GEORGIANA MOLLOY ANGLICAN SCHOOL E S T. 2 0 03
The Fairlawn
Student wellbeing
Our young achievers
An inspiring young performer
MIND BODY & SPIRIT
RISING STARS
THE POWER TO CONNECT
ISSUE 03 ~ TERM 3 2019
PRINCIPAL’S WELCOME
TED KOSICKI, PRINCIPAL
WELCOME The Year 12 cohort will bid farewell
We trust the memories of their time
to formal schooling as this edition
at GMAS, as captured in The Fairlawn
comes to fruition. Term 3 is the last
each term, will have them reminiscing
full term for these students as they
on school life from now on.
prepare to exit the gates and ‘archive’
Enjoy this edition and the snapshot
their uniform.
of Term 3. Not everything can be
They step into being part of our Old
captured, but what is certainly gives
Georgians Association alumni and
us an insight into what a great school
onwards they move into another
we have.
significant chapter of their lives. Although they consider this chapter complete and closed, this is not the case.
Mr Ted Kosicki Principal
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CONTENTS
Inside e u ss i s i th M E N TA L H E A LT H W E E K
Tai chi, mandalas & flower planting P. 1 4 - 1 7
PRIMARY SCHOOL
Father’s Day & Book Week P. 1 8 - 1 9
ATHLETICS CARNIVALS
Carnival season hits Primary School P. 2 0 - 2 2
MIND BODY & SPIRIT
Student welbeing P. 6 - 1 1
SECONDARY SCHOOL
A Taste of Year 7 & Safe on social P. 2 3
SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS
Meet our School Psycholog ist P. 2 4 - 2 5
RISING STARS
Our school’s young achievers P. 2 6 - 2 9
OUT & ABOUT
Debating, Pedal Prix & Robo Cup P. 3 0 - 3 5
A POWERFUL CONNECTION
An inspiring young performer P. 1 2 - 1 3
MUSIC & THE ARTS
Music, concerts and more P. 3 8 - 3 9
SAVE THE DATE
Upcoming events for the diary A TASTE OF YEAR 7
Journeying into Middle School P. 2 0
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MIND, BODY & SPIRIT
A SENSE OF BELONGING The atmosphere at GMAS is one of belonging, and this can be
Pastoral care is integral to the
attributed to the care, concern and companionship that our staff
GMAS environment, where
and students give to one another. Our staff take personal interest
everyone has the right to be safe,
in the human uniqueness of individuals and take seriously the
to learn and be treated with
responsibility to challenge each person to be the best they can
kindness and respect. The aim of
be in all areas of their lives. We support the development of the
our pastoral care program is to promote the physical, emotional, social, spiritual and intellectual wellbeing of all students. Here are some of the ways we strive to assist our students in being the best versions of themselves.
whole person and believe that by taking the time to learn and appreciate each child’s unique personality and interests, we are able to create a responsive environment where diversity is celebrated and a love of learning unfolds. POSITIVE EDUCATION Extensive research has demonstrated that positive education increases a student’s overall wellbeing. For us, positive education means embracing a strengths-based approach, in contrast to focusing on what’s missing. By identifying and developing each student’s character strengths; such as resiliency, honesty, compassion and courage; students are able to adopt a growth mindset and learn strategies and coping skills for when things get tough.
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F O U NFDEAATTI U ORNE DSATYO R Y
SPECIAL PROGRAMS
LEARNING SUPPORT
Throughout their learning journey, a range of wellbeing
All students and caregivers have access to our School
programs are interwoven with the school curriculum. These
Psychologist, Chaplain and Learning Support staff. Our
can include the likes of buddy programs with other year levels,
Learning Support team works closely with teachers and
a protective behaviours personal safety curriculum, a Year 7
parents to identify children with specific needs and provide
transition program, safe and responsible online behaviours,
support and links with external agencies where needed.
and environmentally sustainable practices.
Many of our Early Childhood staff are upskilled in the Sounds
D A I LY P R A C T I C E S Across the school each day, all students are provided with opportunities to exercise their mind, body and
Write program to support literacy and we also offer the Diana Rigg synthetics phonics program which supports spelling, phonics, reading, writing and vocabulary.
spirit. Mindfulness and fitness are incorporated into daily
CO-CURRICULAR
schedules and class lessons where appropriate. Unlike
We provide over 50 co-curricular opportunities for students
the traditional classroom setting, we believe learning takes
to develop an interest in, and enjoyment of, outdoor
place everywhere and our students are often seen studying
activities and recreational pursuits through a diverse range
under the shade of a tree or exploring the natural world
of experiences designed to challenge the mind, body and
during lesson time. In addition, each child belongs to one of
spirit. Our co-curricular program is a highlight of schooling
six Houses consisting of students from all year levels. This
at GMAS and all of our teaching staff are involved in the
structure provides students with the opportunitiy to engage
smooth-running of each activity on offer.
in a variety of sporting, academic and cultural competitions.
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Mind, body & spirit thought and discussion they agreed, however they wanted me to work towards paying the $12,000 fee to attend. I was determined to make it happen. I took as many shifts at that restaurant as I could. I sold my computer and anything of value that would get me to Japan. My parents unfortunately wouldn’t let me sell my brothers!
LOCHIE
I applied for, and won, a scholarship to go towards the cost of my trip. I had to pay for the exchange in increments. When
GIBSON
each time came for me to send another deposit, I was proud of
SRC MEMBER
have to rely on my parents to fund it.
Student Welfare Portfolio
the fact that I had worked hard to earn the money and did not I learned a valuable lesson during that time and realised that if I wanted to make something happen, it was well within my
GIVE YOURSELF PERMISSION
ability to do so. I could hardly believe I was set to fly in early 2017 to live with my
“I’d like to talk about the importance of setting goals and
host family and attend my new school in Hiroshima.
having structure in your life. I believe it is our responsi-
The experience of living with a new family and going to a
bility to each live our life to the fullest and to find your
Japanese high school taught me the importance of a good work
passion.
ethic and setting goals. I promised myself that I would say yes to every opportunity that
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We are all unique. We each have our own identity, talents and
came along. Living in a foreign country presented the enormous
interests. We must follow our own path and pursue our own
task of becoming fluent in another language. I worked hard,
goals, all the while encouraging those around us to do the
with the help of my host family, school and volunteers to quickly
same with theirs.
learn the Japanese language.
In 2017 I spent a year in Japan as an exchange student. I had
My career goals have been greatly influenced by my time
an amazing time, met some wonderful people and created
in Japan and as I complete my final year at high school and
memories to last a lifetime.
contemplate university life, I can see very clearly the role goal
Prior to going to Japan, I was an OK student, with OK grades and
setting has played in how far I have come today.
an OK work ethic. I wasn’t 100% sure what I wanted to do with
Do the work, back yourself, give yourself permission to chase
my life and in which direction I might like to take my education
your dreams. Set realistic goals and make each step count
and future career.
towards achieving your goals, no matter how small. The sense
I was working a part time job on weekends washing dishes at
of satisfaction you will get from doing this, trust me, will lead
a local restaurant. It was during this time that the idea to go to
you to great things!
Japan on exchange was presented to me.
I will leave you with a quote by Stephen Covey: ‘begin with the
I went home and discussed it with my parents and after much
end in mind’.”
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FE ATUR E S TORY
Interestingly, or perhaps I should say concerningly, the one
CLEO WIESE SRC MEMBER
Student Welfare Portfolio
thing that not a single person mentioned was respect for yourself. It’s an easy thing to forget. We get so caught up in trying to please other people and live up to expectations and standards set by others, that we often fail to look out for ourselves. Just like showing respect for others, showing respect
R.E.S.P.E.C.T.
“It’s a word that’s overused and often misunderstood. A word that just keeps popping up. We hear it in the classroom, at home, at assembly and at chapel. Respect, respect, respect...
towards yourself cannot be emphasised enough. I’m not just talking about face masks and sleep-ins; although these are totally important! I’m talking about looking out for your own wellbeing by knowing when you’ve bitten off more than you can chew. Being able to stand up and admit that it’s too much and
Like anything, once you hear it enough times, it becomes easy
you need a hand.
to glance over without further thought. It loses impact.
I’m talking about reaching out for help from your friends,
Surely, you’re thinking, something that is mentioned so often
from your parents, from your teachers and psychologists
must be pretty darn important. Yet, if I asked right now what
when you’re not feeling okay.
respect meant to you, would you be able to answer?
I’m talking about taking care of your body. Not to look a
Over a recent lunchtime, I did some investigating to find out
certain way that’s going to get you more attention on
what respect means to other people. I asked a few of my fellow
Instagram, but to give you the energy and strength to be
Year 12s: when I say the word respect, what jumps to mind?
the best person you can be that day.
Some of their responses included our teachers, Mrs Burns
Looking after yourself and making your wellbeing a priority
(Deputy Principal), Mr Treloar (Head of Senior School), old
in life is actually really, really hard. Not every day goes the
people, the environment, friends, treating everyone equally
way we plan, even if we are trying to make changes to look
and fairly no matter their circumstances, consent, and ‘no idea’.
after ourselves a bit better. And that is completely OK.
Each of these are fair and true statements to make about
The best we can do is be persistent and resilient in our
respect.
efforts, and keep in mind that one of the bravest things one
It can be defined as the way you treat people you love, people
can do is reach out for help when they need it.
you look up to, the surroundings you live in, even the way you
We’re all here to listen, to help and support you. All you
act toward strangers.
need to doJUNIOR is ask.”
SCHOOL HEAD BOY
It’s about treating people and places in a way that is kind and considerate of the fact that you might not know what’s going on behind the scenes of their life.
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CLICK TO WATCH
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GMAS MENTAL FE ATUR E S TORY
H E A LT H WE E K
M I N D I N G O U R H E A LT H
Mandala drawing, tai chi, yoga, wholeschool workouts, music concerts and a special visit from a furry friend... these are some of the activities students were treated to during the GMAS Mental Health Week. The program of events was primarily organised and run by the Senior School student leaders and judging by the number of smiles seen around the school, they did a great job lifting everyone’s spirits!
5-9 August 2019
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EMPOWER & INSPIRE
Empower &Inspire THE POWER TO CONNECT PEOPLE
Class of 2019 graduate Caitlin Forrest has always
Whether through various themes or emotions, it is
enjoyed performing and being theatrical. Her
important to make a connection with the audience whilst
mother even recounts the story of a younger Caitlin
performing.
practicing crying in the mirror before throwing
I always get nervous right before an upcoming
dramatic temper tantrums!
performance, especially in the wings when I am about to go on stage. I actually don’t feel nervous at all during
It’s fair to say Caitlin has come a long way since those
the performance. Sometimes I think the adrenalin rush
younger days and her passion for the dramatic has
before I perform is an advantage for me. If I am playing a
translated into a love of performing arts and music.
character role, I really try to put the adrenaline into making
Over the years, the school community has enjoyed being
a character.
audience to Caitlin’s performances, one of the highlights
Since watching my first musical Wicked, I was mesmerised
of which was listening to her original song Unstoppable
with how great it could be to perform in big productions
at assembly, where she shared a poignant anti-bullying
nationally and overseas. To achieve this dream, I wish to
message with her fellow students.
study Musical Theatre, Classical Vocal and Music Education
On the cusp of her final days as a GMAS student, Caitlin
at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts
is now one of twenty students Australia-wide to be
(WAAPA). I will also be auditioning for Classical Voice at
shortlisted for a Regional Vocal Scholarship with Opera
the Conservatorium of Music at the University of Western
Australia, the recipients of which are due to be announced
Australia.
in November.
All courses are extremely competitive to get into and
If selected, Caitlin will embark on a week-long visit to Sydney
though I am working hard, I understand there is a chance
in January 2020, where she will have the opportunity to
I won’t be selected. Due to this, I aspire to be like our very
attend exclusive workshops with industry leaders, world-
own Music and Performing Arts Teacher, Mrs Thompson.
class performances at the Sydney Opera House and
I believe we have some of the best Arts teachers in the
perform in front of Artistic Director Lyndon Terracini.
South West. Mr Watts, Mrs T and Mrs Telchadder work
Below, Caitlin shares her aspirations to pursue a future
extremely hard to give students the best opportunity to
career in Musical and Performing Arts.
learn and experience wonderful opportunities.
“I can’t remember ever realising I had a talent. It wasn’t
I have been told by various sources at WAAPA and UWA
until Year 2 when I was driving home with my best friend
that the teachers we have here are world class. I highly
and neighbour at the time. We were singing along in the
encourage anyone wanting to get involved in The Arts to
car and when we got home, her mum told my mum that
do it here at GMAS with our fabulous Arts department.
she thought I should have singing lessons because I was
By completing a Secondary Education degree in Drama
really good at it.
and Music, I will be able to teach people how great the
My love for The Arts is based around the idea of connecting
performing arts are. I have always enjoyed teaching and
people of all ages and backgrounds. I personally believe
numerous teachers have told me that I could be the next
that music and drama have the power to connect people.
Mrs T!”
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FATHER’S DAY BREAKFAST
K ATHRY N C A MPBELL HEAD OF PRIMARY SCHOOL
Primary School Mr Conor Martin, our Deputy Head of
Developing strong relationships between
Primary, and I were fortunate to attend the
teachers and students has a positive,
Australian Primary Principals’ Association
significant, and long-lasting impact on
(APPA) conference in Adelaide recently.
our students’ lives, both academically and
Principals and Deputies from Government,
socially.
Catholic and Independent schools from all
If a student feels valued, and if their teacher
over Australia attended.
not only cares about their grades but also
The conference theme was Leading the Way:
their wellbeing and social life, they will
Collaboration, Connection and Community
flourish and thrive before our eyes.
and the key focus was on how we use these
Our Primary School staff pride themselves
qualities to ensure every student receives
on knowing and valuing the students in
a world class education in a strong and
their care. They provide real experiences
supportive school community.
which allow them to prosper and succeed;
We were educated and inspired, and proud
find and follow their passion; and help
to share the wonderful happenings at GMAS
them grow into the best possible versions of
with our newfound colleagues.
themselves.
The most popular conversation amongst
To strengthen relationships for learning
school leaders was one of wellness. Wellness
at GMAS, our programs influence settings
of staff, families and most importantly, the
beyond the classroom – and this is what I
wellness of students.
am very proud to say we do exceptionally
In our rapidly ever-changing world, the
well.
most
important
element
influencing
student learning and progress is social and emotional wellbeing and connections to one another.
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PRIMARY SCHOOL
HERE’S TO THE DADS! On a rather chilly morning, with the sun peeking out from behind the clouds, students and their fathers (or other special guest) gathered in the P&FA Courtyard to enjoy a Father’s Day Breakfast. The Dads were treated to a sausage sizzle, barristamade coffee and choccies as the kids played soccer on the oval or snuggled up with Dad for cuddles and a hot chocolate. The P&FA held a Father’s Day stall during the day and students were given the opportunity to purchase a small surprise gift for their Dads to enjoy over the weekend. CLICK TO WATCH
Friday 30 August 2019
THE DOOR Knock, knock, knock in my closet in the middle of the night.
About ten days later we got back up to our Mum and brought
I got out of bed and ran! My Dad checked my closet and
the treasure. Then we got everything we wanted and some
there were stairs. Even worse! There was a door!
money to charity. Then we lived a happier life for ever and ever
We opened the door and there was a bedroom and food,
and ever, then gave some food and resources to homeless
water and even trees! Then there was an earthquake.
people and never had a problem in our life.
We shouted, screamed and yelled for help! But nobody answered. We dramatically shouted for help falling down a
Mitchell Brockliss Year 3
big hole, me and my Dad and we saw a waterfall, treasure and hoped to get back up to our family.
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BOOK WEEK DRESS-UP
Every year across Australia, the Children’s Book Council of Australia brings children and books together to celebrate Book Week. Our Primary School students and staff shared their love of literature at the Book Week Parade on Thursday 22 August. The creative costumes we see each year never fail to impress and this year was no exception.
Thursday 22 August 2019
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PRIMARY SCHOOL
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E A R LY C H I L D H O O D ATHLETICS
POSITIVE ATTITUDES & SMILES
The Early Childhood Athletics Carnival was held towards the end of Term 3 and involved all students from Kindergarten to Year 2. Needless to say, the students ran, threw, jumped and played as hard as they could and it was a fabulous day. Our Year 6 leaders coordinated each activity with professionalism, positivity and enthusiasm. Well done to everyone for their positive attitudes and sportsmanship!
Friday 13 September 2019
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PRIIMARY SCHOOL
JUNIOR SCHOOL ATHLETICS CONGRATULATIONS EAGLE! This year’s Junior School Athletics Carnival saw the first ever Precarnival event for selected students in the high jump, long jump, shot put and turbo-javelin events. The Pre-carnival was followed by a full day Athletics Carnival which saw Eagle climb to the lead with 1404 points, followed closely by Meelup and Hamelin. Thank you to all the wonderful Secondary School students and staff members for their support in ensuring a smooth running carnival. Friday 23 August 2019
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TASTE OF YEAR 7 JOURNEY INTO MIDDLE SCHOOL Our future Year 7 students enjoyed a taste of what awaits them next year at the annual Taste of Year 7 day. Students from schools across the region joined our Year 6 cohort for a series of scheduled lessons and activities designed to prepare them for their transition into Middle School. It was great to see students develop new friendships and interests in different subjects across the day. Monday 16 September 2019
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SECONDARY SCHOOL
Middle School Middle School is a pivotal time that bridges a young person’s journey between childhood and adulthood. As educators it is our role to help guide and nurture the Middle School student to become responsible, caring and kind, lifelong learners. We are committed to providing students with strong foundations of knowledge, skills and strategies required for secondary school and into their adulthood. GMAS provides a stimulating, safe, caring and supportive
LISA NESS, HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL
environment that enriches the learning experiences and recognises the unique individual needs, interests and abilities of
Students participated in a variety of classes in some core
our students.
learning areas such as English, Mathematics, Science and
It is a layered approach with the student in the centre, surrounded
HASS, as well as a taste of some of the fantastic electives on
by the support of family, friends, staff and the whole school
offer here at GMAS.
community working together, allowing each individual to
It was wonderful to meet the future Year 7s and to witness their
maximise their potential, thrive and be ready to face the next
excitement, nervousness and anticipation of what is to come.
stage of their life journey.
I hope students enjoyed their day and left with a sense of
On Monday 16 September we invited our future Year 7 students to
excitement for their new journey as a Secondary School student
spend a day in Secondary School. This Taste of Year 7 is designed
in 2020, as well as a sense of pride that they are a member of our
to aid a smooth transition to Secondary School by providing
strong and supportive GMAS community.
students with a sample of what a day in the Secondary School is like.
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SAFE ON SOCIAL ARE YOU AWARE OF YOUR OWN IMPACT ? So often, cyber-safety sessions are structured around how you can help your child and what a child should not be doing on social media. However, this message is one for the parents and caregivers. There was a recent case in Australia where a child who was relocated with their family into a witness protection program was photographed at their new school by a parent during assembly and published onto a community social media page. This action, while innocent, resulted in significant ramifications for the family trying to protect their identity. Most schools, including ours, are fine with parents taking photos of their child on school grounds, however it is worthwhile remembering that we often do not know what is happening in the lives of children in the background. To learn more about privacy issues and staying safe online, the ‘Safe on Social’ toolkit is now available for parents to download from our website.
INTO THE WORK FORCE YEAR 10 WORK EXPERIENCE PROGRAM Our Year 10 students lived the school motto ‘Opportunities now... benefits for life’ when they completed their Term 3 Work Experience program at a variety of locations in our community, including Busselton Airport, Jackson Art Supplies, Bodyworks, WML Engineering, Cowaramup Child Care and more. The feedback from supervisors was exceptional with several students being offered ongoing work and many more making significant business networks which they can use in the future. Well done to the students who participated and thank you to those businesses who supported this worthwhile program.
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SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS THE ROLE OF A SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST As GMAS’ School Psychologist, I work across many levels of the STEPHANIE LUKE SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST
school community. Whether it’s working one on one with young people facing challenging issues or working with the entire school to implement and deliver a range of programs designed to address
At GMAS we are fortunate to have our very own School Psychologist as part of our Pastoral Care team. Stephanie Luke explains exactly what the role of a School Psychologist is, and how it helps our students thrive during their school journey.
specific issues; my role is ultimately to support young people in achieving academic success, psychological health and a strong sense of social and emotional wellbeing. I provide early assessment and intervention in learning and cognitive disabilities, behavioural disorders and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. With the right support in place, children experiencing such challenges can thrive like never before. Part of my role also includes providing students and families with opportunities to explore and learn about mental health issues, resilience building and prevention strategies. Together with the rest of the Pastoral Care team, I feel a strong duty of care towards our students and am 100% committed to delivering a proactive, confidential service that supports young people in getting the best out of school life.
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Rising stars YOUNG ACHIEVERS
WRITE4FUN
A big congratulations to Year 11 students Thuy Nguyen and Henry Brown who entered the Write4Fun Schools Poetry and Short Story Competition this year. Both students received an Achievement Award for their stories and will have their work published in the ‘Just Keep Writing’ book.
SPEAKER’S CUP COMPETITION
Year 6 students Sienna Trainer and Mitchell Binning were chosen to represent GMAS in this year’s Freemasons Speaker’s Cup public speaking competition. Sienna presented an informative and hilarious speech on the topic of ‘cruelty to vegetables’. Mitchell Binning took on the persona of environmental crusader Steve Irwin, delivering a thoroughly entertaining dialogue as he wrestled and captured a ‘crocodile’. Both students were among the top four students selected to represent the South West region at the Preliminary Finals in Perth. Impressively, Mitchell made it through to the Grand Final, placing him in the top 13 students from over 200 students who participated in the state-wide competition. P 2 4 W W W.GM A S .WA . E D U. AU
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TA R IRSI ISNI N G GS TS A RR SS
JUNIOR PHILOSOTHON
GMAS SOCCER
Congratulations to Years 5-7 students
Well done to the Under 14 Firecrackers team who finished runners up
Amelia Brown, Jaxon Varis, Lachlan Beange, Reuben Jones, Fletcher Robbins and Matthew Bowden
in the finals in a fantastic game. The following GMAS soccer players were presented with awards at the conclusion of the season:
who participated in the inaugural
Association Best and Fairest for Under 13s
Junior South West Philosothon held
Hudson Wright
at Geographe Primary School at the
Association Runner Up Best and Fairest for Under 13s
end of Term 3. A ‘Most Promising
Jamie Liston
Philosopher’ award was presented to Jaxon Varis (year 5).
Association Golden Boot Award (top goal scorer) for Under 13s Hudson Wright Association Runner Up Golden Book Award for Under 13s Aston Keough Association Best and Fairest for under 14s Lucas Harper Association Golden Boot Award (top goal scorer) for Under 14s Lucas Harper Association Runner Up Best and Fairest (Youth League Boys) Evan Farmer
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t u o b A d n Out a WADL DEBATING
Congratulations to the GMAS Junior debating team, consisting of Katana Cox, Aimee Telford, Harrison Scott, Matthew Weed, and mentor Miss Georgia Gregory, for taking out the title of WA Debating League (WADL) champions. The team claimed the accolade from a previously undefeated Bunbury Catholic College. Well done also to the Novice team, consisting of Year 7 students Ava Wilson, Jess Dilley, Elizabeth Grosse, Thomas Goldsmith, Amelia Scott and coach Miss Paisley Walker. The team had a successful first season and made it through to the semi-finals. The Senior team performed well with impromtu debates and short preparation times. Well done to Patrick Stephenson, James Scott, Jaimee Whirledge, Ashlynn Forrest and Imogen Wilson on a successful season, mentored by Mrs Fiona Forrest.
TALENTED YOUNG WRITERS
Select GMAS students from Years 7-12 had the opportunity to attend writing workshop with esteemed speculative fiction author Michael Pryor. Pryor has 39 books to his name, including ‘The Laws of Magic’ series, ‘Quentaris Chronicles’ and the ‘Ghost Town’ series. After setting the scene with a magic trick, students’ imaginations were opened up to apocalyptic worlds, haunted houses and a little bit of enchantment. Pryor guided the group through creative writing exercises giving students the process for creating their P 2 6 W W W.GM A S .WA . E D U. AU
own thrilling fiction pieces. GMA SWA
OUT AND ABOUT
PEDAL PRIX
This year’s Pedal Prix event saw ten students competing in the Busselton human powered vehicle six-hour challenge. GMAS entered two teams, GMAS Green Machine and GMAS Red Rocket. Green Machine finished 41st overall and 13th in class position, while Red Rocket finished 32nd overall and achieved a creditable 13th in class. Red Rocket was comfortably in line for a top 10 (or possibly top 5) position before a broken chain thwarted their efforts, setting the team back by half an hour. Despite some minor dumps, rollovers and mechanical issues, all students gave it their best shot and performed exceptionally well. Thank you to all staff ACC ATHLETICS
and supporters who gave up their time to assist with the event.
CARNIVAL
Until next year, pedal on!
GMAS came home from Perth victorious, after winning the ACC F Division Athletics Carnival held at WA Athletics Stadium on Tuesday 10 September. GMAS tallied an impressive 1723 points, followed closely by Swan Valley Anglican Community School who trailed by 43 points. Well done to all of our athletes and Health & Physical Education staff. T E R M 3 2 019
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t u o b A d n a Out BLACK DOG RIDE 2019 RIDERS DEPART GMAS GMAS was proud to support the Black Dog Ride Around Australia 2019 in July by hosting the kick-off event for their amazing journey around the country raising awareness and funds for mental health and suicide prevention. Friday 26 July 2019
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A PROJECT OF PASSION Year 9 students, under the guidance of Work Studies Teacher Miss Samantha Kingston, hosted an exhibition of work on Thursday 26 September profiling inspirational community members who have displayed resilience, positivity and passion in their everyday lives. The students collated their work to create a book which was gifted to the school community.
ROBO CUP JUNIOR
A FIRST FOR GMAS! Eleven Year 6 students made GMAS history when they competed in the WA State Robo Cup Robotics Competition held at Curtin University. The students were required to work together to design, build and program PENNSYLVANIA CHOIR The Years 7 and 8 students were very lucky to host a performance by The Pennsylvania Girls Choir on Thursday 1 August. Considered to be one of the finest girls choirs in the USA, the touring group conducted a workshop with the GMAS Senior Choir prior to captivating students and staff with their amazing talent. Thursday 1 August 2019
robots capable of competing in one of three robotic challenges. Team work, problem solving, artistic and coding skills are emphasised in scoring criteria as well as the use of sensors and Bluetooth to enhance the performance. Robots must be built by students, not teachers, with the additional requirement that all robots must feature a unique and original design. Under the guidance of their mentor, Digital Technologies teacher Mrs Carolyn Herring, the students spent about 52 hours over two terms at lunch times and after school, to complete the challenge and were right up there with leading Perth schools. Robo Cup Junior empowers students to develop and apply their skills across the combined disciplines of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM). 9-10 August 2019
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THERE WILL BE MORE DRAMA! TEARS AND LAUGHTER
The Year 11 and 12 ATAR Drama performances promised to be huge, and boy did they deliver! The Year 12s wowed us with their interpretation of rock musical ‘Next to Normal’, about a woman with bipolar disorder and the impact this has on her family. The Year 11s gave stellar performances in ‘The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui’, a play mirroring the rise of Hitler. The Year 10s performed hilarious excerpts from ‘Sheerluck Holmes’ and the Year 9 students had everyone laughing with their two versions of Romeo and Juliet. The Years 7 and 8 students supported the ‘big kids’ with their mime acts. All in all, there was a lovely balance of tears and laughter and the ATAR students passed with flying colours.
Thursday 5 September 2019
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YEAR 12 FAREWELL MUSIC CONCERT GOODBYE TO SENIOR MUSICIANS The Year 12 departing musicians were celebrated at the annual GMAS Year 12 Farewell Concert. The night saw a great variety of music with highlights including feature performances from Caitlin Forrest and Kiran van der Tang with the Senior Strings Ensemble, lovely singing by both the Showstoppers and Senior Choir, and a performance by an invited Year 12 Ensemble. Well done to all involved for producing another memorable night’s entertainment. Thursday 12 September 2019
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JUNIOR SCHOOL EXTRAVAGANZA
Our Years 3-6 students bedazzled their audience with top-notch dancing and singing at the annual Junior School Extravaganza. The audience had to hold onto their wands as they joined Harry Potter and his friends at Hogwarts attending Hagrid’s Care of Magical Creatures lessons and delighted in meeting a whole bunch of fantastic creatures from different worlds and time periods.
Wednesday 25 September 2019
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2019 MUSICAL The Secondary School students transported us back in time to the glory days of the Roman Empire at the 2019 school production of Rome Sweet Rome! With a hilarious ensemble of characters such as Biggus Buttus and Little Wimpus, some top-notch singing performances and costuming, the entire season was very well received. Well done to Mrs Sue Thompson, Mr Phil Watts and the entire cast and crew who worked tirelessly to deliver an exceptional 2019 musical. 15-24 August 2019
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ROME SWEET ROME!
ARE YOU OK? For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. Romans 8: 18 FR. EARLE CHAMBERLAIN SCHOOL CHAPLAIN
ENTHUSIASM
Chaplain’s Reflection
IS ALIVE
Our students need all the support we can give them to set them on the trajectory toward success. That is
At the recent Anglican
a given. It’s our job as teachers and parents to equip
School’s Commission conference, the word
them as best we can. When I look back even over the last term to the myriad of programs we have run at GMAS, there have been many activities that fall under the umbrella of ‘wellness’. Whether it’s Tomorrow’s Architect seminars, Safe on Social workshops, Mental Health Week, AWE Wellness Surveys, or HeadSpace suicide prevention presentations, these programs are all aimed at exploring and improving the mental health of our school community. In saying this, improving our mental health requires action from a person. No number of seminars will make a difference if we don’t change our behaviour and actions. One of the most successful programs in my mind is the message of Are you OK? because it enables a conversation to happen. Too often I hear people say that they never knew there was a problem or they had no idea they were struggling. When I’m low or down, the last thing I want is company. Really, the last thing I want is actually the best thing for me. If we show up, good things can happen and the real key to success in life is to keep on showing up. So do yourself a favour. Show up. Start the conversation. P 3 6 W W W.GM A S .WA . E D U. AU
ELEANOR LEWIN CHAIR OF SCHOOL COUNCIL
repeatedly.
At the recent Anglican Schools Commission conference in Hobart, educators were encouraged to develop and promote enthusiasm to students in their formative years. A perfect example of enthusiasm was the display of our Primary School students during Book Week Dress Up. We had everyone from Harry Potter, the Mad Hatter, Grandma Poss, pink unicorns, Cinderella and many other characters. The enthusiasm was absolutely infectious as the students dressed as their favourite character from their favourite book. The feeling of eagerness and warmth was shared by everyone. The enthusiasm portrayed by our more senior students during their Rome Sweet Rome performances was absolutely amazing. The enthusiasm to produce this show by our fantastically talented teachers together with their assistants was simply wonderful. Recently I visited a Pre-primary class who were making Rocky Road gifts for Fathers Day. Enthusiasm was at its ultimate, with melted chocolate, chopped nuts, Turkish delight, coconut, clinkers being mixed into two large bowls and everyone taking part in the process. Finally the mixture was poured into two trays and left to set in preparation for cutting up the next day before gifting to the Dads who would no doubt devour the Rocky Road with eager enthusiasm. We are truly blessed to have such passionate enthusiasm in all avenues among the GMAS family. Enthusiasm is alive and well at Georgiana Molloy Anglican School.
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‘enthusiasm’ was used
ASC FAREWELL DINNER 2019 JAZZ BAND PERFORMS IN PERTH On Friday 6 September, the GMAS Senior Jazz Band were invited to perform at the retiring Anglican School Commission Chair’s farewell dinner at the Hyatt in Perth. The group also visited the University of Western Australia’s (UWA) Conservatorium of Music and listened to a pre-concert talk by Australian composer James Ledger and UWA’s Head of Music Professor Alan Lourens. They then had the opportunity to enjoy a performance featuring Old Georgian Quinn Reid. The students also managed to catch up with Brodey Alers, another Old Georgian who is now a music student at UWA. At the conclusion of the concert, the students participated in an inspiring jazz workshop with WA Youth Jazz Orchestra Director Jessica Herbert and a group of UWA musicians. By the time they performed, the Jazz Band was primed and made the stage their own in front of a big crowd. A huge thank you to Mrs Donna Deroost, Mrs Kate Telchadder and Mr Philip Watts. Friday 6 September 2019
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Save the date WORLD TEACHER DAY
Friday 25 October 2019 ARTS SPECTACULAR P&FA MEETING
6-8 November
STAFF ROOM 6PM
Monday 11 November
YEAR 2 MOVING ON CEREMONY
Tuesday 3 December
YEARS K-6 NATIVITY & PRESENTATION
TWILIGHT
EVENING (END
CHRISTMAS FAIR
Saturday 7 December
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Wednesday 11 December
OF TERM)
TERM CALENDAR
Visit our website to download the full parent calendar for Term 4.
2019 ARTS
GRANDPARENT ’S
SPECTACULAR
AND
OPENING NIGHT
VOLUNTEER’S
(5PM - 7PM)
BREAKFAST
Friday 8 November
Tuesday 5 November
YEAR 11 SPRING
CAMBODIA TOUR
FLING
DEPARTS
Friday 22 November
Thursday 28 November
YEAR 6 MOVING
FREE DRESS DAY
ON CEREMONY
Wednesday 4 December
Wednesday 4 December
YEARS 7-12
SCHOOL OFFICE
PRESENTATION
CLOSES UNTIL
EVENING (END
THURSDAY 2
OF TERM)
Thursday 12 December
JANUARY
Friday 20 December
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