21 SEPTEMBER 2018
TERM 3 • 21 SEPETEMBER 2018 • VOLUME 308
From the Principal Mrs Nicola Taylor
Readers of The Australian Newspaper last weekend may have seen the article entitled “Shift to Radical Curriculum”. It spoke of a review of the Australian Curriculum, a possible change to the implementation of the Australian Curriculum to focus on a more explicit emphasis of ‘21st Century Skills’. However, if the article is anything to go by, it speaks more of the shifting sand of educational imperative which may be determined by factors and metrics far removed from the classroom. ACARA’s recently retired chairman Professor Stephen Schwartz came out in criticism of the review with the following comment. "The 21st Century skills movement is the latest in a long line of educational fads… In each case, the early enthusiasm gave way to disillusion. The problem is always the same: children who cannot learn to be critical thinkers until they have actually learned something to think about…” ACARA was an active participant in the OECD’s Education 2030 position paper which considered a list of constructs that could find their way into the curriculum. Constructs such as adaptability, compassion, equity, global mindset, gratitude, hope, integrity, motivation, justice, mindfulness, resilience, respect, purposefulness and trust.
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21 SEPTEMBER TO 19 OCTOBER 2018 IGSSA Semi Finals/Finals 22/9/18 Boarders Church Service - St Marks UNE 23/9/18 Boarders' Farewell to Year 12 Dinner 24/9/18 Year 5 Asia Movie Night 25/9/18 Years 10 and 11 Thailand Trip Preparation Meeting 26/9/18 Valedictory Day 27/9/18 Term Ends - Senior School 27/9/18 Staff Day - Senior School Only 28/9/18 Term Ends - Junior School 28/9/18 Fiji Service Learning Trip 28/9 - 9/10/18 Thailand Service Learning Trip 30/9 - 9/10/18 Labour Day Public Holiday 1/10/18 Silver/Gold Duke of Ed 5/10 - 8/10/18 2018 Inter-School Horse Extravaganza - ISHE 11/10 - 15/10/18 Boarders Return 14/10/18 Australia Unites - A Night for the Farmers Concert - TBC 14/10/18 School Resumes 15/10/18 HSC Exams begin 18/10/18 Years 6, 7 and 8 Social 19/10/18 Years 9, 10 and Pathways Social 19/10/18
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Schools have a key role and purpose in the education of children which cannot be replicated as readily by any other social agency. Schools also have limitations where the family, Church or other social agencies may be more effective educators. One of the strengths of the Independent Sector, and privileges as a Christian School is to provide a holistic education, focusing on the mind - through a main focus on academic endeavour; body - through participation in sport, outdoor education and co-curricular programs such as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award; and spirit - through Christian Studies, Chapel and Pastoral Care. As we continue to embed the Learning Journey @ PLC Armidale our focus addresses the intent of the OECD’s constructs, considers 21st Century Learning competencies without lessening the focus on student learning, academic rigour and quality teaching practice.
NEW PREFECTS Head Prefect - Lucy Martin Deputy Head Prefect & Spiritual Leader - Sarah Miron
NEWS
As I read through the OECD’s list, I couldn’t help but reflect upon a time when these constructs would not be in the purview of schools but would very much be the responsibility of the family and Church to instruct, train and develop. In these contexts, a framework and real-world application are provided by which compassion, gratitude, resilience, trust and equity may develop naturally and effectively.
Creative Arts Prefect - Isla Biffin Sports Prefect - Mia Emanuel Boarding House Prefect - Larris Cleal Forest Guild Captain & Prefect - Ria Kealey Forest Deputy Guild Captain - Eleanor Harrell Gregory Guild Captain & Prefect - Jessica Mabbott Gregory Deputy Guild Captain - Kathleen MacDougall Macquarrie Guild Captain & Prefect - Mia Tindale Macquarrie Deputy Guild Captain - Isobel Harris Wentworth Guild Captain & Prefect - Aisha Kliendienst Wentworth Deputy Guild Captain - Ella Atkin
Prefect Induction Assembly The Prefect Induction Assembly will take place in the Commencement Assembly on Monday 15 October. After this assembly, all of Year 11 will participate in a Leadership Training Day.
Anna Caldwell
Head of Senior School
R BE t O en CT m O nt 2 oi -1 pp 10 y a b
THE UNIFORM SHOP School Holiday Opening Times Dear Parents and Caregivers,
The Uniform Shop will be open for fittings during the Term 3 school holidays on: - Wednesday 10th 9.00am -1.00pm by appointment only - Thursday 11th 2.30pm-4.30pm by appointment only - Friday 12th 9.00am-4.30pm by appointment only Bookings are essential.
Normal opening hours next week Tuesday & Thursday 8.30am - 4.30pm to be organised for next term
The shop will be open next week on Tuesday and Thursday normal trading times. It is recommended that all new and existing students that require new uniforms for 2019 are to book a fitting appointment. The shop will also be open on the first day back to school , Monday 15th October from 8.30am to 12.00pm and 1.00pm to 4.30pm E: plcarmidale@alinta.com.au P: 02 6770 1703 W: www.alintaapparel.com.au
Mrs Shona Eichorn, Director of Development, returns Tuesday 2 October 2018 Any stories to tell? Should you wish to have any achievement or activity promoted, please send the information to events@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
Shona Eichorn • Director of Development Sally McCook • Enrolments Manager development@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au enrolments@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
Nicky Webster • Events & Communications Assistant Amy Chiu • Pathways Liaison events@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au achiu@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
AND… don’t forget to LIKE US on Facebook and Instagram! 02 6770 1700 • www.plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
TERM 3 - 21 SEPTEMBER 2018 - VOL 308
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For enquires, please contact Events and Communications Assistant, Mrs Nicky Webster
events@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
EVENTS
Upcoming Events 2018
SEPTEMBER 2018 Year 12 Valedictory Assembly Followed by morning tea in the garden.
Thursday 27 September 2018 • 9.00am Astra Arts Centre
Please contact Nicky on 6770 1700 or email events@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
OCTOBER Australia Unites: A Night for the Farmers Concert Sunday 14 October 2018 • 7.30pm - 10.30pm (TBC) Livestream of a Sydney drought relief fundraiser concert Tickets $15 + gst • Look out for details on Facebook
Please contact Nicky on 6770 1700 or email events@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
Junior School Eat & Beat Festival
A celebration of food and creative arts at PLC Armidale Junior School. Friday 26 October 2018 • 4.00pm - 6.30pm The feast starts at 5.30pm Dress up in a food inspired costume.
RSVP juniorschool@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
PLC ARMIDALE P&F presents
High Tea
GARDEN PARTY
An afternoon of elegance in the beautiful grounds of PLC Armidale during the Old Girls Reunion weekend. Saturday 27 October 2018 • 3.00pm Purchase tickets $40 at www.trybooking.com/WFOA
NOVEMBER Annual
Starry Night
of Sport
To celebrate the many sporting successes at PLC Armidale Saturday 10 November 2018 • 6.30pm - 10.30pm Armidale City Bowling Club • Cocktail Dress Purchase tickets $40 per person (parents and students) at www.trybooking.com/YHRS Bookings essential by Monday 5 November 2018
Please contact Nicky on 6770 1700 or email events@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
02 6770 1700 • www.plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
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Anna Caldwell, Head of Senior School
Farewell to our Year 12’s
Term 4 Uniform
Next week our Year 12’s will be finishing school. This next phase of their lives is important as it marks the end of their childhood and their years at school. It is a rite of passage, a milestone that is recognised and celebrated through our final assemblies and formal Valedictory events, which will be held next week.
All students will return to school in their Summer Uniform.
I would like to take this opportunity to wish them all well with their HSC Examinations and in all their future endeavours.
Term 4 Term 4 starts on Monday 15 October, with boarder’s returning on Sunday 14 October. Monday will start at 8.40am with our Commencement Assembly. Classes will resume as normal after the assembly for Years 7 - 10.
Social There will be a Social with PLC Armidale, TAS and NEGS on Friday 19 October, 7- 9pm. Years 6, 7 and 8 will be held at PLC Armidale in the DKC. Years 9 and 10 will be held at NEGS. All students in Years 9 and 10 will travel to and from the Social by bus. Girls are to be collected from PLC Armidale at 9pm. No student is to be collected from NEGS.
This includes the tartan summer dress that is long enough to reach the bottom of the knee when standing, green or red jumper, blazer, white hat, white turn over ankle socks and black school shoes. Green or red hair ribbons and regulation jewellery.
SENIOR SCHOOL
Senior School Notes
Drink Bottles A reminder that all students are allowed to carry water bottles with them to each of their classes throughout the day. This is not only for their overall health, but reduces the time out of class when students leave to get a drink of water. Please ensure that the bottles are plastic, not glass, and have a drinking spout / closed lid to prevent spillages. Please ensure that all water bottles are washed regularly.
Grandparents' Day Grandparents' Day was a lovely day - thank you everyone who came! It was good to celebrate their support, wisdom, love and kindness in the lives of our girls!
Please refer to the dress code in our Socials’ Protocols, which can be found in the front section of the Student Diaries.
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SENIOR SCHOOL
Year 9 Designs Well done Year 9 for your fabulous jewellery. It is wonderful seeing staff around the grounds fashioning your designs! The fund raising was for Open Doors - supporting Christians who are persecuted for their faith in Jesus.
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da Vinci Decathlon 2018
Year 5
Year 6
Year 7
Year 8
Year 9/10 Green
Year 9/10 Blue
Congratulations to all these girls! Thank you Mrs Belson, Ms Ward and Mr Davidson for all the preparation and for taking the girls there.
Year 5 Team
Year 6 Team
Year 7 Team
Year 8 Team
Year 9/10 Green Team
Year 9/10 Blue Team
Maggie Zhen
Holly Duaparas
Kaylee Swick
Emma Dauparas
Jess Li
Sarah Hughes
Amelie Van Der Werf
Scarlett Loxley
Emily Thompson
Isabelle Douglass
Isabelle Taylor
Lily Coleman
Khushi Aila
Anviti Sinha
Harriet Gilpin
Sarah Waters
Thurkka Jeyakumar
Charlotte Thomas
Teya Catterall
Abi Thompson
Charlotte Baker
Azaria Jones
Rachael Kenrick
Shuning (Jessica) Gu
India Smith
Neve Daugherty
Zoe Martin
Maya Hess
Olivia Hoppe
Josephine Flint
Zoe Webb
Keira Peet
Makenzie Robertson
Amelia Wake
Pearl Rogers
Paris Whibley
Sophie Young
Mabel Spencer
Laura Smitham
Lucinda Caldwell
Yujie (Stella) Sun
Meng (Teresa) Yuan
Zabella Hinds
Kate Spencer
Gabrielle Cotterell
Destiny Mills
Ziqi (Helen) Zhou
Shaun (Shaunie) Yu
Teacher: Stephanie Belson 2018
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Year 5 Team
Year 8 Team
We all really enjoyed our experience at Da Vinci. We all agreed that it was challenging and really fun and exciting. We loved working as a group and it all strengthened our group working skills. We had 10 different challenges. They were Cartography, Code Breaking, Ideation, Science, Maths, English, General Knowledge, Creative Producers, Art & Poetry and Engineering.
On 29 August this year, 8 girls were selected from Year 8 to go to the Da Vinci Decathlon. The girls selected from year 8 were, Maya Hess, Azaria Jones, Sarah Waters, Isabelle Douglass, Destiny Mills, Lucy Caldwell, Amelia Wake and Emma Dauparas.
We came 1st in Science, 2nd in English and Cartography and 3rd in Creative Producers. We had a lot of fun and the food was great. “Especially the donuts” says India “No the pies and chips were the best” says Zoe. That goes to show we really enjoyed the food. Zoe Webb, Khushi Aila, Amelie Van Der Werf, Sophie Young, Teya Catterall, Maggie Zhen, Zabella Hinds and India Smith.
Year 6 Team We started our day off at school and were all really excited but had no idea how much of a challenge would come throughout the day. We got on the bus and talked about finalising the team. When we got there we saw Mrs Belson and she sent us up stairs into the hall where the competition took place. We excitedly found our table and took our seats, we were greeted by many teachers and the supervisors from KNOX GRAMMAR SCHOOL. After the introduction we got started, the first session was Maths, English, Science and Ideation. Our team found maths the hardest. Though all of them gave us a challenge. After the first session we had morning tea. After morning tea session two started. The subjects were, Creative Producers, Engineering, Art and Poetry and Cartography, we found this session difficult as we didn’t know how interdependent we all were and it taught us about teamwork. After session two we had Lunch. We enjoyed a very special menu and it gave us a break from all of the hard thinking. After lunch session three started we split of into two teams, for general knowledge and code breaking. While we were waiting, we had a type of test that really challenged our team working skills. Then we had the award ceremony, overall the Year 6 PLC Armidale team did really well coming first in Engineering and second in Code Breaking. Despite all of the challenges we held ourselves together and managed to have a really fun day that we will all remember. Keira Peet On behalf of year six
The Da Vinci Decathlon was an exciting challenge. Everyone had to think creatively and we had to apply ourselves to every aspect of the tasks. In the first section of the day, we tested our knowledge in Science, Maths, Ideation and English. These subjects proved to be a challenge for every team in the competition as we had to be creative and we had to think logically. In the middle section of the day, we undertook the Creative Producers, Engineering, Art and Poetry and Cartography. We all put a lot of effort into these tasks and our work paid off. The last two tasks for the day were Code Breaking and General Knowledge which tested our skills greatly. We all worked really hard and ended up placing in a lot of the categories which was a big achievement for us as we all put in a really big effort. At the end of the day, we ended up coming first overall, a really great and pleasing result. Another great thing about the Da Vinci Decathlon is that it was a chance for us to socialise with others. This is something else that made the day so enjoyable other than the actual tasks. The Decathlon was a great day out and we would all recommend for anyone who is given the opportunity to go in future years. Maya Hess, Azaria Jones and Sarah Waters
Year 9/10 Green Team da Vinci Decathlon was an incredible experience that challenged each and every person on our team. We all performed extremely well under very difficult time pressures and in very unusual circumstances. We came away with a Second place, following after Glen Innes High School. da Vinci provided us girls with an opportunity to showcase our talents and abilities in an interesting and engaging way. We all agree that it was a very beneficial activity and encourage any one else who may want to take part in years to come. " It was a good end to the past 6 years that we’ve been doing da Vinci, especially to end on a high for the girls who’ve been doing it with from the beginning. Other girls; like Stella, who were doing it for the first time found it both really fun and challenging. Our results reflected our team work and coherence; overall it was a rewarding experience." Thurkka Jeyakumar, Pearl Rogers, Jess Li, Rachael Kenrick, Izzy Taylor, Helen Zhou, Stella Sun and Olivia Hoppe
02 6770 1700 • www.plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
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Fiona Wake, Head of Junior School
As Term 3 concludes both students and staff are to be commended for their application and commitment to achieving the learning goals set at the beginning of the term. Much learning has taken place outside of the classroom also with Pastoral Care and the Co-curricular programs providing opportunities for learning of a different sort.
Winter sport concludes and our summer sports begin Congratulations to all of our Junior School teams who have displayed wonderful sportsmanship and improved skills in their chosen sports. I would also like to thanks parents and guardians for their endless support when transporting their daughter/s to their weekly games and standing by the sideline showing your support and encouragement. When we return for Term 4 we will commence our Summer Sports, please ensure your daughter’s Sports contract is completed and handed to Lucy Donaldson to ensure your daughter is placed in a team and has permission to participate in her chosen sport.
Starry Night Concert A night of dazzle and amazement! It is a special treat for grandparents, parents and our extended PLC Armidale community to be entertained by our up and rising musicians. It is also a wonderful opportunity to have our students perform and showcase their musical prowess and develop confidence in front of an audience.
JUNIOR SCHOOL
Junior School News
New England Sings Please find attached the final schedule and run down of the events of the final weekend for New England Sings. Saturday 20 October REHEARSAL 10.30am to 12.30pm Sunday 21 October PERFORMANCE 1.15pm to 4.30pm Location: Lazenby Hall UNE
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JUNIOR SCHOOL
Feature Class: Kindergarten and Year 1 This term in our classroom we have been very engaged in our Science unit - Paddock to Plate. Our Inquiry questions have included: • Where does our food come from? • What do living-things need to survive? • What are some foods that come to us from a farm? As a class we have looked closely at the process of milk, honey, rice, apples, fish and wheat. The students explored in detail the process of milk and wheat from the paddock to our plate. They presented their learning to the class and shared their presentations with their family on Seesaw. We have also enjoyed cooking some Honey Biscuits using many ingredients that came from a farm. Our unit wrapped up with trying to make butter the old-fashioned way – using plenty of hard work. We then enjoyed this on some yummy bread that we made!! Responsible Digital Citizens - Pre K are learning to be responsible users of technology. Enjoy a wonderful break with your family, travel safely and I look forward to seeing you when Term 4 commences on 15 October. continued on next page...
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02 6770 1700 • www.plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
JUNIOR SCHOOL
Junior School Eat & Beat Festival
You are invited to join us for a celebration of food and creative arts at PLC Armidale Junior School.
Dress up in a food inspired costume
Eat & Beat FRIDAY 26 OCTOBER 2018 4.00PM TO 6.30 PM A fun afternoon / evening of food & creative arts for all! The feast will begin at 5.30 pm. Our current students will remain at school after classes to change into their costumes for the event.
Families & friends considering PLC Armidale Junior School for their daughter are especially welcome! This event is part of our Orientation Program for 2019 For catering purposes please RSVP juniorschool@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
In alliance with PLC SYDNEY
What is happening over the following weeks in the Junior School? TERM 3 WEEK 9 • K - 2 PJ Party Friday 21 September
WEEK 10 • Asian Movie Night 25 September • Last day Term 3 Friday 28 September
TERM 4 WEEK 1 • NE Sings Thursday Rehearsal No.4 18 October 12:45pm to 3:00pm • NE Sings performance 20 October and 21 October • Final Rehearsal Saturday 21 October and Performance on Sunday 22 October - Lazenby Hall
WEEK 2 • Eat and Beat Friday 26 October at 4.00pm • High Tea Saturday 27 October at 3.00pm - tickets $40 www.trybooking.com/WFOA • Pre-K Learn to Swim Starts Monday 22 October Further details regarding these events will be forwarded to you when required. www.plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
02 6770 1700 • www.plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
TERM 3 - 21 SEPTEMBER 2018 - VOL 308 • 11
SPORT
Around the Grounds Sports Report Peter Le Surf, Director of Sport
We come to the end of the winter sports season. We can look back at some of the amazing results from our girls. We can also look at the dedication from our players that turned up to training each week, worked hard every time they stepped onto the sporting field, and yet missed out on playing in a final. Not all teams have had the opportunity to experience a finals series. Many people go through their entire sporting life, never getting the opportunity to play in a final; and yet they still keep going! Sport teaches us many things. It teaches us to keep trying and to enjoy the competition. It teaches us to never give up! It teaches us strength of character! Some teams have been fortunate enough to play in two finals' series. • Our senior representative netball team will play in the division 1 final series in Sydney IGSSA competition as well as the division 1 grand final in the ADNA local competition. This will be played at 2:40pm on Saturday 22 September. • Our senior representative hockey team unfortunately lost in the grand final of the local HNE division 2 Open competition last weekend, however they get to make amends, playing in the Division 1 IGSSA Sydney competition this coming weekend. • Our junior representative team also lost in the grand final of the local HNE competition, however they are already into the final of the Junior division 1 IGSSA Sydney competition.
Summer Sports 2018/19 We have plenty on offer this coming summer season. All the sports notices have now been placed on the sports noticeboard, along with contracts to be signed by parents. The contracts give parents and students a brief outline of the expectation of the College, as well as times of games, uniforms to be worn and approximate costs. Please take the time to read this information and then sign the document and return it before the season commences. Students will not be registered for a sport without a signed contract. • Pilates - Tuesday 7am in the DKC. This is open to parents, staff and students. We need a minimum of ten (10) people to sign up to a 6 week program, for this to take place. • General Fitness - Wednesday 6:30am - 6 week program. A great way to stay in shape during the 'off season'. If you wish to represent the College next year, it is a great idea to do some 'off season training'. • Indoor Hockey - Thursday afternoons and evenings. Played at various locations throughout Armidale. The season runs across Term 4 2018 and Term 1 2019. • Twilight Soccer - Tuesday or Thursday evening. Junior teams and an opens team.
• Our PLC 5 netball team has also fought hard to make it into the grand final of the local ADNA competition. This game will be played at 1:20pm on the netball courts at Lynches Rd.
• Tennis Squad Training - Wednesday 4:00-5:30 This is for those looking to represent the College in the Tildesley Shield 2019.
To all our sporting teams this weekend, I wish you the very best and I hope the success you have worked hard for, comes your way.
• Tennis Beginners - Thursday 4:00pm For those looking to 'give tennis a go!' • Touch Football - Wednesday 6:00 or 6:45pm 7 a side games. Season runs across Term 4 and Term 1 2019. • Basketball - Tuesday or Wednesday evening. Played in the Den at Armidale High School. • Twilight Netball - Monday afternoon/evening. Played at Lynches Rd netball courts. • Volleyball - UNE Sports Centre. Days and times still to be confirmed. • Swimming - Squad training. TAS pool 6:15am starts, 2 mornings per week. If you would like any further information on these sports, ask your daughter to collect a contract from the sports noticeboard, or email me and I can send one to you. plesurf@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au I look forward to seeing you on the sidelines this weekend and also for the summer sports.
It is most impressive that five of the nine girls selected for the Hockey New England Representative Indoor U15 Girls 2018 team to play on the Central Coast 12 to 15 October are from PLC Armidale! Congratulations Pip Constable, Heidi Martin, Naomi Martin, Maddie McCook and Laura Smitham.
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SPORT
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SPORT
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SPORT
You are invited to join us to celebrate the many sporting successes at PLC Armidale at the
Annual
Starry Night of
Sport
Saturday 10 November 2018 6.30pm to 10.30pm ARMIDALE CITY BOWLING CLUB
TICKETS: $40 per person (parents and students) DRESS: Cocktail Purchase your tickets from the following link: www.trybooking.com/YHRS Bookings are essential and must be made by Monday 5 November 2018
For Trybooking enquiries please contact Nicky Webster, Events events@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
In alliance with PLC SYDNEY
02 6770 1700 • www.plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
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HUMANITIES
Humanties News
Kate Clynch, Head of Humanities
Geography Competition Geography students from PLC Armidale tested their geographical skill and knowledge against students from all around Australia in the 2018 Australian Geography Competition. Special congratulations to Year 10 student Jesscia Li, and Year 9 student Rachel Kendrick, who both achieved a High Distinction result that placed them in the top 1% of students in their respective year levels in Australia. Head of Humanities, Kate Clynch, said she was very pleased with how PLC Armidale students from Years 7, 9 and 10 who participated in the competition had performed. “ We have many student geographers at our school who performed to a very high level in the competition this year. A number are in the top 1% of their year level across Australia, 8 students gained High Distinctions, 13 gained Distinctions, and 16 Credit certificates were awarded to our students” said Mrs Clynch. “ Over 72,000 students from 743 schools across Australia entered the Australian Geography Competition so the results give us an external benchmark as to how our students are going in certain aspects of geography” she added. The Competition is a joint initiative of the Australian Geography Teachers’ Association and the Royal Geographic Society of Australia, and in NSW is sponsored by Macquarie University. Congratulations students on these excellent results!
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HUMANITIES
The Evatt Competition The Evatt Competition is a Model United Nations Security Council diplomacy competition for students in Years 9 - 12 coordinated by UN Youth with over than 2,000 students competing each year. After engaging in a local round of UN Youth Evatt Debating, we were selected as 2 of 16 teams to attend the State competition, representing regional NSW. The competition itself occurred in State Parliament and takes the form of a mock session of the UN Security Council, one of the principal organs of the United Nations that works to ensure the maintenance of international peace and security, with teams representing countries in order to debate, amend, and vote on resolutions from the perspective of their assigned nation. The contest is named after the notable Herbert 'Doc' Evatt, who was an Australian High Court Justice and a leading Federal politician who became President of the UN General Assembly and helped draft the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and aims to educate young people about Australia’s place in the world and empower them as active citizens by developing public speaking, negotiation, teamwork, research, and diplomatic skills. Jess and Caitlin were chosen to represent Poland and Thurkka and Ria to represent Sweden, utilising critical diplomacy to debate foreign policy and persuade the delegates of the Security Council of their stance, debating resolutions on issues such as the Middle Eastern crisis and the threats of cyber warfare.
We were later given the opportunity to speak to state parliament’s newest member, Cate Faehrmann who after beginning her activism at age eight, depicted how a single voice can inspire change even at a young age. The UN State Competition presented an amazing opportunity in which we not only were able to converse with other like-minded individuals, but was an incredible insight into the necessity of global diplomacy in order to ensure the function of the world's most powerful organisation to create real change.
Thurkka Jeyakumar Year 10
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MUSIC
Music Matthew Minter, Director of Music
Starry Night Of Music This year the Starry Night of Music was held in a new venue, the NECOM auditorium, for PLC Armidale to accommodate the expanding orchestra and wind ensemble. As usual the whole school got behind the event and helped to make it a very special occasion. The girls shared a beautiful and diverse program with a very appreciative and close to full house audience. I would firstly like to thank all the many people involved in making the evening such a success. To the ensemble directors, Director of Strings Ms Joanna Fairs Wu, Mr Phil Oxley, Mr Robert Jackson and Mr Sam Jacometti thank you for your careful preparation of your ensembles over many weeks and months leading up to the event. Thank you also to the accompanists, tutors and instrumental teachers for supporting and coaching the girls over many months, particularly Ms Li Ling Chen and Mr Warwick Dunham. A special thank you to our new Events Coordinator Mrs Nicky Webster, for her tireless work and support in the logistical organisation of this major event. Thank you also to the entire staff of PLC Armidale who all contribute in so many ways, particularly Mrs Millie Graham, Music Admin Assistant,Stage Managers, Miss Danika Blackburn, Mr Jonathon Shumack and Mr Chris O’Neil, to Mrs Robyn Hadfield, Mrs Sally McCook and Mrs Rita Brissett on the front of house, to Miss Jennifer Leahy and Miss Tessa Roe for your excellent marshalling and to Mr Guy Davidson, Mrs Fiona Wake and the Junior School staff Mr Trent Donaldson and Mrs Anna Caldwell for managing the students prior to their performances. Thank you to Creative Arts Prefect Lucy Quast for being an excellent compere, to the P & F for your generosity and expertise with catering, led competently by Mrs Donna Keeping and Mrs Kim Taylor. Thank you also to all the secondary teachers for supervising the students in the auditorium and throughout the venue. The program had several highlights, particularly the PLC Orchestra’s performance of Dvorak Slavonic Dance No. 1. This is a stirring work, full of nostalgia, and inspired by the characteristic rhythms of Slavic folk dances. It has been very pleasing to see the orchestra grow over the previous 2 years in both numbers and experience and to successfully perform challenging and satisfying repertoire is an exceptional accomplishment for the girls involved. The combined wind ensemble’s full concert band performance of Star Wars was also an exciting highlight. Congratulations to Jessica Hughes on her exceptional performance of her HSC ensemble piece, the Schubert Death and the Maiden Quartet and thanks to Robert Jackson, Laura Curotta and Joanna Fairs Wu for joining and supporting her in this exciting project. The Junior School performances are always a special feature of our Starry Night and this year was no exception with highly polished and spirited performances from both the K - 2 choir and the 3 - 6 choir. Joanna Fairs Wu and Phil Oxley did a superb job of leading other Junior School ensembles including the Junior Strings and Treble Makers.
The evening also featured stand out performances by our well established Senior ensembles including the Senior Strings, Bel Canto and the Senior Choir. Congratulations to all the girls involved for showcasing a very high standard of performance and presenting a superb program to our parent and wider community.
HSC Music Exams Congratulations to Jessica Hughes, Lucy Quast and Saskia Kennett for your outstanding HSC performances this week. There were many personal best performances throughout the two days of performances by all three music students. Saskia presented her Music 1 performance program on Tuesday morning and gave, solid, personal best performances across her entire program. Thank you to Ms Leanne Roobol for teaching Saskia voice these past two years and to Mr Warwick Dunham, Mr Sam Jacometti, Ms Li Ling Chen and Miss Arlene Fletcher for accompanying Saskia on Tuesday morning and throughout all of the pre-HSC performances. Jessica and Lucy presented both their Music 2 and Music Extension programs to the HSC examiners on Wednesday afternoon at NECOM. Their performances were exceptional and there were also many personal best performances. It was a very successful afternoon. Thank you particularly to Mrs Robyn Bradley and Ms Li Ling Chen for accompanying, as well as instrumental teachers Ms Laura Curotta, Ms Inge Southcotte and Ms Joanna Fairs Wu and ensemble members Mr Robert Jackson, Mrs Lisa Quast and Mr Kees Grenyer.
HSC Composition Recordings Jessica Hughes and Lucy Quast have recently completed their HSC major composition works for Music 2. These were recorded two weeks ago by Mr Martin Hansford. Thank you Martin for your professional expertise in sound engineering, and thank you continued on next page...
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MUSIC
to the musicians who worked alongside the girls to prepare and perform their final works. These musicians included the year Eleven Music 2 class who performed Lucy's Icelandic work for four voices, harp and four singing wine glasses! It took a very long time to tune the glasses with just the right amount of water and make them ring perfectly on the right notes but thanks to the perseverance of the girls we achieved it! Thank you also to Ms Arlene Fletcher, Mr Robert Jackson, Ms Laura Curotta and Mrs Joanna Fairs Wu for your lovely performance of Jessica's Tango for String Quintet. Congratulations to Lucy and Jessica for your fine artistic work with your compositions.
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‘If you take a child to the theatre, not only will they practice empathy, they might also laugh uproariously, or come home singing about science or want to know more about history, or tell you what happened at school today, or spend all dinner discussing music, or learn how to handle conflict, or start becoming future patrons of the arts.’ - Gunderson PLC Armidale students have had a range of opportunities this term to engage with, learn from and experience a diverse range of insightful and memorable theatre. From being enthralled audience members, engaging in physical theatre workshops with professional artists or playfully performing with peers, this term has been a ‘play of many parts’. Isla Biffin began the term on a high note winning the Crown for the Musical Composition section in the Shakespeare Carnival with her solo Harp Composition of The Merchant of Venice. The Golden Crown sits proudly in Reception for all to see, so please come and have a look! Stefo Nantsou and Tom Lycos - founders of Zeal Theatre Company and professional actors from Sydney - performed The Stones, an Australian play studied in Stage 6 Drama. After watching this uproariously funny, yet horrifically realistic display of risk-taking behaviour of Australian youths, PLC girls were involved in a drama workshop with Nantsou and Lycos developing skills in character development and play-building. A live performance in Sydney of Bell Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet was live streamed at the Hoskin’s Centre where we were able to view this contemporary, highly physical production where star-crossed lovers thrust themselves in to 2018, offering cultural and social challenges where Shakespeare still finds his place. Students greatly enjoyed this experience and particularly enjoyed its relevance to themselves.
It is these real experiences that not only bring scripts to life, but allow the girls to really wonder, and to share opinions about ‘life, the universe and everything’. Our next venture for PLC Armidale Drama is Guild Drama coming up in Term 4. The topics we are choosing from this year are: • ‘Stop! You can’t do that in here!’ • ‘Penguins can’t Dance’ • ‘Just Keep Scrolling’ • ‘My life as the underdog’ • ‘It really isn’t easy being green’ • Someone should do something about that’ • ‘Knock knock’ • ‘You’re not too late…’ • ‘Kids, these days…’
SPEECH AND DRAMA
‘All the World’s a Stage…’
Staff have been voting for their favourite topic in the last few weeks, so if you would like to vote too, please send your vote to jwysel@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au. We will be announcing the choice of topic next week, so now is your chance to vote!
Mrs Joanne Wysel Drama
AMEB speech examinations At the recent AMEB speech examinations, five Year 11 girls were awarded their national Certificate in Voice and Communication Australia - Isla Biffin (A+), Eleanor Harrell, Frances Hebblewhite, Ria Kealey and Alexandria Wright(A+). They are now entitled to put the letters CVCA after their names. They can also claim 3 extra points on their ATAR score for their HSC. These girls made splendid presentations using visual aids showing immense competence in communicating controversial ideas to an audience. This qualification should stand them in good stead in their future University studies.
Mrs Jan Patterson Speech and Drama
Insightful and poignant, Stolen tells the stories of five individuals from the stolen generation, with Van Hout bringing a fresh interpretation to this tender and moving play, shown in Tamworth. Students were moved by this important historical text in the context of Australia today.
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continued on next page...
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SPEECH AND DRAMA
Isla Biffen
Romeo & Juliet
Stolen
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PASTORAL CARE
Pastoral Care Events Paula Goode, Pastoral Care Coordinator
Positive steps The past couple of weeks Pastoral Care has focussed on positive outcomes for the mind and body with the students participating activities in Love Your Body Week, Fresh Face Friday, and RUOK day. It seems fitting that these events are organised as we depart the winter months and start to enjoy what spring has to offer: the trees blossoming, the birds chirping, and that beautiful feeling of the sun on your face… Doesn’t that instantly put you in a better mood? Spring always feels like such a time of renewal and awakening. People often use it as a reason to 'spring clean' their homes - to tidy up and make things feel fresh and new. Reorganising all your closets, cupboards, and drawers can help you feel re-energised. Spring is that time of year when many of us decided to make a positive change, it is a good time to freshen up your mind, body and routines and declutter our lives.
Water is highly important for any cleanse. Water is a living element that removes all toxins. Keep hydrated and give your body a real flush. Practicing mindfulness or meditation - studies have found a huge range of benefits including lowering stress, improving memory, better sleep, and better attention. Stress can wreak havoc on both your mind and body. Identify your sources of stress and think about some of the things you can do to minimise or cope with such pressure, try breathing exercises and meditation. This new season is the opportunity to sweep away the cobwebs and take a positive step towards a better and happier life, mind and body. The change begins with you – do everything you can do to take care of you.
Here are just a few things you can do to help keep your brain in tip-top shape and grow a better you. A good night’s sleep can certainly leave you feeling refreshed, but getting regular sleep is actually critical to your brain’s health. Sleep has been shown to improve memory. Exercise obviously has a wide range of benefits. Those who exercise do better on mental tests, have better memories and are better at paying attention. A healthy diet can also help contribute to a healthy mind. Fatty acids are also essential for proper brain function since they help protect the brain and aid in oxygenation. Fish, nuts, and seeds are good sources of these fatty acids.
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POSITIVE PARENTING
insights Find your tribe by Kate Johnson
Earlier this week, I took my son to his Paediatrician. Sitting in that room instantly brought back memories of times when the appointments were not so rosy. I can remember clearly taking him in during crisis times and getting that all too familiar pit in the stomach and fearing the unknown for him. As we sat there, him reading an old Guinness World Record book and absorbing the information and me, quietly watching him, I reflected on the journey and wondered what we would be facing in this appointment. That first time when we entered this office, it felt lonely. Not the space itself, but the magnitude of supporting our child and having no one in our world who understood. As a parent, we can sometimes (well, a lot of the time!) be hanging on for dear life and hoping we are doing the best job of raising our child. What I have found has changed between our first appointment and now is that I no longer feel like I am navigating this parenting journey without support. Finding your tribe means connecting with others who are loving and leading their children on the Autism Spectrum and who welcome your differences with open arms. It is beautifully refreshing to not be confronted with awkward looks or judgemental glances. Your tribe is the soft place to land when life gets crazy or you feel like you are in over your head. They are a lovely place of comfort after challenging student support group meetings or difficult decisions. Parenting a child with special needs brings a wealth of information and resource ideas. Your tribe can be a source of ideas and strategies from a lived experience. For example, they can share their therapy experiences, which means you can learn from their ideas regarding who to access in your region instead of sitting on waiting lists for professionals whom you have no background on. You might be reading this and have amazing friends, yet still battle with the differences in the parenting journey. I would encourage you to find a tribe. Be part of a community where you are heard, valued and not judged. How do you find a tribe? Speak to your Assistant Principal Your Assistant Principal or Welfare Coordinator should have contacts with a local support service or council representative who will know the groups operating in your region. This is a good place to start! Connect Online There are so many online Facebook groups in local areas that start from a proactive parent seeing a need. Or, connect with a bigger state-based group and put the call out for local Carers. The great thing about small online groups is that the ‘tribe vibe’ remains and can provide support, especially if you can’t attend groups, go to work or
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have a busy therapy schedule. Local online groups can also then put out the call to do dinners and catch ups periodically, which means you can have the joy of face to face communication over dinner! Start your own No groups in your region? Ask your school whether they would be open to starting their own. Gather the parents from your school, meet for a cuppa and chat through the joys and the challenges of parenting. The school can provide the room and you can be part of a supportive and embracing tribe. Having a core group of parents who parent children with Autism may also support the creation of relationships between families, which can be wonderful if your beautiful young person doesn’t have many peers to play with at lunch time. When I walked out of that Paediatrician appointment, I checked my phone. Messages checking how it went and affirming our child had been sent when we were discussing his future. The beauty of being in a tribe is that you get to experience life alongside others, celebrate the wins and work through the challenges, in community. If you are feeling isolated, I encourage you to take that first step to find a tribe. It takes bold courage to step outside of your comfort zone and seek support or friendship, but the rewards of being part of a community of supportive friends and being able to support others, truly outweigh that initial hesitation.
Kate Johnson Kate is the Founder and Director of Spectrum Journeys Inc, a not for profit Autism service that equips and empowers families and educators as they support children on the Autism Spectrum to flourish. Kate leads an amazing team in the Outer East of Melbourne and focuses on practical Autism education as well as community projects and supporting carers. Kate is married to Joel and they have 4 beautiful children (their eldest being on the Autism Spectrum).
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COMMUNITY
Or contact Nicky at events@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
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invite you to attend a
MELBOURNE CUP DAY
SENIOR SCHOOL
Armidale & District Branch
FUNDRAISER
Tuesday 6th November 2018
12 noon in the Auditorium Armidale City Bowling Club • Drinks on arrival • Finger food luncheon • Sweeps • Raffles • Fashions on the Field prizes Fleece to Fashion & Turners Armidale Fashion Parade Big screen race coverage & TAB available
Tickets: $30 each available from Armidale City Bowling Club, Dumaresq St, Armidale Phone 6772 5666
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th
4 Kids Clothing Bazaar Armidale Saturday, 29th September 2018, 8:30am-‐12.30pm at St. Paul’s Church Hall, 137 Faulkner Street Sell and buy kids clothes, toys, books and more: Bring your clothes and we sell them for you and/or come and buy some bargains for your children
For a client number and more information email: kidsclothingbazaar@gmail.com Follow us on facebook: kids clothing bazaar Armidale
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COMMUNITY
HOLIDAY PROGRAM - Monday 8 to Friday 12 October 2018 The Aboriginal Culture Centre and Keeping Place (ACCKP) is once again running a Holiday Program for primary school Children from Monday 8 October to Friday 12 October. The program will run from 9.00am to 12 noon. This program is open to all children of primary school age. The theme for the October Holiday Program is 'Prepare for Christmas'. Children will have the opportunity to learn and carry out activities surrounding this theme. The cost for the morning tea, supervision, materials and activities will be covered by the ACCKP. This holiday program is being funded by the Department of Education. Please pick up and complete a registration form from the ACCKP by the 1 October 2018 to ensure your child/children’s place is confirmed.
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HAVE YOU REGISTERED WITH YOUR FREE DIGITAL NOTICE BOARD? The site is FREE to use for parents and schools benefit from commercial advertising revenue which is shared directly with member schools for internal fundraising.
www.schoolnoticesoz.com
Supporting school fundraising through communication georgie@schoolnoticesoz.com + 61(0)419 402 666 kate@schoolnoticesoz.com +61(0)474 850 540 02 6770 1700 • www.plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
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COMMUNITY
Headspace is a National Youth Mental Health Organisation. Free, self-referred counselling to young people aged 12-25 with a focus on their overall well-being. For further information please contact:
Laura Murray 02 6738 7216 • l.murray@centacarenenw.com.au Centacare building, 150 Rusden Street Armidale
Sometimes, we all need someone different to talk to.
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Purchase your copy of
Pre-ordered copies are in the mail. Please come to the main reception to purchase your copy.
Commemorating and celebrating the people, the provisions and the perspectives of PLC Armidale’s past and present community
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