational institutions and advisory groups. The live calendar manages all the open days and information sessions offered by Universities, Defence Forces and other Registered Training Organisations (RTO’s).

Mrs Anderson said both the calendar and the use of the industry ‘Career Targets’ were very popular with students. She said the Career Tools website also provided a range of career development lessons and worksheets that are middle school friendly, allowing for early discussions and self-discovery of the student personality type, strengths and areas that are identified as an area of need for further development. “We use time during our Pastoral Care Group (PCG) lessons to engage and guide our students through the processes to enable stronger links between the middle schooling years and the successes achieved in the Senior years,” Mrs Anderson said. “The website has been popular with both our students and our parents, and particularly with Year 10 students looking at Career Pathways and how that affects their subject selections.” It is envisaged that the use of the JSRACS Career Tools website will play an important part in supporting our students and their parents through this transition. Check out this great resource here: https://www.jsracscareers.com

STAFF SPOTLIGHT

introducing. .

Irene Clarke

Victoria Kelleher

Dr Janene Sproul

Chief Financial Officer

Curriculum Coordinator

Science Teacher

Anglican Schools Commission

St George’s Anglican Grammar School

John Wollaston Anglican Community School

Born and bred in the UK, I first came to Australia and specifically to Perth in 1990. At that time my two children were very small and so I was a full-time mum.

The youngest of four girls, I grew up in Cork, Ireland, and began my teaching career in the small village of Blarney. The school sat in the shadows of Blarney Castle and according to Irish legend, if you want the ‘gift of the gab’ all you need to do is kiss the Blarney Stone. Born with the ability to speak a great deal, I have never been encouraged to kiss the stone!

I arrived at John Wollaston in 2018 to teach Science and Psychology. As a Science teacher with more than 20 years’ experience, I am always excited by watching a student grasp a concept, then exploring and developing their knowledge. I enjoy nurturing their enthusiasm to make Science a positive learning experience for them.

I emigrated to Australia in 2011 with my husband and teenage children. The children are now young adults and have been replaced by a very spoilt chihuahua.

My passion for inclusive education has led me to complete a PhD in Education. My thesis focused on how students with a heightened sensitivity to visual light due to concussion, migraine and other neurological conditions can be adversely affected by elements of digital media use.

Much of my career before and after this time was spent with big 4 audit firm KPMG until I branched out into roles with Apricot Computers (who remembers them!); as an independent school Business Manager and as Finance Director of a Financial Advisers’ Compliance Regulator. In 2006, after spending some years back in the UK for family reasons, I arrived back in Perth and joined the ASC in my current role. In those days the ASC was just opening its seventh school – Swan Valley Anglican Community School – so things have changed a bit since then. Away from work I enjoy the challenges of gardening in Western Australia, with its fickle native plants and reading. A history fan at school, I am currently working my way through Hilary Mantel’s ‘The Mirror and the Light’ – a substantial book of almost 900 pages! I feel blessed to work on the edge of a national park, with views out to the ocean from my office window. Serene on the outside – it is always a hive of activity and while I don’t get out to schools as often as I would like, it is always a joy to visit.

As an educator, I have taught English, Geography, French and Religion and my roles have included MYP Coordinator, Dean of Teaching and Learning, Assistant Head of Humanities, Deputy Head of Senior School and now Head of Curriculum at St. George’s. I am currently completing a Doctor of Education at Murdoch University, with a focus on the educational experiences of immigrant adolescents in Western Australia. I am keenly interested in what motivates students to learn and whether this motivation is intrinsic or extrinsic, influenced by environment, relationships with others, or even by culture.

Following the completion of my thesis I have continued to investigate equitable access for students by incorporating changes into school policy and through my teaching practice at John Wollaston. I am currently a finalist in the Women Leading Tech Awards. Anyone who witnessed my movement from Mac to PC may find this odd, until they read the subtitle ‘Data Science’. Murdoch University nominated me for my work in this area, assurance that for specialists in a field such as education, our industry knowledge and application is valuable.

As I have been studying part-time since September 2013, most weekends are spent reading articles and or writing chapters, which leaves very little time for anything else. The goal is to submit a finished thesis at the start of December.

I feel it is important for teachers to share their knowledge and skills with other colleagues. So many teachers have an amazing range of skills that if shared, make education better and more equitable for all.

The rest of December will be a combination of Netflix and Hello magazine!

Outside of work and my research, I enjoy spending time with my family and experiencing God’s amazing creations with our menagerie of pets including lizards, snakes and stick insects. ASC News

A S C

LANGUAGE SCHOOL

ASC LANGUAGE SCHOOL

Par t of The Anglican Schools Commission (Inc.)

LANGUAGE HUB FOR NEAR AND FAR A remote learning program designed to help offshore ASC Language School students continue with their Australian education has led to the opening of a whole new market for ASC International (ASCI).

While 2020 has been a year of challenges for international education providers, the Anglican Schools Commission’s international arm has turned that challenge into opportunity. ASCI Director International Programs, Amanda Fritz, said they had acted quickly in response to the effects of the COVID-19 global pandemic, with border closures across the globe preventing some students from returning to Australia to continue their studies.

ASC Language School Academic Coordinator Kate Simeon said the REAL Programme meant that students anywhere at any time could access their curriculum and prepare to come into ASC schools. “All the classes are recorded so kids can watch it back or attend live. We have two students based in Yemen who join our classes live at 4am their time,” she said. Miss Simeon said teaching classes with onshore and offshore students had led teaching staff to become more creative, prepared and strategic about student engagement.

“We wanted to make sure that our students who were still at home could continue with their Australian education without any disadvantage,” Mrs Fritz said.

“When we do group work, we buddy a remote student with a classroom student so that they are interacting with each other every day,” Miss Simeon said.

“In consultation with our ASC Language School academic staff, we launched our remote learning program, REAL Remote Education Anywhere Live – so that our students who are still offshore could join in all their usual classes with their Australian-based classmates.

She said students were generally in the Language School between one and three terms before moving into mainstream classes at ASC schools.

“The Programme has expanded beyond our initial scope and is now attracting enrolments from offshore students 10

new to the school who want to study in the ASC Language School before arriving to study in Australia.”

Mrs Fritz said the challenges posed by border restrictions and the success of the REAL Programme provided an opportunity for ASCI to focus on expanding their role as an English language teaching support hub.

“We have established enrichment programs for international students and local students for whom English is a second language, to provide ongoing support for both the students and ASC schools,” Mrs Fritz said.

city. The new centre is a hub for all international students coming into Australia through ASC International’s programs and is home to the ASC Language School and all ASCI staff.

“A lot of students who are ready for mainstream schooling still need support for English, particularly when they get to Year 11 and 12 with EALD (English as an Additional Language or Dialect) as a WACE subject.

Mrs Fritz said students loved the new centre because it was a dedicated site and gave students ownership over their own school.

“Now, even if the school doesn’t offer EALD as a WACE subject, they can access it remotely through our programme, or simply take extra English classes in place of an elective. It’s an additional level of service and support for the schools and students and both have peace of mind that they’re not on their own.” The ASC Language School teaches both Intensive English and Academic English which includes skills such as essay writing to prepare students for the OLNA (online literacy and numeracy assessment), EALD or WACE preparation. “Students can log in to our intensive English classes from anywhere. While some are overseas, others are in Perth schools or even in regional schools like Esperance,” Mrs Fritz said. For those students attending on-campus, they are now revelling in the modern new surrounds of ASCI’s brandnew International Student Centre in William Street in the

There are two class levels – Pre-Intermediate and Intermediate – and both host a mix of on-campus and remote learners from countries around the world. Along with intensive English classes, students also study mainstream subjects including science, humanities, media, and physical education held at Elizabeth Quay. Senior students from St George’s Anglican Grammar School are based in the same building and Mrs Fritz said it gave students the chance to interact with their Australian counterparts. “We get a lot of St George’s international students come up for recess and lunch. They get to talk with our students about what life is like in mainstream classes and help prepare and motivate the Language School students for progression into their primary or secondary programs” she said. “We’ve got a good diversity of cultures in our international students and they are forced to speak English as their only common language. It’s really the most effective way for them to improve their language proficiency. ” ASC News 11

TRINITY ANGLICAN COLLEGE

COMMUNITY AND CHARACTER THE KEY With some students learning from home for up to seven weeks in New South Wales schools, Trinity Anglican College knew it was important that students and families continued to feel a part of the school community despite being physically apart.

Principal Justin Beckett said it was a priority to ensure the strength of the school community continued despite the geographic isolation, so they set about making a video to share with the broader community. “The education of our young people is too essential to ever be on hiatus. Every week of learning matters. That is why we were so determined to deliver explicit and active teaching and learning even while our families were in lockdown,” he said. “It has never been more important that our young men and women develop the skills and understandings that will enable them to be agile and creative in the face of change or uncertainty.” Mr Beckett said it was valuable for students to learn how to communicate clearly, think critically and understand the people and world around them. “When we are stuck in the thick of the storm, our character comes to the surface; we discover what we are really made of. At Trinity we are very particular about our students becoming people of integrity, 12

generosity, resilience, faith, hope and purpose,” he said. “These are the very qualities that keep us afloat when the seas become chaotic. Most of the big problems in the world will not be solved by science or finance alone; they will be solved by generosity, empathy, kindness and humility. The greatest acts of service and kindness come from people of good character.” Head of Junior School Steven Armstrong said the role of the School was to prioritise student learning, but it was also important to remind students and staff of their shared character as part of the school community. “There is a real advantage to be at a school like this, in a time like this. As human beings, we are programmed to trust, and that sense of trust and certainty enables us to react to different and varying circumstances. This trust is supported by the structures, in which we all have a sense of faith: our family and friends, our community and church, our culture, our country and our College,” Mr Armstrong said. “In times of drastic change, these structures become very important. There are times, as we grow, that we question the structures and, with good grace, are critical of the expectations that come from being part of the society. This is a rite of passage and enriching to our spirit.”

SWAN VALLEY ANGLICAN COMMUNITY SCHOOL

ESPERANCE ANGLICAN COMMUNITY SCHOOL

EFFECTIVE & ENGAGING

SHARING WHILE APART

Building shelters and fire pits to move the classroom outside was just one response to the continuation of Physical Education and Outdoor Education classes during the COVID-19 restrictions.

As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, staff at Swan Valley Anglican Community School worked to ensure that high-quality and engaging learning experiences continued as school moved off-campus.

With a high degree of face-to-face or off-campus activites required for these subjects to be effective and engaging, both teachers and students had to be creative. New ideas were found to ensure these programs could be continued effectively.

Principal Melissa Powell said lessons continued with teachers showing great flexibility and creativity by seamlessly adapting their programs as the School moved from face-to-face to remote and online learning.

Associate Principal Lisa Marquis said while this was challenging, it provided opportunities to discuss in further detail elements of the subjects that often get put on the back burner. It also gave students opportunities to reflect on the relationships they hold at home and in school.

At the height of restrictions, supervision on campus was only provided for those families who could not have their children at home and the majority of teaching staff were also off-campus working from home.

Outdoor Education teacher Blair Castelli said the subject had a strong focus on teamwork, with classes focusing on teamwork through reflection on Team development stages; Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing and Adjourning. “This is usually observed on excursions and camps, but could continue in the surrounding bushland on campus. We are lucky enough to be located on a large bush block which enabled students to move their classroom outside and into the natural environment,” he said. “This created a sense of isolation from the regular running of the school, and students were able to strengthen their relationships when building shelters and fire pits to create an outdoor classroom to continue their learning and enjoyment.”

“Our school theme for 2020 - Positivity, Optimism and Hope - seemed especially relevant each day, and epitomised the great SVACS community spirit,” Ms Powell said. To continue the sense of community during this time, the School developed a new communication to bring together students, families and staff, despite their geographical separation. The inaugural edition of Let’s Share, highlighted fun pictures and stories of staff and students working at home or school. The front cover of ASC News shows the messages of support from staff to the school community.

ASC News 13

ST JAMES’ ANGLICAN SCHOOL

Tess Keefe (Year 8), Luke Harding (Year 8), Principal Mr Adrian Pree, Ava Briggs (Year 6) and Calvin Kremer (Year 6) with Barney. Photographer: David Baylis – Community News

MEET BARNEY Introducing the newest recruit to the Orange Army - Barney!

Barney, now 15 weeks old, is a purebred chocolate Labrador who has already brought so much joy to the students and staff at St James’ Anglican School in his role as the St James’ Wellbeing Dog. While his job is easy at the moment - to look cute and break down some barriers - once Barney has completed his puppy schooling, he will undergo additional training to become a fully-fledged wellbeing dog. Studies have shown that the presence of companion animals can improve the wellbeing of children and lower anxiety levels, simply by making the environment happier and more enjoyable. Principal Adrian Pree said Barney was already providing enjoyment and comfort within the School. “The benefits of having a wellbeing dog within a school environment also teaches students responsibility and respect, develops social skills, helps students with special needs and just makes the place feel more like a home away from home,” he said. Barney has been adopted by St James’ staff member, Ella Pearce, who offered to have a family pet that could also be the School’s wellness dog. 14

Mrs Pearce said her family loved the idea that their own dog could bring joy, connection, happiness and calm to others within the school community. They were drawn to Labradors due to the beautiful temperament, high energy and inquisitive nature they possess. The school community has been involved throughout the whole process, voting on Barney’s name and selecting a design for the bow tie Barney will wear while ‘on duty’. It is exciting to know that Barney will see the Kindy and Pre-Primary students throughout their entire schooling at St James’.

CATHEDRAL COLLEGE WANGARATTA

OLD-SCHOOL HOBBIES A SILVER LINING A return to old-school activities was the unexpected silver lining experienced by Cathedral College Wangaratta (CCW) students learning from home during Term 2.

Like all Victorian schools, CCW continued school remotely for most of Term Two, with students continuing their learning via the College’s Learning@ home program. Dining tables became make-shift home offices, parents and carers juggled family and work commitments while supporting their children to learn from home, and teachers learnt a raft of digital teaching and learning technologies. CCW Principal Nick Jones said students demonstrated remarkable adaptability and commitment to their education as they embarked on this unique educational journey. “As expected, they were tech savvy – they teamed, class-roomed, zoomed, chatted, emailed and chipped away at the tasks they were given. Teachers were also impressed by some of their students’ newfound autonomy and determination,” he said. The silver lining was a movement towards students having fun and engaging in ‘old school’ activities. With more ‘down time’, creativity thrived, and CCW teachers

delighted in the images and videos that students have shared being crafty, gardening, cooking, making, baking and connecting with nature. Mr Jones said, with fewer commitments and more time to recreate and reimagine, students became innovative and inventive. “We have been treated to short stories, science experiments, performances, creative trick shots, short films, introspective photography, beautiful music, thoughtful art-works and more,” he said. “While the campus was empty and very quiet, family homes and backyards became the classroom and a canvas for creativity and resourcefulness.” Through necessity, and the creation of online learning communities, students have ‘shared’ these experiences and creations. For some students it was through these creative outlets and forums that helped to break through the physical and social isolation. Mr Jones said teachers were always exploring how to make learning relevant and worthwhile and this was even more of a focus during Learning@home. He said the important communication and collaboration between school and home had also been a silver lining during this difficult time. ASC News 15

PETER CARNLEY ANGLICAN COMMUNITY SCHOOL

TECHNOLOGY NO BARRIER When schools moved to online learning last term, staff at Peter Carnley Anglican Community School (PCACS) moved into overdrive to ensure technology was in place to deliver learning at home.

With around 10 per cent of the school population needing assistance to access technology at home, the transition to the PCACS@Home Programme required much preparation in a short timeframe.

and cohorts for a very different learning and perhaps a very new normal for all involved.” More than 80 families at PCACS were supplied with additional devices for home, many with two to three siblings across different years. Mr Parnell said this allowed all students to access their learning and to stay connected with their teachers and fellow classmates.

Head of IT and Operations Shane Parnell said the PCACS@Home Programme was developed with a focus on providing ongoing, quality, flexible learning that met the diverse needs and abilities of the students.

He said platforms such as ‘Teams’ and ‘See-saw’ became the teachers’ virtual classroom, mediated by screens, cameras and microphones.

“Guided daily by the Emergency Management Team, a collaborative group of Executive, teaching and administration staff, IT equipment audits were completed, parent surveys were distributed and technology platforms for remote learning were introduced to students and staff,” he said.

“Staff collaboration took on a whole new meaning, with dozens of lessons being recorded daily for easy access for students at home, and teachers continuing to provide additional ‘check-in’ communication and support for students requiring remediation and extension across their learning,” he said.

“While continuing to deliver the curriculum content to students during normal school hours, staff were quickly upskilling before and after school with intense professional development sessions, parents were preparing homes with suitable internet device availability and trained staff were preparing classes

“Now as Term 2 concludes and the PCACS community slowly returns to normal, technology-enabled learning in the classroom has not only built resilience and confidence for both staff and students in the classroom but also a new belief in sustainability of flexible learning styles, well into the future.”

ST MARK’S ANGLICAN COMMUNITY SCHOOL

KEEPING IT CLEAN There were new faces on campus at St Mark’s Anglican Community School in Term 2 – and not just new students!

In response to the COVID-19 hygiene guidelines, St Mark’s welcomed additional staff and contractors to focus specifically on maintaining the increased cleaning standards.

equipment and table tennis equipment disinfected before and after each recess and lunch break and sports equipment disinfected by Physical Education staff at the end of lessons.

On 15 June, St Mark’s joined schools across Australia in recognising and celebrating their cleaners for the incredible work they have done to keep our schools safe and clean throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

In learning areas equipped with specialist equipment, such as music, media, photography, digital technology and others, teachers work with the students to ensure items are appropriately disinfected after use. The Early Learning Centre has a dedicated cleaner, who ensures constant cleaning of surfaces and bathrooms, while across the school water bubblers have been turned off or refitted as bottle filling stations.

The cleaning crew were treated to morning tea (served in an appropriately physically distanced way) as thanks for their efforts. In addition to the existing full-service cleaning that takes place after school hours, St Mark’s implemented a number of new cleaning routines in response to COVID-19 requirements, including disinfecting hightouch areas, such as door handles, push plates, door frames and handrails at regular intervals and additional cleaning of all bathrooms, staff rooms, and common area seating. Under the supervision of teaching staff, students wipe their desks disinfectant at the end of each lesson. Playgrounds, sporting and other school equipment came under special attention with the playground

With hygiene an ongoing priority, hand sanitiser dispensers are in place in all classrooms, with refills available as needed, while staff and students are reminded frequently to wash their hands, and posters are in place to act as visual reminders as well. The health and safety of staff and students is always the highest priority. The efforts of the cleaners, Facilities, Grounds and Maintenance crews have helped ensure that our community – students, staff and parents – have confidence in the measures the School has taken in response to the COVID-19 guidelines for schools. ASC News 17

COBRAM ANGLICAN GRAMMAR SCHOOL

THE NEXT CHAPTER When Cobram Anglican Grammar School (CAGS) Principal Stephen Gale hangs up his Principal hat next month, it will be the end of a 20-year ongoing commitment to education.

Arriving at the school fresh from senior positions at Moama Anglican Grammar School and a year of working with disengaged youth at the McAuley Champagnat Programme, Mr Gale came with the aim of building a community. After nearly eight years as Principal at CAGS, he leaves satisfied that he has reached his goal. “The only way forward is to build community through engagement and offer the best and broadest programs we can possibly offer and stay the distance,” he said. “The secret of the success of the school has been the people. The teachers and their ongoing commitment to the vision, the Executive team in their development of school, the School Council, parents and the backing of the ASC, without which the school wouldn’t be here. The people are always the key.” With 200 students on the books when he arrived, the school has rebuilt its base and doubled in size, with more than 400 students now walking through the school gate each day. Mr Gale attributes this to the School being unique in its ability to provide the best in educational opportunities, combined with a deep commitment to pastoral care, spiritual growth and wellbeing. “The things that kids remember after they are gone from school, beyond Maths and English, they are what you want to develop. From our human-powered vehicles 18

(pedal cars), to the chess club, the computer coding club, after school sport, and music, all that gives colour and movement to a community,” he said. “From changing our school name, to constantly working on the school through curriculum initiatives, and sporting, music and infrastructure programs, this is what builds a school community.” While he is retiring from Principalship and education, it is unlikely to be the last career for Mr Gale who started out with an early career in music. Along with studying classical guitar and learning saxophone, he played in a band with his good mate Paul Hester who would go on to form Crowded House. As well as a career teaching music, technology and humanities, Mr Gale’s varied career path includes many years as a business owner, running a glazing business specialising in leadlight and stained glass. Before the next chapter, Mr Gale says he is pausing and re-focusing but not returning to education. “You don’t get involved in a business like this if you don’t like people. What I will miss is the opportunity to carve an identity for our community. That’s one of the joys of the job,” he said. “We’ve got plans to travel and doing some farming and spend some time with the grandkids as the restrictions lift. “I’ve got another career in me, but I don’t know what it will be yet.”

ANGLICAN IDENTITY

Anglican leaders “I hope to gain knowledge and understanding. I aim to use this to challenge students to reflect, to learn and to grow,” he said. “Our school values are forged from Gospel teachings. The sessions are a great opportunity to explore the traditions, beliefs and values which are consistent amongst the ASC schools. “To date we have been challenged by the deeper meaning behind biblical sources, the context in which they were created and relevance to contemporary society.” In 2019, all 14 ASC Principals together with the Board Chair and CEO completed the certificate taught under the direction of former ASC Board Member and Warden of Wollaston Theological College, The Reverend Dr Gregory Seach. This month they were presented with their graduation certificate by the Archbishop of Perth in an online graduation ceremony.

Frederick Irwin Anglican School Principal, Ms Kerry Robertson, accepting her Wollaston Certificate of Anglican Leadership.

An interest in learning more about Anglican leadership has enticed 22 staff members from ASC schools to become the second group to undertake the Wollaston Certificate in Anglican Leadership.

The staff, who are members of the ASC Senior Staff and Aspiring Leaders networks, have started the course via Zoom due to COVID-19 restrictions. The one-year Certificate emerged from the existing two-year Wollaston Certificate in Theology which was first developed and offered in 2017. While the Certificate in Theology has a greater depth and breadth in its offering of core and elective units, the Certificate in Anglican Leadership focuses on leadership in Anglican settings such as agencies, schools, and boards. St James’ Anglican School Head of Senior School Chris Hall said a desire to foster a greater connectedness to Anglicanism in his school led him to enrol in the course.

The Wollaston Certificate in Anglican Leadership provides foundations in Christian theology, basic religious literacy, and the history of the Anglican tradition in Australia. Participants receive university level teaching in Biblical Studies, Theology and Religion in Australia, with the participation in the course financially covered by the ASC. ASC CEO, The Reverend Peter Laurence OAM, hopes that one day all teachers in ASC schools may undertake some similar certificate as one further tool to better equip them for the challenges of teaching in an Anglican school. Core units include: The Beginning - Understanding the Old Testament That You Might Believe – Understanding the New Testament God Talk – Introducing Christian Theology A Dry and Thirsty Land – Religion in Australian Society Being Anglican – the Anglican Tradition in Australia and how it got here.

ASC News 19

The Anglican Schools Commission Inc. Po Box 2520 Mt Claremont WA 6010 P (08) 9286 0290 F (08) 9384 5023 E info@asc.wa.edu.au W www.asc.wa.edu.au