JIGSAW Autumn 2017 by International Grammar School

Ready for the World

HSC Stories

Chinese Language into Preschool

TasmaniaWriting the Island

Shauna Colnan Principal of International Grammar School

FROM THE PRINCIPAL

WELCOME TO THE AUTUMN EDITION OF JIGSAW

There is something so vibrant and fresh about this edition. We begin by showcasing the spectacular major works of our HSC students and celebrate their creative achievements with records set for nominations and selections for HSC exhibitions around the state.

Turn the pages and read the words of advice shared at the recent high school academic assembly by the leaving class of 2016. Christian Blanda, now studying Physical Exercise and Sports Science at UTS urges his younger peers to “chat with your teachers, even if only for a few minutes before or after class.” Elena de Gouw who is enjoying International Studies and Creative Writing at Macquarie University says “Just breathe! The time goes so quickly.” 2016 Head Boy Maxim Adams, our first 99.95 ATAR recipient advises students to “break tasks up into more manageable parts and trust yourself so that the work you’ve done becomes instinctively familiar and you don’t feel like you need to cram.”

The post-school destination information on the pages that follow indicates that our students are taking on diverse and rigorous fields of academic endeavour. We wish them all the very best.

From Year 12 to preschool and a heartwarming story about our youngest children immersed in Mandarin and learning about the beautiful culture of China. This year, in a major strategic initiative, we have introduced Chinese from preschool and our children in the program are astonishing us all.

The IGS community has a powerful united vision articulated in the IGS strategic plan 2016 – 2020, Into the World. It’s propelling us forward as we equip our students to be ready for the world.

Our eight areas of action are to:

❙ Boost innovation and collaboration

❙ Champion excellence

❙ Incite passionate and creative learning

❙ Inspire meaningful engagement with local, national and global communities

❙ Grow tenacious and confident individuals

❙ Promote effective, enduring and ethical practices

❙ Improve information and communication technology

❙ Secure, reimagine and redesign the campus

My colleagues are providing a unique, happy and empowering educational journey for each and every student in our school and our areas of action have unleashed their creativity and their curriculum design skills in new and exciting ways.

As you read through the pages of Jigsaw I hope that you will be inspired by the innovative programs and experiences, both enduring and new that are on offer at IGS. Our students have been busy, very busy, making the most of every opportunity that has come their way and I applaud them for that.

Enjoy!

Shauna Colnan Principal

ACHIEVEMENT –THE CLASS OF 2016 WEARS IT WELL

Miela Malyon's major work for Textiles and Design earned her 7th place in the State

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS:

Year 11 accelerant Benjamin Street came 16 th in the State in the subject of Mathematics.

Showcases: IGS students’ major works earned recognition with 20 nominations and 7 selections across OnSTAGE (Drama), ARTEXPRESS (Visual Arts) and Texstyle (Design and Technology).

THE CLASS OF 2016 ACHIEVED MANY VICTORIES IN THEIR HSC YEAR INCLUDING A PERFECT SCORE, TOP PLACES IN THE STATE – AND ONE GRADUATE EVEN WORE HER SHOWCASE-SELECTED PROJECT! THE SKY IS THE LIMIT FOR EACH AND EVERY ONE OF THEM! WE ARE PROUD OF THEM ALL!

Last year’s Head Boy Maxim Adams has begun a Bachelor of Science (Advanced) at the University of Sydney to be followed by a Doctor of Medicine (BSc(Adv)MD). Maxim was awarded The University of Sydney Scholar Chancellor's Award for students who demonstrate outstanding performance in their Year 12 results, achieving the highest possible ATAR of 99.95. This rare and richly deserved honour gives Maxim priority access to the University’s leadership programs and mentoring by senior staff as he moves through his studies.

Maeve Galea came 7th in the State in Drama and she was nominated for OnSTAGE for her performances in Bea From Terminus and group performance, Espace Vide

Also nominated for OnSTAGE were Lewis Cronau, Indigo Lambert, Chad Martin, Abdul - Kareem Abdallah, Alexandrea Moretti, Lois Colquhoun, Madeline Swift, Nicholas Walker, Florence Gleeson - Cook, Joseph Howe and Frederick Du Rietz.

“ The HSC was a great journey, full of discoveries and surprises, and now I feel like I truly belong at IGS.”

WILLIAM STEWART (99.35)

“ I feel over the moon and beyond grateful to all of my teachers, mentors, friends and family who have helped over the past 12 months and beyond. The plan for now is to set aside at least 6 months to travel, continue modelling, designing and making art.”

MIELA

MALYON (97.5)

Head Girl Zelda Winestock topped the State in both Spanish Continuers and Spanish Extension. Zelda was on a summer study stint in Spain when the exceptional news came through and is now studying for her Bachelor of Science (Advanced) at USYD.

Maxim's lifelong friend and IGS Global Scholar Samuel Garrett (ATAR 97.4) also did exceptionally well. Samuel's next stop is an overseas adventure as he takes a gap year before embarking on a Bachelor of International and Global Studies and a Diploma of Language Studies (Arabic) at USYD next year.

Miela Malyon was awarded 7th in the State in Textiles and Design and her Major Textiles Project, The Guggenheim Project which was submitted in the textile art category was selected for Texstyle and Shape, a new look exhibition that was launched in 2016. Shape features a selection of exemplary Major Projects from HSC Design and Technology, Industrial Technology and Textile and Design students in 2016. Miela’s achievements didn’t end there. Her painting, Deceased Estate, submitted as part of her Visual Arts Body of Work is on exhibition at Campbelltown Regional Gallery for ARTEXPRESS.

Also selected for ARTEXPRESS were Nathalie Davies, Ingrid Gerhard, Nell Johnston, Alice Trenoweth - Creswell and Gabriel Wahl – and Asena Yalim was nominated.

Maxim Adams

Zelda Winestock

Miela Malyon

Maxim Adams, teacher Nancy Gagliano and Samuel Garrett in 2016 - and 2005

❝ ❝

Find a study space that suits you - and allow your teachers to help reduce stress and make classes fun. It was good to have something to look forward to – like my gap year!

Adele Moore (On a gap year in Europe. Starting her Bachelor of Physical Exercise and Sports Science Degree at UTS in 2018)

❝

Break tasks up into more manageable parts and trust yourself so that the work you’ve done becomes instinctively familiar and you don’t feel like you need to cram.

Adams (Now studying a Bachelor of Science (Advanced) at the University of Sydney)

2016 HSC | POST- SCHOOL DESTINATIONS

What are they studying?

One hundred and seven IGS students were awarded an HSC in 2016. Of those, ninety- eight students, (92%) received university offers. A number of students received offers into private institutions and TAFE and others have entered the workforce.

For the students who received university offers, the graph shows the percentage of offers arranged by discipline. Some students received offers for more than one discipline.

Sciences/Medical Science (33%)

Commerce/Economics/Business (19%)

Arts/International St/Comm (16%)

Design/Fine Arts/Perf Arts (14%)

Applied Science/Architecture (10%)

Other (5%)

Music (3%)

Maxim

❝Just breathe! The time goes so quickly. And talk to your parents and your teachers, include them.

Elena de Gouw (Studying for a combined Bachelor of Creative Writing and International Studies at Macquarie University)

❝❝ ❝

Chat with your teachers, even if only for a few minutes before or after class – talking about shared interests helps you to connect, gain rapport and enjoy classes more.

Christian Blanda (Studying a Bachelor of Physical Exercise and Sports Science at UTS)

Where are they studying?

For the students who received Main Round offers, the graph shows the percentage of offers according to institution.

USYD (36%)

UTS (24%)

Other (13%)

UNSW (10%)

MACQ Uni (6%)

Uni of WOL (6%)

ANU (4%)

THE GROWING WORLD OF EARLY LEARNING

IGS’S EARLY LEARNING CONTINUES TO GROW WITH INTRODUCTION OF CHINESE INTO PRESCHOOL THE SCHOOL ALREADY TEACHES CHINESE IN HIGH SCHOOL BUT IS NOW EXTENDING THE OFFERINGS OF LANGUAGES IN EARLY LEARNING TO FIVE –FRENCH, GERMAN, ITALIAN, JAPANESE – AND CHINESE

Chinese class begins

SUZANNA GRAY, ACTING DIRECTOR OF EARLY LEARNING REPORTS

The excitement and anticipation was building in Early Learning as this new school year approached. Not only would we be welcoming a brand - new batch of little learners into IGS but 2017 gave us the opportunity to be part of something truly unique with the introduction of our 5th language, Chinese for our Preschoolers.

With much planning going on behind the scenes of 2016, the start of the school year allowed us the opportunity to share our dreams and ideas for Early Learning with our children and families. We couldn’t have asked for a better start as we welcomed Bo Wang into our teaching team. Her enthusiasm and passion to bring Chinese into Early Learning and share with us aspects of her culture are infectious and make us excited about the journey ahead. With such new opportunities arising for our children and staff, it’s an exciting time to be leading this truly passionate and dedicated department and to be bringing to the forefront new opportunities and pathways as together we continue on our journey of learning.

MEET BO WANG

Bo Wang is enjoying her start as Early Learning Chinese Language educator at IGS. She is very excited to join the IGS family this year as both an educator and a parent. She worked as a teacher and journalist in China for five years after finishing her Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She moved to New Zealand in 2008 and earned a Bachelor of Science with first class Honours in Psychology.

Bo worked as a research assistant in a cognitive research lab in Wellington for three years and she is particularly interested in children's brain development and emotional wellbeing. Being a mum herself, she became passionate about facilitating high quality early learning environments. She completed her Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education in New Zealand and worked as an early childhood teacher in both New Zealand and Australia. Bo is currently doing her PhD with Dr. Paul Ginns at the University of Sydney, investigating the effects of tracing and imagination in learning new information. Bo understands the cognitive benefit of multilingualism and has a strong belief in it. She is very enthusiastic to bring the Chinese language and culture into Early Learning at IGS.

At left: Bo Wang in Early Learning

OTHER NEWS

IGS is thrilled to be introducing Aboriginal Studies as an on - campus offering for the HSC from 2017. The School is also exploring learning words in the Wiradjiri language through Koori Club.

Talented Year 10 student

Mi - kaisha Masella made the last series of the television show The Voice and she also helped launch NAIDOC Week with an original recording on ABC Radio.

Mi - kaisha also won City of Sydney's Betty Makin Award for Creative Leadership during Youth Week 2017.

INDIGENOUS JOURNEY

Indigenous Literacy Day

Five students from the Primary School were invited to attend Indigenous Literacy Day in September at the Sydney Opera House, as representatives of IGS for the contribution the School has made to Indigenous literacy. The students heard from a number of ambassadors and patrons including The Hon. Quentin Bryce, Andy Griffiths and Justine Clarke. A highlight of the day for Armani Carr and Jai Wright was having their photographs taken with Andy Griffiths, the author of the popular Treehouse series!

A Great Book Swap was held at the conclusion of the formalities, and this provided the students with the opportunity to select a pre - loved book to bring back to school. We are looking forward to purchasing the book by the Indigenous students from remote schools in Western Australia, The Goanna Was Hungry for the Primary Library.

With our Indigenous Scholarship Ambassadors

The Hon. Dame Professor Marie Bashir AD CVO, was delighted to meet up with some of our Indigenous students at the Australian Indigenous Mentoring Experience (AIME)’s ‘Going Global’ launch at the University of Sydney in November. AIME is also supporting some of our senior students at the School as they consider careers beyond school.

Ambassador and well - known radio presenter Richard Glover visited Koori Club in August and admired some of the works and dioramas some of the younger students have been working on.

Armani Carr and Richard Glover

Some of the IGS Koori Club with our ambassador Dame Professor Marie Bashir, an AIME representative and teacher Jade Carr

Jai Wright meets Andy Griffiths

Mi-kaisha Masella

THESE COMMERCE TEAMS REALLY MEAN BUSINESS

LAST TERM, UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF TEACHERS CARMELO FEDELE AND JONATHAN WHITE, YEAR 9 COMMERCE STUDENTS PITCHED THEIR BUSINESS IDEAS TO AN EXPERT PANEL AS PART OF YOUNG ENTERPRISE

As part of our curriculum expansion project at IGS we introduced Commerce in 2016. This new course has become a very popular elective for students in Year 9 and 10. Commerce is giving our students in the middle years new opportunities for creativity, collaboration and real world entrepreneurialism as well as the chance to get alongside some of our remarkable parents and learn from them.

Young Enterprise is a Commerce project that encourages students’ entrepreneurial abilities by guiding them through the process of running a business from concept to customer. Students formed groups, prepared a business plan and pitched their ideas for feedback, mentorship and finance.

A little bit like the television show, The Shark Tank!

There were some excellent pitches from LLS Publishing, Koolbab, Jake’s Bakes, Brownies for your Frownies, Iced Tea Co and many other enterprises.

We offer special thanks to expert panelists Kaye Morehan, Tony Pearson, Suzanne Tucker, James Chin Moody and IGS Deputy Principal – Staff and Innovation David Hamper as well as the many teachers who helped support this initiative.

The teams followed up with a Young Enterprise Day later in the term where they sold products and services to the school community and raised money for charity.

Meet Carmelo Fedele in one of our staff profiles on page 33

TASMANIA –WRITING THE ISLAND

❝Why is this happening?

Even with the light of the sun, the moon and the stars, no one saw it coming. They promised us friendship, equality, peace – we got abuse, betrayal, violence. Freedom was replaced by a life of exile and as the moon rose so did the chaos. In my home, on my land, my family, I felt cheated. The Heritage and the culture and the traditions we all once had went up in flames in what felt like a matter of seconds. Despite the great moon rising in the night, we were blinded by the violence. The land was cold and lonely. Fear overcame me as I watched my people fall and the culture that once was, cease to exist.

Supermoon

Observers, by Anthony Tong Lee @ flickr com

CLOSE TO ONE HUNDRED YEAR 10 STUDENTS AND STAFF JOURNEYED TO TASMANIA LAST NOVEMBER TO IMMERSE THEMSELVES IN CREATIVITY, CRIME FICTION AND THE GREAT OUTDOORS ON THE INAUGURAL YEAR 10 SAGE PROJECT TASMANIA – WRITING THE ISLAND INSPIRATION FOR THE STUDENTS’ WRITING AND FILM MAKING CAME FROM HISTORIC HOBART, MOMA, PORT ARTHUR, FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK, AND CRADLE MOUNTAIN

Excerpt on Page 10 of a song composed of Indigenous voice perspectives written by Dennis White, Indigo Chambers and Ivy Vournelis. Song written and sung by Indigo Chambers and Isabella Fitzgerald. The song reflects the image of righting the wrongs of our past through the 12 hours of the Super Moon rising.

“ This trip gave me the chance to form lasting relationships with new friends, gave me a tonne of insight into how to write a genuinely good piece of writing and gave me new ideas of where I want to go in life. Overall the trip was amazing and I would definitely tell the next year to embrace the experience to get the best experience they can.”

SAMANTHA MITCHELL

“ Plains of vibrant blue water stretched out for miles and merged with the lining of distant clouds to connect to an elegant blue sky.” HUGO JOHANNSEN (DESCRIBING “THE BLADE” ON THE 3 CAPES WALK.)

“ It was so thrilling for me to see this final SAGE project rolled out so superbly well by our staff. The culture of the trip was positive, warm, collaborative, supportive, respectful, kind and open. This culture was created by the project leaders and the teachers and mirrored by the students who were an absolute delight.”

PRINCIPAL SHAUNA COLNAN

“ The 3 Capes Trek was one of the best times I’ve ever had in my life. It allowed me to truly discover the beauty of Tasmania and I would love to do it again.” MAX DAVISON

INTO THE WORLD

Architect's impression of the future courtyard area - by Zoey Chen

The future is now

PRINCIPAL SHAUNA COLNAN LED THE SCHOOL’S SECOND `INTO THE WORLD´ STRATEGIC CONVERSATION WITH 100 PARENTS, STAFF AND GUEST PRESENTERS INCLUDING AN EXPERT PANEL IN LATE 2016

“Strong progress has been made on developing the School’s first Master Plan, which will give us a blueprint for the physical development of IGS over the next 20 years but now it’s time for your input!” Ms Colnan said at the gathering.

“I’d love to hear your insights, feedback and impressions”, she said, asking “what are the trends, challenges and new technologies that will shape schools worldwide in the near future and how do we reimagine our campus to enhance our students’ educational journey?”

“How do we continue to develop more collaboration and deeper learning in our school?”

All staff continued the School’s strategic conversation with a professional development conference held in The Refectory USYD in January this year with the theme The Future is Now. Guest speakers, futurist Dr Mark Pesce (Harvard University) and Philosophy educator Dr Britta Jensen (Cambridge and Oxford), led staff through a journey from the new age in technology in education to the eternal relevance of Philosophy in schools and the advent of the subject at IGS in 2018. Academyx1 also offered virtual reality experiences on-site.

“ Having physical spaces that complement learning and encourage creativity – that’s so important. Especially when it comes to introducing new technologies for learning. I don’t only say that because I’m an architect but because I believe that learning should be collaborative.”

DEBORAH ASCHER BARNSTONE

“ We tend to think of time in linear terms so the suggestion by the Horizon Report that all that change will happen within five years seems unbelievable – but remember, the iPhone was only invented in 2007, the iPad in 2010! Things are developing rapidly, and we are constantly witnessing tipping points in technology that come more quickly than anyone expects.” JAMES CHIN MOODY

Providing a compass for the conversation was the background paper The Horizon Report which predicts trends in educational technology over the next five years and the insights of the panel comprising UTS Professor Deborah Ascher Barnstone whose project team worked with IGS over 18 months; and parents, Geraldine Chin Moody (Group Executive People, Culture and Sustainability, Virgin Airlines), Andrea Belunek (PTF President) and James Chin Moody (CEO of Sendle).

IGS is well on the way to recognising, embracing and realising these changes with refurbished Science labs, our new Visual Arts studio, a Makerspace oriented Design Centre under construction, and a global centre for the teaching of Languages in the Kerrie Murphy Building, planned for 2018.

At Speech Night 2016, Ms Colnan also unveiled exciting new plans for the next stage of the IGS Master Plan including a two storey Bibliothéque which will be a 21st century library, a research hub and a collaboration space at the heart of the Reg St Leon Building. Plans also include a larger, open and attractive courtyard, an elevated playground for our youngest children and a reimagined and redesigned Early Learning Centre.

James Chin Moody, Geraldine Chin Moody, Andrea Belunek, Deborah Ascher Barnstone and Shauna Colnan

PASSIONATE AND INSPIRED YEAR 12 LEADERS 2017

HEAD BOY JAMIE HEATH AND HEAD GIRL PICKLE HOWE AND THE CLASS OF 2017 ARE LEADING WITH PASSION, DILIGENCE, GOOD HUMOUR AND A DETERMINATION TO MAKE THE SCHOOL THEY LOVE A BETTER PLACE THAN THEY FOUND IT

Meet our Head Boy and Head Girl

HERE IS WHAT THEY TOLD JIGSAW:

“After a volatile year on the world stage in 2016, this year, 2017, presents us with a real challenge. Barack Obama in his final speech as president said “Democracy does not require uniformity… democracy does require a basic sense of solidarity – the idea for all our outward differences, we are all in this together… we rise or fall as one”.

To apply this to our school, unity is something that we need more now than ever. However, in order for this school to be united it is not as if you have to be the same, or confine yourself to one idea of what a good student is. Instead, IGS is a school that already celebrates differences and encourages us to be unique.

As Head Boy this year, I want to encourage everyone to look for ways to practice tolerance, overcome differences, celebrate the individual, and above all look for the things that unite us in a time that seems like it is trying to divide us. I want to reinforce the belief in students that not only can we make a difference in our school community, but that we can –and should – go out into the wider community and make it the kind of world we want to live in”.

Jamie Heath

“I am very excited to be IGS’s Head Girl for 2017! My aspirations for this leadership position focus around further strengthening IGS’s position as both a global school and a local school.

A huge part of life at IGS is the focus on learning languages and celebrating other cultures, evident in the history of the school and the very reasons it was founded. And with this global emphasis I feel it is important to acknowledge too that we are very fortunate within this world and through that acknowledgment, students should feel proud of their access to education and empowered to have a voice for other young people around the world who don’t.

Another area of importance to me is that of including Aboriginal history in our education (I firmly believe that the amount of Aboriginal history that is currently taught in Stages 4 and 5 is inadequate) and I also aspire to further our work for the ecological sustainability of the School”.

Pickle Howe

At left: Head Girl Pickle Howe and Head Boy Jamie Heath with Primary School friends in the Peace Garden

NEW SPACE FOR LEARNING

New Year 12 Study Centre

“ This is a place I can go to finish homework and assignments and relax too. This creates a nice environment where people can respect each others' space and I'm impressed by how my Year Group has managed to do this from the start.” JOTARO HOWARD - SHIBUYA

“ It’s been really nice to have a space that feels like a home. Our year group has grown so much closer since the opening of this space and we’re all really enjoying having our own place to cook, study and bond together.”

LILY THORBURN

“ I enjoy the way the study space brings our year group together. After only three weeks, I’m finding myself spending more time with certain peers than I did for all of last year. There is a good balance of productivity and leisure.” JULIAN HORNIBLOW

“ I really like the study space as it helps me to focus in a friendly environment.”

VENUS LACOSTE

THE NEWLY-OPENED YEAR 12 STUDY CENTRE ON MOUNTAIN STREET IS PROVIDING OUR STUDENTS WITH EXTRA SUPPORT AS THEY PROGRESS THROUGH THEIR FINAL YEAR OF SCHOOL IN TERM 1 WE LAUNCHED A NEW HSC ACADEMIC SUPPORT PROGRAM ONE NIGHT A WEEK IN THE CENTRE WHICH IS ALSO PROVING TO BE A PLACE FOR BONDING AND PEER SUPPORT – THE WHOLE COHORT EVEN GAVE EACH OTHER VALENTINE’S DAY CARDS!

YEAR 12 ACADEMIC EVENING PROGRAM

The Centre For Advanced and Continuing Studies (CFACS) is an out of hours on campus academic program to hone HSC students’ exam and study skills and to support and inspire deeper understanding of curriculum content. In 2017, the Centre has two main programs on offer for HSC students.

❙ A tutoring program that allows students in Year 12 to access the Senior Study Centre between 5pm and 7pm on Wednesdays. The Centre is staffed by university students who have demonstrated through their HSC and tertiary studies outstanding academic performance in key subject areas.

❙ A masterclass series which provides tutorial style learning experiences conducted by experienced and expert IGS teachers and HSC markers.

Venus Lacoste (at right) and a study buddy

Lily Thorburn

Jotaro Howard-Shibuya and Julian Horniblow

NEW LOOK SCIENCE

DURING THE SUMMER SCHOOL HOLIDAYS, ANOTHER MAJOR PROJECT FOR OUR REIMAGINED CAMPUS ARRIVED IN THE SCIENCE FACULTY ASSISTED BY THE SCHOOL’S ANNUAL GIVING PROGRAM, THE SCIENCE LABORATORIES WERE UPGRADED AND AN ADDITIONAL SENIOR SCIENCE LABORATORY ADDED HEAD OF SCIENCE STACEY PRESTON REPORTS …

The new Lab K302 caters for senior students with a flexible layout of laboratory benches down one side of the room and small desks and chairs in the remainder of the space. Adjustable height tables have allowed us to increase the laboratory working space and turn this into a functional space for senior classes. In turn, this has allowed more junior classes to be timetabled into the existing laboratories so we can maximise the amount of time students are spending on practical work.

The three existing laboratories received a much-needed upgrade. The old black, wooden benches were removed and replaced with smaller black and white benches. Decreasing the size of the bench allows more flexible use of the remainder of the space.

Students’ desks have been arranged into pod-style groups, encouraging collaboration through discussion and group work. To compensate for the decrease in bench size, several tables in each laboratory are height adjustable and all tables are chemically and thermally resistant.

The height adjustable tables can be raised to the same height as the benches to provide more workspace when needed. Student benches are made from the same material, meaning that practical work does not need to be limited to the benches, again allowing more flexibility in the way the classroom is set up.

Students have responded very positively to the new spaces. Changes to the floor colours from a dark colour to a light colour, along with the black and white colouring of benches and tables has allowed the introduction of brightly coloured chairs and murals into the room.

The spaces look larger, more modern and much brighter. Extra storage space means they are less cluttered and overall a much more pleasant place to work!

IGS would like to extend thanks to the valued donors who helped the School achieve this project.

THE OVERSEAS EXPERIENCE

Antips in Cambodia

Photo courtesy of Antipodeans Abroad

UP TO 100 IGS STUDENTS PARTICIPATE EACH YEAR IN LANGUAGES AND INTERCULTURAL EXCHANGE OVERSEAS HOWEVER, THERE ARE SEVERAL OTHER OVERSEAS EXPERIENCES ON OFFER TOO AND IN THIS EDITION OF JIGSAW, WE REVISIT LAST YEAR’S ANTIPODEANS ABROAD TO CAMBODIA AND LAOS AS STAFF PREPARE FOR THIS YEAR’S JOURNEY TO INDIA

One of our strategic aspirations is to take students on an educational journey that empowers them to explore their gifts, find their voices and become their best selves. Through our areas of action we will inspire meaningful engagement with local, national and global communities and grow tenacious and confident individuals.

Sixty- one students in Years 10 and 11 and six of their teachers returned in April last year from a life - changing service learning experience in Cambodia and Laos.

Antipodeans Abroad – or Antips as we like to call them – is a Sydney- based company that runs school expeditions that develop resilience, independence and teamwork through the provision of extraordinary experiences abroad.

The teams worked hard to prepare for their expedition abroad – team cake stalls, lamington drives, the famous Jamie Heath brownie sales and a last- minute sponsored rowing machine marathon.

When they got to Cambodia and Laos they worked even harder as they threw themselves into their chosen community projects, often in 40 - degree heat.

“ This trip has taught us how to make mistakes while travelling and learning. It’s given me a confidence boost.”

TEAM SILA

“ It was such an honour to help out the community. We all felt a sense of gratitude and accomplishment.”

TEAM DHYANA

“ They return as global citizens, resilient, empowered and changed in the best possible way.” PRINCIPAL SHAUNA COLNAN

Our students built small houses, vegie patches and chicken coops and they laid pipes for fresh water supplies. This was hard physical work but the rewards were profound – blessing ceremonies, sharing simple and delicious food with the villagers afterwards and knowing that they had made a real and permanent difference to the lives of many of the locals.

WHAT’S NEXT?

English teacher and Head of Kuyal House Stephen Pace has co - ordinated three Antips Abroad journeys over the past few years (India, Nepal and Cambodia). He told Jigsaw that this year’s Antipodeans will take IGS adventurers to India.

DRAMA IN HISTORIC ITALY

Drama and History students took a two -week journey in Semester 2 to Italy to visit ancient sites and traditions. Starting in Rome, they headed to the beautiful coastal town of Sorrento which was used as a base for day trips to Pompei and Ercolano and the

stunning Capri and La Grotta Azzurra where students were serenaded by the boatmen as they entered the stunning Blue Grotto. They also ventured to the hilltop town of Capestrano for a Drama workshop with the master Antonio Fava. Here, students participated in a

workshop in the stunning castle of the town to learn about the characters of Commedia dell'arte. They used his own handcrafted leather masks, a tradition handed down by his father, to devise works and explore physicality.

NATIONAL SCIENCE WEEK TRAVELS FROM BRAINS TO BOTS

In the vein of ‘every picture tells a thousand words’ ...

The University of Sydney’s Neuroscience team shared their best secrets and tricks with high school science classes. Taste tests, confusing spacial exercises, mind reading and a brainy dissection intrigued our home team.

Major Tom’s successor wins Judges' Award!

As we go to publication, the School’s thriving Robotics Club rIGS just competed in this year's (their second) entry in to the national FIRST competition at Olympic Park. And the force was with them as they won the Judges' Award!

Meet rIGS Co‑ordinator, newly‑appointed STEAM Innovator and Science teacher Claire Loh in staff profiles page 32

HIGH SCHOOL MENTORS GUIDE YEAR 4

Year 4 experimented with home - made robotics under the tutelage of the older students in the IGS Robotics Club (rIGS).

CAPTAIN UNDERPANTS TEAM MEETS THE PRIME MINISTER

Runners up in the National Young ICT Explorers competition Year 6’s Jonas Meyer and Max Braun met the Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and his wife Lucy Turnbull at the Parliament House when they displayed their coded clothes lines alert/weather system.

Above: University of Sydney's Neuroscience team visit the lab

Above: Building Major Tom's robot successor

SHAKESPEARE SOARS

A scene from IGS's production of The Comedy of Errors

“ I had the privilege of being a part of The Comedy of Errors production and I can easily say it was the best experience of my life.” SAMANTHA MITCHELL

“ Being a Year 12 student, my workload can be overwhelming and stressful but rehearsing for The Comedy of Errors allowed me to relax, perform and make new friends from younger year groups.” ISABELLA PINSON

“ I would definitely say that this production has been a highlight of my schooling life, as I have learnt so much about Shakespeare’s verbal, physical, and literary techniques and how amazing his plays can be, if performed with such knowledge.” MAXIME OGUEY

“ In one and a half months, we achieved the impossible. We managed to stage an entire production complete with sound, costume, props, blocking and all lines learnt! I also got to know a talented group of little aspiring actors in year 8 who worked incredibly hard.” ISABELLA MILKOVITSCH

THE COMEDY OF ERRORS WAS A JOYOUS FAST PACED ENERGETIC FEAST THE RICH AND VIBRANT SOUNDSCAPE AND PULSATING MUSIC TRANSPORTED THE AUDIENCE TO THE DISTANT SHORES OF EPHESUS, THE ANCIENT GREEK CITY ON THE COAST OF IONIA THE DRAMA SPACE WAS FOR THREE WONDERFUL NIGHTS, TRANSFORMED INTO A SHIP BATTLING A TEMPESTUOUS STORM AT SEA CATAPULTING CREW AND CARGO FROM SIDE TO SIDE

The constant suitcases on set served as symbols for travellers seeking refuge, home, and family. Once on land, the audience was met with market delights and visual treats, peppered with volatile, agile, solemn, eccentric and playful characters, together with two sets of identical twins. Under the direction of the talented Damien Strouthos, students from Years 8-12 unlocked the beauty and fun of this play, explored the chaos and hilarity that comes from mistaken identities, and cemented their passion for Shakespeare.

The ensemble cast worked tirelessly throughout Term 1 to learn new skills and breathe fresh life into the timeless words. For those lucky enough to secure tickets to the show, The Comedy of Errors was an excellent night of theatre. For those involved with the making of the show it is the start of a journey of strong friendships forged and an inspired creative desire to do it all again.

Rita Morabito, Director of Dramatic Arts

Other well - known library guests last term included author Morris Gleitzman (pictured unveiling the technique behind his latest book Now) and Economist Ross Gittins who shared some tips with our senior Economics students.

LIBRARY GUESTS

Paper planes fly high to success

SPIRITS – AND PAPER- FOLDING SKILLS –SOARED WHEN DYLAN PARKER, THE INSPIRATION FOR THE BLOCKBUSTER AUSTRALIAN MOVIE PAPER PLANES AND THE FILM’S WRITER AND FILMMAKER STEVE WORLAND AND CINEMATOGRAPHER TRISTAN MILANI ALL VISITED YEAR 4 IN THE PRIMARY LIBRARY LAST FRIDAY

Dylan, whose amazing success and resilience first came to light on ABC TV’s Australian Story, talked about the simplicity and wonder of making and flying paper planes. And he should know – he came third in a field of 85 countries in a world competition when he was at university!

Dylan, who acted as an advisor on the film, writer Steve (the book is also a hugely popular addition) and Tristan recounted how they made the film. They talked about the idea of the pet bird, the magic of flying, the precision of the planes’ designs.

Dylan demonstrated how the speed of his Raptor and the Defyer can challenge the human eye.

“Being bold and overcoming adversity are important themes in the film,” Dylan told Year 4 and key ingredients to his success in making paper planes a real career. Anyone can be an innovator – they just need a piece of paper and imagination!

The film makers said that the film is deliberately bathed in a golden light and introduces bright colours in the Japanese scenes even though the film was primarily shot in Western Australia. They wanted to make a film that made the audience “look up and out” and to stop looking at screens and mobile devices for a while. The paper plane story is one of lightness and imagination. A ‘traditional’ film in the style of old Hollywood. In many ways, it made way for other traditional children’s stories on screen – like Oddball. When this was mentioned, one of the Year 4 students piped up – “the girl who plays the lead role in Oddball is at our school!”. What connections!

The energy in the room took an even more upward turn when Dylan produced a variety of paper planes and the students tried the folding for themselves with a grand finale of airborne creations.

The session was just plane amazing.

For more about Paper Planes go to http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3328716/

Dylan Parker (far left at back) shares his paper plane expertise

GOOD CAUSE FOR MENTION

THE IGS COMMUNITY HAS RALLIED AROUND FOR SEVERAL GOOD CAUSES INCLUDING RUOK DAY (FOR MENTAL HEALTH WELLBEING), WEAR IT PURPLE DAY (FOR ACCEPTANCE AND DIVERSITY), WHITE RIBBON DAY (TO RAISE AWARENESS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE) AND A VISIT FROM TELEVISION PERSONALITY SCOTT TWEEDIE TO PROMOTE THE REELISE FILM COMP FOR CYBER SAFETY

On RUOK Day, activities ranged from a gratitude wall to mindful artwork. Several thousand dollars were raised for charities and causes over all the events.

Early Learning also raised money for the Children’s Hospital (Randwick) Gold Appeal and some little representatives presented a big cheque to the Hospital.

INDEPENDENT THINKERS BRING PASSIONS TO PROJECTS

Jonas Meyer with his Enigma Machine project

EACH YEAR, OUR YEAR 6 STUDENTS CHOOSE INDEPENDENT RESEARCH TOPICS (IRTs) AND CREATE A VAST ARRAY OF PROJECTS, MODELS, ARTWORKS AND FILMS OVER MANY WEEKS

Project-based learning across the curriculum is a powerful practice at IGS. Because they choose their own topic based on a strong interest, passion or curiosity, the students’ final achievements are always rewarding and quite amazing for the observer.

The students also present their project in class. Just some examples: a replicated Enigma machine, a model television studio, a courtroom diorama, the challenges facing the Great Barrier Reef, the political landscape, ancient costume and architecture, medieval and James Bond weapons and many more! Observe some of their creations on these pages!

“ My three passions in life are animals, acting and animal rights, so what better way to show my passions them make my IRT topic 'How were animals treated in early film and TV?” COCO

GILLIES

“ I chose to do Codebreaking - "How have Codes been used throughout History"initially because I really enjoyed the film "The Imitation Game" about Alan Turing and the breaking of the Enigma code, and how it affected the outcome of World War II. When I looked further into it I saw how Codebreaking has been used throughout history, particularly in warfare, and thought it was an interesting subject.”

JONAS MEYER

Coco Gillies

Year 6 students proudly show off their IRT projects

INTERNATIONAL DAY

IGS’S TRADITIONAL INTERNATIONAL DAY EACH YEAR HELPS DEVELOP OUR STUDENTS’ INTERCULTURAL CAPABILITY AND SENSITIVITY –ESSENTIAL AS THEY MATURE AND GROW IN TODAY’S WORLD

By daring and design

Last semester’s special day was no exception with the 2016 theme Global Architecture complementing the School’s strategic area of action to reimagine and redesign the school campus through the development of our first Master Plan for all of the School’s sites.

In her opening address at the special assembly, Principal Shauna Colnan said "Here in Ultimo, one of the coolest suburbs in Sydney, we love our jacaranda-lined streets, our cafes and shops, the shock of the new.

design. Diane has another close connection with the IGS community as she is also former IGS teacher/acting Principal Eddie Jones’ sister!

This year, we not only worked in collaboration with IGS parents, but also with PTW Architects who sent several staff members to work with our students. They designed a number of incredible workshops that engaged our students.

All the workshops stretched our students’ imaginations and engaged them at all levels.

“

[IGS's Ultimo] is an education and innovation hub, home to a Geary, and arguably more like downtown Manhattan than Paris these days, but a cosmopolitan neighbourhood that we love very much.” PRINCIPAL SHANA COLNAN

At left: On International Day 2016.

This is an education and innovation hub, home to a Geary, and arguably more like downtown Manhattan than Paris these days, but a cosmopolitan neighbourhood that we love very much".

Ms Colnan then introduced special guest and architect Diane Jones* who recounted her key role in the design of the Reg St Leon Building (Kelly Street campus) in the ‘90s at the formal assembly and inspired the school community about the possibilities and power of space and

The students also loved the Country Rooms and Food stalls, and without the many, many parents who donate their time to running them it would not be possible to showcase the world food and cultural of IGS families.

* Diane Jones is a Director at PTW Architects and an Adjunct Professor at UNSW Faculty of Built Environment. Her best known work includes the Prince Henry Hospital at Little Bay, IGS and heritage work on the King Street Courts

Photo by Allison Lee.

Shauna Colnan and Diane Jones

Scenes from International Day 2016

MEET SARAH BUTLER, MUSIC TEACHER AND RECENTLY APPOINTED VICE PRESIDENT OF THE AUSTRALIAN BAND AND ORCHESTRA DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION

I came to IGS as a woodwind tutor by invitation from the Head of Music at that time, Michele Ellis. Over the years, my role as Band Coordinator were harnessed by the Director of Music, Alison Housley where my position grew each year as the band program expanded.

Recently I was voted Vice President of the Australian Band and Orchestra Directors Association. Previously I had been a committee member for two years. This is a tremendous honor to be able to volunteer within the New South Wales branch to assist in the development of other conductors and educators. This position allows me to contribute to fellow conductors and through their development contribute to music education for hundreds of school and community music students.

Being a conductor is a very solo job and by its design there is one conductor per ensemble. As such, it doesn’t allow for the chance to discuss or share any professional development with other specialist teachers. The benefit to my students at International Grammar School is that I have access through volunteering, to cutting edge educational techniques that I can transfer to the many students participating in the music program. In future, I would like to see the continuation of the current support for Australian compositions for Wind Band continue and grow at IGS.

STAFF PROFILES

MEET CLAIRE LOH, SCIENCE TEACHER, CO - ORDINATOR OF THE ROBOTICS CLUB (RIGS) AND OUR NEW STEAM INNOVATOR

How did you come to IGS

I found out about IGS 15 years ago when I was researching a preschool for my 6 - month - old son. I thought the Languages focus sounded like a fantastic idea, and put his name down immediately. Unfortunately, we then moved to the northern beaches and he missed out on an IGS Junior School education. I became a Science teacher in 2009 and ended up applying for a position in the Science department at IGS, starting in 2015. Finally, I have both my sons here, in Years 8 and 10 and enjoying the fantastic learning experiences in our school. I only wish they had come here sooner!

How did you come to be involved in the STEAM Area

The “S” is easy, as I’m passionate about Science, and particularly keen to see more girls and women involved in Science and Technology. My Technology and Engineering involvement began because of my sons. We had a Lego Mindstorms kit and I eventually started taking my elder son to a FIRST robotics club at the University of Sydney (USYD) in 2015. After a Term with the University Club, I thought our own IGS students might also enjoy the problem solving challenge of the FIRST Robotics Competition. Our rIGS club came together the following term with help and support from the USYD team. rIGS’ first robot “Major Tom” was

built for the 2016 competition and we have just built and run our 2017 entry. I’m still learning more about how to include ”A” in the “STEM” and “STEM” in the “A”. I’m sure 2017 will be an exciting year.

How do you get a dozen or so 13-15-year-olds to build a robot in 6 weeks?

I’ve found that when young people are fully engaged in a “real” problem solving experience they tend to drive themselves!! The challenges have been finding enthusiastic and knowledgeable mentors to guide them. I have been very lucky that our students have had access to a fabulous group of parents, ex-IGS students and USYD engineers. These guys have given their time as volunteers to our students. Their guidance is invaluable and I feel very lucky to get to learn from them. With guidance from these mentors, and their own natural enthusiasm and curiosity our rIGS students can achieve almost anything.

What is this year’s robot called?

A student named it The Cracken, socalled because this year's robot had a large crack on the side when it fell from pull rope during practice.

What do you like doing when you aren’t at school

I like to walk my dogs, read crime or fantasy fiction, swim and search out new places to enjoy good coffee!!

MEET CARMELO FEDELE, IGS’S INAUGURAL COMMERCE TEACHER (2016)

What is your background in teaching and learning?

I was an accountant in a previous life, but a volunteer experience with children led to the idea that a career working with young people might suit me more than working with spreadsheets. In the eight years since completing my Graduate Diploma in Education, I have taught Geography, Commerce, Business Studies, History, Religion and Society and Culture, in six schools, across three cities (Sydney, Wollongong and London) alongside countless wonderful people. It has been quite the adventure and I still get to use spreadsheets.

When and how did you come to IGS?

I responded to a job advertisement knowing very little about IGS. However, when I visited the School for an interview, I was struck by its unique culture and atmosphere, particularly its genuine sense of community and diversity. I left the interview with Jonathan White and David Hamper having asked at least twice as many questions as they had and giving serious consideration to the prospect of a new role at IGS. Within a couple of days I had accepted the position.

What is it like being the first Commerce teacher at IGS?

I really enjoy teaching the Commerce course. Students learn about the things I often hear people say “why didn’t I learn that at school?”. It is a broad introduction to commercial topics such as law, business and economics. Being the first Commerce teacher at IGS provided the opportunity to reimagine the curriculum and redesign topics from scratch. Commerce naturally lends itself to learning about the world but I hoped to achieve this in an innovative and collaborative way.

I created a project based task called Young Enterprise which challenges groups of students to plan, pitch and execute an entrepreneurial idea.

What else does your role involve?

I am also a passionate Geographer, which may seem an odd pairing but they are both essentially about systems of understanding the world. I am part of an excellent team of Geographers and Historians in the HSIE faculty who are planning and implementing the new National Curriculum. I am a Kuyal tutor which allows me to be an active part of the co - curricular life of the School.

I have a keen interest in educational innovation and am supporting the implementation of the School’s new Learning Management System as a “Canvas Coach”.

What were the highlights of your first year at IGS?

There were many highlights in my first year. Young Enterprise Day was a colourful culmination of a year of ideas and energy from Commerce students. Arts Fest was a wonderful example of the creative uniqueness of IGS and Kuyal did particularly well as I recall. I also enjoyed the opportunity to contribute to the professional learning of colleagues by giving a brief provocation about the “gamification of learning” during a staff development day. Finally, the school picnic at the beach was a fantastic conclusion to the year.

What do you like to do outside of school? Your hobbies?

I love being outdoors cycling, diving, rock- climbing, hiking, camping and travelling to interesting new places, but my favourite outdoor activity is diving, especially on coral reefs with scuba gear. When I’m forced inside, I enjoy reading and playing guitar.

MEET GEORGE MORAD, NEWLY APPOINTED HEAD OF ENGLISH

What is your background in teaching and learning?

2017 marks my 22nd year as a teacher. I have spent the majority of my career teaching in a range of Catholic schools from single sex (boys and girls) to co - ed. I have been a Head of English for six years but have also taught History, IPT and Studies of Religion

When did you come to IGS?

I started IGS at the beginning of the 2017 school year

What is it like being a senior HSC English marking supervisor?

It’s an interesting and rewarding experience being the Supervisor of Marking for Section 1 of the Advanced/ Standard English HSC. Interesting as you encounter challenges like how a single verb in a question changes the scope of a student’s response. Rewarding because you spearhead a team that is diligently working in the best interests of every student in NSW (nearly 60,000 students)

And/or what would you like to happen for you and the students at IGS?

I would like the students to ignite or fan the flames of passion for the written word. To see students at lunch sitting around discussing classic fiction, moving poetry and passionate drama.

I want students to be able to walk away from any task, project, exam, assignment etc, look themselves in the mirror and declare that they gave it their all

What do you like to do outside of school? Your hobbies?

I do like to travel and find myself gravitating to London and Paris when I get the chance. My next travel adventure will be to Germany and Austria.

It probably goes with the territory that I like reading so I always have number of texts I’m reading at any given time. At the moment I’m re - reading Cat on a Hot Tin Roof by Tennessee Williams.

THE JOY OF SPORT

IGS students of all ages have been in the swim; at their own Olympics; on horseback; and on the track and field –with several regional qualifiers.

ALUMNAE IN THE NEWS

IN THIS ISSUE OF JIGSAW, WE FOLLOW A FEW MEDIA STORIES WHICH APPEARED IN THE SUNDAY MAGAZINES – AND FEATURED OUR VERY OWN ALUMNAE ON THE TOPIC OF FAMILY, SCHOOL AND CREATIVE PURSUITS

Madeleine Madden (Class of 2014) has appeared in several screen and stage productions since graduating from IGS in 2014. Recently she has played Corrie in ABC Television’s Tomorrow When the War Began

The Sydney Morning Herald’s ‘Sunday Life’ magazine selected Madeleine as one of five proud and accomplished Australian women in a lead - up story to Australia Day. Madeleine spoke about her family, her grandfather Charles Perkins AO and about her appreciation of her senior years at IGS.

“ But I love learning, so I went back to school and completed year 11 and 12 at the International Grammar School. They celebrate diversity and I never heard one racist comment there. In the end, I loved it and I’m glad I went back.” MADELEINE MADDEN

A message from Julia Glass IGS

DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT

AFTER SEVERAL MONTHS SPENT AWAY FROM IGS WORKING IN THE CORPORATE RELATIONS OFFICE OF THE SYDNEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA, IGS ALUMNA JULIA GLASS IS LOOKING FORWARD TO RE-ENGAGING WITH THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY AND TO RECONNECTING WITH PARENTS, STAFF, STUDENTS, ALUMNI AND FRIENDS OF IGS AS THE SCHOOL’S NEW DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT…

2017 is sure to be an exciting year for our community and I am looking forward to working on a series of community activities with you all. This includes engaging with our Alumni on reunion events, continuing with our Annual Giving program to raise funds for key areas of the School including for our Indigenous Scholarships, pursuing meaningful activities around International Women’s Day and other special days in the calendar, and connecting our senior students with parents and Alumni through a mentoring program.

It is an honour to be able to return to the School that gave me so much, and I truly feel fortunate to work for an organisation that reflects so many of my own personal values. These include

respect for others, openness to the world and to discovering new things, resilience, a thirst for knowledge as well as having a strong sense of personal morals and ethics. IGS is and always has been a very special place to be.

Please feel free to contact me if you would like to keep up to date with IGS news, if you have changed contact details, if you have a story to share with our community, or if you have any ideas around further community engagement initiatives that you would like to see at IGS going forward.

Warm regards,

Julia Glass IGS Class of ’03 juliag@igssyd.nsw.edu.au (02) 9219 6778

Isabella Manfredi (Junior High School) and Bertie Blackman (Class of 1999) appeared in the ‘Sunday Life’ magazine in September 2016 leading up to Father’s Day. They both spoke fondly of their fathers’ influence in their younger years. Isabella (daughter of chef Stefano Manfredi) is the front woman for band The Preatures and Bertie Blackman (daughter of artist Charles Blackman) is an indie singer and artist. Bertie’s HSC artwork hangs in the front atrium of IGS’s main campus.

We are very proud of you Madeleine, Isabella and Bertie!