SPRING 2012
coeducation at st leonard’s College page 4 Embracing Technology page 6 Reverend Judith Watson Commissioned page 30
network the magazine of the st leonard’s college community
An education for life.
Contents From the Principal................................. 2 Genuine Coeducation a Paradigm Shift................................... 4 Celebrating 40 Years of Outdoor Education ............................. 10 Achievements...................................... 14 Theatre 2012........................................ 21 The Relationship Between Teaching and Learning........................ 22 Staff Profiles....................................... 26 Our Partnership with Noble Park Secondary College.............................. 27 National Year of Reading.................... 27 30 years of International Baccalaureate Programme................ 28 Community News................................ 30 Celebrations & Sympathy.................. 32 Where are They Now?......................... 34 Other Alumni News............................. 35 St Leonard’s New Friends for Life..... 35
Editor michelle.adams@stleonards.vic.edu.au DESIGN C ognito Marketing, Craig Crosthwaite craig@cognitomarketing.com.au PHOTOGRAPHY Tony Gay, Paul Grosveld, various parents and teachers. Alumni susan.kennedy@stleonards.vic.edu.au Parents’ Association parents.association@stleonards.vic.edu.au Uniform Shop uniformshop@stleonards.vic.edu.au More information about the Parents’ Association and the Uniform Shop can also be accessed via the College website.
St Leonard’s College 163 South Road, Brighton East, Victoria 3187 Australia phone [+61 3] 9909 9300 fax [+61 3] 9592 3439
www.stleonards.vic.edu.au Front cover: St Leonard’s College
year 4 students have been integrating iPads in their learning all year.
Back cover: St Leonard’s College teachers involved in the development of the iPad program for the College.
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In our efforts to provide ‘An Education for Life’ we must contemplate the world in which the young people we seek to educate will lead their lives. As the adage affirms “Our children are our message to a future we will never see.” It is nevertheless a future that will be very different to that of our own 20 th century school experiences, where success was generally achieved by memorising what the teacher wrote on the blackboard in an environment that implied that learning only occurred when teaching was present. Consider our students joining ELC in 2013. They will enter year 7 in 2022 and complete their year 12 studies and enter university or employment in 2028. If we assume their retirement age is the same as modern day expectations, they will retire in the latter quartile of the 21st century. In much the same way as our forebears, we too are seeking to prepare these children for a world we don’t yet know, for jobs which do not yet exist, using technologies not yet invented in order to solve problems we can’t begin to imagine. If we glance back over our shoulder to the 20 th century and consider the changes that occurred in the social, political and physical environments, and consider the exponential growth in information that became so readily available, it makes our task all the more daunting. Whilst we are facing an uncertain future, there are key elements that we believe will always be relevant in providing the strong foundations to enable our students to face their future with confidence. These begin with an exceptional education. We hold to our fundamental belief that education is about character and, therefore, about the whole person: the intellect, the body and the spirit. We recognise the importance of engaging in experiences that build character. Experiences that can’t be measured in NAPLAN or an ATAR, such as curiosity, creativity, imagination, risk taking, sensitivity, flexibility, motivation, commitment, enthusiasm and above all courage, a quality which Hemingway so beautifully defined as: “grace under pressure”.
Message from the Principal An Education for Life We recognise that every child needs to be loved and valued to ensure they have a positive sense of wellbeing and capacity for self-belief if they are to achieve their potential. By modelling positive and supportive behaviours that we wish our young people to emulate, we will nurture them to be confident, committed and courteous citizens, equipped with the social and emotional intelligence required to enable them to enjoy fulfilling relationships. In keeping with our Christian philosophy we believe that each child possesses God given talents and that it is our role as educators to build upon their natural talents and strengths by drawing out that which lies within. This perspective is in alignment with the motto Kurt Hahn chose for Gordonstoun: “Plus est en Vous” - There is more in you (than you think). It became the leitmotiv of his philosophy as he made his life mission the goal of seeking to help young people realise that they possess more courage, more wisdom, more strength and more compassion than they are inclined to believe, which is in accordance with the views, perspective and goals of St Leonard’s College.
developing a strong sense of social justice. It is an approach that needs to embody values of diversity and collaboration as well as encourage innovation. It needs to enable students to be active participants in determining, pursuing, and making sense of their own learning so that they can develop the skills and habits of mind of independent thinkers and lifelong learners. It is important that they develop the capacity to know how to think, to know what they think and to know what they value. Central to the provision of a 21st century education is the integration of technology into the curriculum so that it effectively supports and enhances understanding, learning and communication. Progress requires change and as Benjamin Disraeli stated; “In a progressive country change is constant; change is inevitable.” We cannot ignore emerging technologies; and to try to limit or forbid their use is a task akin to that undertaken by King Canute. We must embrace them and teach our young people to use them well.
There are clear and identifiable requirements within the academic domain, also. It is evident that basic literacy, numeracy and communication skills will remain the foundations for all learning in the 21st century, for these skills are the key to opening the door of all other learning.
I am excited by the thought that our students will have their iPhone, iPad and any other device that supports their learning on their desk as an educational tool in the same way that a calculator has enjoyed pride of place over the past 30 years. It is my strong belief that if greater utilisation of technology is accompanied by improved pedagogy, that our young people will use it wisely, effectively and responsibly.
More generally we understand that the purpose of education is to enable each child to reach their full potential as human beings, individually and as members of a society; requiring they receive an education which will enable them to think and act intelligently and purposefully. We need to ensure a clear focus on the development of Critical Thinking skills in order to address complex issues which they can analyse and make informed decisions about. They need to become broad minded citizens who have the ability and the disposition to try and reach agreements on matters of fact, theory, and actions through rational discussions whilst simultaneously
Having been central to the introduction and implementation of technology in previous schools, I am mindful that such a change in paradigm requires strong leadership to promote the vision to ensure that it is integrated into the developing curriculum and pedagogical approaches over the 15 years of a child’s life at St Leonard’s College that will ensure all staff recognise its centrality to learning. The development and formation of our own Academic Directorate led by the Director of Teaching and Learning (Robyn Marshall) and the Director of Curriculum and Infrastructure (Tom Fisher) in collaboration with the
eLearning Coordinators (Susanne Haake and Tim Barlow), PYP Coordinator (Carolyn Tudor), year 5 and 6 Coordinator (Anna Adams), IBDP Coordinator (Cam McKenzie), VCE Coordinator (Kim Webb), Director of Professional Learning (Leah O’Toole) and Head of Library (Jan Wilson), will ensure that we are able to articulate a coherent sequential learning journey for all students. We believe that in developing these qualities we will nurture our young people to view the world through confident eyes so that they can make their own brilliant contribution to the local and global communities to which they will belong, both now and in the future. In this way we believe that our young people will be a very bright and positive message to the future that we will never see.
Stuart Davis Principal
our children are our message to a future we will never see.
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Genuine Coeducation - a Paradigm Shift
Upper School students performing the dramatic production of Amadeus
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Genuine Coeducation There has been much research, debate and conjecture around the single-sex versus coeducation question over a long period of time. At St Leonard’s, we see genuine coeducation as the real paradigm shift. There should no longer be a debate. Equal numbers of boys and girls learning together and growing together is a platform that we proudly stand upon after delivering 40 years of coeducation. A genuine coeducation environment allows for individual difference of both genders and in fact, embraces all differences whether they are gender, age, culture or an expression of others’ view points. We shift the debate, to be not about ‘coeducation versus single-sex’, rather on how we can create the best educational outcomes for all of our students. This is irrespective of gender. It is premised on a principle that good teaching practice and differentiated learning will override any perceived gender issues.
21st Century Learning 21st century teaching and learning is complex. Today what is important, is the ability to work collaboratively with a variety of different people, both male and female. We need to be flexible and to work and function as part of a team. The ability to be agile and attuned to the needs of the team is what matters. The ability to listen and problem solve with others and synthesise ideas is critical. The biggest impact on student learning and outcomes and is not about gender, it’s about the quality of our teachers. Associate Professor, Judith Gill from the University of South Australia, is one of our leading Australian gender researchers. Judith identifies the three key factors influencing student outcomes:
• teacher commitment • high quality school leadership • supportive parent community
The Mc Kinsey Report (2007) found that “The quality of an education system cannot exceed the quality of its teachers.” Research by Professor John Hattie further supports this contention. Hattie analysed 800 studies, involving millions of students worldwide to identify factors impacting learning outcomes, which included quality of teaching, feedback, thinking skills and home encouragement. Separation by gender wasn’t a factor linked with quality educational outcomes. “There is more variance within groups of boys and within groups of girls than there are differences between boys and girls” 1 Clearly identified learning outcomes and the expectations of teachers also make a difference in the classroom. Parker and Rennie (1997) found that teacher expectations created a greater impact than whether the class was mixed or single-sex. “There are more powerful effects due to the quality of teaching and teacher expectations than to whether a class is all one sex or mixed”. 2 Coeducation celebrates diversity and encourages creativity. The benefits of a different voice in the classroom cannot be overestimated. Diverse, interesting perspectives are not seen as a distraction; rather we celebrate these as a means of identifying new ways to tackle a challenge, a means for establishing a strong sense of community; an opportunity to reinforce what happens in the real world outside of the school microcosm.
There are more powerful effects due to the quality of teaching and teacher expectations than to whether a class is all one sex or mixed.
Professor John Hattie
We stand firm in our belief that there isn’t a debate. Genuine learning in a coeducational setting involves finding your place within a community, a community which emulates a community in the real world, which will always be diverse. Our focus is on differentiated curriculum and classroom practice, quality teaching, how we can cater for the differences between what boys and girls need in their learning and how we as a school can create the best learning outcomes in our genuinely coeducation environment. Robyn Marshall Director of Teaching and Learning 1 Professor John Hattie 2009 Page 56
2 Professor John Hattie 2009 Page 97
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Embracing Technology The creation of two eLearning positions in 2012 has been a significant step towards embracing emerging technology as a tool for enhancing learning opportunities. This aligns with the College Mission to provide “an exemplary, innovative education” for our students.
Susanne Haake and Tim Barlow eLearning Coordinators
An international meta-analysis encompassing 1,055 primary studies found that the average student in a classroom where technology is used will perform 12 percentile points higher than the average student in a traditional setting that does not use technology to enhance the learning process (Review of Educational Research, March 2011, vol 81, no 1 4-28).
iPad Trials In the first half of 2012, extensive trialling in the use of technology and specifically tablet devices has been taking place across the College. A core group of 22 staff from ELC to year 12 was convened in December 2011 and charged with active trialling of iPads in their school/subject area. The term 1 feedback of this group resulted in a decision to deploy iPads to 129 staff in June 2012. This augments the trial sets of iPads currently being used in ELC, year 4 and Middle School. A year 11 English class of 14 students was also provided with an iPad to use in English and other Upper School subjects in order to gauge its functionality as a device for senior students.
STL Link In June 2012, St Leonard’s College launched its Virtual Learning Environment – STL Link. In an increasingly hyper-connected world, information needs to be available anytime, anywhere. STL Link provides a platform for students to access learning material across all subjects, immerse themselves in an academic program that is rich in multimedia and provides differentiated learning to cater for students’ individual needs. During semester 2, staff will be populating this site in preparation for improved learning opportunities into 2013.
Best Practice Planning is underway for 2013 and will see a significant number of 1:1 devices in the hands of students from years 5 to 12. Class sets of devices in ELC to year 4 will continue to enhance the inquiry based learning program currently operating at these year levels. This increased access to technological devices together with student use of the virtual learning environment will see students more actively engaged in their own learning and collaborating to enhance the learning of their peers. Our vision is for St Leonard’s College to become a leader in embedding technology in the classroom. We will be seen as a best practice school that is at the forefront of engaging and educating 21st century learners with innovative technology.
Teaching and Learning at St Leonard’s College What is the curriculum? The word ‘curriculum’ comes from the Latin “currere” which literally means “the course to be run”. The implication of this phrase is that the curriculum is the running (or lived experience) of the course. Today our curriculum is defined not by the distance we must travel physically, but by the distance we must travel in our quest for knowledge. The Australian Curriculum has provided a clear framework and direction for learning. In 2008, Australia’s education ministers identified a set of statements they believed ensured that all children would become successful learners. The Melbourne Declaration on Educational Goals for Young Australians commits to supporting all children to become confident and creative individuals; active and informed citizens, while promoting equity and excellence in education. The Melbourne Declaration identified essential skills for 21st century learners – in literacy, numeracy, information and communication technology (ICT), thinking, creativity, teamwork and communication. Continued page 8
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Two of the year 11 students involved in the iPad trial
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Teaching and learning at St Leonard’s College continued... The Australian Curriculum developed from the Melbourne Declaration and acknowledges the changing ways in which young people will learn as well as the continuing challenges that will shape their learning in the future.
Principal Stuart Davis works with ELC students weaving reeds as part of an indigenous education project
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The Australian Curriculum equips all young Australians with the skills necessary to compete in an increasingly globalised world, in information rich workplaces. The Australian Curriculum includes seven general capabilities: Literacy; Numeracy; Information and Communication Technology (ICT); Critical and Creative Thinking; Personal and Social Capability; Ethical Behaviour; and Intercultural Understanding. As well, three cross curriculum priorities were identified: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures; Asia and Australia’s engagement with Asia; and Sustainability. As a learning community, our purpose is to take the very latest developments in the Australian curriculum and to translate this into powerful learning experiences for all students.
Implementing the Australian Curriculum at St Leonard’s College The Australian Curriculum also defines the achievement standards in years 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 in Literacy and Numeracy. Teachers have a clear indication of what the end looks like with the curriculum guidelines. By knowing where we are aiming, we can ensure that everything is targeted towards a clearly identified purpose.
Academic Directorate To ensure that great teaching and learning occurs, an Academic Directorate has been established. This group consists of the PYP, 5/6, VCE, and IB Coordinators, Head of Library, Directors of Curriculum, Professional Learning and Innovation, Teaching and Learning, as well as two eLearning Coordinators. The Academic Directorate meets regularly to ensure that teaching and learning at St Leonard’s College flourishes and is supported. Our aim is to identify exemplary teaching; promote an optimal learning environment; improve academic programs; develop our curriculum in line with Australian Curriculum guidelines, and broaden the number of areas where we are recognised as a centre of excellence.
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Robyn Marshall with students Each Wednesday year 9 students explore learning opportunities, pictured outside the classroom with teacher Alan Scott
The Academic Directorate is responsible for devising and implementing a Teaching and Learning Policy. This policy outlines clearly the guiding principles of great teaching and learning at St Leonard’s College. Some of the guiding principles include that:
• prior knowledge, understanding, skills and achievement are acknowledged; • independence, interdependence and cooperation are encouraged; and • deep levels of understanding are expected.
Great Teaching and Learning Great teaching and learning is purposeful. The Australian Curriculum outlines content, knowledge and skills to be taught at each level and is sequential in nature with a clear end goal. Great teaching and learning is collaborative. Students work together on complex tasks, rather than individually regurgitating facts. Complex problems requiring many different steps are presented using essential questions and big ideas rather than a textbook to be digested. Great teaching and learning is agile and builds on the knowledge of where each student is at and what they bring to the learning environment. Teachers begin the lessons understanding a student’s strengths and weaknesses based on the interpretation of data obtained from a variety of tests. Students are encouraged to make mistakes and, importantly, to learn from these mistakes. Great teaching and learning encompasses perseverance and persistence. Students are challenged with tasks that extend them, push them further and celebrate the process of obtaining the answer, rather than the answer itself. Students are encouraged to use homework time to review and reflect, not just complete tasks. Teachers set high expectations of learners that clearly define the necessary effort that should be put into the learning. In an age where everything is expected to be instant, we encourage tasks that require some pondering and complex problem solving. Great teaching and learning encourages independence. This does not mean that students complete tasks on their own. Instead, great teaching and learning encourages students to transfer their learning in one subject to other subjects. They independently select the skills required for problem solving. Feedback is provided to students during the learning journey in a timely way. Robyn Marshall Director of Teaching and Learning
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Celebrating 40 years of Outdoor Education
Kayaking, 1970s
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Early History 2012 marks 40 years of Outdoor Education at St Leonard’s College. It provides an opportunity to reflect on the achievements and developments that have occurred in the past four decades. In 1972, senior master David Witham led St Leonard’s College’s first camp. Principal Richard Cornish considered it important to provide activities that boys and girls could do together. David’s previous experience as Director of the Australian Outward Bound School in NSW accelerated the birth and subsequent growth of an Outdoor Education Program.
Rock Climbing, Mt Arapiles 1989
“St Leonard’s was one of the earlier schools to embrace Outdoor Education wholeheartedly. David patiently built support for the outdoor program within the school. The program was initially weekends, but quickly developed into the infamous St Leonard’s year 10 hikes, trips to Tasmania’s Federation Peak and the South West walk, and climbing trips to Arapiles. The St Leonard’s program is one of great diversity; Dave was instrumental in setting it up and in many ways it showed people what was possible”. J Seale, VOEA Journeys, 2002 The program expanded further with the input and influence of John Willis. One of John’s greatest strength’s was garnering support and involvement of parents. Camp Ibis was acquired and developed to allow younger students to be a part of experiential education. With students gaining skills and confidence in the outdoors earlier, it was then possible to further extend the challenges of senior students with trips to Tasmania and the main range.
Curriculum David and John were trained through Outward Bound, which has its roots in the Kurt Hahn educational philosophy. This philosophy asserts that students reach their maximum potential if they are given opportunities for personal leadership and are able to see the results of their own actions. Personal development is at the core of all programs and the traditional school camp is certainly no longer just an isolated week on the calendar. Activities on camp are tied into other subject areas before, during and after camp. There are strong ties to Geography, Health, Physical Education, English, History and Home Economics in particular. The core year 3–10 OED program at St Leonard’s is carefully structured to provide a sequential learning experience. This relates not only to the hard skills (such as navigating, pitching a tent, paddling, etc) but also the interpersonal skills, level of challenge and time spent away at each year level. Environmental education and awareness is a key focus on every camp. Indigenous studies form an important part of a students’ learning, fostering a connection and respect for the land and our country. The student’s journey through St Leonard’s OED program exposes them to a wide variety of environments, ecosystems and activities and ways in which to safely explore and enjoy the wilderness. Whilst Outdoor Education has not been included as an independent strand in the National Curriculum, there are clear ties with Indigenous Education and also Health and Physical Education in developing teamwork and leadership and discovering lifelong healthy physical activities and. The core OED program finishes at year 10, however Upper School students have many opportunities to get involved in OED extension programs offered every term break and some weekends. The Outdoor Education program offers opportunities for students to:
• • • • •
further their personal development improves kills expand interest in the outdoors, explore new places make and strengthen friendships
By this age, the students’ outdoor skills are very competent and students can take on real ownership of their own adventure, which creates a very powerful learning experience.
Technology In 1972, hiking equipment was minimalistic and simple. External framed rucksacks and oil skin coats are a far cry from the modern gore-tex and light weight tents now in use. Early trips had no communications equipment, then came trunk radios, and SMR radios. Now satellite phones, EPIRB’s and modern weather forecast and warning systems make any trip into the wilderness significantly safer.
Ninety Mile Beach, Camp Ibis, 2012
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Top row left to right Trail Blazing Sailing, Camp Ibis, 2012 Second row left to right End of 10 days, walking the South Coast Track, Tasmania, 1977 Girls will be girls Third row left to right Cheesecake for dessert, 1981 Discovering the wildlife. Camp Ibis, 2012 Togetherness Camp Ibis, 2012 Enjoying the thrills and challenge of Rock Climbing
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David Witham signs the intentions book at start of hike, 1989 Year 10 Grampians Hike 1992 Year 10 Hike, 1987 Sitting around the bush fire
Wendy Addis leads the way. Bogong High Plains, 1976
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Technology continued... Improvements in technology may not have changed the destinations or activities but they have certainly improved the level of comfort and the way experiences are recorded. Digital photos and videos can be instantly uploaded to social media, edited and brought back into the classroom to revisit places and moments where learning opportunities occur.
Camp Ibis In recent years, significant improvements have been made to the lodge at Camp Ibis. Windows have been extended to capitalise on the water views and modifications have been made to improve the sustainability of the building and camp as a whole. New student bathroom facilities and staff accommodation have been built. This year, new tents and platforms will further improve the students’ experiences on camp. Ibis continues to be utilised for core OED programs from years 5–8. Some activities are centre based whilst others capitalise on the surrounding natural features such as the Buchan Caves, Mitchell River, Gippsland Lakes and Ninety Mile Beach. Ibis is a favourite with international visitors such as the Chiben students from Japan. The Geography department has enjoyed field trips and research visits over the past 30 years. This year has also seen the introduction of Ibis being utilised in the holidays, for outdoor education extension programs for years 7–9 students, and as a base for fitness and training camps for triathlon and paddling clubs.
The Next 40 Years Planned program developments include: • • •
maximising the potential use of resources for community groups and extension programs using Camp Ibis further integrating OED into other faculties and subject areas to strengthen learning developing ways to measure and report on student learning and personal development on camp
As we prepare our students for life beyond school, the skills and lessons learnt on camp are not always apparent at the time. Upon reflection, the learning is often about: • • • • •
learning conflict resolution, leadership, being a valuable team member learning that we are more capable than we sometimes believe learning how to cope with change and challenges and being taken out of our comfort zone learning independence and interdependence – relying on the support and encouragement of friends and peers learning of the grandeur of nature and indigenous connections
Camps and outdoor education experiences provide fond memories that shape us to become the people we are today. Future generations will continue to have similar enriching experiences in the wilderness to build a well-rounded and balanced individual. Outdoor Education embodies the St Leonard’s College philosophy of ‘An Education for Life’. Ben Woolhouse Head of Outdoor Education
St leonard’s was one of the earlier schools to embrace outdoor education whole-heartedly.
J Seale, VOEA Journeys, 2002
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Achievements Top to bottom
Bevan East and Caroline Brown leaving the dock Beth Collins with her prizewinning horse Victorian Brain Bee Finalists
Josh Staley Magician
Victorian Brain Bee State Finals
Australian Sailing Team Racing Championships
Year 10 students, Tiana Moutafis, Paula Reyes, Emma Buckthorpe and John McLeod were selected from over 10,000 students from nearly 400 Victorian schools to compete in the Victorian Brain Bee State Finals at the University of Melbourne.
St Leonard’s College Sailing team competed in the Australian Team Racing Championships held on Albert Park Lake during the term 2 holidays. The conditions were harsh, with freezing cold temperatures, penetrating rain and no wind, not the best recipe for a sailing championship. Team racing is very different to fleet racing. The main object of team racing is for a team of six students to finish with the lowest point score against another team. All racing is very tactical and held over a short race course. The St Leonard’s team recorded close losses to Brisbane Grammar and Shelton College. However, the team quickly regained their confidence with a solid victory against Sydney High and followed up with a win against Geelong Grammar. The team consisting of Hayden Brown, Kieran East, Bevan East, Charlotte Perry, Caroline Brown, Harrison Rietman and Alice Silvester worked cohesively to finish a very successful regatta in 13th place overall. Scotch College, Perth was the overall winner of the competition with St Joseph’s College, South Australia placed 2nd.
About 100 of the state’s brightest year 10 students converged on the newly completed Florey Institute in a oneday neuroscience competition that included a visit to the cadaver laboratory in the Faculty of Medicine and, for many of the students, their first encounter with real human grey matter. “Building Better Brains to Fight Brain Disorders” was the motto of the competition. The idea was to inspire teenagers to consider careers in neuroscience and the treatment of the hundreds of disorders related to the brain.
Dancing Champions Tara and George Presnell have achieved significant success at state and national level in dancing. In the Victorian Scholarships, Tara placed 2nd in Senior Jazz and 4th in Senior Ballet. George placed 2nd in Senior Ballet and 4th in Intermediate Jazz. In the Australian Teachers of Dance/ Australasian Scholarships, Tara placed 4th in Senior Jazz and George placed 4th in Intermediate Jazz.
Equestrian Kate Rodgers placed 1st in one of the show jumping classes and 10 th in the other, to finish 7th overall at the Victorian Interschool Equestrian Championships. Simon Rodgers, Beth Collins and Madison Buttolph were also excellent team members of the team who produced outstanding results. Beth Collins placed 1st in her division (Preliminary) of the State Interschool Equestrian Qualifier for Horse Trials. Beth represented St Leonard’s College and Victoria at the National Equestrian Interschool Championships held in Toowoomba Queensland from 2-5 October. Madison Buttolph also represented the College.
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Budding Magician Year 9 student Josh Staley was awarded 2nd place in the Close Up Magic section of the recent Australian Junior Championships of Magic. The tournament is based on, managed and adjudicated by FISM rule. FISM is the International Federation of Magic Societies and is one of the most respected organisations in the magic community. It is an international body coordinating dozens of national and international clubs and federations around the world, representing approximately 50,000 magicians from 32 countries.
Swimming Success Isabelle Barwick competed as a member of the Victorian State Swimming team at the National Swimming Championships in Sydney from 28 July - 3 August. We congratulate Isabelle on her achievement. St Leonard’s College swimmers have once again retained the Bath Isaac Shield in the competition against Ballarat and Queens Anglican Grammar on 3 May.
Spelling Champs
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Cooper Zammit placed 2nd in round 3 in the junior division of Spellmasters. Joel Bowditch won round 4 of the Senior Division. Jaegar Konidiris won round 5 of the Senior Division. Harmoni Mose placed 3rd in the Senior Division and Baoji Lu placed 3rd in the Junior Division. All will now advance to the finals in November.
Joel Bowditch (left) and Julian Grimm (right) the OzSpell champs Red and blue da Vinci teams with Principal, Stuart Davis and Talent Development Coordinator, Fran Devine
Julian Grimm won the inaugural OzSpell competition and Joel Bowditch placed 2nd in a field of 78 students.
da Vinci Decathlon Two year 7 teams represented St Leonard’s in the regional da Vinci Decathlon hosted by St Leonard’s College. The red team of Christopher Needham, Lena Scally-Leprevost, Niamh Nolan, Thomas Madarevic, Julian Grimm, Matthew Percival,Marko Moutafis and Samuel Chilcott placed 1st in the competition. The blue team, comprising Charlotte Raberger, Laura Graham, Cam Nicholson, Scott Guiney, Darci Welsh, Liam Baker, Sylvie Evans and Frances Paton, placed 5th overall. Both teams advanced to the state finals.
Tournament of Minds (TOM) TOM is an Australasian Pacific competition that provides real, open-ended challenges, developing creative problem solving techniques, fostering cooperative learning and team work and stimulating a spirit of inquiry and love of learning. St Leonard’s College students performed extremely well at the regional finals. Two teams placed 1st in their areas of specialty and advanced to the state finals held in September. The following students represented St Leonard’s College in the Language/ Literature category of the state finals and received an Honours commendation: Jemma Gray, Jacqui Lokum, Marin Bando, Sophie Tallis, Sabre Konidaris and Jaeger Konidaris. The Social Science team placed 1st and will compete in the Australasian Pacific Finals in Perth in October. The following students were on the winning team: Marina Reyes Daza, Jessica Martin, Robyn Chapman, Darcy Neate, Rainer Curcio, Dario Pagoda and Joe Toce.
Cycling Champions St Leonard’s students took out the top three places in the under 15 male and female divisions of the Regional Road Cycling Championships in September.
15 and Under Male Division 1st Daniel Cherubino 2nd Chris Martin 3rd Austin Stanley
15 and Under Female Division 1st Olivia Schenk 2nd Madeline Marquardt 3rd Loeke Anema
All students have now qualified for the State Road Cycling Championships.
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Achievements cont. Future Problem Solving
Top 15 in the Nation
Concert for the Young
Future Problem Solving is an international educational program for students from years prep-12 that focuses on the development of creative thinking skills. It centres on the skills of problem identification and positive solutions. It aims to give young people the skills to design and promote positive futures for the society in which they live.
St Leonard’s College Big Band, under the direction of Mr Peter Foley, was awarded 3rd place in the Second Division of the Generations of Jazz festival in Mt Gambier. The Mt Gambier festival was started by James Morrison in 1982. The three day national festival incorporates concerts, workshops and of course, the competition. Over 2000 students are involved from over 100 schools around Australia.
St Leonard’s College presented the inaugural Concert for the Young in June. Around 600 primary students from McMillan House and neighbouring primary schools attended the lunchtime concert which featured Peter and the Wolf (narrated by Mr Mark Adams) and Pictures at an Exhibition. The St Leonard’s College Wind Symphony, Symphonic Band, Senior Choir and Power Strings all performed at this wonderful concert.
All six of the St Leonard’s College teams that sat the Australian qualifying finals have advanced to the national competition. These students will represent our College in October: Junior School Teams Team Red Ricqui Bradley Nicole Catton Alec Maccora Jake McCauley Team Blue Juliette Capomolla Aiden Cha Bridie Niven Shaya Zehtab-Jadid Middle School Teams Team Red Natasha Jorge-Moore Dario Pagoda Sam Richards Amelia Tsindos Team Blue Tara Coughlan Rainer Curcio Claire Martin Matthew O’Connell Team Yellow Liam Carroll Jaeger Konidaris Sabre Konidaris Lucas Muehleisen Team Green Kate Garrow Shaun Ripper Scott Vella Daniel Vesel Jacob Warner Ken Wu
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The students enjoy working with other like-minded musicians who are passionate about jazz and they learn from the different performance approaches of other schools. Students have the opportunity to be recognised for their work and to see clear career pathways in music. The St Leonard’s College Big Band’s outstanding result places the band in the top 15 in the nation.
Boroondara Eisteddfod Our Soprano Alto Choir performed at the Boroondara Eisteddfod in May under the direction of Ms Melanie Hillman. Many of the students in this choir are from the Middle School and were competing in a year 7-12 section. The choir performed extremely well in a strong field of competitors.
Combined Schools Music Festival St Leonard’s College music students travelled to Canberra to participate in the Combined Schools Music Festival from 23 May-27 May. Every two years, students from five schools meet to rehearse and perform with guest conductors in a specially formed Concert Band, Orchestra or Choir. A highlight of this year’s festival was a combined item. All participants from Scotch College in Adelaide, St John’s College in Brisbane, the Kinross-Wolaroi School in Orange, Radford College in Canberra and St Leonard’s College performed the famous ‘O Fortuna’ from Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana. Our students’ music skills are enriched by the opportunity to work with some of Australia’s best conductors and a talented pool of students from different schools. Students also benefit from the experience of being billeted to local families and seeing the sights of Canberra.
Melbourne Schools Bands and Strings Festival The year 5–8 Concert Band, under the direction of Mrs Elizabeth Furman, performed in the Junior Concert Band section of this festival. The Melbourne Schools Bands and Strings Festival was held from 8–25 August at the Robert Blackwood Hall at Monash University. Over 9000 students in nearly 400 ensembles from 130 schools participated. The students received on-stage feedback from an international adjudicator and were given a recording of their performance. Our students increased their musical repertoire in learning set pieces to perform at the Festival. The Concert Band received a Gold Award for their performance in the Junior Concert Band category.
Big Band Performance at Crown The St Leonard’s College Big Band was invited to perform at the Australian Freight Industry Awards held at the Crown Palladium on 1 September. It was a great honour to be included in the entertainment line-up and gave our students the opportunity to perform in front of important politicians, celebrities and a large audience.
Gymnastics Debut 12 of our Junior School girls competed in their first inter-school gymnastics competition on 11 September. There were 10 schools in the competition including St Catherine’s, Wesley and Loreto Toorak. One St Leonard’s team placed 2nd and the other 5th - a tremendous effort for their debut.
Top row Forster House won the House Music competition at The Plenary Second row left to right Mt Gambier Music Festival Music trip to Canberra Bottom row left to right Gymnastics Debut Allen House Massed Choir at the House Music competition McMeekin House at the House Music competition
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Achievements cont. Top to bottom St Leonard’s chess students have improved dramatically under the tutelage of International Chess Master, Robert Jamieson Orienteering ACS Basketball Premiers
ACS Chess The St Leonard’s team of Kieran May, Josh Niewodowski and Lachlan Semple came a very close 2nd behind the winning team of Westbourne Grammar in the ACS Chess competition.
ACS Sport The St Leonard’s College Senior Sports teams produced outstanding results in the winter ACS competition. 11 teams advanced to the grand finals and five teams were victorious. Boys Volleyball 4th, Girls Netball 2nd, 3rd and 4th and Girls Basketball 1st teams are now reigning premiers.
ACS Athletics Our students produced outstanding results at the ACS sports carnival on 25 May. Charlotte Simpson won her race in the 400m, Tim Davis came 2nd in the 400m in a very fast time - beaten only by Felix Lonergan of St Michael’s (the third fastest 400m runner of his age group in Australia). Congratulations to Chris Gurr, Noah Fraser and Jeremy Ripper who finished 2nd in the triple jump, the discus and the shot put respectively. Mathew Dunwoodie placed 2nd in the 100m, Rebecca Davis and Lachlan Cairns both won their 400m races and Sasha Watson won the year 11 shot put and placed 3rd in the 100m.
Victorian MTB Orienteering Championships Our students had great success at the recent Victorian MTB Orienteering Championships, placing third overall. 1st place - pairs Junior Boys Dan Cherubino and Austin Stanley Senior Boys Jared Ekkel and Jack Slykhuis Junior Girls Bridget Howard and Annabelle Erskine 2nd place - pairs Junior Boys Sam Slykhuis and Chris Martin Junior Girls Jenny Allison and Ashley Rich 3rd place - pairs Sophia Abbott and Eleanor Corden 4th place - individual Junior Boys Luke Buckthorpe
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Cross Country
Snowsports Success
Top to bottom
The St Leonard’s Primary Cross Country team won the Coeducational District Championships at Fawkner Park on 21 May.
St Leonard’s College Snowsports won three awards in 2012: the Victoria School Snowsports Outstanding Achievement of the Year Award, Victoria School Snowsports Club of the Year award and the National School Snowsports Club of the Year Award.
Outdoor Education staff Ben Woolhouse and Jane Marino with year 3 student Shanaye McSweeney 3T at the recent Victorian Interschools Championships
The Boys’ team placed 2nd overall and the Girls’ team 3rd. Toby Linnegan, Cole Rooney, Beau Kilik, Michael Garbelotto, Joshua Cherubino, Joseph Tesfai, Stephanie Mc Lauchlan, Georgia Clarkson, Isabella Stafford, Eliza Nichols and Meg Cairns represented St Leonard’s College at the Division Cross Country Championships at Bald Hill Park on 6 June. In the All Schools Cross Country Championships on 21 July, Phillipa Huse, Charlotte Simpson, Ashleigh Rich and Lachlan Rich did St Leonard’s proud with their dedication and spirit at this competition.
ACS Allstars The best students from all the schools that compete in the ACS competition are selected to play against the best students in the Associated Ballarat Schools in an Allstars competition. 20 St Leonard’s students travelled to Ballarat on 5 September. The Girls and Boys Hockey teams, Boys Volleyball and Boys Soccer won their matches. The following students were chosen to present the College in this elite competition: Rachel Fairhurst Mark Flintoft Tim Hickox Cassie Hill Melissa Hitchen Haw Steve Hunt Leonid Khatsnerov Sam Maitland Luke Morcom Funda Nakkassoglu Chris Neales Nadia Olivier Rachel Pittorino Brad Potter Danesh Rustomjee Alex Shulman Sarah Stuart Oscar Vonk Tess Wardrop Bonnie Youl
St Leonard’s College was represented by 26 students at the Victorian Interschools Snowsports Championships at Mr Buller at the end of August. Ellie Godden will advance to the national championships with 10 th placing in Division 3 in the Snowboard Giant Slalom. Tarryn Hurst, Amelia McDonald, Samuel Jeffery and James Whiteside also received high placings in their events.
Training for Cross Country Students in the Hillary Challenge Mountain Biking
Hillary Challenge A truly inspiring performance saw the St Leonard’s College team win five out of six challenges and the rogaining in the challenging weather conditions at Eildon in May. The winning team consisted of Ben Roberts, Mat Dunwoodie, Luke Morcom, Harrison Cowie, Annabelle Erskine, Bridget Howard, Eleanor Corden and Sophia Abbot.
Marysville 2 Melbourne Eight teams from the St Leonard’s community competed in the Marysville 2 Melbourne Adventure race. Our two junior teams placed 1st and 2nd. The year 10 boys team consisting of Matt Cherubino, Jarrod Ekkel, Toby Van Rooy, Josh Furman and Jack Slykhuis were first across the line in their division. The year 8 boys team, consisting of Sam Slykhuis, Austin Stanley, Daniel Cherubino, Finn Garroway-Mc Master, Nick Martin and Chris Martin, placed 2nd. The male Veterans staff team placed 2nd and the female parents’ team placed 3rd.
Mountain Bike Riding Chris Martin, Nick Martin and Bryce Marquardt competed in the Regional Interschool Mountain Bike competition on 23 July. Chris Martin advanced to the Victoria Schools Championships and placed 2nd.
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Achievements cont. All Schools Downriver Kayaking Championships St Leonard’s performed strongly in the male division in the Down-River with the team including Jared Ekkel, Perry Clinton, Jack Slykhuis, Logan Houniet, Sam Sherborne, Daniel Cherubino, Luke Buckthorpe, Sam Slykhuis, Chris Martin, Josh Mathew and Nick Martin. The students who attended the Slalom event on the following day had a tough day however enjoyed the challenge of the event.
Cricket Team trains at MCG The St Leonard’s First XI Cricket team were invited to the MCG to train with the Bushrangers Elite coaching team in preparation for the Victorian All Schools Cricket Championships. The invitation came as a result of St Leonard’s winning the ACS Cricket Grand Final.
ACS Cross Country St Leonard’s came a very close 2nd to 1st placed St Michael’s in the ACS Cross Country Championships. See chart below right. Top to bottom MCG training with the Bushrangers Students in the UN Thant-Evatt competition
Inaugural year 10 United Nations Thant-Evatt Competition
Languages Other Than English Poetry Competitions
Commerce teacher Monique Sheehy introduced a new event to the Talent Development program for year 10s this year.
Steve Catto-Smith, Genevieve Mathews, Lisa Shulman, James Toogood, Sylvie Evans, Niamh Nolan, Noah Fraser, Max Mc Connell, Sabine Audigé, Patrick Corden, Maddy Andrews, Connor Farrell, Eliza Quinn and Luka Keighley are finalists in the highly regarded Alliance Francaise Berthe Mouchette Poetry Competition, which attracts around 12000 participants every year in Victoria.
The mock UN Security Council provided a forum for 30 year 10 students to develop public speaking and debating skills and to understand the workings of the United Nations. The event saw students represent various UN countries and debate set topics facilitated by trained UN Youth Australia members. The students debated security issues facing North Korea, Somalia and Syria.
Environmentally Conscious year 9s Claudia Smith and Clea Boyd-Eedle volunteered to speak at a Bayside Climate Change Action Group evening on Tuesday 28 August. Proudly wearing school uniform, Claudia and Clea talked about their involvement in the CUE program and how they have been motivated to become more active in environmental issues and ways of living more sustainably.
Interschool Debating St Leonard’s College entered six teams in the interschools debating competition.. The A-grade team of Matthew Peter, Jade Smith-Love, Adam Piorunowski-Kane and Olivia Miles is unbeaten this year
Six students of German represented St Leonard’s College in the regional German Poetry competition. Natalie Piorunowski-Kane, Charlotte Raberger, Isobel Galloway, Alana Dare, Ben Adshead and George Troupis all performed well. Poetry competitions are a unique and memorable experience for the candidates and they enhance the appreciation of culture and reinforce the vitality and of LOTE in Australia.
Philosophy Award Paula Reyes-Daza was judged the best year 10 Philosopher at the Victorian Philosothon held on 1 August. The Philosothon concept was inaugurated at Hale School in Perth in 2007. The first Victorian Philosothon was held in 2010. In 2012, eight students from 12 Victorian schools participated in the competition.
ACS Cross Country Championships Results.
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Overall Category
Place
Individual Results
Year 7 Girls
2nd
Sophie Tegg 6 th, Phillipa Huse 7th
Year 7 Boys
3rd
Liam Mcleod 6 th
Year 8 Girls
4th
Olivia Schenk 9 th
Year 8 Boys
1
st
Sean Flintoff 2nd, Austin Stanley 4th, Sam Slykhuis 5th
Year 9 Girls
1
st
Ash Rich 2nd, Jenny Allinson, Bridgette Howard & Annabelle Erskine ( All equal 6 th, 6/7/8 )
Year 9 Boys
3rd
Matt Bilger 8th
Year 10 Girls
3
Georgia Hunter 11th
Year 10 Boys
1st
Ben Fenlon 3rd, Josh Furman 4th Jack Slykhuis 8th
Year 11 Girls
3rd
Rebecca Davis 5th
Year 11 Boys
3
rd
Mark Flintoff 3rd, Mitch Wildbore 5th
Year 12 Girls
1
st
Esther Garroway-Mcmaster 2nd, Celina Klonk 3rd, Emily Davis 7th
Year 12 Boys
2nd
rd
Marcus Bade 3rd, Chris Neale 5th, Chris Manning 8th
Theatre 2012 2012 has been an exciting year for theatre at St Leonard’s College. With our expanded program, audiences were treated to double the number of performances across both the Middle and Upper School student population. The Middle School play Invisible Friends set the tone for the year with its slick and stylish production values and as the first production of the year, set the bar for what was to come. In May, Old Collegians Kerry Armstrong and Kaarin Fairfax launched the Hart Theatre company, heralding a new era of opportunity for the St Leonard’s community to engage in and experience theatre. Following the launch of the Hart Theatre Company came Barnum, spectacularly presented under the Big Top to sold out audiences. Upper School play Amadeus and Middle School musical Thoroughly Modern Millie followed with performances that featured sumptuous costumes, inventive staging and left their audiences spellbound by the skills of our students, teachers and parent volunteers. The 5/6 production Bugsy Malone is now in full swing. It is your final opportunity for 2012 to experience the magic of St Leonard’s theatre. With two performances, one on 28 November and the second on 29 November, Bugsy Malone will see our first full season come to a colourful close. Book your seats via the link on the College website.
Top to bottom Barnum Invisible Friends Head of Theatre Productions, Kim Anderson with Kaarin Fairfax, Kerry Armstrong and Stuart Davis launching the Hart Theatre company Top row left to right The Hart family at the opening night of Barnum Hart Family members Daryl Hart and granddaughter Paris, opening night of Barnum
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The Relationship Between Teaching and Learning Head of Science Martin Wareham launches a mentos and coke fountain to the delight of onlooking students during Cool Science Week 2012
The role of teacher has evolved immensely. There has been much change and development in the classroom, in particular teaching strategies, interaction with students and the increasingly multifaceted expectations of the teacher. Dr Robert Marzano refers to “the art and science of teaching”, two disciplines which may seem diametrically opposed. On the contrary, Marzano encapsulates the complex work of teaching very well in that it requires an ever-increasing range of skills, from the open-minded creator of possibilities to the knowledgeable researcher of proof. In essence, Marzano’s lesson is that teachers need to know the facts of research and the theories of practice and then apply these in their own classrooms by intuitively and creatively manipulating the theory to meet the learning needs of their students. At St Leonard’s, there are a number of ways through which teachers can continue to learn about the theoretical aspects of teaching and many creative ways that theory can be embedded into practice.
Introducing the St Leonard’s School Council Study Support Program From 2013, the School Council will introduce a new initiative to support the professional growth of successful teacher candidates, as they undertake research aligned to the strategic direction of the College. Five grants of up to $5000 per year over three years will be offered. The purpose of the program is: • To increase the number of teachers in research based post graduate study • To engage teachers in research studies which will be of direct benefit in developing aspects of teaching and learning at the College • To provide data and analysis to assist in planning future College strategic directions
• To provide a career improvement pathway from within the College
The College Council supports teachers in their ongoing quest for learning. The Council is keen to underscore the culture of continually striving and learning as a role model for our students. By providing direct financial support, the Council will encourage more teachers to undertake post graduate study.
St Leonard’s Parents’ Association Professional Learning Grants Each year the St Leonard’s Parents’ Association finances professional learning opportunities for staff to further their knowledge and bring world’s best practice back to St Leonard’s College for the benefit of staff and students. The St Leonard’s Parents’ Association (PA) Professional Learning Grant has been generously funded by the PA for many years. This grant enables teachers to expand their horizons and participate in learning internationally, if they so choose. In 2012, the recipients of the Parents’ Association Professional Learning Grant are Robyn Marshall, Director of Teaching and Learning, and Nathalie Huth, German teacher. German Language Developments Nathalie will undertake an intensive German language and teaching course at the Goethe Institute in Munich, Germany in 2013. As a senior VCE and IB teacher of German, Nathalie will learn about new German language developments and collaborate with other teachers from around the world, to network and share best practice in the Languages Other Than English classroom.
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Similarities between Teaching and Learning in the USA and Australia Robyn attended the annual ASCD (Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development) 2012 Summer Conference in St Louis, Missouri, affording her the opportunity to learn and network with 16000 attendees from around the world. Robyn is most interested in learning more about the Understanding by Design Framework, which has been introduced in the Middle School this year as the model for organising curriculum. Robyn also attended the 2012 NWEA (Northwest Evaluation Association) Conference in Portland, Oregon, particularly to hear Professor Dylan Wiliam speak about his research on formative assessment and implementation. Robyn Marshall reflects on her experience: There are many similarities between teaching and learning in the USA and Australia: the use of national testing; the introduction of national achievement standards; the rewriting of curriculum documentation; the busy lives of teachers; the challenges of improving student outcomes; the exploding use of technology in the classroom. All mirror what is happening or about to happen in Australia. Trend forecasting is an imprecise science. We simply do not know what the future holds, but change in education is constant, and it is important to be always looking ahead. Listening to and meeting researchers and educators whose books and blogs I have read and vodcasts I have viewed, like Dylan Wiliam and having the conversations with them and other educators provide invaluable understanding about trends. These conversations are very powerful and essential if St Leonard’s College is to truly provide “an exemplary, innovative education for its students”.
Robyn Marshall Director of Teaching and Learning
Key Trends and Implications for Teaching and Learning 1 Agility Great teaching and learning demonstrates the ability to be flexible and provide learning opportunities for all learners based on a thorough understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the learners. The innovative use of technology will be a driving force for changes in teaching and learning at St Leonard’s College. 2 Independently Great learners are able to learn on their own and apply their learning to new and different circumstances, without teacher assistance. By using our new StLink, students will be able to collate their learning and show their understanding in new and creative ways, with independence. 3 Purposefully Great teachers structure learning opportunities deliberately, focusing on understanding, skills and knowledge, using big ideas and essential question. These learning outcomes are known to the students and explicitly taught. Formative assessment is used extensively and frequently. The introduction of the Australian Curriculum has required teachers to rethink what they are teaching. At St Leonard’s College we are using the Understanding By Design platform and then linking this to the Australian Curriculum.
the innovative use of technology as a driving force for change in teaching and learning at St leonard’s.
4 Collaboratively Great learners are able to work well with others to problem solve with creativity. Teachers have been working together in cross faculty teams to explore the use of technology to a common end with students as well as teachers. 5 With perseverance Great learning tasks are rigorous and require deep thinking. They are complex tasks which may require different solutions. Learning is viewed as more problem based where the process of learning is celebrated. Assessment tasks require deep levels of thinking and not regurgitation. Tasks are formative and based on big ideas which are transferable across subject areas. We are currently reviewing our assessment tasks and our reporting to parents. Robyn Marshall Director of Teaching and Learning
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Striving for Excellence - Teacher Quality Current educational research confirms that the key influence on student performance is the quality of teachers. St Leonard’s College has a strategic, integrated approach that incorporates timely recruitment, a rigorous performance appraisal system and a solid commitment to professional development.
Top to bottom
Kim Anderson as Mayor Matilda in the CLOC Theatre production ‘All Shook Up’
St Leonard’s College staff form a dedicated, hardworking team and are committed to sharing their many skills and talents with the students to provide a rich and rewarding curriculum.
Judy Dodsworth as Carman (OzOpera)
Higher Qualifications
Maggie Iaquinto speaks to astronauts in space
St Leonard’s College has many teachers with Masters qualifications and others have completed their doctorates in their relevant fields. All staff qualifications are reported in the Annual Report. The benefit of our staff being committed to post graduate study is the constant updating of skills and being able to share their networks, resources and the most current learning methodologies available with their colleagues and students.
Examiners and Judges This year Susanne Haake, Marilyn Kelmann, Jill Strong, Jan May and Leah O’Toole have been appointed as VCAA English assessors. Liz Furman started VCAA music examining last year and will continue in the role this year. Kim Anderson is currently in the cast of a semi-professional musical and a VCAA Performance assessor. Fran Devine is an evaluator of the Future Problem Solving competition and has been a judge for the Tournament of Minds competition for 24 years. Fran is on the committee for VAGTC. Phillip Swedosh is the Chief Examiner for VCE Mathematics and Barry Fletcher is the Chairperson and Chief Examiner for VCE Music Performance. Barry is also the Performance Assessor of VCE Music Performance and Music Investigation. Susan Ferguson-Brown, Ashley Wood, Joanne Burke, Jill Strong and Cate Cox are IBO assessors and Ashley has also been involved in writing text for the new Australian Curriculum. Roy Lee is an examiner in VCE Art.
NeiTA Teaching Award Year 5 teacher, Greg Anderson, received special recognition for his inspirational teaching being nominated for a NEiTA 2012 ASG Teaching Award. Greg has taught our Middle School students for many years, is hugely respected by his colleagues, the parent body and, most importantly, the hundreds of students who have passed through his care.
Professional Learning Outside the College Judy Dodsworth is a singing teacher in our Music department while also maintaining a professional freelance career as a classical opera and concert singer. In May this year, Victorian Opera presented a new contemporary work by Gordon Kerry entitled ‘Midnight Son’. One of the five singers became ill and there were no understudies, resulting in one performance being cancelled. Judy was approached by Richard Gill the Artistic Director and asked if she could sing the score from the side of the stage while the other singer acted the role. Judy saw the score for the first time on Friday night and performed at the Malthouse Theatre on Saturday and Sunday for two performances. Richard Gill described this to the audience as a feat of “extraordinary musicianship” and said that Judy was one of the few sopranos in the country who could have been asked to do this.
McKinsey Report 2007
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The quality of an education system cannot exceed the quality of its teachers.
Maggie Iaquinto, Commerce/IT teacher, made world history by making the first ever contact between an amateur radio station and Space Station MIR. Maggie received the WIA’s highest award for engaging secondary students with lessons from cosmonauts on board MIR. Maggie is also the only female to be awarded the Wireless Association of Australia’s highest award: The Ron Wilkinson Award. In 2006, Maggie received the IT Teacher of the Year award from the Victorian Information Technology Teachers Association.
Commitment to Professional Learning The College Council, the St Leonard’s Parents Association and staff are demonstrating a focussed commitment to professional learning. Creating powerful learning opportunities defines good teaching and classroom practice and enhances understanding of course content and teacher roles.
Students enjoying experimenting with scientific equipment during Science Week 2012
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Staff Profiles Top to bottom
Pauline Duncan Lucy Willmott
Pauline Duncan - Director of Development Pauline was appointed Director of Development in April 2012 to undertake fundraising and philanthropy for the College. There is a strong focus on connecting our entire College community – our alumni, support groups such as Harefield Club and the Old Collegians. The Centenary Celebrations in 2014 provide an exciting focal point for all development activity. Prior to joining St Leonard’s College, Pauline has worked in management and communication consulting roles in the education sector. She worked for KPMG in the Government Advisory Services team (Social Policy); was Specialist Education Advisor with Scaffidi Hugh-Jones on Victorian and NSW Government communication projects; and developed marketing and communication plans for Independent schools. Pauline founded her own company, Knowledge Box which provided parents with advice and guidance about our Australian education system and the important school choice decision making process. Pauline was Head of Junior School at Wesley College (St Kilda Rd) for six years. She is driven by a desire to protect and nurture young people and allowing them to develop as confident, independent and resilient young people through supportive home and school environments. Pauline’s pro-bono work is devoted to the Lighthouse Foundation, and for three years she was a Non-Executive Director of Climate Positive (not-for-profit carbon offset provider). Pauline feels privileged to be at St Leonard’s College and excited to meet and engage with the community to grow a philanthropic base, to ensure that we continue to advance, preserve and improve the high standard of education programs, infrastructure and future opportunities. Pauline has a Bachelor of Education. Diploma of Teaching (Primary), PR Certificate (RMIT), is a Member of the Australian College of Educators and a Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Lucy Willmott - Registrar Lucy joined St Leonard’s College in July this year as our Registrar. She has spent the past 16 years at the University of Melbourne in the Office of Admissions working in policy, business development and governance roles and with prospective students and their families to inform tertiary choice. Lucy is a qualified secondary teacher-librarian and has completed graduate studies in marketing and professional editing. She is passionate about education and in her role as Registrar will be guiding our prospective families through the application, enrolment and transition process. “Working with families and helping them to make informed decisions about education for their children from early learning through to year 12 is an honour. I am delighted to be at a school that delivers on its vision of educating young people for life beyond its gates – through rigorous academic endeavour, providing opportunities to lead and to give back to their community, and to value themselves and others.”
Children will have an excellent chance of developing the reading habit if they are read to or share a book most nights for at least 10 minutes.
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Our Partnership with Noble Park Secondary College Since 2010, St Leonard’s College has been building a partnership with Noble Park Secondary College. This professional alliance fosters opportunities for staff and students from both Colleges. Staff have shared professional development workshops and been able to share knowledge and experience in different contexts. Noble Park Secondary College uses the government initiated Ultranet which has proved useful in developing our own ICT strategies. Our Talent Development Coordinator, Fran Devine, has worked with Noble Park staff to develop their talent program. Noble Park students entered the recent da Vinci Decathlon competition hosted by St Leonard’s College and their team received a 3rd placing in the Engineering section. Students from both Colleges have attended leadership team seminars together, which has led to a greater breadth of understanding on both sides. The experience exposes our students to rich cultural experiences, working with students from many different nationalities.
Noble Park Secondary College and St Leonard’s College students at the recent da Vinci Decathlon competition
National Year of Reading Events and activities celebrating the National Year of Reading are continuing. On Saturday 25 August, Australia held its first Reading Hour between 6pm and 7pm The goal of this event was to encourage everyone in Australia to read at least 10 minutes every day or one hour per week. Children will have an excellent chance of developing the reading habit if they are read to or share a book most nights for at least 10 minutes. “Champions Read” was the theme for Children’s Book Council of Australia Book Week. Visiting authors, including Sophie Laguna, Nick Place, Gabrielle Williams and Bec Kavanagh, shared their stories and writing tips with Middle School students. Students made medals and badges and played Book Week bingo during lunchtime. In line with the “Champions Read” theme, St Leonard’s College congratulates four champion book reviewers who have been published in Viewpoint journal. Daniel Vesel, George Troupis, Charlotte Perry and Georgia Benjamin are to be commended on being willing to read outside their preferred genre and write a book review on some of the new books entering the young adult market. The English faculty have also been involved in the National Year of Reading celebrations. Two Middle School teachers held a House Debating competition during lunchtimes over term 3. There were 7-9 students in each house team. Students were given a topic each week and, with the help of their Middle School House Coordinator, worked through their arguments and prepared speeches.
Year 5 and 6 students with author Sophie Laguna
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30 years of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme
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St Leonard’s College - First in Victoria to introduce IB St Leonard’s College was the first Victorian school to introduce the IB in 1982 and celebrates 30 years of providing this internationally recognised course this year. The International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO) is a non-profit educational foundation, founded in 1968, based in Geneva, Switzerland. Its initial aim was to provide a reliable and consistent qualification for international students returning home to study at university.
Vision The underlying vision of the IBO is to offer students a balanced curriculum that fosters critical thinking and intercultural understanding. It aims to develop students who become responsible citizens within their own community and their own country. By design, the structure of the IB Diploma Program is broad. Students study subjects from six areas: English, a second language, Mathematics, Science, Humanities and the Arts. As such, students emerge from year 12 with a wide range of options and are well prepared for tertiary study. The first cohort in 1982 consisted of just two students. Since then, students choosing the IB Diploma Programme have grown to represent around 25% of the Upper School student body. Since its inception at St Leonard’s, the subjects offered within the IB Diploma Program have changed according to the needs and interests of the students. Traditional languages such as French and German were once the only foreign languages offered but we now also teach Japanese, Indonesian and Spanish. Economics and Psychology have joined History and Geography as Humanities subjects and in 2013, a new English course will be introduced which combines a study of literature and film.
Structure Central to the Diploma Program are the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge and CAS (creativity, action and service). The extended essay is a 4000 word research based task which provides students with the opportunity to study in depth a topic in which they show particular interest. Topics covered over the past two years have included the effect of hull shape on sailing boat speed, the effect of sleep deprivation on short term memory and the extent to which the design of Federation Square has been a success. The CAS program requires students to become involved in community service activities. In addition to events within the College, over the past five years our students have prepared food in the kitchen of the Sacred Heart Mission in St Kilda, organised activities for the citizens who use the Sandy Beach Centre and assisted in organising and running the Weet Bix Tryathlon in Catani Gardens each February. Over time, the IB Diploma has become a highly regarded qualification by universities within Australia and all over the world. IB Diploma Programme graduates have become sought after by many of the leading tertiary institutions.
IB is well known to us as excellent preparation. Success in an IB program correlates well with success at Harvard. We are always pleased to see the credentials of the IB diploma programme on the transcript.
Marilyn McGraff Lewis, Assistant Dean of Admissions, Harvard University
Career Success The global and challenging ethos of the IB is evident in the career success of its graduates. The Head Boy of 1987, Nathan Perkins became a master craftsman in traditional European dry stone walling. Nurse Joanne Kinross (1979–1989) worked with Youth with a Mission in Kenya. Matthew Brice (1974–1987) worked on managing relief teams in the southern Sudan for UNICEF and his sister Naomi (1974–1986) researched and wrote TV scripts for children’s programs in Kenya. Sally Forbes (1988–1993) was a volunteer with the Millennium Expedition for Young Australians to Nepal. The expedition involved helping to run a medical clinic, teaching English and collecting spiders for scientific research for the Queensland University. Nicole Baird (1994–1999) was selected by Youth Challenge Australia to participate in volunteer work in Costa Rica in building a local community hall and a three kilometre trail through a rainforest area. Andrew Risely, is now CEO of the Channel Islands Competition and Regulatory Authorities (CICRA) The first ever IB graduate, Keir Cornish now works at Ernst and Young and said, “The IBDP equipped me with the skills to broach education on an international platform, challenging me creatively and intellectually, and simply put, opening doors.” As a school that prides itself on academic results, achieving a median ATAR of 94.3 in 2011, St Leonard’s College’s implementation of the IBDP has enabled students to study at the most prestigious educational institutions of the world, including Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, Yale and the Sorbonne.
IB students assembling birthing kits for Zonta
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Community News Reunions Alumni reunions are a feature of our engagement program. Old Collegians return every five years and enjoy sharing photos and memories from their time at St Leonard’s College. Photos of recent reunions are available to view in the online alumni directory via the College website.
SLOCA The St Leonard’s Old Collegians’ Association (SLOCA) provides opportunities for past students to maintain friendships with one another and a connection to the College. The College has expanded its offerings in the area of Community Sport and there are now many opportunities for alumni to participate and compete in events under the St Leonard’s College banner.
Community Choir The College has also established a community choir who performed to rave reviews at the House Music competition at The Plenary in August. The choir practises every Wednesday evening in the College music centre under the direction of Ms Sian Parry. Past and current parents, Old Collegians and staff are welcome to come along. Enquiries should be directed to sian.parry@stleonards.vic.edu.au.
St Leonard’s Parents’ Association The St Leonard’s Parents’ Association is an active and industrious group that organises and sponsors events and seminars for the College community. The Great Gatsby Ball was well attended by over 200 people dressed in their roaring twenties finery.
Reverend Judith Watkins Commissioned On Sunday 22 July, the Rev Watkins was commissioned as part of the St Leonard’s College Chaplaincy team, alongside Ms Kaylea Fearn and the Rev Kim Cain. This Ministry team will serve the communities of St Leonard’s College and the St Leonard’s Uniting Church. The service was held at the St Leonard’s Uniting Church and the ceremony included choirs, bands and traditional music. The Commissioning Service celebrates the historic links between the College and the Church and emphasises the importance of our relationship to one another and the opportunities it affords us. The College and the Church were strongly represented with many current and former students, parents and staff members present.
Lollipop Lady Retires Back in May, we farewelled Sue, the lollipop lady, who had worked on the South Road crossing for 12 years. St Leonard’s College parent, Shelley Durance recounted the impact that Sue made on her family’s life: “...Sue has been part of our lives for the last 12 years. She has seen the kids grow up (and James leave school) ... my strongest memories are: Sue first met Charlotte as a babyshe would wave across the road to Charlotte in her pram, who soon learned to wave back. Sue has seen Charlotte progress through being a baby, toddler, starting kinder at St Leonards, and then onto Junior and Middle School. ...She would always help Charlotte with her spelling words - she and Sue would spell them forwards and then backwards! Now Lochie and Charlotte walk to school, and, again, when they started, Sue let me know they were travelling together and crossing safely ...So, to us Sue has been an important part of school life, and will always be part of James Lochie and Charlotte’s school memories.” Principal Stuart Davis presented Sue with flowers, Junior School students made a life size card in the shape of a lollipop and Lochie and Charlotte Durance presented a card on behalf of the Middle and Upper Schools.
International Friends The St Leonard’s College International Friends Group supports families new to the College from interstate or overseas. The group meets monthly at the College and organises events and excursions for members and their families. There is a book club, a movie club and a cooking group which all meet regularly.
Past Parents Over 20 families whose children have now graduated from the College are now members of this group. All members live in Melbourne permanently and still enjoy their connection to St Leonard’s. For information about the Past Parents group, please contact Eveline Jona on 0401 229 140.
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the commissioning service celebrates the historic links between the college and the church. The Rev Judith Watkins is commissioned at St Leonard’s Uniting Church
Top row left to right The new Community Choir performing at the House Music competition Second row left and right Parents and friends enjoying the glamour and entertainment at The Great Gatsby Ball Third row left to right Principal Stuart Davis and retiring lollipop lady Sue The International Friends Group enjoyed high tea at the Windsor Hotel in the city Fourth row left and right Class of 1992 enjoy their 20 year reunion at the College Class of 1967 enjoy their 45 year reunion at the College
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Celebrations & Sympathy Births
We congratulate our Old collegians on the significant milestones in their lives.
Sophie Louise Wills
Jack William Lewis
Congratulations to Sam Wills (OC 1992) and Kate Wills (Singleton) (OC 1998) for the birth of their beautiful daughter Sophie Louise Wills born 9 May 2011.
Bonney Lewis nee Chipindall (OC 1998) and Grant Lewis are the proud parents of Jack William Lewis (brother to Jessica and Holly) born 26 March 2012.
Weddings Paul Sabo (OC 2000) was married to Richenda Russell at Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron in St Kilda on 3 March 2012. Paul’s three groomsmen were his classmates from St Leonard’s College: James Pellicano, Adam Goldner and Paul Hodsman.
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In Memoriam James Endersbee
Vale Colin Jamieson
In the last edition of Network, we mentioned the sad loss of one of our old Collegians James Endersbee (OC 2003) who was tragically killed in a motorcycle accident. His mother Sharon kindly sent in this obituary and photo:
Former staff member, Colin Jamieson passed away following a health battle that finally took its toll in August of this year. His many colleagues and past students will fondly remember ‘Jammo’ for his outstanding service to the St Leonard’s community from 1972-2005.
After completing his senior years at St Leonard’s College, James graduated from Monash University with Honours as a mechanical engineer. He became very passionate about his career and was excited to join the team at ASC as a block superintendent engineer. His dream was to build submarines or robots. He had recently commenced a Masters of electrical engineering at Melbourne University. He was coming home from his uni class on his motorbike when he lost his life. From his time at St Leonard’s James developed several devoted friends, who took part in his funeral. Dearly loved and forever in our hearts: husband of Sameera (of only six months), son of Sharon and Andrew (dec), brother of Beth (OC 2001) and Suzie. We extend condolences to the Endersbee family.
Two of his close friends, Alan Scott and Bernie James, who are still teaching at St Leonard’s, shared their memories of working with Colin: Colin Jamieson was employed by Principal Richard Cornish back in the early 1970s. He became the resident printer, operating an offset machine, which placed St Leonard’s at the forefront of print production in schools. Colin also taught a number of classes including photography, motor mechanics and media. In the early years of music videos, Colin would put on lunchtime shows for students in the Kevin Wood Centre along with his colleague, Phil Truscott. The ‘Phil and Jammo Show’ was a highly popular event. As a colleague of Colin’s for 25 years, Alan Scott remembers a person who was universally respected as a great
bloke. “He had time for everybody and made people feel special. He was a very funny guy – almost a walking encyclopaedia of jokes –but his ability to show interest in people was his greatest strength. No one ever had a bad word to say about him. I respected him enormously and enjoyed working with him.” Bernie James worked with Colin in Media for over 12 years. “In that time, he showed a great deal of talent and willingness to adapt to rapid changes from analogue to the digital world,” said Bernie. Computerised editing and all its complexities became the new frontier. Colin’s students loved his classes and spoke highly of the way he maintained interest and variety in his approach to learning and teaching. “Col was a highly cheerful man who enjoyed the fun side of work and my days were always brighter because of him,” said Bernie. “His Hillbilly Camping Gear business grew Australia wide and was testimony to his clever inventiveness and excellent people skill. I admired him enormously.” We convey our heartfelt sympathy to Colin’s family.
Left to right
James Endersbee Colin Jamieson (pictured left) with colleague Bernie James in 1998.
As stars that shoot along the sky Shine brightest as they fall from high.
Lord Byron (supplied by Sharon Endersbee)
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Where are They Now? In this edition of Where are They Now? we focus on past IB graduates and their progress since leaving St Leonard’s College. Dr Jenny Jamieson Jenny Jamieson (OC 2000) is now a trauma doctor for Medecins Sans Frontieres and has had some fascinating experiences in countries such as South Africa and China. Here are some excerpts from her correspondence to friends and family about her recent experiences working for MSF in Kunduz, Afghanistan. She returns in December to resume her specialty training at the Alfred Hospital and help manage the Global Health Gateway, the organisation she cofounded. Arrival in Kunduz And so I arrived in my new home for the next six months. A large town with dusty streets and a green and mountainous backdrop. It’s coming into summer, so it’s hard not to feel like you’re living in a hot little 40-degree dust cloud some days! Back in 2007, Kunduz used to be a Taliban / AOG stronghold and even though it’s not as much these days, there is still a lot of widespread violence in surrounding areas. We see the manifestations of such violence in the patients who attend the MSF Trauma Hospital every day with blast injuries, gunshot wounds and other types of penetrating trauma, burns, landmine victims and road accidents. It’s simultaneously fascinating and heart-wrenching. There are a lot of civilians, particularly children, who get hurt accidentally - something you can’t allow yourself to dwell on too much or I
Left to right
Jenny Jamieson The MSF Kabul compound
Jeremy Aarons
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doubt I would never make it through my mission. The hospital is home to MSF’s first intensive care unit, which I am in charge of running for the next six months. Life in Kunduz Our compound sits across the road from the MSF Trauma Hospital. Every day, I leave the house in long sleeves, long pants and a headscarf (hijab) and get escorted across the road by security into the hospital grounds. At times it seems ridiculous, but this is reality for MSF in Afghanistan today. Past and present times have been shrouded in security incidents and they will not take any chances. So despite the challenges, the cravings for a good coffee and a stroll down the street, the MSF lifestyle in the field remains an adventure. It’s a rollercoaster of extreme highs and lows and an adrenaline rush, but ultimately a privilege to be able to be part of this incredible mission in Afghanistan. Dr Emma Rush Emma Rush (OC 1990) completed a PhD at the University of Melbourne in 2005 and then took up a Research Fellow position at the Australia Institute (www.tai.org.au) in Canberra. Two papers written by Emma on the sexualisation of children prompted considerable public debate and lead to a Senate Inquiry into the issue. Emma has tutored (philosophy, politics, and sustainability) and has also worked in academic administration and support at University residential colleges associated with the University of Melbourne: Whitley College (20022004) and Queen’s College (2008).
Dr Jeremy Aarons - Research Fellow (Knowledge Sector Development) After completing the IB in 1985, Jeremy (OC 1985) went on to complete a double honors degrees in Mathematics and Philosophy at Monash University followed by a PhD in Philosophy of Science. His studies were interspersed with a fair bit of travelling, including extensive trekking in the Himalaya and Karakorams, a few extended walks in Tasmania and a year in Oxford teaching English to young, fashionable French students. After finishing his PhD, his career path took a change of tack, and he subsequently completed a Master of Environment in Conservation, Restoration and Landscape Ecology at Melbourne University. Jeremy has recently been appointed as a Research Fellow at the Monash Sustainability Institute. His current work involves collaborating with Indonesian researchers addressing issues of poverty reduction, economic development, sustainable environmental management and climate change. Prior to this he worked in the Victorian Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) on biodiversity strategies for managing the impacts of development in Melbourne’s urban growth areas. At DSE he also worked on many other biodiversity related projects including the national biodiversity assessment, Victorian marine mammal regulations and the Victorian Biodiversity Strategy. He has also previously been employed as a lecturer and tutor in Philosophy at Monash University and as a Research Fellow in the Knowledge Management Research Program also at Monash.
Other Alumni News Chris Raja
Jacqui Gurr
Top to bottom
Chris Raja (OC 1992) is the son of the late David Raja who was a much loved English and History teacher at St Leonard’s College. Chris is now also teaching in Alice Springs and is very excited that a play that he and his wife, Natasha co-wrote, has been published by Currency Press.
Jacqui Gurr (OC 2009) was awarded the Victorian Female Sailor of the Year for her sailing achievements. This is the highest accolade in sailing at the state level and Jacqui’s parents are extremely proud of Jacqui’s achievement.
Jacqui Gurr with her trophy
The First Garden tells the story of Olive Pink—a trailblazing Aboriginal land rights activist and environmentalist, whose vigour and vision led to the Olive Pink Botanical Garden being established in Alice Springs. Max Burstin Max Burstin (OC 2010) recently commenced a basketball scholarship at Alderson-Broaddas College in Philippi, West Virginia, USA. Matthew Barry Winemaker Matthew Barry (OC 1980) has been awarded another accolade in the recent Fed Square Wine Awards. His Mount Avoca 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon was voted the Best Cab Sav/ Cab Blend in the competition.
Jacqui Gurr in sailing action Spontaneous Reunion - Roberta Rees (standing) with Margaret Hayes (seated left) and Helen Smith (seated right)
It is also worth noting that Bronwyn Ridgeway (whose children are all former St Leonard’s students) was also nominated for the award. Spontaneous Reunion This photo was sent in from Ceri Foran (OC1992) taken at Grandparents’ Day at a local Cheltenham primary school. Ceri’s mum, Roberta Rees (OC1964) ran into Margaret Hayes (OC 1964) and Helen Smith (OC1964) - a spontaneous St Leonard’s reunion based around the grandkids! Ceri reports the ladies had a lovely chin wag over morning tea, after adoring their respective offspring of course. One of Helen’s other granddaughters is currently completing the year 12 International Baccalaureate at St Leonard’s College.
Left to right Friends at the 1982 reunion Lyn, Gail, Robyn and Carole
St Leonard’s New Friends for Life We welcome the following new life members to the St Leonard’s Old Collegians’ Association: Meredith Tricks 1980 Tristan Mitchell 2010 Olivia Baenziger 2011
Nathan Sturgess 2010 Conor Maguire 2011 Nicholas Bosler 2011
Enquiries to Life Membership should be directed to info@stleonards.vic.edu.au
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Network is the magazine of the St Leonard’s community and is produced on behalf of St Leonard’s College, Melbourne. It is published twice a year.
163 South Road, Brighton East, Victoria 3187 Australia phone [+61 3] 9909 9300 | fax [+61 3] 9592 3439
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An education for life.