Focus Mini-Mag Education and Training Guide 2016

JULY 2016

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USE YOUR BRAINS HEAD HEART & GUT CONNECTION.

You may have heard the sayings “use your head”, “follow your heart” or “trust your gut”. When it comes to making decisions and taking action in your life, career, business, relationships, finance, health, which one do you pay attention to, when and why?

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NATIVE BEES AT WAUCHOPE HIGH SCHOOL.

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Wauchope High School’s Agriculture programme is a diverse and interesting one. Teacher David Starr explains the work students have been doing with native bees - a fascinating subject that helps explain just how our food chain works and where our food actually comes from.

It doesn’t matter what age you are, being road rule savvy is a must when it comes to getting behind the wheel. Focus chatted to Transport NSW for all the details on how to stay educated on the road throughout all stages of life …

C O F F S

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MUNCH & MOVE.

The Munch & Move initiative is exactly as it sounds. It’s all about encouraging children to munch on healthy foods and snacks and get plenty of exercise. Telling us more about this exciting program is Nicki Kerr who is a Health Promotion Officer with the Mid North Coast Local Health District.

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GONSKI IT’S MAKING A DIFFERENCE RIGHT HERE. Through the provision of equitable funding, Australia’s public schools can become even better at addressing disadvantage through education and build a stronger society for future generations.

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LEARNING THROUGH THE AGES.

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FELICITY COOK SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER. Felicity Cook is a dedicated Special Education Teacher who works at Coffs Harbour Public School. Her passion for the role and patience with her students is helping give them a better start to their school life.

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ALANNA HARRISON. To be successful in your chosen sport, it often pays to start early. Alanna Harrison is giving it her best shot in tennis, with hopes to emulate the likes of Serena Williams. Focus recently spoke with her about her hopes for the future.

M A N N I N G - G R E A T

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KRISTIE BANHAM COCO’S CLOSET WORKSHOPS.

We have a wealth of talent locally, and some of these very special people enjoy sharing their talent and teaching people new skills. Kristie Banham is one of these people - an artist who enjoys sharing her passion and creativity with others in fun workshops she runs from her store, Coco’s Closet.

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AMY BADDAMS.

Amy Baddams, Flight Lieutenant (AAFC) T/ Commanding Officer 337 Squadron, tells Focus about the local Australian Air Force Cadets and the benefits of young people becoming involved.

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EAT IT TO BEAT IT.

New England families facing household food challenges such as enticing fussy eaters and providing simple, budget-friendly meals now have help at hand.

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THUNDERBOLT’S LEARNING ALLIANCE.

This year Kelly’s Plains, Kingstown, Kentucky and Rocky River Public Schools have formed an alliance of learning and collaboration called the Thunderbolt’s Learning Alliance.

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MATTHEW MINTER PLC ARMIDALE.

Matthew joined the dedicated PLC Armidale staff in 2016 and as the new Director of Music, brings a fresh approach to music at the College. A talented musician in his own right, Matthew relocated to Armidale with his equally talented wife, Li Ling, together with children Harriet (aged four, who also attends PLC Armidale), William who is two, and baby three on the way! A passionate music educator, Matthew shares his inspiring and ambitious vision with FOCUS.

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GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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ST JOSEPH’S Family Services Would you like to have more than just a career and make a real difference? Establish your own successful independent business with the benefit of local specialist knowledge. Hastings Family Day Care (HFDC) is a unique alternative to traditional centre based education and care. The home-based learning and care environment provides quality early education and care for children 0 - 13 years in the homes of registered HFDC Educators. HFDC is a professional partnership between educators and St Joseph’s Family Services, bringing together all the pieces for a valued and successful collaboration. Together with you, as their Educator, children learn throughout the day both independently, and as a group, engaging in play based experiences that promote discovery, creativity and exploration, using both indoor and outdoor environments, and social and community interactions. The strong, meaningful relationships developed

between you as the Educator, family and children provide a consistency and familiarity, which is invaluable in the growth of children. Educators are able to tailor their business by providing education and care as full-time, parttime or casual Educators, and can also offer before and after school care, and overnight care or on weekends. HFDC has achieved “Exceeding” assessment and rating across all seven areas of the National Quality Standard. Call Sandra today on 6583 4660 for more information on becoming a HFDC Educator. Email: hastingsfdc@sjfs.stagnesparish.org.au Address: 106 Horton Street, Port Macquarie Hastings Family Day Care is a service provided through St Joseph’s Family Services (SJFS), which is part of St Agnes’ Parish, Port Macquarie. SJFS has four early education and care services - Hastings Family Day Care, Joey’s House Early Education Centre, St Joseph’s Preschool and Long Day Care and St Agnes’ Early Education Centre.

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IN PRINT AND ONLINE

Best Kept Secrets

Best Kept Secrets

Wayward The Farmstay at

JERSEYS

D E B O ’ B R I E N & F A M I L Y

ell us about yourself and your family ... My name is Deb O’Brien, and I grew up in the local area. After ten years of travelling Australia, my husband and I realised that “home” was a pretty awesome place and made the decision to move back. I would describe myself as a unique blend of quirky and earthy, and I believe Wayward Jerseys Farmstay reflects that. Wayward Jerseys would not be, without the love and support of my husband, Lauri Pulkkinen. Lauri is the type of man who not only supports his wife to follow her crazy dreams, but also says, “Fine, you want to buy a milking cow … Well, let me build you a dairy”. We also have three beautiful little girls, ranging in ages from six to eleven, who love their way of life and love sharing it with other people. I have always loved animals and am passionate about the New England area. I truly believe I have the best job in the world! What prompted the beginning of Wayward Jerseys? The name “The Home for Wayward Jerseys” (shortened to Wayward Jerseys for convenience) was initially a term that my husband jokingly used to describe my penchant for Jersey cows. It also alludes to what we see as their unique personalities. Simply, we wanted to share with

Deb O’Brien and her family simply wanted to share with others what they considered to be fortunate to have. At Wayward Jerseys, they believe in the philosophies of free range kids, natural produce and being surrounded by lots of animals, and they wanted to give people the opportunity to experience this too.

Mid coast CONNECT

SUSAN JUDD LMA Tell us about Leadership Management Australia in Port Macquarie? LMA has been covering the Mid North Coast for professional development since 1998. Susan Judd is the face of Leadership Management Australia (LMA) in Port Macquarie, with Kelly Malofie as our admin assistant and telephonist “extraordinaire”. What does LMA do? We are a Registered Training Organisation and deliver a variety of Leadership and Management courses, as well as a Sales Course. The most exciting part of our job is helping individuals to realise more of their potential in both their personal and professional lives through behaviour and attitude change these changes deliver measurable results for the client. Why “The Sales Edge”? Doesn’t every business want to increase sales? Increase market share? Improve skills in generating leads and identifying new customers and market opportunities? These are just some of the exciting outcomes for participants in this course giving measurable results to our clients. People development opportunity: As we commence the second half of 2016, take a moment to evaluate your business investing in your people is a proven and effective way of achieving better results - people are your greatest asset. Visit www.lma.biz to learn more or contact Susan today; details below.

Are Your Sales People Performing at Their Optimum Level?

Leadership Management Australia’s course The Sales Edge will turn your good salespeople into great salespeople. Enrol your top performing salesepeople into this rewarding and engaging course beginning in Port Macquarie on the 24th August Susan Judd 0400 019 700 (02) 6581 5426 sjudd@lma.biz 68 greater portEdition macquarie focus. 6 focus Special

Mid Coast Connect offers individual case management, support and group activities for school leavers through the Regional VET Pathways initiative, which is funded by the NSW Department of Industry, Skills and Regional Development. The programme is designed to support young people who are not currently studying or working to help them to enter education, training and employment. Through the School Leaver Support programme, Mid Coast Connect provides • Career assessments and transition plans • Individual mentoring, advice and assistance • Support to engage with education, training and employment pathways • Access to training • Job search assistance • Information on traineeships, apprenticeship and work experience • Referral to other support agencies as needed Mid Coast Connect also conducts workshop based activities covering: • Resumes • Job Applications • Interviews and personal presentation • Keeping your job • Marketing yourself

Photo credit John Nalder Photography

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others what we consider to be fortunate to Pop as well. I find our guests often come from have. At Wayward Jerseys we believe in the either Sydney or Brisbane, or both in a lot of philosophies of free range kids, natural produce cases, as it is a good place to meet in between and being surrounded by lots of animals, and (we are exactly half way between Sydney and we wanted to give people the opportunity to Brisbane). We also get a lot of overseas guests experience this too. who are interested in getting off the beaten What can visitors experience at track and seeing what Australia Wayward Jerseys? is like outside the cities. Basically, a visit to Wayward As to what “type” of Jerseys is like a visit to people we get, a One of my favourite things is being a petting zoo … On pleasant surprise child at steroids! We are extremely has been how nice introduced to a stay a the beginning of interactive, so expect to all our visitors down who has their head get up close and personal have been - kids focused on their and to the animals. We are and adults alike. game, and favourite video stay famous for our “morning I have thought a by the end of their tell you routine”, which includes lot about why this they couldn’t even device gaming learning how to milk one is, and this is what where their of our Jersey cows, feeding I have come up with. is. ” our baby animals and collecting The types of people eggs. For our day tour people, who visit a Farmstay are added to this is a country style, home the types of people that are cooked morning tea and marshmallows to engaged with their children and toast on the fire. Our overnighters get all of this family, interested in how others live, complimentary to their stay, as well as other love animals and they’re prepared to try inclusions such as an optional ghost tour at something new. All in all, this makes for pretty night. amazing people, on the whole. What type of demographic visit the farm? Tell us about some of the reactions you get I must say the majority of our visitors are from visitors? families with children. We accommodate up to “Milk comes from where?” Unfortunately, seven people at a time, so often it is Nan and it is true that many children do think that milk

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comes from a supermarket, and a wonderful part of my job is educating them otherwise. Our guests are a pretty open minded lot and even if incredulous at the beginning, it is not long before they get into the spirit of things and are milking cows like a professional. Actually, one of my favourite things is being introduced to a child at the beginning of a stay who has their head down and focused on their favourite video game, and by the end of their stay they couldn’t even tell you where their gaming device is. Do you think locals like us take for granted what’s in our own back yard in regards to primary produce? Yes and no. Yes, because I think we are truly spoilt here in regards to our primary produce. But just because we are spoilt, doesn’t mean that most people don’t know they are on a good thing by living here. It’s like this area is a wonderful secret, and all us locals are in on it. There is a lot of buzz around local food and produce at the moment - justifiably so - and there are also a lot of amazing and dynamic people starting to really do some incredible things. I would have to say that it is pretty exciting times here in New England. Plans for the future? Yes, yes and yes. At the moment my lips are sealed, but think tourism and think local produce, and watch this space! Thanks Deb.

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INTRODUCING THE FOCUS MINI-MAG ONLINE FLIP BOOK

The mini-mags are a compilation of our best features from the print edition of each region, united in one flip book and delivered online for you to download...

NOW ONLINE + FREE

Register at www.midcoastconnect.com.au or contact your local Pathways Coordinator in Port Macquarie on 6583 5910 or Kempsey on 6562 5314.

Education & TRAINING

VIEW THE MINIMAGS ONLINE AT FOCUSMAG.COM.AU/MINIMAGPMQ GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

Education &

TRAINING

UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE A SOLID FOUNDATION FOR YOUR FUTURE.

AT THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE (UON) WE HAVE A PASSION FOR EXCELLENCE AND INNOVATION. WE HAVE A HOST OF EXCITING NEW INITIATIVES ACROSS ALL CAMPUSES THAT INSPIRE INNOVATIVE THINKING AND NEW APPROACHES TO TEACHING TO MEET OUR EVER-CHANGING WORLD. Multiple campuses - inspiring communities University of Newcastle isn’t a single place; students have the option of choosing from multiple campus locations across NSW Central Coast, Newcastle and Port Macquarie, depending on where their course is based. For over a decade, UON has been committed to delivering innovative tertiary education in Port Macquarie and its surrounding areas. Our degrees in education, midwifery and nursing are playing a vital role in the region’s development, and our multisector campus promotes the availability of high quality university education within regional and rural areas. All students choosing to study at Port Macquarie access the excellence in education that is the UON tradition. Our face-to-face teaching and our local support services ensure your success is our top priority. Our exceptional graduates secure professional roles within Mid North Coast hospitals and schools, helping to meet the growing need for qualified professionals in the local workforce.

New degrees - preparing you for the future All of our undergraduate degrees prepare our graduates to be global citizens and leaders who are eager for life’s challenges and will change their world for the better. In 2017, we are offering new degrees that respond to the everchanging employment market. The Bachelor of Innovation and Entrepreneurship will enable you to think distinctively, creatively and critically in a business environment. Strong industry connections underpin the programme and offer the practical workplace opportunities needed when starting your career. The Bachelor of Creative Industries* is an interdisciplinary degree offering you the opportunity to pursue your creative interests through one discipline, or across a range of disciplines. The core courses emphasise innovation, business skills, digital literacy and entrepreneurship, all in a creative context. NeW Space - built for teaching the future NeW Space is a $95 million landmark education

precinct under development by UON in the heart of Newcastle’s CBD. From 2017, it will be home to our Business, Commerce and Law students. Developed as a technology-rich precinct, NeW Space will provide a unique platform for our world-class academics and students to develop and test innovative ideas and be part of a “next generation” university experience. New on-campus accommodation - enabling your future We know students need secure, affordable and comfortable accommodation when they are studying, which is why UON has undertaken a $100 million investment in student accommodation. In 2015, UON opened a new residential precinct at our Newcastle (Callaghan) campus,

which has almost doubled the number of on-campus beds and incorporates new social and recreational spaces as well as formal and informal study areas. Start your degree and secure your future at the University of Newcastle in 2017. To see what you can study at UON, visit newcastle.edu. au/study2017. Or why not come along to one of our Open Days and see UON for yourself? Open Days are held throughout August in Port Macquarie (at the Glasshouse), and at both our Central Coast and Newcastle campuses. For more information, visit newcastle.edu.au/ openday2016. *subject to final University approval

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NATIVEBEES. at Wauchope High School WAUCHOPE HIGH SCHOOL’S AGRICULTURE PROGRAMME IS A DIVERSE AND INTERESTING ONE. TEACHER DAVID STARR EXPLAINS THE WORK STUDENTS HAVE BEEN DOING WITH NATIVE BEES - A FASCINATING SUBJECT THAT HELPS EXPLAIN JUST HOW OUR FOOD CHAIN WORKS AND WHERE OUR FOOD ACTUALLY COMES FROM.

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i David. What’s your role at Wauchope High School? My role at Wauchope High School is a varied one. I am the Year Advisor for the current group of Year 10 students, and I am the boys’ advisor. My main teaching area is Primary Industries, which is a VET course where students obtain a Certificate 2 in Agriculture. This course also allows for the students to use their two units towards their ATAR. I also teach Junior Agriculture to Years 8 and 10; these are elective courses that run for either 120 or 200 hours. Science is another subject area that I work in; I currently teach Year 9 and 10 Junior Science. Some of your students have studying native bees this year - what led to working with these creatures in particular? The Agriculture Department at Wauchope used to have the European honey bee. The main issue with this type of bee is the need to wear protective clothing and student safety with regards to allergies and anaphylaxis from bee stings. We saw this as a too big a risk to continue, and therefore we ceased to have bees here for quite a number of years. I first heard about the Australian native bees at our biannual Ag teachers’ conference in Armidale a few years ago. One of our elective information sessions was on entomology and the role of pollinators in society. After the presentation during open discussion, one of our fellow colleagues, Steve Maginnity, spoke to us regarding a unit of work he was writing as an education and conservation kit for schools on native bees. After reading a few articles regarding the native bee, I could see that it would quite easily fit into our junior and senior

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There are two genera of social native bees, agriculture programmes here at Wauchope these being Trigona and Austroplebeia. The High. What are some of the interesting facts species that we have are Trigona Carbonaria, students have been able to find out about which is best suited to our climate here on the native bees? Mid North Coast. They can be kept in many The main reason this type of bee receives other geographical areas, though they are the tick of approval from us is that it has been susceptible to the extremes of heat and cold, identified as one of the 16 species of especially when kept in artificial hives. social bees that live in colonies During extreme heat it is usually similar to European honey a good idea to put them in a bees. All social species of shaded area or cover them e th at th l ta Australian native bees with a wet hessian bag. vi is It are stingless. This Also in extreme cold, youth of today ledge provides the students the hive construction have some know to with a much safer needs to be very thick and skills of how food grow their own environment, where it timber, insulated d and how the en is much easier to have or covered with a in the product ends up y for a hands on approach Styrofoam box to ad supermarkets re without the risk of bee ensure the hive doesn’t the consumer.” sting allergies. die. The native bees are The students have poor heat regulators and studied how native bees use a have to envelope the brood in combination of tree resin and wax a thin sheet of cerumen; whereas, (cerumen) for building structures within the European bees are good heat the hive. The students have also learned regulators and use movement and fanning that the Aboriginal people have used to keep the brood warm. What behaviour do native bees generally them for their honey (sugar bag) and wax exhibit at this time of year, when the for making tools for thousands of years. The weather is colder? students have found that once the egg is laid in Tridona carbonaria bees are limited in their the brood cell, it is then filled and sealed with distribution to subtropical and tropical parts enough food stores for its entire development, of eastern Australia and will only leave the compared to the European Honey Bee, which hive to forage when the temperature exceeds has to continually feed the developing larvae. 18 degrees Celsius and are below 35 degrees Native bees only use the brood cell once, then Celsius. So at the moment, the bees will not it is discarded; whereas, the European bees’ are normally be about until around lunch time to repeatedly cleaned and used. Which particular species of native bees forage. Therefore, the bees will be relying on have you been working with, and how their stored sources of nectar and pollen to get do they differ from the more commonly them through until spring. What other agricultural topics are known honey bee?

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Wauchope High students studying this year that are of particular interest? The students have been working through a variety of topics, which include poultry production, which involves incubating eggs and rearing the chicks in the brooder. The Wauchope High School stud cattle are a central focus point for the students, where students participate in calf handling and leading, show preparation and parading. Having such a large number of students handling them and quietening the animals makes them much easier to wash, groom and lead. Obviously not all students can parade the cattle at the local shows, so this task is carried out by those students who are part of the cattle team. This group of students spend their lunch times and one afternoon a week with Mr Pink and farmer John to train the cattle to lead and parade in preparedness for the show season. How do you feel Agriculture can benefit kids and our community? Agriculture is very beneficial for all kids, especially with all the social media and news headlines associated with where does my food come from, how it was produced and who grew it. It is vital that the youth of today have some knowledge and skills of how to grow their own food and how the end product ends up in the supermarkets ready for the consumer. Without Agriculture, we don’t have food; if we don’t have pollinators, we don’t have food. By demonstrating to the students what is involved in Agricultural processes, hopefully they will have some appreciation for those farmers who manage to feed us all with very little recognition for their efforts. Thanks David. Interview by Jo Robinson.

Education &

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AIM FOR THE HIGHEST. CAMDEN HAVEN HIGH SCHOOL IS A COMPREHENSIVE, COEDUCATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL, ESTABLISHED IN 2000. IT CATERS FOR STUDENTS FROM YEARS 7 – 12 IN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY AND THOSE STUDYING VIA DISTANCE EDUCATION.

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istance education students live from the Lake Macquarie area (south of Newcastle) to Coffs Harbour in the north and inland to Gunnedah, taking in towns along the New England Highway from Armidale to Singleton. The school also provides full time education for the secondary school aged students on Lord Howe Island. Camden Haven High School provides a positive educational experience for all students. The school environment is warm and welcoming and this is immediately evident to all who enter the school grounds. The school provides differentiated learning opportunities for all students ‌ from those who are gifted and talented, to those who have English as a second language, those with a learning disability or those needing an intensive learning program which requires specialised and individually tailored support in order to re-engage in learning.

Students are provided with a wide range of choices within the curriculum as well as numerous extra-curricular activities. These impact positively on learning and engagement; contributing to motivation, interest, commitment, confidence and self-esteem. Every student is encouraged to engage in activities that are of interest to them personally and every individual is encouraged to stretch themselves and go the extra mile in the attainment of their personal best. This year students have participated, and achieved success at various levels, in a range of activities including the Duke of Edinburgh scheme, chess, robotics, bridge building, the cattle team, concert band, school productions, dance, public speaking and debating and numerous sports such as futsal, soccer, basketball, cricket, golf, netball, rugby league, tennis, volleyball, athletics, cross country and swimming.

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Aim for the Highest Integrating face to face and distance learning

Camden Haven High School www.camdenhave-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

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LA VIVE STUDIOS: DANCE/ACT/SING So far 2016 has been an exciting year for La Vive, and the second half is shaping up to be even better!

passion and ability to support their development

We have had a shift in name from La Vive Classique Academy of Dance to La Vive Studios, a studio facelift, new teachers, and perhaps the most thrilling addition is our new classes.

with new performance opportunities for our

La Vive has been the leaders in dance education for over 30 years, but now we offer a full performing arts curriculum. Drama, singing and music lessons have been added to our busy studio timetables, which are run by the wonderful West End performer, Mr Tim Gibbs. Our focus is to become the major performing arts hub between Newcastle and Brisbane, and we are off to a cracking start. There are so many talented children in this area, and we have the

in the arts. Every day the La Vive teachers are coming up students outside of the annual concerts and local eisteddfods, so look out on our Facebook page for more details. We also offer adult classes in Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Barre Attack and would love to form an adult choir and drama class if you’re interested in meeting like minded souls. Week one of term three commences on the 18th July, and it’s a great time to enroll to be in the mid year concert, so phone (02) 6581 2300 and see what La Vive Studios can offer you and your child.

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with Alyson Gainsford

Use your

BRAINS

HEAD HEART & GUT CONNECTION

INTRODUCING nikia hall Congratulations on your new role at Novaskill; can you you tell us about your background in this type of industry? Over the last four years I have been involved in training, education and employment roles within the Manning, Macleay and, Hastings Valleys. I have been primarily involved in Business Development and recruitment within various industries, which include Hospitality, Aged Care, Retail, Manufacturing and Tourism. What will you be looking after with your new position at Novaskill? My position will involve working with employers, identifying skill gaps and to provide relevant training based on employers’ specific

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industry needs and workplace culture. I will also ensure that candidates are engaged and have the right skill set and opportunity to gain a full qualification in the work place. What skills and knowledge will you be bring to the team there at Novaskill? Having worked in and having exposure in numerous industries, I have the knowledge and experience required to provide local and regional businesses a solution. This enables employers and businesses to upskill existing employees and effectively train and educate future employees. Meeting and understanding industry needs creates a sustainable and successful workplace.

YOU MAY HAVE HEARD THE SAYINGS “USE YOUR HEAD”, “FOLLOW YOUR HEART” OR “TRUST YOUR GUT”. WHEN IT COMES TO MAKING DECISIONS AND TAKING ACTION IN YOUR LIFE, CAREER, BUSINESS, RELATIONSHIPS, FINANCE, HEALTH, WHICH ONE DO YOU PAY ATTENTION TO, WHEN AND WHY?

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nterestingly, researchers have discovered we have three brains, each with an intellect of its own, connected to the other and more commonly referred to as the head, heart and gut connection. Each of these brains has a different form of intelligence and role to play in our decision making. Our head is responsible for our logic and reasoning - perception, analysis and the way we make meaning of the world as we see it and how we language it. Our head is also creative, our ability to “think outside the box”- generate new ideas, thinking and new perspective. Our heart processes our emotions, what we feel (anger, grief, joy, happiness) and the connections we have with others; love, hate, compassion, like and dislike, for example. Our heart processes what’s important to us - our values, our dreams, desires and aspirations. Our gut is where our intuition lives. It’s responsible for our core identity and sense of self - who we are and aren’t. Fear and our “fight-flight response” is processed through our gut and is responsible for our boundaries, protection and safety. It’s best known for our impulse action, courage and will to act. The decisions we make and the actions we take, how we lead, communicate and build relationships and the results we achieve in life are determined primarily by how well-aligned our three brains are. It has a profound influence on our level of happiness, wellness and fulfilment. When our head, heart or gut-intelligence is not communicating or is in conflict with each other, we experience imbalance with ourselves, others and our environment. Have you ever had a soul zapping job? Your heart is not into it; you wake up each morning feeling sick in the stomach, unable to get out of bed, but your head tells you that you have no choice, you have a family to support, and a mortgage to pay. Quitting means change and a level of uncertainty or risk you just can’t reconcile, so you continue the status quo, despite the

conflict between your head, heart and gut. Maybe you’ve experienced a bad day at work, conflict with the boss, co-worker, customer or significant other. You find yourself in front of the fridge devouring last night’s leftovers, replaying the events of the day over and over again in your head, exhausted by an internal debate fuelled with meaning and emotion. You ignore your gut feeling that you’re full, as you continue to stuff your emotions down with food. Perhaps you work for an organisation that primarily uses its head-intelligence to make decisions, cut off from its heart; it lacks the value-driven, emotional energy and connection with people. Perhaps the organisation ignores its gut-intelligence and when challenges arise, is unable to manage risks and has insufficient drive to follow through with decisions. An organisation without head-intelligence, on the other hand, is unable to properly think through and analyse problems for effective decision making. A disconnection between head, heart and gut intelligence creates imbalance, dysfunction, conflict and restricts the growth, contribution and potential of an organisation that is surviving instead of thriving. If two heads are better than one, imagine what you could do with three brains working in harmony. Given each brain has a different role to play and is competent in its own domain, it makes sense to avoid using one brain to do the role of another. It would be like asking your mechanic to do your bookwork and expecting the same outcome delivered by your accountant. The power comes from harnessing and integrating head-based intellect with heart-based values and gut-based instincts, versus relying purely on the competencies of one alone. Want to learn how to communicate with and balance your three brains, improve your decision making and performance in life, relationships and business? Contact admin@dynamichrmsolutions.com.au

Education &

TRAINING

SKILLSLINK. Semester 2 Enrolling Now MID YEAR SOMETIMES FEELS A BIT SLOW AND DREARY COMPARED TO THE EXCITEMENT OF NEW YEAR OR THE ANTICIPATION OF CHRISTMAS TIME. THAT’S NOT THE STORY FOR PORT MACQUARIE COMMUNITY COLLEGE, WHICH IS ALSO KNOWN AS SKILLSLINK TRAINING, BECAUSE MID YEAR MARKS THE TIME WHEN OUR NEW SECOND SEMESTER COURSES ARE AVAILABLE.

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his year we have new flexible learning opportunities in Certificate III and IV courses allowing some face-to-face and some online, from-home or work, learning. These blended delivery options give you flexibility in learning styles and times, plus the ability to link into courses that suit your work-life cycle. Many of these certificates have common core elements providing the choice to head in different directions according to your skills and learning preference. Young adults looking for options away from the high school, university or TAFE environments can explore our Stepping Up programme, which gives 16 - 19 year olds the chance to mix and match different “taster” courses until they find something that really suits their interest - whether it’s in IT-related, digital and social media, horticulture,

hospitality, business administration, or community service work (which could be child care, disability, aged care or mental health support). Thanks to the NSW Government’s Smart & Skilled programme, we have a special offering for those who may have experienced domestic or family violence. Through a feefree scholarship, any of our courses are fully supported to give people a chance to begin rebuilding their lives. Full qualifications are always available at the college, but we also have a range of accredited short courses which can begin helping people to choose the career path they want. Sometimes this isn’t clear until students start their learning journey, so our short courses give the chance to experience different subjects and to decide where their strengths may lie. The Community Service Obligation programme is designed to support people who

ns Full qualificatio s are alway college , available at the a but we also have d ite ed cr ac of e rang can ch hi w s short course to le op pe g in begin help th pa er choose the care t.” an w they

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are suffering a disadvantage such as having a disability or receiving a government benefit. This provides fee relief and allows entry into a mixed range of experiential courses. We work with local businesses, community groups and animal support groups to create learning programmes that are away from the norm and also have a partnership with the Nature School and offer bush programmes. If you’re not ready to begin studying a new subject yet, you might enjoy volunteering in any of our supported courses and community projects such as the “Absolutely Everybody” choir, supporting disadvantaged people through creative arts for recovery or our “Life Skills Express” experiential learning programme. Our literacy and numeracy programme is always keen to have volunteer supporters to assist students. We have a full induction and training programme for volunteers, so you’re

bound to learn a lot of new things and make new friends. We also work with other community allies such as Endeavour Mental Health Recovery Clubhouse, part of the Schizophrenia Fellowship of NSW, which provides great support in their recovery journey and job seeking for people living with mental health challenges, and we support groups like ACES and Willing & Able in the disability field, and Mid Coast Connect in youth development. Everything we undertake at the college is designed to help strengthen our community and to create a community of belonging for our students and volunteers. Please come in and check it all out soon, or see our website (www.skillslinktraining.com.au) for exciting new opportunities for life and career development.

Semester 2 Enrol NOW July Start

Returning to Work? Looking for new skills? Changing your career?

Ask us about fee-free Port Macquarie Community College RTO 90315

This training is subsidised by the NSW Government overnment

Scholarships

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TRAINING Textile group’s work on display.

LEARNING

THROUGH the

AGES P O R T

IT DOESN’T MATTER WHAT AGE YOU ARE, BEING ROAD RULE SAVVY IS A MUST WHEN IT COMES TO GETTING BEHIND THE WHEEL. FOCUS CHATTED TO TRANSPORT NSW FOR ALL THE DETAILS ON HOW TO STAY EDUCATED ON THE ROAD THROUGHOUT ALL STAGES OF LIFE …

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ow has road safety education improved over the years? Transport for NSW supports an extensive road safety education programme in all NSW schools. The NSW Road Safety Education Programme develops school curriculum resources for use in the classroom that are suitable for the student’s age and development. This programme also funds school road safety consultants in Government, Catholic and Independent sectors to assist primary and secondary teachers to use these free educational resources. Driver education programmes seek to address the motivational factors that influence driver behaviour and are delivered in NSW high schools as part of Personal Development, Health and Physical Education courses. The major contributing factors involved in fatal crashes involving young people include speeding, driver impairment due to alcohol or fatigue, and the non-use of restraints. The NSW Graduated Licensing Scheme supports drivers in developing the necessary skills to become low risk solo drivers. As well as the 120 hours of supervised driving, novice drivers must progress through three stages and four tests before obtaining a full driver licence. The minimum time to move from a learner licence to an unrestricted driver licence is four years. Public education and awareness campaigns form part of the Centre for Road Safety’s safe system approach to road safety. In response to a recent spike in deaths on our roads, we launched Towards Zero to highlight the human element of the road toll and encourage all road users to change the way we think about road safety. Other current campaigns include the Plan B, Get Your Hand Off It, Ride to Live, Be Bus Aware, Mobile Drug Testing and Go Together. As we travel through life in our later years, how can we keep up to date and ensure we are following road safety and licensing 76 greater port macquarie focus. 14 focus Special Edition

requirements? Detailed information and advice to help people aged 65 and over make safer choices when driving, riding, walking, using a mobility scooter or catching public transport is available in our comprehensive guide On the Road 65Plus. The guide also explains the NSW older driver licensing system, including information for those who want to transition from full-time driving to other transport options. On the Road 65Plus - is available on our website: roadsafety.transport. nsw.gov.au - printed copies of the guide are available at Roads and Maritime registries and Service NSW Centres. We’re also out and about in the community promoting this information in local workshops that are organised through regional and local government road safety officers. What role and responsibility do parents play in the process of obtaining a license? Parents, guardians and instructors play a vital role in offering support and guidance to younger drivers as they embark on the process of obtaining a licence. Transport for NSW annually supports the supervisors of learner drivers through the “Helping Learner Drivers become Safer Drivers” workshops. These are offered free of charge in local government areas across NSW. These workshops are funded by the Centre for Road Safety and assist parents as supervisors of learner drivers in understanding how to plan effective on-road driving practice. Younger drivers face many challenges when learning the complex task of driving a vehicle. Despite making up only about 15 per cent of all drivers, younger drivers represent more than a third of annual road fatalities. Special licence conditions apply for young drivers within NSW. These include speed restrictions, passenger numbers, vehicle types and laws against using mobile phones. Young drivers can also complete the Safer Drivers Course which helps learner drivers identify and manage risks on the roads. Completion of the course earns learner drivers 20 hours of log-book credit.

M A C Q U A R I E

O P E N

H A S T I N G S

D A Y

IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO LEARN SOMETHING NEW, MEET NEW FRIENDS, OR TAKE UP A NEW HOBBY!

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ort Macquarie Hastings University of the Third Age (U3A) offers classes for retirees in many subjects, and Rita Spencer, Publicity Officer, explains that the centre will be holding an Open Day for those interested on July 12. Located at 2 Lochinvar Place, Port Macquarie … Why not call in for a visit! Hi Rita. Fill us in about the Open Day our local branch of the University of the Third Age (U3A) is holding this month … All retirees are invited to find out about U3A by exploring the modern facilities at the Lochinvar Place Centre. With the motto “Learners Live Longer”, the Port Macquarie Hastings U3A is a community hub for retirees with enquiring minds and a zest for life and learning. At Open Day, visitors will be able to discuss with group conveners the sixty or more interest groups and courses on offer. Open Day visitors can also watch informative videos and chat with members over a cuppa in the beautiful garden courtyard. There will be exhibits of works by arts and crafts groups, such as textiles, writing, painting and photography. What dates/time will the Open Day be

A Russian folk dance by course convener Christine Battisson, with Glenis Proberts.

held? Tuesday, July 12, from 10am to 1pm. What are some of the subjects on offer at Port Macquarie Hastings U3A? Subjects range across the arts, languages and history. Computer and other IT know-how is always popular, as are varied exercise and health-focused groups. Astronomy alone ranges across science, photography, mathematics and technology. Tell us more about U3A … The University of the Third Age is an international, voluntary organisation, the “third age” being the retirement years. There are no education entry levels or exams, and fees are low. It’s a vibrant community where retirees can meet like-minded peers and make new friends with common interests. At a recent Arts and Performance afternoon, members enjoyed exhibits as well as hearing from the U3A musicians, dancers, tai chi group, writers and poets. Where can people find out more info? Visit the website: www.pmhu3a.org.au or email us: office@pmhu3a.org.au Ph: 6584 4192 - office reopens from July 18. Thanks Rita.

Education &

TRAINING

AS PARENTS, WE ALL WANT WHAT IS BEST FOR OUR CHILDREN. HELPING OUR CHILDREN REACH THEIR POTENTIAL CAN PRESENT MANY CHALLENGES, AS WE NAVIGATE THEIR TEENAGE YEARS AND HELP PROVIDE GUIDANCE AS THEY MAKE DECISIONS AROUND THEIR FUTURE CAREERS. “We went to the Newman College open night and were absolutely blown away by what the school had to offer,” he said. The open night allowed the Scullys to witness first-hand how the learning environment at Newman was unique and very different to other schools. They saw that the subject choices were really “hands-on”, more career focused, and Keely began to see a pathway that would lead to developing her career. “Once Keely started in Year 11 at Newman, we noticed a real change in her attitude towards her schooling - it just seemed to engage her so much more than before,” said Matt. As parents, the Scullys could not be happier with what Newman College has provided for their daughter. They believe that the school has provided an opportunity for Keely to develop as a young adult.

Left to right: Newman College Principal Stephen Pares, Newman College student Keely Scully with her father Matt Scully at Innervision Surf n’ Skate. Keely is currently completing a Certificate III in Aged Care while developing skills on-the-job through a School-based Traineeship. “This approach to her education has helped her to find direction and maturity and really set her up for further study at university,” said Matt. Starting out in the workplace can be very confronting for young people, particularly working within the aged care industry. While Keely found the transition challenging at times, she also found the college and industry very supportive. “Newman prepares you for a variety of work environments,” says Keely. “The teachers are experienced in their subject areas, so they can give you an idea

around what types of jobs and careers may suit you,” she says. Matt recommends that if you’re thinking about Year 11 options for your kids, to attend the Newman College Open Night in July. “It provides you with a real sense of what the school offers and answers all your questions about Newman College as an HSC option,” he said. Newman Senior Technical College Open Night will be held at 6pm, Tuesday 26 July, for students who wish to enrol in Year 11, 2017. Potential future students, parents and friends are invited to explore the opportunities available, talk to current students and staff and tour the college facilities. Register your attendance at newman.nsw.edu.au

r 11 Enr a e

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• 2017 Y

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s a successful business owner and dad to Newman Senior Technical College student Keely, Matt Scully is thrilled that his daughter chose Newman for her final years at school. This schooling decision proved to be the turning point in Keely’s life, that led her to positive self-development, a motivated outlook and a career path that she is incredibly excited to commence upon her completion of Year 12. Matt could not be prouder of his daughter and her achievements since she commenced with Newman College. “We’re lucky in Port Macquarie to have so many schools to choose from; however, it can make it difficult to decide which is the best choice,” said Matt. “Keely had identified that she was interested in exploring a career in child care or aged care, so we started looking around for schooling options that would support this.”

july 6pm

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n o i t a c u Ed G & TRAININ COAST COFFS

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Education & TRAINING

MUNCH&MOVE. THE MUNCH & MOVE INITIATIVE IS EXACTLY AS IT SOUNDS. IT’S ALL ABOUT ENCOURAGING CHILDREN TO MUNCH ON HEALTHY FOODS AND SNACKS AND GET PLENTY OF EXERCISE. TELLING US MORE ABOUT THIS EXCITING PROGRAMME IS NICKI KERR, WHO IS A HEALTH PROMOTION OFFICER WITH THE MID NORTH COAST LOCAL HEALTH DISTRICT.

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hat is Munch & Move? Munch & Move is NSW Health initiative that supports the healthy development of children from birth to five years, with a focus on physical activity, healthy eating and reducing small screen time. It is a free health promotion programme that is offered to early childhood settings including preschools, long day care services and family day care services across NSW. Participating services are offered Munch & Move training for staff, free programme resources and ongoing program assistance to help them with implementing a “whole-ofservice” approach to supporting healthy eating and physical activity habits in young children. Why is there a need for this initiative? Unfortunately over the past 30 years, there has been a significant increase in the number of children in NSW who are above a “healthy” weight. This is due to a wide variety of complex factors; however, one thing that is clear is that early childhood is the ideal time for children to develop and practice healthy eating and physical activity habits. As a large number of children in this age group attend early childhood settings, this is an ideal environment for children to build their knowledge and skills about good health behaviours. Educators from the service have a wonderful opportunity to engage children in positive learning experiences about healthy foods, role modeling positive behaviours, engage children in conversations about 54 coffs coast focus.

programme. how to make their own healthy choices and MNCLHD staff have also developed many also actively develop and practice children’s additional support strategies and resources to movement skills. support services such as: Early Childhood Services also have great • A Cooks Network and a grant scheme to relationships with their families and can work support staff who prepare meals to ensure with them to provide credible information and their menus meet the nutritional guidelines for support for ideas on how to reinforce and children whilst in care; support healthy behaviours at home. • Educator workshops to Establishing sound eating build the capacity of staff and activity habits from an in nutrition and/or early age gives children physical activity or more the best chance of y rl Ea All ices specifically how to leading a healthy life Childhood Serv the in g in at teach the fundamental and maintaining a ip ic rt pa initiat ive movement skills that healthy weight so, Munch & Move d will help children Munch & Move also have been offere source free training , re of take part in and supports the NSW kit manuals and a enjoy physical activity Government’s priority urces so re g supportin throughout their lives. of preventing childhood .” from NSW Health What are the key overweight and obesity messages that are being issues. How is this programme delivered? being implemented? Sometimes it can be hard for All Early Childhood Services busy families to make the healthier participating in the Munch & Move initiative choice, yet these decisions can impact on have been offered free training, resource our health and our children’s health - both now manuals and a kit of supporting resources and in the long-term. from NSW Health. In addition to this, services To simplify and assist families, Munch & Move then receive ongoing support from their Local has six key health messages for encouraging Health District Munch & Move Support Officer. children’s healthy eating and physical activity On the Coffs Coast, our Mid North Coast habits. • Choose water as a drink Local Health District (MNCLHD) Health • Eat more fruit and vegetables Promotion Team provide individual support to • Get active each day each Early Children’s service, meeting regularly • Select healthier snacks with service directors and educators to provide • Turn off the screen and get active advice, training and tailored resources to • Encourage and support breast feeding help services to implement and maintain the

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Apart from promoting being active and healthy eating habits in early childhood services, will this programme help to improve things like school canteen menus? Although the Munch & Move programme is targeted specifically at the 0 - 5 year age group, there is a flow on effect into primary schools through the Live Life Well @ School (LLW@S) programme, which is a partnership with NSW Health and the Department of Education. Similar to Munch & Move, LLW@S is designed to support primary schools and teachers with implementing a “whole-of-school” approach to physical activity and healthy eating. This programme provides training, support and resources for teaching and learning in the PDHPE curriculum area, but Health Promotion Staff also work with the schools, and their communities to encourage and support healthy school canteens, health food environments and student cooking programmes. What are the goals of Munch & Move? The primary goal of the Munch & Move programme is to improve the health of our future generations by supporting Education and Care Service Providers to encourage children in their care to develop the healthy habits that will give them the best opportunity possible to have a healthy start to life. Where can our readers find out more? For more information on the programme and available resources, go to the Healthy Kids NSW website and follow the links to the Munch & Move campaign, or ask your Education and Care Service about the programme in their service. Thanks Nicki. focus Special Edition 17

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IS YOUR CHILD SNEEZING, COUGHING, AND COMPLAINING ABOUT A SORE THROAT? THERE'S NOT A PARENT ON THE PLANET WHO HASN'T BEEN THERE. FIND OUT HOW TO KEEP THOSE COLD SYMPTOMS IN CHECK AND PREVENT YOUR KID FROM GETTING SICK THE NEXT TIME.

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hat is a cold? More than 200 different viruses can cause this infection, but the rhinovirus is the most common culprit. Antibiotics, which fight bacteria, won't treat your child's cold. Except in newborns, colds in healthy children aren't dangerous. They usually go away in ffour to 10 days without treatment. What to expect: When your child gets a cold, it starts when he has a general feeling of not being well, often followed by a sore throat. At the beginning, the sore throat is due to a build up of mucus. As your child's cold gets worse, he may wake up with symptoms like these: watery mucus in the nose, sneezing, feeling

of tiredness, fever (sometimes), sore throat and cough. A cold virus can affect your child's sinuses, throat, bronchial tubes, and ears. They may also have diarrhoea and vomiting. At first your child may be irritable and complain of a headache and feeling stuffed up. After a while, the mucus coming out of his nose may turn darker and thicker. How can I prevent my kid from catching one? Door handles, stair railings, books, pens, video game remotes, and a computer keyboard are some common "carriers" of cold viruses. They can live on one of those objects for several hours. Washing hands is the best defence. Teach your child to do it after every bathroom trip, before every meal, and after playing at school or at home.

focuseditorial. Our menus have been developed on a four week menu cycle and assessed and approved against the Caring for Children guidelines and the Munch & Move Assessment Criteria of the Munch Menu Project. Our nutritionally balanced and cooked meals come prepared by the qualified chefs from the Surf Club Restaurant and Bar and are delivered daily to the service. The service provides morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea. Lunch consists of a main meal with fresh fruit/vegetable or a dairy dessert to follow (menus and nutrition guidelines are available at the centre).

THE AWARD WINNING CAST FROM THE ABC KIDS TV SERIES, LAH-LAH’S ADVENTURES, ARE MAKING THEIR WAY TO COFFS HARBOUR, ON THEIR BIGGEST MUSICAL TOUR YET. THE SHOW IS PLAYING AT C.EX ON FRIDAY 15TH JULY.

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ah-Lah will bring their unique brand of engaging performance and live music to families across the country - they will also introduce children to the wonderful world of music. Sing It Loud! is a spectacular, fun live show that will delight audiences and will have the whole family up singing and dancing. For complete tour and ticket information, visit www.lah-lah.com The show promises to be a brand new live musical extravaganza from Lah-Lah’s Big Live Band, and these shows will feature some new, never before performed Lah-Lah tunes, as well as some very stripy favourites.

A FAMILY PASS TO LAH-LAH SING IT LOUD. Simply jump on our Coffs Coast FOCUS Facebook page and tell us where Lah-Lah lives! Entry closes 3pm Friday 8th July. Winner will be drawn Monday 11th July. 18 focus Special Edition

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Education &

TRAINING

Community training AUSTRALIA Our lovely Training Centre is right in the heart of Coffs Harbour. Campus Manager Julie Hession commenced training at Coffs Harbour back in 2013 and with her husband and Business Manager, John Hession, decided late in 2015 to establish their own Training Centre in Coffs Harbour, which opened on 1 February, 2016. Enrolments are now open for our upcoming courses. Drop in to our office Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday to see Shannon or phone Lauren, our Course Advisor, on (02) 6624 3804. CHC51015 DIPLOMA OF COUNSELLING Starts in August. It provides students with specialised skills in learning to support people, by listening to their needs in such areas as Cross-Cultural Counselling, Managing your own Counselling practice, Counselling with addictive behaviours, teens and families, Grief and Loss, Suicide and learning how to build resilience within yourself and your community. CHC52015 DIPLOMA OF COMMUNITY SERVICES starts in October. It provides opportunities in understanding a wide range of welfare sectors, including Women’s Centres, Community Services, Indigenous Services, Youth Services, Aged Care and Disability Services. A 100 hour Work Placement is part of this course. Our DUAL DIPLOMA in Child

UPCOMING COURSES

Care starts SEPTEMBER CHC50113 DUAL DIPLOMA OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION and CHC50213 SCHOOL AGE EDUCATION AND CARE. Childhood Educators need to be able to create a safe and nurturing environment for young children to learn and grow. These Diplomas provide our graduates with many opportunities for employment as Early Childhood or outside school hours Educators, Home Based Carers, Vacation Care Educators, Nannies or Childhood Educator Assistants.

DUAL DIPLOMA IN CHILD CARE CHC50113 DIPLOMA OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION AND CARE AND CHC50213 DIPLOMA OF SCHOOL AGE EDUCATION AND CARE

STARTS SEPTEMBER

CHC510

PHONE: 6650 9939

FIND US AT SUITE 1, 1444148 WEST HIGH STREET COFFS HARBOUR

5 DIPLOMA1O COUNSELLINF STARTS AUG G UST! ENROLMEN TS NOW OP EN CHC52015 DIPLOMA O F COMMUN ITY SERVICE S STARTS OCTOBER!

RTO #31905 56 coffs coast focus.

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Inspire

Banksia PRESCHOOL & LONG DAYCARE

leadership MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA

Banksia Preschool & Long Daycare Centre is a family owned and operated centre that operates 50 weeks of the year.

Marilyn Brien from Leadership Management Australia (LMA), tell us about your team in 2016 ...

We are open from 7:45am to 6pm. We cater for children aged from 18 months+ to five years of age. We have a dedicated, passionate and nurturing team of educators who work together with parents and carers for their child’s early learning. We have inside and outside learning environments for the children to play in. We have strong community links with local schools, which includes regular visits to their library and school happenings. This helps the children to connect with their community and get a better understanding of the outside world. We also offer yoga and tennis, these being conducted by qualified instructors. We believe in providing a home like environment, where children are nurtured whilst learning through play and are supported in their development. Not every child develops at the same rate. Learning is delivered in an environment that is inclusive and accepting. Call Sandra to schedule a visit and discuss your child’s education during these very important years. Our Facebook page or web page www.banksiapreschool. com.au is designed to share our programme and the memories we have made.

We are a friendly professional development team covering the Mid North Coast. Our Coffs Harbour and Grafton sales, facilitation and client support team consists of Tania Beckett, Rod Macpherson, Barbara Haigh and myself. We are proud to have been working with in excess of 200 organisations and 1,400 participants since 1998.

Discover

Innovative Early Childhood & Preparation for School 3 to 5 year olds

What does LMA do? We are a Registered Training Organisation and deliver a variety of Leadership and Management courses, as well as a Sales Course. The most exciting part of our job is helping individuals to realise more of their potential in both their personal and professional lives through behaviour and attitude change - these changes deliver measurable results for the client. What makes your LMA business stand out? Our unique development process - one aspect being our “communication triangle.” Talk to us to find out more. People development opportunity: As we commence the second half of 2016, take a moment to evaluate your business - investing in your people is a proven and effective way of achieving better results - people are your greatest asset. Visit www.lma.biz and do a free team or management analysis.

Have you prepared your people for the new financial year?

Leadership Management Australia has a range of development opportunities to benefit you and your team members. If you would like to see how our unique, proven and guaranteed process can dramatically improve productivity and performance of your people contact us today. Marilyn Brien 0418 693 914 mbrien@lma.biz 20 focus Special Edition

Explore

Tutoring 1:1 Years K-12

Enrichment Programs for high achievers Years K-6

Art Lessons Years K-6

Yoga Classes for children

Science Discovery Club Years 3-7

For more information please contact:

M: 0413 763 143

Email: admin@serendipitylearning.com.au Address: 15A North Street, Coffs Harbour NSW Website: www.serendipitylearning.com.au

“Inspire children to explore and they will discover” coffs coast focus. 57

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GONSKI I T ’ S M A K I N G A D I F F E R E N C E R I G H T H E R E

THROUGH THE PROVISION OF EQUITABLE FUNDING, AUSTRALIA’S PUBLIC SCHOOLS CAN BECOME EVEN BETTER AT ADDRESSING DISADVANTAGE THROUGH EDUCATION AND BUILD A STRONGER SOCIETY FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS.

From left to right: Helen Trist, Michael Hepi, Deanne Ian, Kate Harland, Trish Isles, Patti Kearns Sitting down: Paul Holding, Paul Convington

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hat is Gonski Funding? It’s based on a review of schools funding chaired by businessman David

Gonski. The review panel received more than 7,000 submissions, visited 39 schools, and consulted 71 education groups across Australia. The finding of the review, known as the Gonski Report, said funding needs to be increased by about $5 billion per year across all schooling sectors. Two-thirds of that funding should come from the Commonwealth. The model identified a minimum resources standard that all schools will reach when the model is fully implemented - this minimum level is the amount required to allow all schools to support all students. Additional funding is also provided in the form of equity loadings to support regional and remote schools and students from Indigenous backgrounds, non English speaking families, low socio-economic households and with special needs. At a state level there is bi-partisan support for the Full Gonski from Labor, the Greens and the Liberal-National Coalition. At a Federal level, Labor and the Greens support implementation of the Full Gonski, while the Liberal-National Coalition’s plan will end Gonski funding next year. Green Gonski signs adorning school fences have become a familiar sight across over the 58 coffs coast focus.

Principals Association continued: last few years, but what is Gonski all about “We’ve already had some Gonski funding, and why is it so important in this Federal and that’s allowed an increase in programmes election? FOCUS has taken the time to speak in schools around the region targeting with representatives from an alliance of public engagement and increasing student outcomes. education peak bodies and organisations that Importantly, Gonski has given us the funding to have come together in an unprecedented invest in the right resources to target students joint call to sustain equitable funding for local that we’ve identified as requiring additional schools. support. This includes providing more individual Patti Kearns, Principal of Coffs Harbour HS support for students who were struggling with and the local Secondary Principals Council reading and maths. Schools have also used President explains what Gonski is all the equity loadings to establish new about and why this alliance has programmes to support and come together. cater for the learning needs en “I’ve been teaching be I’ve of Aboriginal students and for 35 years and when teaching for 35 onski G n he w d an s students from refugee Gonski came in, year as ju st w it , in e m ca backgrounds. it was just such a tal such a fundamen “Schools would love to fundamental change a change and ju st ors, be able to expand these and just a relief for all at uc relief for all ed t programmes, because educators, because it ou ok because it to n ee tw be it really does make a took out that division on si that divi difference but unless we s.” between sectors. It was sector can get the final two years of about funding students in Gonski through at this election, whatever school they were in, this will mean schools in Cowper for their needs. alone will be $31 million worse off. This “It is no secret that in the electorates means kids will continue to miss out, and we of Cowper, Page and the New England, don’t want that to happen.” there is significant disadvantage - this “We” is not only Principals and teachers, creates a huge disparity in the performance of but also parents and the P&C, who are getting students, and Gonski was about bringing every behind Gonski at this election. Helen Trist, student up through guaranteeing schools are P&C President from Bellingen HS, outlines the funded at a minimum resource standard and reason the P&Cs support Gonski. individual needs were address through equity “As parents, we want what is best for our loadings.” children, and equitable funding for Australian Michael Hepi, Principal of Bonville Public schools is the only way we can guarantee School and a representative from the Primary

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students have the resources they need. Gonski is already having an impact, but it’s not only for students now, but for students in the future. “If our students are to excel and contribute to our future society, they need access to individual and group support from well trained and resourced teachers and other support staff, both in school and the community. Gonski is our guarantee that schools have the funding necessary to make that happen.” Deanne Ion, local teacher and President of the NSW Teacher Federation Local Association, summed up what this alliance is trying to achieve: “The alliance we have formed at a local level is mirrored at a state level and in regions all around NSW, including the New England and in Port Macquarie. What we are trying to do is simple; we want to educate people about why Gonski is important, so that voters can make an informed choice in this election. When voters walk in to their local schools on July 2, they need to understand that they are voting for the future of that very school and public education. “Through equitable funding, we know that Australia’s public schools can become even better at addressing disadvantage through education and build a stronger society for future generations. After only two years of needs-based funding in NSW schools, we are already seeing significant improvements in learning and life outcomes for students, which is only a small foreshadowing of what would be possible under a national equity-based funding model.” focus Special Edition 21

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NAIDOCWEEK. AS WELL AS CELEBRATING ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PEOPLE AND THEIR CULTURES, NAIDOC WEEK IN COFFS HARBOUR ALSO HONOURS LOCALS WHO HAVE EXCELLED IN ARTS, SPORT AND EDUCATION THROUGH THE NAIDOC WEEK AWARDS. “Council’s NAIDOC Week Awards aim to recognise the contribution that local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples contribute to our community as a whole,” said Coffs Harbour Mayor, Councillor Denise Knight. “Each nominee and winner is special, because they’ve been recognised for their accomplishments by the community, their peers, their friends and their families. These Awards are an ideal way of highlighting just some of the achievements and excellent work being carried out by members of our local Aboriginal and Torres Strait communities.” The winners are chosen each year by the members of Coffs Harbour’s Yandaarra Aboriginal Consultative Committee - and nominations are now open. Details of how to make a nomination can be found at: www.coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/ NAIDOC Nominations close on June 27. A series of fun events are also being held throughout NAIDOC Week, which runs from July 3 - 10. This year’s theme is “Songlines - the living narrative of our nation” - which highlights the importance of Songlines to the existence of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

TRAINING

Bishop druitt COLLEGE Bishop Druitt College is an independent school in the Anglican tradition in Coffs Harbour. The College aims to develop graduates who are dynamic, caring and optimistic. These are the qualities that will enable them to make a positive contribution to the communities in which they live and work. We value every individual in our care, and it is our aim to provide the best possible environment in which children can succeed. Scholarship opportunities are now open for entry to the college in 2017 for Years 5, 7 and 11. The college awards these to applicants who can demonstrate all-round ability, including strong academic performance and / or high achievement in at least one co-curricular endeavour. Scholarship opportunities for 2017 include: • NEW ENTRANT SCHOLARSHIPS (YEARS 5, 7 & 11) • DRAMA AND VISUAL ARTS SCHOLARSHIPS (YEAR 11) • STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) SCHOLARSHIPS (YEAR 11) To find out more about 2017 Scholarships and joining the Bishop Druitt College community, email us at enrolments@bdc.nsw.edu.au or phone (02) 6651 5644.

Wednesday 6 July “Who You Gunna Call” Forum. Hosted by Aboriginal Health Mid North Coast Local Health District. An opportunity for people to engage with health service providers in an informal fun day. Coffs Harbour Showground; 10am - 3pm. Thursday 7 July “Caring for Country Planting the Seed”. Hosted by Ngurrala Aboriginal Corporation and Primary Health Network North Coast - Close the Gap. This is a chance to learn more about bush native species and help out with important regeneration. Diggers Beach; 10am. Friday 8 July Family Golf Day. Hosted by CHASE Committee, sponsored by Miiyinda La Goori Men’s Group. Novotel Pacific Bay Resort. 22 focus Special Edition

Coffs Harbour Education Campus 363 Hogbin Drive

Scholarships: Opportunities in 2017

Find your passion and experience our vibrant campus atmosphere in a fun day of interactive demonstrations, workshops, activities and more…

Monday 4 July Official flag raising, morning tea and NAIDOC Week Awards. Council Chambers; 10am start. Tuesday 5 July CHASE and Deadly Factor presents “The Songlines NAIDOC Concert” . Singing, dancing, lip syncing performances showcasing local talent. Jetty Memorial Theatre; 5pm.

Saturday 9 July 10am-2pm

A KINDERGARTEN TO YEAR 12 SCHOOL IN THE ANGLICAN TRADITION

Optimism, tradition, inclusiveness, service, compassion, tolerance, hope and faithfulness are the underpinnings of a Bishop Druitt College education.

turn your passion into your career Phone 1300 NCTAFE or visit northcoasttafe.edu.au

Firm Foundations Bright Futures

www.bdc.nsw.edu.au

enrolments@bdc.nsw.edu.au

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FELICITY COOK.

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FELICITY COOK IS A DEDICATED SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER WHO WORKS AT COFFS HARBOUR PUBLIC SCHOOL. HER PASSION FOR THE ROLE AND PATIENCE WITH HER STUDENTS IS HELPING GIVE THEM A BETTER START TO THEIR SCHOOL LIFE.

i Felicity. Tell us a bit about your connection to the Coffs Coast ... I grew up in Coffs Harbour, attending both primary and high school here before moving to Newcastle to do my teaching degree. I lived there for 12 years, but have frequently visited Coffs every year to see my family and catch up with friends. The Coffs Coast is such a beautiful part of the country. I always felt like Newcastle was just a “bigger” Coffs, as the lifestyle was very similar. When I was successful at the end of last year in getting a permanent teaching position, it was exciting to think I would be moving back home, this time with my own family in tow. Can you briefly explain what it is that you do? I teach students with disability in a primary school setting. We support students with disability by helping them to reach their goals. Each student has an IEP (Individual Education Plan) that has been created by a team consisting of the class teacher, SLSO (School Learning Support Officer), the parent/carers and other professionals including physiotherapists, speech therapists, vision and hearing itinerant teachers and other outside agencies. Where do you work? I work at Coffs Harbour Public School. We have five Special Education classes at the school and 16 mainstream classes. For a teacher, moving schools is always a big transition. However, Coffs Harbour Public is a wonderful place to work, and I feel very much a part of the school community. All the staff are fun and very supportive, and I love the students in my class! I also enjoy the opportunities to participate with all students in 60 coffs coast focus.

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whole school activities and have been training school are diverse and offer a variety of levels of both boys and girls for basketball during lunch support. times. We regularly integrate students with In the afternoon we might do some art and disability into a number of mainstream classes to craft or sport, and we also take some students to meet their individual academic and social needs. the local TAFE in our school bus. We have a great How does a typical day in your partnership with the TAFE, where training position begin? SLSOs have practical activities organised We welcome students for our students. They enjoy the to school and start our facilities, resources and meeting morning circle routine, new people. The students love All the staff are fun and where we sing a it, as they get to explore and variety of songs and create new things. very supportive, and I love the talk about what’s The bus is a great resource students in my happening for the for our students - as we get to class!” day. We use visuals go out into the community - to displayed around the the park, to other schools’ events room and technology etc. based aides to assist students Actually, we have a fundraiser to follow their daily schedule. Our coming up to help with the maintenance students are really enjoying taking part in of the bus. We are having a golf day on the school “Crunch & Sip” Programme, Sunday 16th October at 12pm. Teams of four where they are developing healthy for $200 includes 18 holes of golf, post-game eating habits. We often have speech therapists, platter. Sponsorship Package for $400 includes vision and hearing itinerant teachers and team entry inclusions, plus two carts and a physiotherapists visiting students on a daily basis, banner on a hole. Contact Coffs Harbour Public so they are timetabled into our school routine. School for more information. It’s sure to be a Students participate in small IEP groups for fabulous day! literacy and mathematics, and we try to stick What are some of the highlights of your job? to those routines as much as possible. Other There are lots of highlights when you are a needs of our students include developing teacher. When you work on identified goals for their skills with their communication devices, each student and see their progress - it is such a engaging in sensory and fine motor activities, thrill. Even the smallest of steps can be a huge participating in toileting programmes, and achievement for a student. Whether it be writing promoting independent living skills. Social skills their name, making a new friend, performing are constantly being taught to our students and on stage at the end of year school concert or in particular developing positive playground social participating in school cross country and athletics skills. carnivals, I always feel such a sense of pride! Can you explain your teaching approach to a We are able to accommodate the needs student who requires extra attention? of all our students, as our playgrounds in the

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Each student learns differently and in their own unique way. It is always important to know your students well and how they learn, so that you can use the appropriate strategies to provide them with the opportunity to succeed. Having a variety of teaching methods is useful, such as using hands on materials, technology, one-to-one and small group work. When a student may require extra attention, we always use a team approach - involving parents/carers, other teachers, SLSOs, outside agencies (physiotherapists, speech therapist, etc.) to work in conjunction to develop an appropriate plan and then strategies to meet the needs of each child. We currently use Class Dojo as a positive behaviour rewards system in class. What makes a great teacher? Everyone will probably have different ideas about what makes a great teacher. Both my parents were teachers, and a number of family members, and I think a lot of great teachers possess different attributes. I’ll mention a couple that I think are pretty important! Having the passion and enthusiasm for the job is certainly an important aspect. There is a lot of preparation and programming done outside of class time; it doesn’t just happen! Creating a sense of community and belonging in the classroom and showing respect for all students is essential to building a good rapport with your students. I remember some teachers from my own schooling, and they were the ones who were caring, warm, and accessible and showed an interest in their students. Great teachers also have high expectations, a willingness to collaborate with other staff, maintain professionalism at all times and have their own love of learning. Thanks Felicity. focus Special Edition 23

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FROLICINFABRIC. SEWING BRINGS SO MUCH JOY AND SATISFACTION TO PEOPLE. FOR SOME, IT’S THE PRACTICAL SIDE - FOR OTHERS, THE CREATIVITY. I LOVE TO WITNESS THIS; I CAN HONESTLY SAY I HAVE THE BEST PROFESSION.

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hat is the history behind your business? Frolic in Fabric was established back in 2010. It all began when we renovated our garage into a studio to create a space where I could sew garments for the local markets. The space was too nice just for me, so I opened the studio doors to school students, offering beginner sewing classes and holiday workshops. Before I knew it, I was running adult sewing classes, selling fabrics and had become a sub-agent for Bernina Sewing machines. Tell us about what makes your business unique? My workshops are small and personable, allowing for individual focus. Students (mostly) choose their own garments, and we tailor them to their individual needs. I also offer private lessons for those working on special projects. How do you continue to increase your skills? In April last year I was delighted to study

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with Chanel and Couture Sewing expert Claire Shaeffer. Claire Shaeffer is an internationally respected designer, teacher, and author of more than 20 books. Courses included Haute Couture Techniques and how to sew a Chanel jacket. It was fascinating to learn the inside tips and techniques, as well as looking inside Chanel garments from her personal Chanel Collection! I enjoy sharing these skills with my students and using them in bespoke garments. Where do you source your fabrics from? I personally source fabrics from around the globe. I have begun to stock quality designer knit fabrics used by fashion houses from Paris to New York, from Ponte knit fabric for pants and dresses, to soft Viscose and Tencil blends. These quality fabrics are exclusive to Frolic in Fabric. Also available is bamboo jersey, superfine Merino wool and a limited range of quilting fabrics, Japanese lawns and other dress fabrics. Fabrics can be purchased from the studio. What is the best thing about your job? I’m passionate about teaching others the skills of sewing. Sewing is such a practical yet creative outlet for many people. Some people

come to make garments because they can’t find store bought garments to fit them, others come to make that unique garment that no one else has, while others come purely for the social connection with like-minded people. For me, I love to witness how learning to sew can bring so much joy and satisfaction to others. I have the best job in the world! What products and services do you offer? Frolic in Fabric offers a range of services, including: • Sewing classes - from beginners to advanced • Short term courses and specialty courses • School holiday workshops • Fabric colouring workshops • Bernina Club (quarterly) Frolic in Fabric has a range of products for sale, including: • Bernina sewing machines and accessories • Quality fabrics • Liquid Radiance and Lumi Inkodye For more information about our classes or products, contact Elizabeth 0418 500 469 or visit us on Facebook or www.frolicinfabric.com.au

Education & TRAINING

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TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN YOUR CHOSEN SPORT, IT OFTEN PAYS TO START EARLY. ALANNA HARRISON IS GIVING IT HER BEST SHOT IN TENNIS, WITH HOPES TO EMULATE THE LIKES OF SERENA WILLIAMS. FOCUS RECENTLY SPOKE WITH HER ABOUT HER HOPES FOR THE FUTURE.

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hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? We moved here in June 2010 because my Dad is from here and it’s for family purposes. My parents decided to move back here because there are a lot of opportunities for us kids, academically and outside school. Where did you live before moving to Coffs? Samoa. I was born there. We moved to Coffs Harbor when I was 6 years old When did you start playing tennis? October 2010 when I was 6 years old Are there enough competitions locally or do you need to travel? I travel a fair bit for competitions because there aren’t that many here. What do you see as your biggest strength as a player? I have learnt to stand up for myself if I face players who are not honest with their calls on the court. I used to cry and let my opponents get away with it, but I have learnt to be strong and deal with it. My forehand is my secret weapon. Are you an offensive or defensive player? I think I am both. Do you have any rivals you would like to beat? Yes. I have a few and they live in big cities. Also the girls who are above me in the Australian 62 coffs coast focus.

Rankings. Tasmania, Adelaide and Sydney and I think the What advice would you give to other young best out of all of them is the Rod Lavers courts people who are thinking about taking up in Melbourne. Big courts and excellent facilities tennis as a sport? including play room for us when we aren’t on Well I am a young player myself and at the the court. How often do you train? moment, I’m enjoying playing the sport and I have 1 hour of private lessons a week (1/2 sometimes my Mum tells me that I should have hour on Monday and ½ on Tuesday) and a 2 fun and enjoy the game. Don’t get down if I hours squad a week. Overall, 3 hours play bad, which is true sometimes. a week. It’s not much compare to So when I think about it, when my friends in big cities. I’m happy on the court, I e th at How often do your play so good. My advice be I ... friends train who live in to younger people who number five girl n in the city? are thinking of taking up in NSW and seve e at St e th in Australia All of them tell me they tennis is to make sure in Championships train 6 or 7 days a week. you are well prepared il this Cessnock in Apr od Who coaches you? mentally and physically, go year. That was a Tony Polack. I’ve had him have fun and make as match .” since I started playing 6 years many friends as you can. It ago. does help you when you go What has being your best to tournaments when you know result in competition? many people. I’m having the best When I beat the number 5 girl in NSW time of my life with tennis. I get to travel, and 7 in Australia in the State Championships see my friends and most of all, play the best in Cessnock in April this year. That was a good sport in the world. match What do you love most about the game? Recently you had a chance to play against I love the challenge I get from playing different a few older established players, can you tell girls. Also I make a lot of friends throughout the us a bit about that experience? years from playing tennis. Most of my friends are I’ve noticed my confidence has built up from from tennis. the experience, it has have given me a great way Where is your favorite place to play? to improve my game. The older girls have similar Big cities. I’ve played in Melbourne, Brisbane,

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ways of playing, similar to the girls I play in the Gold or Platinum tournaments, because they hit hard and know how to place the ball on the court. It makes me think and play harder. And of course I get nervous before I step on the court that’s why I never look into the draw when I have tournaments, my mother does it for me. I only find out whom I play on the day. I don’t even watch how they play. I work out how when we warm up before the match. Who is your favorite tennis player and why? Serena Williams, she serves well and has a good way of coming back to win a match. I seem to do that a fair bit during my previous matches. I hope one day I can serve as fast and hard like her and maybe have her muscley arms. If you could play a game of tennis with anyone in the world who would it be and why? I would choose, Tony Polack, my coach, because he’s the best and I would love to play in a tournament with him and he could tell me what to do on the court. What are your hopes for the future? I aim to be a sports teacher or even a coach. If my tennis takes me any further then I would keep on pursuing it to become a professional player. Thanks Alanna and good luck for the future. focus Special Edition 25

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INTERACTIVE Library Learning “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn” - Benjamin Franklin. The online environment is an exciting interactive playground of learning - and Coffs Harbour’s libraries offer free access to a fantastic array of online learning tools, as well as - of course - plenty of great books, magazines, music and movies. Whatever your age, background or interest, everyone can make the most of the libraries’ free range of e-resources, which can be accessed anywhere with an internet connection. All you need is a library card - and membership is free. There is an e-resource to suit any level or enquiry. The littlies love “TumbleBooks”, an online collection of animated, talking picture books which teach young children the joys of reading in an interactive format. The collection includes puzzles, games and non-fiction books. Teens make the most of the “Yourtutor” online homework help - a free and innovative online

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service that connects students with tutors across Australia in real time. Students (and parents) love it. An example of typical feedback is: “I found this extremely helpful; I learnt so much tonight! [The tutor] was great and really patient when I [didn’t understand] things, which encouraged me to keep going. So happy with this session!” For those learning a new language, including English as a second language, the experience is made fun and interactive with “Mango Languages”, another free resource that literally offers a world of languages to choose from - including Pirate! With many more study options available, the ever-helpful library teams can help you find the best resources, whether in print or online. Free WIFI and public internet access computers also make your local library a great place for a study session. Visit a library branch at Coffs Harbour City Centre, Toormina or Woolgoolga or see more info at libraries.coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au

DOLPHIN MARINE Magic “In the end, we will only conserve what we love; we will only love what we understand and we will understand only what we are taught” - Baba Dioum. This quote, made by a Senegalese forestry engineer, sums up the role that zoos and aquariums play in society today. Conservation is key, and the way to get there is through public engagement and education. Dolphin Marine Magic started its “Marine Ed-Venture” programme in 2012, with lessons designed around the Australian Curriculum. The focus of the programme was to present lessons that would engage and excite students and spark a desire to learn more about the ocean, the animals that inhabit it, the threats facing it and most importantly, what we can do to help it. Since this time, over 8,000 students have been through the programme, and numbers continue to grow each year.

In 2013 this focus on education expanded into “Scientists in Schools”, a partnership with Coffs Harbour High School. This programme links the school students with industry scientists on real projects, where students are able to contribute to real conservation outcomes. The “SiS” partnership has so far seen students sift through poo looking for parasites, dissect turtles that did not survive rehabilitation and release the ones that did. Travis Mackay, Head Teacher of Science at Coffs Harbour High School, describes the programme as a “game changer” for his science students and thinks it may be one of the reasons that the student uptake of science at Coffs Harbour High School is bucking the national trend by increasing each year. For more information about educational opportunities available with Dolphin Marine Magic, please contact our Educational Officer at p.diaz@dolphinmarinemagic.com.au.

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with Stephen Saunders of Tourism s Coast with Caroline Bleechmore, CyberCoff Safety Advocate focus_technology

cyber mum. ONLINE SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS

tourism

early connections connections COFFS Coffs COAST coast early Exciting news about Early Childhood Intervention Program (ECIP)Coffs Harbour. Programme (ECIP) - Coffs Harbour. ECIP - Coffs Harbour has just changed their name and will now be known as Early Connections -– Coffs Coast. Early Connections is part of a new collaborative alliance network. The network consists of five not for profit community based organisations on the MidNorth Coast. All five organisations have been committed to delivering quality Early Childhood Intervention Programmes Programs in each local area forfor over in each local area 25 years. over 25 years. Collaboration is nothing new for Collaboration is nothing new for Early Early Connections. All Programmes have been Connections. All Programs been working working on joint projects andhave supporting each on joint each the other for other forprojects the last and twosupporting decades. Given new the last two decades. Given the new approach approach to supporting people with disabilities to supporting people withgood disabilities under under the NDIS, it makes sense to formalise the alliance. NDIS, it makes good sense to formalise the alliance. Early Connections provides education and Early Connections education and therapy to support provides families with children therapy to support families with children from birth to eight years with a diagnosis from birth to eight yearssignifi with acant diagnosis disability or disability and/or delays or in their

and/or significant delays the in their development. To ensure best development. outcomes for To ensure the best outcomes for familiesadopts and families and children, each Programme children each Program adopts a family centered a family centered approach. This means staff approach. Thisthe means staff acknowledge acknowledge importance of families inthe importance of families in children’s lives and children’s lives and commit to partnering with all commit to partnering with all families support families support each child to learn,to grow and each child to learn, grow and thrive. thrive. Early Connections is NDIS ready. Early Connections -–Coffs CoffsCoast Coastisisaaregistered registeredprovider provider with NDIS. with NDIS. Early Connections have highly qualified and dedicated teams, teams including including -- Early Early Childhood Childhood Special Education Teachers and Educators, Speech Pathologists, Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists and Family Support Workers. For more information about the supports and programs offered through Early Connections programmes offered through Early Connections, please visit our website. Contact: Early Connections -–Coffs CoffsCoast Coast Phone: (02) 6652 8080 Website: earlyconnections-coffscoast.org.au

UPDATE

WHAT ABOUT THE BABYSITTER? LIKE MOST PARENTS WITH YOUNG FAMILIES, YOU MIGHT BE LUCKY ENOUGH TO MANAGE A NIGHT OUT ON THE RARE OCCASION AND ORGANISE A BABYSITTER TO COME OVER AND LOOK AFTER YOUR KIDS.

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trusted daughter or son of a friend, they want happening with their kids, but the a babysitter recommended by a below list is some of my ideas on what you might friend, a qualified professional need to consider when working out the ground through an agency perhaps ... rules with your babysitter. Whilst this should be harmless • Do I want my babysitter Texting, Facebooking, enough, have you considered that these days Tweeting or Instagramming while babysitting, or there is aCOFFS need to set some guidelines with yourULTIMATE COAST OFFERS THE EXPERIENCE do I wantNATURE their attention on my child? (Unless of babysitter and your family about theLOCATION use of online OF WITHIN OUR UNIQUE A SUB MARINE UNDERWATER course, there is an emergency.) media while you are awaySUB from ALPINE the house? MOUNTAIN ESCARPMENTS AND SUB SANCTUARY, • Do I want the babysitter to take photos of my Once upon a time parents were worried about TROPICAL RAINFORESTS, ALL LOCATED IN THE ONE PLACE. kids? their teen babysitter inviting their boyfriend over. • Do I want the babysitter to be using social means that you go whale Look At Me Now Headland on the Moonee Today there are his new distractions forcan babysitters, media and including my kids? watching in the morning and Beach Nature Reserve. The short walk to the and these dangers are in the form of online • I strongly recommend that there is no talking afternoon headland offers not only whale watching, but activity, texting,spend posts, your privacy and lackdiscovering of respect aboutnature babysitting gigs onwith social pages our hinterland have other experiences themedia eastern grey for your house rules for online bushwalking, use. no one needs to know when or where youra a picnic lunch story in onefrom of our kangaroos and plenty of bird watching. Just I recently heard a terrifying a many babysitter beisalone with your Nature child orReserve, children. nature reserves or submerge in one a short drive will north the Sherwood colleague who left her six andyourself eight year oldsofwith “Social media alerts can behabitat, just as waterfall bad as letting waterfalls. a friend of the family. While the with subtropical rainforest and a adozen new babysitter, stranger into your Whale of a Time swimming hole. Anhome”. easy 20 minute walk along parents were out, the kids talked the babysitter • Dopath, you and wantafterwards the babysitter educating your kids The whalethem watching season isand already upon the you can visit Woolgoolinto setting up Facebook Instagram onfor social media setting up accounts that us, with experts it’sdid. going to be a ga some tastyorfood options. Just west of they Coffs accounts, which predicting she willingly bumper seasonwhere with an 17,000 Harbour is anot waterfall rocktoslide at Friday Creek, are clearly permitted have? Or another, theestimated babysitterover posted that whales north. Thehouse annual migration with rainforests, smooth low waterfallelse’s • Dopristine you want your children to be someone she wasmigrating babysitting at XYZ tonight, and season runs from June to November, with local and Magic Pools. The front of the waterfall the parents came home to find a house full of content? activities including watchup cruises in the reserve area is the ideal spotname for a mentioned picnic lunch, teenagers who hadwhale just turned uninvited. • Do you want your child’s in Solitary Islands Marine Park. The region has some but there are no facilities, so make sure you leave Better still, imagine seeing photos of your kids posts? greatthe coastal vantage to see plastered these majestic nothing butit’sfootprints and photos take nothing butof with babysitter andpoints her friends all • Perhaps okay to take or videos ocean giants, including Boambee Headland in photos. over social media, tagging your home location your kids, but only to send to you as an update, the south, Island in Coffs Harbour, Waterfall Wayshould be deleted. and letting Muttonbird everyone know that they are home and then they and Woolgoolga in the north, which has one of The Waterfall Way was recently voted as one alone! • Or perhaps you are more comfortable with the best viewing locations in Australia. If you’re really of the best scenic drives in NSW, winding through Before your teen babysitter’s online activity babysitter being allowed to take photos or videos lucky, you may spot a mother teaching her calf fi ve National Parks starting from Coffs Harbour innocently puts your child in danger, I strongly of your kids and share them on social media, but how to perform breaching tricks. This year the through Bellingen, with diverse landscapes from recommend that you have a conversation about they are not to use your kids’ names or your last Coffs Coast has joined National Parks and Wildlush, green farm paddocks, through to world hersocial media safety. Discussing the rules with a name and are not to tag people or locations. life Service’s “Wild about Whales” programme, itage rainforests on top of the escarpment. The sitter can be awkward, as teens don’t generally Most parents do want their sitter and children which is designed to register sightings and celeDorrigo National Park features Newell and Sherhave the same concerns about privacy as parents to beFalls ablealong to communicate with them while brate whale migration along the NSW coastline. rard the roadside, and the spectacular of today. they are out, so I’m not recommending thatIf you To The kickkey off is our season, make Dangar Falls just 2 kilometres out of town. towhale outlinewatching some simple, clear completely cutfor offaaccess to electronic devices. But sure you download the “Wild About Whales” you’re looking bush walking challenge, then rules, then discuss them with your children and I am suggesting that you need to keep in mind app, register your sightings, and also make sure try the Dorrigo National Park walk to Casurina, babysitter to make sure everyone has input, online activity third party your home is not you use our local #coffs4whales on your Callicoma and by Reda Cedar Falls.inThe panoramic understands and ishashtag on board. I would even only a privacy issue, it’s a safety issue that parents images and social media posts. view from the 50 m Skywalk at the Dorrigo Rainsuggest typing up some guidelines and posting of today need to be aware of. Secret Nature Reserves forest Centre is breathtaking, and the bushwalkthem on the fridge or message board in your Other secret destination ingAtrail to Crystal Shower Falls should be on your good babysitter will respect your wishes and home if you regularly have experiences a babysitter that in your should be on your “must-see” list when your “must-do” list. if they don’t, then perhaps it’s time to fi nd one home. friends relatives come to visit, views include www.coffscoast.com.au who will! Everyand parent will have different onthe what

FROM WHALES TO WATERFALLS

T EARLY CHILDHOOD INTERVENTION PROGRAM - COFFS HARBOUR HAS A NEW NAME. WE WILL NOW BE KNOWN AS

Early CONNECTIONS COFFS COAST Our Programs

✔ Early Childhood Intervention ✔ Better Start ✔ Helping Children with Autism ✔ My Time – supporting parents of children with disabilities ✔ Education and Therapy supports MORE INFORMATION: Phone: (02) 6652 8080 Email: admin@earlyconnections-coffscoast.org.au Web: www.earlyconnections-coffscoast.org.au 60 coffs coffscoast coastfocus. focus. 64

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Education & TRAINING

MANNING-GREAT LAKES

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NEW STUDENT ENTERPRISE CAFÉ COMING TO TAREE TAFE.

“YOUR CAFÉ” IS AN EXCITING NEW “ON TREND” WORKING ENTERPRISE CAFÉ AT TAREE TAFE.

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our Café was developed to provide training that will give our graduates a competitive edge in the jobs market. “We will be delivering high quality café food and culture to students, staff and community on campus at Taree and also training students to meet ‘work ready’ standards,” says Maura Luxford, Leader of Community and Business Engagement for Manning-Great Lakes. The development of Your Café has been supported by North Coast TAFE in response to industry need for locally trained hospitality staff. Maura Luxford has worked closely with local industry after hearing that businesses were sending staff to neighbouring Port Macquarie and Hunter, which often resulted in staff not returning to the Manning. Your Café is modelled on other successful TAFE enterprise cafés in the Northern region of NSW. “Operating the Taree café will allow the Taree community to have a purpose built coffee and cookery facility to train people

from the Manning Valley. Access to training in this area is new and will allow students to gain first-hand experience in the ever growing hospitality industry. Work placement will be in the local businesses, as well as gaining valuable experience in operating a business on campus,” says Amanda Simm, Head Teacher of Hospitality NC TAFE. An exciting aspect of our “Your Café” project is having the highly regarded, award winning industry leader, Donna Carrier from Bent on Food in Wingham, on the teaching team. “This will give our students a definite advantage in the market place when seeking work post training,” says Maura Luxford. “I am very excited to be involved in this exciting new enterprise. This will give local people an opportunity to be trained on the job by industry professionals. This region has so much potential as a tourist destination, and great hospitality staff with excellent skills will ensure that visitors return again and again. In the past our youth have left the region to study

Certificate II Kitchen Operations Are you looking for a pathway into a career in food? Our Certificate 11 Kitchen Operations qualification is where you start. Whether you are seeking an apprenticeship or returning to work, this course will provide you with the skills and knowledge to understand the basics of food preparation, process, storage and service.

Hospitality & Tourism Taree & Great Lakes

1300 628 233

www.northcoasttafe.edu.au

Certificate III Holiday Parks and Resorts If you’d like the qualifications to work in an industry where a holiday mood prevails, this course will ensure you have the operational skills to ensure everything runs smoothly. Our Certificate 111 in Holiday parks and Resorts will teach you how to; coordinate successful activities, research the holiday park and resort industry, provide exceptional customer service, show social and cultural sensitivity.

hospitality, and often they do not return. I am happy that we can address this skills shortage. I am really looking forward to working with students and industry for successful outcomes,” says Donna Carrier. Sustainability measures have been designed into each layer of Your Café, adding enormous learning value. Each student will study a unit of Sustainability in the Hospitality Industry. Additionally, students will monitor real time the scale of resource usage, waste management and also nurture a kitchen garden, which will build in to day to day running of the café deeper understanding of our carbon footprint in the hospitality industry. It is the café objective to procure local and regional produce as much as practicable. Sharon Davis an experienced and passionate

staff member with TAFE, who has many roles supporting high quality delivery of hospitality from Great Lakes Campus has had valuable input into the design and function of Your Café. Sharon said, “I’ve enjoyed working with the team in Taree, transforming the canteen into a refurbished space that the students and staff will feel comfortable to relax, socialise and learn in.” Sharon will also be supporting Cert lV students from Great Lakes TAFE Campus in the “front of house”, serving customers on various days. Your Café opens on July 18, and without a doubt will be an amazing training facility for the Manning-Great Lakes region; the project team at TAFE are incredibly passionate about bringing it to life.

Certificate III Hospitality

Certificate III Tourism

Certificate III Events

Supported by the strong tourism sector, hospitality is one of the NSW North Coast’s largest employers. Gain the competitive edge in securing work and enrol in our Certificate 111 in Hospitality. This course will teach you all the critical hands-on practical and management skills enabling you to work in a variety of roles and venues. This includes how to work effectively in a hospitality provider, how to provide exceptional customer service, how to work independently plus all the practical skills such as how to make coffee, cocktails, handle food safely, serve customers and provide table service.

Do you want to develop practical skills to get into the sales, service or operations areas of tourism? Our certificate 111 in Tourism will teach you; research skills, how to communicate with customers, how to exhibit excellent customer service, listening skills, displaying cultural sensitivity, how to participate in safe work practices and about the traditions and cultural practices of other cultures and religious groups. You will gain basic event coordination skillssuch as puling an event together, including how to conduct basic financial transactions, use scripted commentary, conduct orientations, present and utilise business technology. Whether you’re working outdoors in the field, or in an office environment, this highly practical course will improve your career possibilities in a rapidly developing sector of the Australian economy.

Do you want to work in an exciting, dynamic global industry? Our Certificate 111 in Events offers a practical grounding in the basics of event coordination. Our course is a great mix of skills, knowledge and practical engagement in the planning, production and evaluation of events. You will gain knowledge of industry operations and how to work independently under the guidance of more senior event personnel.

Hospitality Certificate III If you’ve ever wanted to work your way up the hospitality ladder, then our Certificate 11 Hospitality is a great place to start. If you are looking for entry into the growing hospitality industry this course is for you. This is a great course to gain work quickly and to support further training.

If you want to work as an assistant to an event manager across a range of industries including business, music, sporting, cruise liners, conference organisers in the hotel industry this is the perfect course for you.

make a e c n e r e ff i d manning-great lakes Edition focus. 2943 focus Special

Education &

Education &

TRAINING

TRAINING

HUNTER VALLEY Training company

Saving lives WITH THE PRESS OF A BUTTON Defibrillator Solutions Australia (DSA) is based in Forster NSW and was established in 2016 out of the success of First Aid & Safety Training Pty Ltd. DSA is owned and operated by a husband and wife team who are also current paramedics with years of experience in and out of hospital in managing cardiac arrests and using defibrillators (AEDs). Our passion and mission is to deliver as many life saving AED devices to the community as possible, for anyone to use in a cardiac arrest. DSA sells, supplies and restocks defibrillators (AEDs) and accessories to individuals, corporate groups and organisations across Australia. The owners of DSA are able to advise you on the most appropriate defibrillator to select for your workplace, sporting group, home, caravan, or boat. THE FACTS ON CARDIAC ARREST Cardiac arrest claims a life every two minutes. Often there are no warning signs. Cardiac arrest can strike someone with no heart history, even commonly young athletes.

WHAT IS AN AED? AED stands for automated external defibrillator. An AED is a small portable device that when used in a cardiac arrest, can analyse a person’s heart rhythm to determine if an electric shock is required. If an electric shock is delivered in time, it is possible to revert a cardiac arrest. WHO CAN USE AN AED? Almost anyone can use an AED. AEDs can be operated by following simple verbal and visual prompts when a person is in cardiac arrest. WHY DO I NEED AN AED? Sudden cardiac arrest can happen to any body any time. A sudden cardiac arrest can be treated successfully with CPR and access to an AED. The probability an AED will be available in the community before an ambulance arrives is only 2%. Where an AED is available and a shock delivered within one minute, the chance of survival is 90%. An AED is a priceless life saving device for those that matter most to you.

Working in the service delivery section at MidCoast Water has given Tara Zanardi, a business administration trainee, a holistic look at the water industry. Employed by Hunter Valley Training Company Mid Coast and hosted by MidCoast Water, Tara is learning all facets of administration during her time with the community owned water and sewerage service provider. Tara is gaining experience ranging from customer service and purchasing to dealing with the day to day operational procedures of providing a community with water and sewerage services. She is being supervised in her traineeship by MidCoast Water’s business support officer, Lisa Motum. According to Lisa, it is a win-win situation. “We are teaching Tara valuable skills and in turn she is providing us with hands-on help to ensure we are capturing all the information provided by the field staff in their daily work. “At the moment we are installing a new business software system, and with Tara’s help we are able to fix issues to ensure a smooth transition into the future. Her enthusiasm and great attitude is noticed by all who are lucky enough to work alongside her.” Tara commenced at MidCoast Water in August last year and has an 18 month traineeship,

which will take her through until February 2017. She will be rotated through the departments to provide her with both variety and exposure to all facets of administration in a local government organisation. This experience, along with her TAFE studies, will give Tara a head start in obtaining a position in administration in any industry when her traineeship is completed. MidCoast Water is currently hosting another eight trainees within its field operations in partnership with HVTC Mid Coast. HVTC Mid Coast are proud of all the trainees’ achievements and acknowledge the excellent learning environment provided by MidCoast Water.

EASY AND STRESS FREE QUALITY APPRENTICES AND TRAINEES We match the right apprentice or trainee to the right business through our Australian Apprenticeship Support Network CareerGateTM assessments. We efficiently manage payroll and paperwork, plus monitor, mentor and support via our Group Training Organisation. We can supply casual employment and labour hire through HVTC Employment Solutions. We provide education and training via our Registered Training Organisation. NC: 90179

Call us today! 02 6583 5355 skills change lives 30 focus Special Edition manning-great lakes focus. 44

hvtc.com.au

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Education &

TRAINING

UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE A SOLID FOUNDATION FOR YOUR FUTURE.

AT THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE (UON) WE HAVE A PASSION FOR EXCELLENCE AND INNOVATION. WE HAVE A HOST OF EXCITING NEW INITIATIVES ACROSS ALL CAMPUSES THAT INSPIRE INNOVATIVE THINKING AND NEW APPROACHES TO TEACHING TO MEET OUR EVER-CHANGING WORLD. Multiple campuses - inspiring communities. University of Newcastle isn’t a single place; students have the option of choosing from multiple campus locations across NSW Central Coast, Newcastle and Port Macquarie, depending on where their course is based. For over a decade, UON has been committed to delivering innovative tertiary education in Port Macquarie and its surrounding areas. Our degrees in education, midwifery and nursing are playing a vital role in the region’s development, and our multisector campus promotes the availability of high quality university education within regional and rural areas. All students choosing to study at Port Macquarie access the excellence in education that is the UON tradition. Our face-to-face teaching and our local support services ensure your success is our top priority. Our exceptional graduates secure professional roles within Mid North Coast hospitals and schools, helping to meet the growing need for qualified professionals in the local workforce.

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New degrees - preparing you for the future All of our undergraduate degrees prepare our graduates to be global citizens and leaders who are eager for life’s challenges and will change their world for the better. In 2017, we are offering new degrees that respond to the everchanging employment market. The Bachelor of Innovation and Entrepreneurship will enable you to think distinctively, creatively and critically in a business environment. Strong industry connections underpin the programme and offer the practical workplace opportunities needed when starting your career. The Bachelor of Creative Industries* is an interdisciplinary degree offering you the opportunity to pursue your creative interests through one discipline, or across a range of disciplines. The core courses emphasise innovation, business skills, digital literacy and entrepreneurship, all in a creative context. NeW Space - built for teaching the future NeW Space is a $95 million landmark education

precinct under development by UON in the heart of Newcastle’s CBD. From 2017, it will be home to our Business, Commerce and Law students. Developed as a technology-rich precinct, NeW Space will provide a unique platform for our world-class academics and students to develop and test innovative ideas and be part of a “next generation” university experience. New on-campus accommodation - enabling your future We know students need secure, affordable and comfortable accommodation when they are studying, which is why UON has undertaken a $100 million investment in student accommodation. In 2015, UON opened a new residential precinct at our Newcastle (Callaghan) campus,

which has almost doubled the number of on-campus beds and incorporates new social and recreational spaces as well as formal and informal study areas. Start your degree and secure your future at the University of Newcastle in 2017. To see what you can study at UON, visit newcastle.edu.au/study2017. Or why not come along to one of our Open Days and see UON for yourself? Open Days are held throughout August in Port Macquarie (at the Glasshouse), and at both our Central Coast and Newcastle campuses. For more information, visit newcastle.edu. au/openday2016. *subject to final university approval

Education &

TRAINING

Education & TRAINING

KRISTIEBANHAM. Coco’s Closet Workshops WE HAVE A WEALTH OF TALENT LOCALLY, AND SOME OF THESE VERY SPECIAL PEOPLE ENJOY SHARING THEIR TALENT AND TEACHING PEOPLE NEW SKILLS. KRISTIE BANHAM IS ONE OF THESE PEOPLE - AN ARTIST WHO ENJOYS SHARING HER PASSION AND CREATIVITY WITH OTHERS IN FUN WORKSHOPS SHE RUNS FROM HER STORE, COCO’S CLOSET.

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i Kristie. What brought you to the Great Lakes area? I have lived in Forster almost all of my life. When I was four, my mum and dad drove over the Forster/Tuncurry bridge, and they were sold. My husband, Aidan, and I lived in Melbourne for a short time, but decided to come home to raise our family. We have two children - our son, Rourke and our daughter, Mackenzie, and I feel extremely grateful and blessed to live in such a beautiful place. Where did your art journey begin? I have been an artist ever since receiving my first Crayola Caddy when I was five. I have drawn, painted, sewn and created my whole life. My most recent adventure as an artist now spans almost seven years. I am the face behind Coco’s Closet. I affectionately refer to it as my happy place; I tend to hashtag that a lot! It is a funky little bricks and mortar retail store that houses my creations, inspiring mixed media art and lots of eclectic gifts. What inspires your art practice? I am constantly inspired by the beauty of our region. I want to make art with purpose. Art that inspires. Art that moves you and makes you smile. Art that encourages you to be the best you can be. Art that inspires hope. Art that helps you be brave and promotes kindness. Art that uplifts you, so you never give up. Art that speaks to you and reminds you of moments gone by of people and places that fade in and out of our lives. Art that leaves an impression on your heart. Art that makes your soul want to dance. Art that makes you want to do

better, to be better. Young girls to grown up women, my art I want to live inspired, and I want my almost always carries words of empowerment, children to grow up living inspired. I want inspiration or encouragement on it. Mostly them to know that what they do, who they are though, it›s like I›m talking to myself, reminding and the way they carry themselves shapes our myself, convincing myself. world. It shapes their world. I want them to I often think we women are our own worst dream big dreams. I want them to know that critics; we tend to be harsh with ourselves, and possibilities are endless. I want them it has taken me a really long time to be to see the beauty that surrounds comfortable enough to say this them and know it is theirs is me, this is who I am, this is to be appreciated. I want what I do. e liv to them to be courageous You’ve been t an Iw in their pursuits, and nominated previously inspired, and I n to re ild ch y my hope is that I lead as Artist of the m t an w spired. by example. Year in the Great grow up living in ow I want them to kn who I believe our Lakes. How did this , that what they do ay messy, colourful, nomination make ew they are and th extraordinary lives you feel? selves they carry them matter. Every single I felt really .” ld or w r ou shapes one of us. I believe that honoured and very simple kindness makes humbled to stand amongst a difference, and I try to the amazing calibre of artists. teach my kids that. I want my art You’ve been holding some to reflect that. I believe in smiles and successful art workshops recently happiness; when everything seems like it’s at your store, Coco’s Closet, in Wharf falling apart, you should most definitely Street, Forster. What types of workshops colour in, and I do! I do it lots. have you held to date - and what has been Describe your art style … the feedback you’ve received? I am an indie artist. In the last four years I I have been conducting Adults and Junior have discovered mixed media, and I am totally, Mixed Media Workshops. We spend a lovely totally smitten. I adore combining papers, afternoon of inspired art making a “Joyripping and tearing bits and pieces and mixing filled Wishing Bird Canvas”. All materials are ink and paint and mess, then by adding glue supplied, and I share my creative process, tips and stamps and words, my mess transforms and techniques, applications and my favourite into art that I love. I so love adding words, supplies. phrases or quotes to the girls and paintings I Students create their very own 12x12” create. It makes me smile every day. mixed media canvas adorned with words from My art is predominantly aimed at women. their heart. They are intimate gatherings, a

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workshop suitable for anyone who wants to explore their own creativeness. I have had a beautiful response to these workshops; the following is some feedback from the lovely creatives (and their mums) who participated ... “Sarah has had a fabulous afternoon creating a masterpiece. Thanks so much, Kristie - she had the best time and wants to know when she can go back!” “Thank you so much for sharing your creative space and talent. Soph just loved it.” “What a talent you are Kristie Banham, and how fortunate are these lovely girls to have the opportunity to learn how to create their own magic.” “An afternoon of mixed media, cutting, pasting, sticking and creating. Kristie is a great teacher encouraging and helping the creative process. What a day… thanks Kristie; it was good fun.” What upcoming workshops do you have planned? I have a Junior (6 - 12 years) workshop on Saturday, July 23. I have also just begun After School Art Classes in six week blocks that will encompass mixed media, watercolour, sculpture, paint and printing. How do people register their interest in attending? Simply call 0410 577 050 or pop into Coco’s Closet, Wednesday to Sunday, after 10am. Where can we find out more about you and your art? In person at Coco’s Closet, Shop 1/64 Wharf St, Forster, or www.kristiebanham.com Thanks Kristie. manning-great lakes focus. focus Special Edition 3347

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MANNING VALLEY Anglican college Teaching the next generation of explorers and innovators ... One of the many aims of education is to give people the tools to build a better world in which to live. At Manning Valley Anglican College, students learn to use their unique talents to make a lasting contribution to their community. MVAC’s Carpe Diem participants from Years 3 to 10 are developing an understanding of the attributes of an effective learner and innovator. Throughout Semester 1, students were asked to explore the concept of giftedness and articulate their findings through the inaugural “Night of Notables” exhibit, in which they were asked to embody a key figure in history, sport or culture in both costume and personality. Students have also built a sense of

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teamwork through their understanding of their own strengths and abilities and how they complement those of their peers. This teamwork was put to the test while competing in the “Da Vinci Decathlon” and will be tested again during the “Tournament of Minds”, in which they will attempt to create solutions for both short-term and long-term problems across a diverse range of fields. As they proceed through the Carpe Diem programme in Semester 2, students will further improve their learning and interpersonal skills and work towards a high level of selfunderstanding and awareness. These abilities will better prepare them for the challenges of the modern workforce, enabling them to become innovators and entrepreneurs who can produce creative solutions as part of a team.

PHOTO restoration Keeping your precious memories. Losing your photos - imagine how terrible you’d feel. It would be a disaster. Your photos have gone and you’ll have missed the opportunity to secure important aspects of your family’s history and hand them on for generations to come. Some old photos are just too precious to give up to time. Your photographs may be faded, damaged, and seem almost beyond repair and lost forever. Now is the best time to trust us to carefully restore your photographs to their original state. We will

care for your original photo as if it was our very own; your photos never leave our store. We are not an online business working from home; you can visit us six days a week at our Forster studio. Restoring light and life to your old photos is just the start. We also reduce age damage, take away the cracks and scratches and take out unsightly aspects. I can also enlarge your photos, crop them, balance light and contrast. We scan from 35mm and larger format negatives and colour slides, as well as photographs and artworks.

Education &

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Education & TRAINING NEW ENGLAND

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MINIMBAH SCHOOL MINIMBAH PRIMARY SCHOOL CELEBRATES 20 YEARS IN ARMIDALE. PRINCIPAL JENNY BROWN TELLS FOCUS READERS ALL ABOUT THIS WONDERFUL SCHOOL.

Education & TRAINING

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hen and why did Minimbah Preschool and Primary School begin? Following consultations between the Armidale Aboriginal community and the “Save the Children Fund”, the need for an appropriate education facility for Aboriginal children, the Minimbah Preschool, was founded and began in 1963. In 1970, a preschool was built on the corner of Cooks Road and Long Swamp Road. In 1971, Mrs Dianne Roberts (OAM), became the first Aboriginal Director appointed to Minimbah Preschool. In 1996, Minimbah Primary School was opened on land adjacent to the old preschool. How has the school evolved over this time? When the primary school first began, we had ten students enrolled from Kindergarten to Year two and one classroom. We now have four classrooms and 70 students ranging from Kindergarten to Year 6. The preschool has 65

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children enrolled. The parents and children that are connected to Minimbah have strong beliefs and values. Learning about their origins has enabled the students to become aware of the spiritual links with the land and their traditions. Minimbah provides a holistic approach to education, one that not only considers the social issues surrounding the child, but also the individual’s learning needs. We have implemented the 8 Ways of Aboriginal Learning pedagogy across the whole school. “8 Ways” is a pedagogy framework that allows teachers to include Aboriginal perspectives by using Aboriginal learning techniques. In this way, focus can remain on curriculum content while embedding Aboriginal perspectives in every lesson. Tell us about the students’ achievements. Many of the students who have been at Minimbah have gone on to finish Year 12 and then to study at university. The Armidale School has offered scholarships to some of our boys. This has been wonderful for both schools, and the students who have taken up these scholarships have been very successful.

Our students regularly perform at community events such as A Day in The Dale, NAIDOC Week events, conferences and for visiting dignitaries such as the Governor General, Sir Peter Cosgrove. Tell us about your team ... We are lucky to have a very dedicated staff at Minimbah. We are proud to say that more than 50% of our employees are Aboriginal. It’s wonderful for our students to have these role models at their school. The primary school currently has three full-time and one part-time teacher and a non-teaching Principal. Each classroom has an Aboriginal Education Officer working full-time with the students. This is a great advantage for the students, as they have the opportunity for one to one support when it is needed. The preschool has a Director, two Early Childhood teachers, four support workers and an Intervention Teacher to support students with disabilities. What are the benefits of being a student at Minimbah? The Core Values of Minimbah school

are: Belonging, Identity, Knowing, Kindness and Confidence. A Minimbah student who Belongs has a strong sense of Identity, a deep Knowing of how to operate successfully in two worlds, Kindness that supports others and has Confidence in themselves and their abilities. Minimbah students have a Learning Journey plan that is developed with the child, parent and the school to inform teaching of the Core Values of the school community. At Minimbah we believe that good nutrition and learning go hand in hand, and because of this we provide a free, nutritious lunch for all students each day. The preschool also has a free bus service. How can prospective parents find out more about enrolling their child at Minimbah? Minimbah has a website: www.minimbah. net and a Facebook page: Minimbah Preschool Primary School Aboriginal Corporation. Parents may contact the school on (02) 6772 4853 or email: admin@minimbah.net - we are taking Kindergarten enrolments for 2017 now. Thanks Jenny.

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Education & TRAINING

F L I G H T L I E U T E NA N T / 337 S Q UA D RO N

AMYBADDAMS. AMY BADDAMS, FLIGHT LIEUTENANT (AAFC) T/COMMANDING OFFICER 337 SQUADRON, TELLS FOCUS ABOUT THE LOCAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE CADETS AND THE BENEFITS OF YOUNG PEOPLE BECOMING INVOLVED.

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here are you originally from, and what first prompted you to join the Australian Air Force

Cadets? I was born in Narrandera! However, I grew up in the UK until the age of 15, at which point my family moved to Tamworth. I recall in my first few weeks I found a small classified advert in the local newspaper, that Tamworth’s Squadron was recruiting for new members. I decided to go along to the information night and ended up joining - it seemed like an organisation that offered a lot of different opportunities, and coming from a family with a lot of military history, I was definitely interested in delving into that side of things too. I enjoyed my time as a Cadet very much, and that is what prompted me to return as a staff member several years later. I wanted to be a part of the organisation and give something back. As T/Commanding Officer of 337 Squadron, what is your role in Armidale? I am currently standing in as the Commanding Officer of 337 Squadron Armidale. The role of the Commanding Officer is basically to manage the Unit staff and Cadets, ensuring that all training and activities comply with the relevant policies and procedures and are in line with the aims of the organisation, and we report to a chain of command which includes AAFC and Royal Australian Air Force personnel to ensure this happens. One of the great things about the

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available in that space. We also have AAFC is that there is always something to do! Cadets attending Model Rocketry courses, There are our weekly Parade Nights, weekend Aeromodelling, and Promotion Courses. activities which we organise locally, often in The Promotion courses take place at RAAF conjunction with other local Units, and also Wagga, and are quite competitive to get residential activities every school holidays into. On these courses, Cadets learn subjects which are open to Cadets from across the such as Leadership, Instructional state. Cadets can also participate Technique, Service Knowledge in inter-state or international and Drill & Ceremonial, activities on occasion. and successful Tell us about our local completion of the Cadets and what do We are currently courses allows them they get up to? t! a fairly small Uni to take on more of We are currently , our Having said that d a leadership role a fairly small Unit! oa Cadets have a br t when they return ge Having said that, d an s range of interest hing to the Squadron. our Cadets have yt er involved in ev to s We have also ha n a broad range of tio the organisa recently been interests and get offer.” attending events involved in everything associated with the the organisation has to 75th Anniversary of the offer. In the last year, our organisation, which we are Cadets have participated in celebrating this year. We were flying, field training, a Tri-Service invited to a Vice Regal Reception at competition, ceremonial events such as Government House, where the inaugural ANZAC Day, firearms safety training and Sword of Honour for Excellence was awarded. marksmanship, teambuilding activities and One of our local Cadets, CUO Joshua Lisle, more. With the residential courses conducted was one of the finalists representing his in the holidays, we have had a Cadet attend Squadron and region incredibly well. A couple gliding training at the Bathurst Aviation Centre of weeks later we returned to RAAF Richmond of Excellence, which is a state of the art flying to take part in the 75th Anniversary Wing training facility recently built by the RAAF for Competition, Wing Parade and Ball. It was the use of the AAFC. In the upcoming holidays the largest event of its kind in 3 Wing history, we have another Cadet attending powered with the Parade itself being approximately 700 flying training at the same location. The flying Cadets. It was an awesome weekend! training is heavily subsidised by the RAAF, and What are the benefits of joining the we are very excited that some local Cadets are AAFC? starting to take advantage of the opportunities

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If you are interested in a career in the Defence Force, or in flying, there really is no better organisation. The RAAF invests a lot of time and money into the AAFC, and taking full advantage of what the organisation has to offer really sets the Cadets apart from other people when they go through the application process. Apart from that, involvement in the AAFC can really assist them in all areas of their lives - there aren’t that many organisations young people can be involved in, which allow them to develop their leadership skills, confidence and self-discipline and self-reliance, while in a fun and safe environment. There are many opportunities available to them, and it is really up to them how much they get involved in and how far they take it. Are there any special requirements to join? Potential Cadets must be aged between 13 - 18 years and be an Australian resident. They complete an application form and a medical examination, and must have parent/guardian consent - there are no other requirements, other than an interest in aviation, the Air Force or being a part of a challenging and exciting organisation. How can locals find out more? You can contact 337 Squadron by emailing 337sqn@gmail.com or calling 0402 123 363. You can also find more information at www. aafc.org.au We plan to conduct a Recruit Information Night early in Term 3, and will provide further information to anyone registering their interest by contacting us at the above details. Thanks Amy. focus Special Edition 37

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CHARLIEALLEN. O'CONNOR CATHOLIC COLLEGE PRINCIPAL CHARLIE ALLEN KNOWS CHOOSING THE RIGHT HIGH SCHOOL FOR YOUR CHILD CAN BE DIFFICULT. HE GIVES US SOME INSIGHT ON THIS TOPIC, AND HE ALSO TELLS FOCUS READERS ABOUT THE NEW ARCHIVE ROOM AT THE COLLEGE. What advice would you give to parents when deciding on a high school? This is an excellent question, and one that requires much thought and research. It can be one of the most significant decisions a parent makes for their child. Parents are the first and most important educators of their children, and therefore need to feel comfortable that they can work with and feel supported by the school they entrust their child to. Parents need to keep in mind the various needs of their child. Facilities, opportunities for career paths, enrichment, sport, and the creative and performing arts, along with the espoused values of a school, are all important aspects which should be considered. I would advise parents to have a full and frank discussion with their child before they make the final decision and to carry out as much research as possible. What makes O’Connor stand out? I would say that everything at O’Connor makes us stand out as a great option for secondary education. From our pursuit of excellence in

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all spheres of school life, to our breadth of curriculum and facilities, and the extremely wide variety of extra-curricular activities … I could go on forever. However, our greatest asset is our current students, their families and our staff. They are the ones who make the O’Connor community such a wonderful and vibrant environment. O’Connor is the only Catholic High School in and around Armidale. Catholic schools have a well-earned reputation for offering a holistic approach to education that involves providing opportunities not only for growth in academic, cultural, sporting and personnel development, but also in religious and spiritual growth. This is the core of our existence. This focus on the development of the whole person includes providing excellent Pastoral Care as students transition through the various stages of high school. What is high on the agenda for 2016/2017? In Term 3 of this year, O’Connor will be staging its first musical for many years. Talent from a small number of ex-students and affiliates will

work with current students in presenting Annie the Musical under the direction of our very own Melissa Killen. The music, with a combination of O’Connor students and community members, will be directed by our Music Teacher, Melita Roache. The Archive Room The Archive Room was updated during the last development of the College in 2012, which saw the expansion of our Construction and Hospitality Vocational Education and Training facilities. The Archive Room contains memorabilia from St Ursula’s, De La Salle and O’Connor Colleges, and provides a wonderful legacy for current students and those of the future. O’Connor came into being when St Ursula’s

and De La Salle merged to form O’Connor Catholic College in 1975. The establishment of the Archive Room and the collection of the vast majority of the items was carried out by local De La Salle Old Boy, Mr Carl Graham. We are very thankful that Carl had the foresight to begin rescuing these items when De La Salle closed, and retain them until they could be professionally catalogued and displayed. Currently the Archive Room is under the watch of Support Teacher and former student, Mr Anthony Kelly, who is carrying on the good work started by Carl. Thanks Charlie.

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Pathfinders FOSTER CARE TEAM Pathfinders has welcomed a new look team to their Foster Care programme in Armidale. Headed by Kim Smart, who welcomes Maria Showell and Kylie Giles, all bring a wealth of experience to the programme. Foster Carers play a vital role in the lives of children and young people. By providing a stable home, Foster Carers can set these children and young people on a path to a safe and positive future. Foster Carers support these children and young people in care to meet their full potential by providing them with stability and support. Being a Foster Carer is challenging, but a very rewarding experience. Our team offers training, assistance and support throughout the whole process and can be called upon anytime. Pathfinders offer a very personable and confidential approach. For the initial step to becoming a Foster Carer, Kylie will come and meet with you, to discuss your family, working and lifestyle circumstances. Feeling comfortable and knowing you are supported assists in the further process of becoming a carer. There is an urgent need for Foster Carers in the Armidale, Inverell, Guyra, Glen Innes and Walcha areas. Pathfinders are holding Shared Stories, Shared Lives training on 23rd and 24th July 2016. Contact Kylie now on 1800 314 199 for a friendly chat about becoming a Foster Carer.

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•EAT IT TO•

Beat It

NEW ENGLAND FAMILIES FACING HOUSEHOLD FOOD CHALLENGES SUCH AS ENTICING FUSSY EATERS AND PROVIDING SIMPLE, BUDGET-FRIENDLY MEALS NOW HAVE HELP AT HAND.

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ancer Council NSW nutrition program Eat It To Beat It is providing free sessions and workshops for New England parents, through schools and community organisations. Developed by a team of dietitians, the sessions and workshops help the region’s families understand how eating two serves of fruit and five serves of vegetables every day can cut cancer risk, with ideas and inspiration to get the whole family eating more. How to pack a healthy lunch box, menu planning, recipes, tips for saving time and money, and clever ways to entice fussy eaters are covered. “Evidence tells us that diet is linked to cancer and that eating more fruit and vegetables can help reduce your cancer risk,” Nutrition Project Officer Juanita Nantes said. Worryingly in Hunter New England, 87 per cent of adults don’t eat enough vegetables, while 46 per cent don’t eat enough fruit,

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NSW Health statistics show. Ms Nantes said Eat It To Beat It was working in New England to help turn this around. “Even making simple changes, such as adding an extra piece of veg to the dinner plate, and building from there, is effective and helps set healthy habits for life,” she said. Savings on the household budget were another benefit. “People often think that fruit and vegetables are expensive, but if you compare the cost of fruit and vegetables to other foods such as meat or pre-packaged snacks, they can actually be cheaper,” Ms Nantes said. “Buying in season, eating more fruit and vegetables and reducing the amount of meat in recipes can help save money.” Packing a healthy lunch box also had benefits for children’s learning and development. “Healthy eating is vital to fuel kids’ concentration and energy levels in the

classroom and school yard,” Ms Nantes said. “Including fruit and vegetables in their

need to get through a school day.” “Ensuring that kids have enough fruit and

child’s lunch is one way parents can ensure

vegetables every day will contribute to a

kids get the nutrients they need every day.”

balanced diet and is a great way parents can

“It’s virtually impossible to get the right amount of vegies in your diet if you leave it all to dinnertime. “School children eat more than 2,500 lunches in their 13 years in the playground.

teach their children healthy habits for life.” Eat It To Beat It also offers great online resources and support such as simple healthy recipes, and free tools including meal planners and behaviour reward charts.

We see that as 2,500 opportunities for them

For more information or to register for a

to nourish their growing bodies by including

session or workshop go to eatittobeatit.com.

fruit and vegies.

au, facebook.com/eatittobeatit or contact

“By packing fruit and veg every day, we

Northern Nutrition Project Officer Juanita

can make healthy eating a normal part of

Nantes on (02) 6639 1306 or juanita.nantes@

children’s diets, giving them the energy they

nswcc.org.au.

new england focus. 45

Education &

TRAINING

Education

Thunderbolt’s

LEARNINGALLIANCE.

& TRAINING

THIS YEAR KELLY’S PLAINS, KINGSTOWN, KENTUCKY AND ROCKY RIVER PUBLIC SCHOOLS HAVE FORMED AN ALLIANCE OF LEARNING AND COLLABORATION CALLED THE THUNDERBOLT’S LEARNING ALLIANCE.

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his alliance has joined together for many years for major sporting carnivals such as Athletics, Swimming and Cross Country; however, we are now also starting to venture into other areas to encourage schools to work as part of a community of schools model to share teaching programmes, resources and pedagogy, including teacher professional learning and collaborative projects such as TEN, Visible Learning and “Writing to get Results”. Although each school has its own context and uniqueness, we are all enjoying the chance to develop opportunities for our students and teachers to learn and work together. So, who are we? Kelly’s Plains Public School Kelly’s Plains Public School was established in1863 and is located 10 km from Armidale in a peaceful rural setting. The school has a 152 year history of providing quality educational programmes and opportunities for all students. The school prides itself in differentiating the curriculum in our multi stage classrooms while encompassing a positive nurturing environment to ensure the school maintains a high standard of academic success, establishing confident and creative individuals in our modern society. At KPPS, the school and community have worked collectively to ensure that all students are given the opportunity to develop and achieve to their maximum potential. We have a highly experienced and dedicated staff that is committed to the fulfilment of the school plan. We have strong ties with the high school and collaboratively liaise with staff to best prepare our students for high school. The school provides an expert Learning Support Team that builds the capacity of parents and teachers in working with special needs and the gifted and talented. The small school context is the catalyst for great school spirit and pride among students, family and teachers. The high level of community

46 new england focus.

involvement supports all aspects of school life. Kingstown Public School Established in 1896, Kingstown Public School is situated 45 km northwest of Uralla in the Northern Tablelands of NSW. Set in a fertile valley, Kingstown is a small community providing support for families on the local cattle and sheep properties. Kingstown Public School is located in a rural setting in the Northern Tablelands of NSW, near the towns of Uralla and Bundarra. Kingstown Public School is a school with high parent and community support. Staff encourage positive and open interactions with parents and students and are committed to providing a supportive and cooperative school environment in which self-regulation, leadership and respect are fostered. Our school motto, Knowledge, Progress, Strength reflects our ethos of continuous learning, setting personal goals and developing persistence and resilience, empowering students to reach their full potential to become successful and continual learners. Kingstown Public School fosters a culture of high expectation in both behavioural and academic realms of student life, encompassing the philosophy of the “You Can Do It!” programme and the five keys to success in all areas of student welfare. Kingstown Public School encourages global awareness through connected classroom technology which enables access to wider learning experiences, such as the Mandarin language programme. We connect our students to programmes outside our school and link with the broader community and the University of New England in music, science and literacy workshops. This year we engaged a dynamic specialist music teacher from a local central school one day a week. Kentucky Public School Kentucky Public School was established in 1868 and has always maintained strong community ties and a high profile in the local

area. The school enjoys spacious grounds and has been recognised as a regional leader in Environmental Education, which remains an important school focus with significant recycling and energy reduction schemes operating. Kentucky has also established itself as the home of the State Small Schools Marimba Ensemble, building a reputation as a centre of excellence for the performing arts with regular performances at the Sydney Opera House, the Schools Spectacular and local eisteddfods. The school also has ukulele, recorder and steel drum groups. Three classes currently operate at the school, with excellent pupil teacher ratios and successful support and accelerated learning programmes in place. The school is a member of the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Programme promoting healthy living skills, including food cultivation and preparation. Physical programmes include a weekly bicycle safety scheme and annual sport and recreation camps. The school has an excellent resource base with a wide range of quality technological materials available to students, including laptops, tablets and interactive hardware in all classrooms. Rocky River Public School Rocky River Public School is one of the oldest schools in the New England region and celebrated its sesquicentenary in 2010. It is a small rural school situated 5 km north of Uralla on the Thunderbolt’s Way. We currently have three classes in the school and work within a cluster of small schools in the area for sporting, cultural, social and professional development activities. The local community is very supportive, and all major school activities are very well attended. The school provides comprehensive educational experiences to enhance the academic, cultural, physical and social development of students. A dedicated staff, excellent resources and a beautiful rural setting

combines to develop in the students a love of learning which, together with strong basic academic skills, will carry them through their education and their lives. In this small school, students interact across age groups, playing with and caring for each other as a family. Small class sizes ensure individual attention - each child is treated as an individual, and their own needs, interests and talents are understood and catered for. The school is an important part of the Rocky River community. Staff, parents and local residents actively work to provide a strong foundation for learning excellence. We have a holistic view of education, encouraging our students to be involved in not only academic and sporting activities, but also actively promoting student leadership, values and contributing to the wider community. In the small school environment, students are encouraged to work independently and cooperatively to become selfmotivated learners. What are we doing that is new? Together we are joining forces to implement a pedagogical approach to English using rich texts to scaffold reading and writing in a way that teaches students to be fully participating members of a literate society; this means, not just with access to the elements of a literate society, but also with a real desire to participate and confidence to be active players. The Thunderbolts are also implementing Targeting Early Numeracy within our schools. The Targeted Early Numeracy (TEN) intervention programme provides support for early years’ students in Early Arithmetical Strategies. Future plans will involve our schools coming together to share in lessons through video conferencing, making an interactive virtual alliance classroom for other project based learning opportunities such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). We are excited at the prospect of providing an even greater opportunity for our students to collaborate with other like-minded students. focus Special Edition 41

Education & LOVED

TRAINING

IN PRINT AND ONLINE

Best Kept Secrets

Best Kept Secrets

Wayward The Farmstay at

JERSEYS

D E B O ’ B R I E N & F A M I LY

Deb O’Brien and her family simply wanted to share with others what they considered to be fortunate to have. At Wayward Jerseys, they believe in the philosophies of free range kids, natural produce and being surrounded by lots of animals, and they wanted to give people the opportunity to experience this too.

others what we consider to be fortunate to Pop as well. I find our guests often come from have. At Wayward Jerseys we believe in the either Sydney or Brisbane, or both in a lot of philosophies of free range kids, natural produce cases, as it is a good place to meet in between and being surrounded by lots of animals, and (we are exactly half way between Sydney and we wanted to give people the opportunity to Brisbane). We also get a lot of overseas guests experience this too. who are interested in getting off the beaten What can visitors experience at track and seeing what Australia Wayward Jerseys? is like outside the cities. Basically, a visit to Wayward As to what “type” of Jerseys is like a visit to people we get, a One of my favourite things is being a petting zoo … On pleasant surprise child at steroids! We are extremely introduced to a stay has been how nice a the beginning of interactive, so expect to all our visitors down who has their head get up close and personal have been - kids their on focused and to the animals. We are and adults alike. game, and favourite video stay famous for our “morning I have thought a by the end of their tell you routine”, which includes lot about why this they couldn’t even device learning how to milk one is, and this is what where their gaming of our Jersey cows, feeding I have come up with. is. ” our baby animals and collecting The types of people eggs. For our day tour people, who visit a Farmstay are added to this is a country style, home the types of people that are cooked morning tea and marshmallows to engaged with their children and toast on the fire. Our overnighters get all of this family, interested in how others live, complimentary to their stay, as well as other love animals and they’re prepared to try inclusions such as an optional ghost tour at something new. All in all, this makes for pretty night. amazing people, on the whole. What type of demographic visit the farm? Tell us about some of the reactions you get I must say the majority of our visitors are from visitors? families with children. We accommodate up to “Milk comes from where?” Unfortunately, seven people at a time, so often it is Nan and it is true that many children do think that milk

comes from a supermarket, and a wonderful part of my job is educating them otherwise. Our guests are a pretty open minded lot and even if incredulous at the beginning, it is not long before they get into the spirit of things and are milking cows like a professional. Actually, one of my favourite things is being introduced to a child at the beginning of a stay who has their head down and focused on their favourite video game, and by the end of their stay they couldn’t even tell you where their gaming device is. Do you think locals like us take for granted what’s in our own back yard in regards to primary produce? Yes and no. Yes, because I think we are truly spoilt here in regards to our primary produce. But just because we are spoilt, doesn’t mean that most people don’t know they are on a good thing by living here. It’s like this area is a wonderful secret, and all us locals are in on it. There is a lot of buzz around local food and produce at the moment - justifiably so - and there are also a lot of amazing and dynamic people starting to really do some incredible things. I would have to say that it is pretty exciting times here in New England. Plans for the future? Yes, yes and yes. At the moment my lips are sealed, but think tourism and think local produce, and watch this space! Thanks Deb.

INTRODUCING THE FOCUS MINI-MAG

Photo credit John Nalder Photography

22

ell us about yourself and your family ... My name is Deb O’Brien, and I grew up in the local area. After ten years of travelling Australia, my husband and I realised that “home” was a pretty awesome place and made the decision to move back. I would describe myself as a unique blend of quirky and earthy, and I believe Wayward Jerseys Farmstay reflects that. Wayward Jerseys would not be, without the love and support of my husband, Lauri Pulkkinen. Lauri is the type of man who not only supports his wife to follow her crazy dreams, but also says, “Fine, you want to buy a milking cow … Well, let me build you a dairy”. We also have three beautiful little girls, ranging in ages from six to eleven, who love their way of life and love sharing it with other people. I have always loved animals and am passionate about the New England area. I truly believe I have the best job in the world! What prompted the beginning of Wayward Jerseys? The name “The Home for Wayward Jerseys” (shortened to Wayward Jerseys for convenience) was initially a term that my husband jokingly used to describe my penchant for Jersey cows. It also alludes to what we see as their unique personalities. Simply, we wanted to share with

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ONLINE FLIP BOOK

The mini-mags are a compilation of our best features from the print edition of each region, united in one flip book and delivered online for you to download...

NOW ONLINE + FREE

farrer memorial AGRICULTURAL HIGH SCHOOL Farrer Memorial Agricultural High School has established an enviable reputation as a centre of excellence in academics, agriculture, welfare, sports and academic programmes. Catering to the education of both day and boarding students, Farrer is the sole government provider of boys’ education in a regional setting, and the only boys’ agricultural school in Australia. The school is set on 191 hectares of prime agricultural land, 10 kilometres from Tamworth. Farrer has 600 students enrolled: 350 boarders and 250 day boys. Farrer is committed to a holistic, integrated approach to develop a culture of academic success, providing a broad curriculum with an emphasis on whole school programmes to encourage continuous enjoyment in life-long learning. Agriculture is a central focus, providing opportunities for problem solving and practical

education that flow on to all aspects of the school. By creating a caring and supportive environment within the school, we have developed an atmosphere of harmonious cooperation that is the best environment for student productivity and progress. The staff provides both guidance and warmth, and are absolutely committed to building a safe and kind school community. This allows students to grow and achieve their educational objectives while forming lasting relationships and memories. Our aim of “producing thinking, well education, skilled, flexible and caring young men” depends upon the continued support and communication between all members of our community students, staff, parents and caregivers. Enrolling at Farrer provides an outstanding education, memorable experiences and mateship that lasts a lifetime.

Farrer Memorial Agricultural High School

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Are You Looking For An Education For Your Son Built On Excellence, Fairness, Respect And Tradition? Discover what Farrer has to offer:-

  

Mudgee Field Days 15th & 16th July Agquip 16th, 17th & 18th August School - everyday is an Open Day

Far rer acc is now e Enr pting o App lmen t lica for tions 2 0 Yea 1 rs 8 7 - 11

VIEW THE MINIMAGS ONLINE AT FOCUSMAG.COM.AU/MINIMAGNE GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

Farrer - The only Boys’ Agricultural school in Australia 585 Calala Lane TAMWORTH NSW 2340 42 focus Special Edition

Ph: 6764 8600 farrer.nsw.edu.au new england focus. 47

Education &

TRAINING

PLC ARMIDALE HAS AN ENVIABLE REPUTATION FOR MUSICAL EXCELLENCE, AS WAS SHOWCASED IN THE RECENT ARMIDALE EISTEDDFOD. THE RETIREMENT OF LONG TERM DIRECTOR OF MUSIC, STUART PAVEL, AT THE END OF LAST YEAR LEFT BIG SHOES TO FILL. ENTER MATTHEW MINTER.

MATTHEWMINTER.

PLC Armidale

M

atthew joined the dedicated PLC Armidale staff in 2016 and as the new Director of Music, brings a fresh approach to music at the College. A talented musician in his own right, Matthew relocated to Armidale with his equally talented wife, Li Ling, together with children Harriet (aged four, who also attends PLC Armidale), William who is two, and baby three on the way! A passionate music educator, Matthew shares his inspiring and ambitious vision with FOCUS. How are you and your family finding your feet in Armidale and more specifically, your role at PLC Armidale? I find the culture of learning at PLC Armidale to be extremely impressive. PLC Armidale girls and staff really do demonstrate values such as integrity, compassion, respect, generosity, humility and perseverance. I have found the approach the girls have to their work to be completely inspiring. They are committed and quietly organised and always strive, without question, to achieve their very best. The opportunities available in music at PLC Armidale are extraordinary. In fact, I am surprised that more girls from around the New England North West Region aren’t enrolling here

48 new england focus.

They are committed and d and quietly organise out ith always strive, w eve hi ac to n, tio es qu .” st be their very

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to take advantage of what is offered! I have also been extremely impressed by the Music staff here: Mrs Deidre Rickards continues to run a string programme of the highest calibre, with a focus on exceptional repertoire and quality of performance. Miss Constance Rolfe is doing an excellent job in both Junior School Music and with several vocal ensembles. Deidre and Constance are both excellent musicians and very inspired in their work. The legacy of PLC Armidale Music is clearly seen in the quality of the Alumni, many of whom have become professional musicians as a result of the opportunities they have had here. In addition, we have a partnership with the New England Conservatorium of Music (NECOM) that underpins the success of the school music programmes through providing peripatetic tutors of the very highest calibre. What is your vision for the music programme at PLC Armidale? Although it has been very rewarding to have had such success in the Eisteddfod, particularly winning the Open Choral Championships and the Junior and Senior Strings ensembles, what

really excites me are the opportunities for the Music Department at the College. I have been so inspired by the quality of the students here. It really makes me realise just what is possible. At the moment, I feel there is almost nothing we can’t achieve! The centrepiece of the strategic plan I would like to establish is a strong wind and brass programme, with the view towards creating a symphony orchestra in the future. We understand that you are a talented musician in your own right and recently received some recognition. Are you able to share that news with us? I recently achieved international recognition with the award of 2nd Place in the Open International Piano Composition Competition. As part of this award, I will be touring in Vienna in August, including performing at the World Composers’ Prizewinning Concert in the Erhbar Hall in Vienna on the 3rd of August. Congratulations, and thank you for sharing your story with us, Matthew. All the best with your musical future.

focus Special Edition 43