RHHS Missing Link 2016 Term 2

MISSING LINK

Term 2 2016

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT Some years as a principal are more exciting than others because you get to see many of the plans and programs designed by staff and students come together.

In this term’s Missing Link, you will read about an incredibly successful term, with a combination of deep academic work based on new ways of 21st century learning and critical capability based learnings for students based on participating in range of cocurricular and extra-curricular activities.

By participating in sports, public speaking, debating, mock trial, leadership, wellbeing and personalised learning programs students have demonstrated the new “hard skills” of collaboration, decision making, critical and creative thinking, working together, use of new technologies, intercultural communication and selfevaluation.

We would not be having this success, nor would we be able to change the ways we work without the dedication of our staff, the personal engagement of the parents and the support of an increasing number of powerful partners, who see Rooty Hill HS as a centre of opportunity and innovation.

It has been a wonderful term and I would like to extend special congratulations to our new SRC members, Year 7 Ambassadors, successful teams and students selected for regional and CHS teams. There were many pieces of recognition issued at the Presentation Assemblies for a wide range of special efforts. I would also like to congratulate Year 12 students on their growth as students and their efforts in the trial HSC examinations.

Enjoy a safe and happy holiday break.

Christine Cawsey AM Principal

Strategic Partnerships In Term 2 we reviewed all our partnerships (both operational and strategic) and would like to list and thank the strategic partners whose contributions were recognised in that review.

• ABCN (technology) • AFL Indigenous Academy Program and GWS Giants • AIME • Ashurst / NBN Co - LEAPS • Cycle for Happiness • Ex-Students • HANBAN - Confucius Classroom • Health Department Western Sydney SALSA • Learning Neighbourhood • Make your Mark • M i t c h e l l I n s t i t u t e - Yo u n g Entrepreneurs Project • Mock Trial/Law Society • School Council / P&C • Rooty Hill RSL SGAC (gym) Girls Make Your Move • STEM Partners: DofE, USyd, UTS, CSIRO • Social Ventures Australia (SVA) • SVA Collaboration with Plumpton H.S. • Western Sydney Institute of TAFE: TradeTraining Centre, TVET, Taste of TAFE • UNSW: Robo Cup, Practicum Partnership, Robo Gals • USYD: Stem, Compass Program, Practicum • WSU: Ningbo (since 2008), Pathe, Fast Forward I would like to thank four new partners in particular.

1. A s p a r t o f t h e n e w S VA Collaboration, we have a new team member Ana Lovric, who will work with us for the next 18 months as an employment specialist assisting students in the senior school to find vocational opportunities in new industries and 21st century careers.

2. The Mitchell Institute has sponsored a project with 11 schools in greater western Sydney

and Rooty Hill is the lead school.

The school is using this program to develop the “work and enterprise” capabilities of students with a strong focus on student initiated and designed learning focused on entrepreneurship.

3. The University of Sydney has offered our students many opportunities to participate in university programs through its Compass program to engage students in seeking a university pathway.

4. Western Sydney University has invited Year 9 students to begin a four year program (Fast Forward) that will engage them with the university and result in offers for university places during Year 12.

Year 9 Fast Forward Program

P&C and School Council At the P&C AGM in March, the P&C did not have a quorum and, as a result decided to allow the P&C to lapse. Despite many years of effort, the small number of parents involved with the P&C have struggled and, as a result the school is currently exploring a range of new ways to “personalise” parent engagement through one to one contact, social media and the promotion of key events for parents.

A decision was made to continue to have parents involved in school decision making through membership of a peak group in the school – the group that is currently the School Council which has representatives of parents, students, staff and the community.

Sadly, one outcome of the decision to allow the P&C to lapse is an old

government rule (established in the early 1990s) that does not allow the school to have a School Council without a P&C. As a result of legal advice the School Council considered its position at its meeting on Monday 20 June and will continue to meet as a “School Community Advisory Group” until the AGM in May 2017 when its position will be reviewed.

E v e r y Te a c h e r S t a r t s S o m e w h e re … P re - s e r v i c e Teachers Welcomed RHHS welcomed 12 pre-service teachers from the University of New South Wales, University of Sydney and Western Sydney University in Term 2. They were mentored by Teachers across all faculties and reflected a commitment to provide quality placements at the peak time for university practicum requirements. Thank you to preservice teachers for the contributions they made to learning and their mentors for their guidance towards successful completion of all practicums. Thank you to students and parents for making them so welcome. Our school is in big demand from the universities because of the excellent work we do.

Science staff with their pre-service teachers from USYD and UNSW this term.

Pre-service Teachers from WSU this term who contributed to the TAS, CAPA and HSIE faculties.

S VA T h o u g h t L e a d e r s h i p Gathering Adelaide Ky Staal, Jaeda Zlomislic, Ms Mattimore and Ms Short attended the latest Social Ventures Australia ( S VA ) T h o u g h t L e a d e r s h i p Gathering in Adelaide. It was a first of its kind as students from all SVA Powerhouse and partner schools were invited to attend. Along with the excitement of a first plane flight, zoo snooze and zoo tour students worked on a design thinking school lab with the team from NoTosh.

Over the 2 day gathering Ky and Jaeda were asked to challenge the ideas of school, create 100 ideas of changes to school, prototype and pitch a project to another school.

They were outstanding representatives of RHHS and were commended on their ideas and final project by SVA representatives and schools from across NSW, Victoria and South Australia.

A sample of Ky and Jaeda’s work from the Thought Leadership Gathering: How may we change what teachers are told to treasure, When in reality there are more important things for them to measure.

Instead of focusing on lessons which never change, It's time for our lesson plan to rearrange.

If we allow students to share their views, By putting them in their teachers’ shoes.

We will engage them in creative thinking and disposition, To a l l o w f o r m o re l e a r n i n g conditions.

Trade Training Centre The Federally funded Metals Trade Skills Facility was completed and commissioned during this semester, enabling our staff and students to access state of the art learning spaces and equipment in the area of Metals Fabrication. We are proud to announce a new partnership with TAFE NSW (Western Sydney Institute Mt Druitt) who will support our staff by delivering expert training and assistance in the use and deployment of industry grade resources. We look forward to the official opening after the upcoming Federal election.

VET Audit

I n J u n e t h e R e g i o n a l RT O (Registered Training Organisation) team conducted an external audit of all VET subjects to ensure compliance with both NSW BOSTES and the RTO. This process involved all frameworks being reviewed for program and assessment best practice.

Congratulations to the team led by Mr Movia – Ms Haaring, Mr Singh, Mr Theys, Mr Kumar, Mr Sharma, Ms Byrne, Ms Yunus, Mr Baines, Mr Lefoe and Mr Diaz. Special thanks to the admin support officer, Ms Hughes. We are proud to celebrate our schools large footprint in the VET sector in Macquarie Park.

Many Cultures Many Stories

Approximately 200 HSIE students from Years 8, 9 and 10 were inspired to think about their future aspirations as they considered their personal culture and life story at the Greater Western Sydney Giants’ Many Cultures, Many Stories Conference. After hearing about personal stories of those in the community who have overcome great obstacles, students worked on creating products and ideas that could be used in a practical way to assist people to celebrate and share their culture with others. Products ranged from poignant poems to community workshop plans that may provide a platform to educate the school about various cultures and stories. Students are continuing to work on their ideas during HSIE lessons with the goal to 'pitch' concepts to the school community to enhance the celebration of cultures and individuals' stories. We look forward to being inspired by their ideas!

Congratulations to Rachelle Rativo and Joshua Deo who chaired the first session.

Student Leadership SRC Induction

SRC Bake Sale at the Young Writers Competition Presentation

Bangarra Aboriginal Dance Workshop

SRC students baked and sold a range of sweet and savoury snacks during the Learning Neighbourhood’s Yo u n g Wr i t e r s C o m p e t i t i o n Presentation.

On Monday the 6 June, Mary Nixon, Kayla Austin-Gough, April Bryce and Kyle Pont attended the Bangarra Aboriginal Dance Workshop held at Nepean CAPA High School. The students learnt some of the intense choreography used in Bangarra theatre productions and performed it to the rest of the group. Kyle Pont’s passion for dance was displayed throughout his performance and influenced his ability to become shortlisted to join the Aboriginal Dance Company.

Congratulations to the 81 students who were inducted as members of the SRC in 2016.

RHHS would like to extend particular thanks to School Council President and Executive General Manager at NBN Co Lincoln Jurd for speaking about life and leadership.

Project Kindness SRC students organised and ran Project Kindness to increase student wellbeing and create a positive Rooty Hill culture. Students were treated to a lunch time concert, a sausage sizzle and purchased wristbands. Project Kindness will continue with new events in Terms 3 and 4.

Aboriginal Education Programs Years 8 & 9 Explore Uni In June, Years 8 and 9 Indigenous students were given the opportunity to explore the grounds of Sydney University and participate in some hands-on workshops. Students made delicious healthy snacks, created instrumentals, took mouth moulds to design mouthguards, as well as, attended cultural walks.

AFL Indigenous Academy The AFL Indigenous Academy has been in full swing throughout Term 2 with a number of exciting lessons and activities available for students.

We have been fortunate to host the Cricket NSW workshops on our school grounds, allowing students to develop their cricketing skills. The Academy program for Term 2 ended in Week 10 with the NAIDOC AFL Gala Day.

AIME’s Got Game On Tuesday 31 May, Aboriginal students from Years 9 and 10 auditioned for AIME’s Got Game.

This online talent competition highlights the talented Aboriginal students around Australia. Our students showed their musical talents, danced and rapped their way through the auditions. We hear later in the year if any of our students will be called to participate in the national competition. Good luck to April Bryce, Carelene Lever, Vanessa Dunn, Lyndsay Christian, Ailizay Parsons-King, Kyle Pont and Oscar Jennings. They did an excellent job showcasing their talent and had a wonderful day in the process.

The Learning Neighbourhood Young Writers Competition Presentation Written by Courtney Hagan of Year 8

debates and meetings so far - there have been some very narrow losses and the excitement for debating is inspiring.

This year for Young Writers, a wide range of students from Rooty Hill High School, Minchinbury Public School, Eastern Creek Public School and Rooty Hill Public School entered a piece of writing with the younger years doing the theme ‘Olympics’ and the older years doing the theme ‘Hope’. An excellent afternoon was had by all, with James K n i g h t , t h e v i s i t i n g a u t h o r, producing an engaging and entertaining speech. Our overall school winner for the best piece of literature was by Anneka Shankar from Year 10, titled Hope Within Diversity.

The Alien Embassy was amongst, the city lights and busy paths, but was peaceful and warm inside, with a unique feeling of being welcomed.

The teachers made us feel many emotions, While writing our pieces about us, Giving the story, our own personal touch.

Maths Olympiad

L: James Knight | R: Anneka Shankar A group photo of all RHHS winners is featured on the front cover.

The Debating Experience Behind closed doors, out of the spotlight, the Year 9 and 10 team built their case with palm cards and pens ready in hand. Mingling on the fringes of a debating competition, were the audience as they watched ideas move around like game pieces on a board of words. Despite the difficulty and the losses in some of the debating rounds, our Years 9 and10 teams stood tall and strong as they kicked off the first rounds of the competition! - Morwarid Faiz, Yr 10 In 2016 each of the Years 9 and 10 teams has won a debate; the brand new Year 11 team has been on a steep learning curve and have had two wins; and the Year 12 team has provided expertise and mentoring to the junior teams. Congratulations to all students who participated in

The Sydney Writer’s Workshop crew, ventured to our school to show us, the true meaning of writing.

The way they taught us, was better than Yoda.

Our minds journeyed the path, of planning writing with our past.

A further congratulations to our public speaking representatives Morwarid Faiz and Mae Limbaco who represented the school in the prestigious Plain English Speaking Competition. Their speeches on two very different aspects of technology really had the audience thinking.

Sydney Story Factory Workshops Written by Ruchelle Dawe of Year 8

60 Years 7 and 8 students have enrolled in the Australian Maths Olympiad 2016 (Junior Division).

The content of this largest problem solving competition in Australia ranges from simple addition problems to extremely challenging puzzles in Number Theory. Great to see our students develop flexibility for problem solving when meeting challenges, that foster creativity and ingenuity.

MangaHigh Star performer: Zeel Shah - Year 8 Congratulations to Zeel who has achieved 18 Gold Medals in Mangahigh.com. You can also be a gold medallist by playing hundreds of MangaHigh maths games online.

The top game for RHHS students this month is ‘Jabara, Algebra Made Easy’, where Zeel is leading with an excellent score of 209.

The Origami Club If you are interested in origami, you can join Ms Tran in E011 every Tuesday at lunch time. This term, our project was to complete a 3D origami penguin. If you would like to learn how to make one, please enter the classroom code: 8bve3c.

All the instructions and videos have been uploaded to assist you in completing this project. If you have any enquiries, please see Ms Tran at the Maths staffroom.

Mock Trial Being a part of the RHHS 2016 Mock Trial team gives students from Years 9 to 11 the opportunity to discover how the legal system works. It allows them to build upon their knowledge, teamwork skills, and self-confidence. The competition has assisted students with analysing case materials, improve their public speaking, think in a more creative way and develop strong relationships with peers. This term the Mock Trial team defeated last years competition winners, Chevalier College after a 3 hour mock trial. RHHS also competed against Katoomba High School and Montgrove College this term.

or religion, we are all the same in the end – we are all human. A very moving video presentation was shared on the school’s Facebook and website after the presentation.

PAT H E C h e c k O u t U n i Campus Tour On Thursday 5 May, 36 students of Maori and Pasifica backgrounds from Years 10 and 11 attended the Pasifica Achievement To Higher Education (PATHE) Check Out Uni Campus Tour, held at Western Sydney University – Kingswood Campus. Students took a walking tour of the university grounds and participated in a workshop where they worked in groups to explore and justify the significance of education to their lives and culture.

All students who attended were exemplary representatives of the RHHS values and expectations throughout the day.

RHHS ANZAC Assemblies On Friday 29 April, RHHS held its ANZAC Assembly to commemorate those who have served, fought and died in war. This year’s theme was ‘Leadership’ and our speakers spoke shared some of their personal stories about how they viewed Anzac Day and the role leadership played in their lives. Mrs San spoke about how she felt about Anzac day from the Turkish-Australian perspective and highlighted that no matter what race

PATHE Years 7-10 Workshops On Wednesday of Week 5, 80 students from Maori and Pasifica backgrounds from Years 7-10 participated in Pasifica Achievement To Higher Education (PATHE) Workshops facilitated by current students from Western Sydney University. Two Year 12 students Eric Siutu Leilua and Zachariah Laufili assisted in mentoring Years 9 and 10 students throughout all

activities. Students were involved in a variety of activities including; singing competitions, role playing and group discussions about goal setting and values. These workshops focused on students as positive role models, setting academic goals; managing expectations from both school and family culture; as well as staying true to personal values.

Polynesia – Where Time Begins Matinee Performance at Bowman Hall Blacktown As a part of the Blacktown City Council Festival, 70 students from Maori and Pasifica backgrounds in Years 8, 9 and 10 from RHHS were invited to watch a live performance from a touring group from New Zealand. The performance ‘Polynesia – Where Time Begins’ included cultural dances as well retellings of historical myths and legends from a range of Polynesian Islands, including Tonga, Samoa, Tahiti as well as New Zealand.

Crowd participation was encouraged throughout the live show, and RHHS was commended for having the most involved and enthusiastic students on the day.

YEAR 7 Written by Nergiz Celik and Phoebe Birett Year Adviser Message In Term 2, Year 7 successfully continued to demonstrate the PERSIST values while strengthening their involvement in the life of the school. Year 7 students have demonstrated that they are a high spirited year group who are eager to get involved, make positive choices, lead, be kind and build positive friendships. This is evident in the 585 Above The Line Sentral Wellbeing entries throughout Term 2. Congratulations on an excellent Semester One to the determined year 7 team. Where Together Everyone Achieves More!

- Ms Alyce Coleman, Yr 7 Adviser Tell Them From Me Survey 5 Year 7 students participated in the Tell The From Me Survey Analyst Team to analyse anonymous Year 7 students results from the Tell Them From Me Survey. These students w e r e P a r i s M i t c h e l l , Ta i n a Buadromo, Zinshel Leha, Taner Ozbayrak and Darcy Rusconi.

Interpreting survey findings as a student team assisted us to better identify needs and facilitate future focused programs for specifically Year 7 students.

Western Sydney University Aim Higher Workshop

As a whole year group, in Week 3 of Term 2 Year 7 engaged in a 60 minutes presentation called Aim Higher. It was a dynamic and high energy interacting performance that used humour and music to engage and inspire Year 7 students to think about tertiary education.

Year 7 were able to be participate as an audience and problem solve to learn ways to overcome the challenges

and attitudes towards higher education, such as University or TAFE. For more information about Aim Higher and future career or education choices visit the Make Yo u r M a r k w e b s i t e . h t t p : / / www.makeyourmark.edu.au/ Being Kind Year Assembly As a whole year group in Week 5 of Term 2 Year 7 attended a year group assembly that focused on the topic Being Kind. This assembly topic was significant and timely as it was also during the whole school event, Project Kindness. A Mount Druitt Police Officer attended the assembly to formally recognise Year 7 student Tayah Bryant on her exceptional community service and kindness skills as a community member. A presentation was also held where Year 7 learnt about the positive impacts that kindness has on happiness, self-esteem and wellbeing and we motivated by the key message, if you can be anything, be kind.

Ambassadors

O n M o n d a y 3 0 M a y, 3 6 Ambassadors, along with their family members attended the annual induction assembly for the Student Representative Council and Year 7 Ambassador team. Ambassadors were formally inducted into their student leadership position, receiving their Ambassador badge and stating the pledge, promising to uphold the responsibilities and duties of an Ambassador.

The Ambassador team has demonstrated an outstanding level of participation and excellence as student leaders, attending community events such as the Young Writers Competition Presentation and Kindy Comes to High School

where students successfully greeted special guests and displayed the PERSIST values. Students have also extended their leadership in Term 2 by participating in Office Ambassador duties.

Library Ambassadors Training 11 Year 7 students have successfully completed the training required to become a Library Monitor. This training has prepared students for their duties demonstrating responsibility and initiative when assisting with the running of the school Library. Congratulations to the following year 7 Library Monitors: Madison McDonough, Kayla Austin Gough, Zaheda Fiaz, Giselle Baragello, Rosie Gale, Tanisha Howes, Genoveva Stuparu, Cassandra King, Freya Howson, Aeron Vicente and Tori Ann Smith.

Year 7 Google Classroom 160 Year 7 students access the school’s Google Classroom. Year 7 are encouraged to continue using Google Classroom weekly to see important announcements and year group achievements, ask questions, and communicate with other Year 7 students, using the access code: 861a1u.

Chinese Games Continues Year 7 students continued their Chinese games in Term 2. New games were introduced to the students such as tug-of-war/bá hé (pictured below), long and short rope-skipping and soccer. Students also learned how to say these Chinese games in pinyin and how to cheer up in Mandarin “jia you”!

During the games, the students showed great interest and enthusiasm. Not only is Year 7 Participation Highlights individual potential fulfilled, but also team spirit was built.

• 13 students played at the Panther Trophy in the Under 13s team • 7 students participated in the L a n g u a g e P e r f e c t Wo r l d Championships • Lorrye Genobili and Isha Bondoc have been rehearsing for Bring It On • Aaliyah Williams Kennedy played in the Open Girls Soccer Team • Sarah Johns, Aksel McCormack, and Phoebe Birett attended the Sydney Writers Workshop • Zoe Croft, Haris Abawi, Sarah Johns, Ann Rose Jospeh, and Brandon Villena completed the Science Competition • Kayla Austin Gough and Mary Nixon attended the Bangarra Dance Auditions.

Team work on rope skipping

Year 7 Science This term Year 7 learnt about the science in mining and created a website. The students had fun videoing their experiments and uploading them onto their website as part of their assessment task.

Year 7 Participation Highlights During Term 2, Year 7 students have enthusiastically demonstrated their willingness to get involved, meet new people and learn new skills.

This is evident with the following Ye a r 7 s t u d e n t p a r t i c i p a t i o n numbers: • 11 students attended the Netball Gala day • 32 students represented RHHS at the Zone Athletics Carnival • 26 students represented RHHS at the Zone Cross Country • 14 students are in the 7/8 Touch Football team • 34 students attended the Volleyball Enrichment excursion

YEAR 8 Written by Francis Tinei and Sussana Zaman Elective Selection Year 8 had the opportunity like all Year 8s before them to choose their electives for Year 9 and 10 this term.

During an presentation assembly organised by Ms Andrews and Miss Douglas, teachers from many faculties around the school came and spoke to Year 8 about all the amazing electives the school can offer.

Being Unique Being Unique is a Year 8 only celebration designed to promote self-esteem and diversity amongst the year group and promote tolerance of individuals and their differences. Year 8 was split into four groups of girls and four groups of boys that rotated through four activities each.

Girls: Workshops and activities that Year 8 Girls participated in included;

Pamper Room, Friendship Room, Hip Hop Dance Class and Fitness.

The pamper room was organised by the Year 8 year adviser, Miss Douglas, had make-up stations. A guest Hip Hop Dancer Sarah in the PAC, assisted by Amanda Fuiono of Year 9, ran the hip-hop dance activity supervised by Miss Miller.

The dance teacher was excellent and enthusiastic and taught us very energetic dance routine. Miss Jin supervised the Friendship Room. As girls made friendship bracelets, masquerade masks, created a year group poster and played board games they needed to come up with an answer to the key question of the friendship room, which was - ‘what makes a friend?’ “Girl Fit” was located up on the top oval and was supervised by Miss Edney, with a Personal Trainer who ran fitness activities to do with boxing and running.

Boys:

During Being Unique Day the boys took part in workshops that were a bit different to the girls. These workshops include Rapping, Man Talk, Drumming and Gym. Rapping was supervised by Mr Singh and was delivered by MMAD Musicians Making A Difference. The Gym activity was very tiring but kept us in shape for the day, many students in Year 8 returned the day after Being Unique with sore legs.

Year 8 boys also did drumming which was organised by Mr Diaz.

The Year 8 Boys had a great time learning new rhythm patterns which expanded their knowledge on music, and let us get loud. Lastly there was Man Talk where we discussed Manly things, ‘what happens in the circle, stays in the circle’. This hosted by Mr Baines.

Year 8 would like to say THANK YOU to the staff and guests that made Being Unique Day possible.

Investig8 Uni

Year 8 participated in the Investig8 University excursion. This took place at the University of Sydney.

Nine other high schools were invited on the day and Year 8 represented Rooty Hill High School amazingly, doing a fantastic job in their courses and demonstrating great kindness to others.. The year 8 students learned much about the opportunities available the University of Sydney.

University opens to many opportunities and the University of Sydney most definitely demonstrates this statement in a high standard.

Based on data from Tell Them From Me surveys, Year 8 students are very ambitious and motivated, so this was a great day to see where our ambition can take us.

Police Academy

Year 8 Science students graduated from the RHHS Police Academy after having successfully completed the required training. Students learnt about particle theory, elements, compound mixtures, evaporation, separation and separation techniques. The purpose of this academy was for the students to acquire real world skills and knowledge on a variety of topics.

The training also involved learning to interview suspects, compile scientific evidence and passing a physical training examination.

Students will now be able to be assigned to a forensic investigation next term.

Year 8 SEPEP The SEPEP Tournament is a softball competition where we create a team and try to make it to the finals. Year 8 finds this exciting and brings out their competitive nature, which is great to see. Many Year 8 students have also decided to join a sports team, such as touch football, Panthers Trophy Team, basketball or try to compete against other schools in cross country and athletics. Carlos Torzar, a Year 8 Volleyball super star has also been chosen to represent the Boys U15s Sydney Metro Team, a huge congratulations to him!

YEAR 9

STEM @ RHHS

Fast Forward Written by Emily Stirk and Jonathan Delos Santos 21 Year 9 students were selected to participate in the Western Sydney University Fast Forward program.

This program, which runs for four years, provides students with the opportunity to attend University lectures, workshops and programs.

Fast Forward is designed to encourage students to continue to consider higher education pathways, post-high school. This is inline with the 2016 Tell Them From Me Survey Data, which highlighted that over 75% of Year 9 students wish to attend University or other tertiary education institution after finishing Year 12. The 21 Year 9 students in the Fast Forward program will be participate in visits and workshops at school and at the Western Sydney University campus in Bankstown.

STEM @ RHHS encompasses many cross curricular activities in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics subjects. The aim of STEM is to help develop students’ communications, problem solving, critical thinking, creativity and data literacy skills. In semester 1 our Year 8 students enjoyed RHHS’ first STEM program – “Rooty Hill Institute of Sport’, where they developed fitness plans and promoted health awareness within school community. Next term Year 9 students will research, design and build their own ‘sustainable houses’ in their Science, Maths and TAS classrooms.

Year Adviser Message Well done Year 8 on being an exuberant, enthusiastic and kind year group again this term. Your consistent demonstration of the PERSIST values and drive to be the best you can be, is a fantastic testament of your motivation to be a great part of any community.

As always, you have made me proud - remember, to always make yourself proud.

- Ms Melanie Douglas, Yr 8 Adviser

Year Adviser Message Term 2 for Year 9 students has provided opportunities for students to demonstrate their skills learnt in classes, produce outstanding work of exceptional quality and reflect on their progress this semester. As always, this cohort of students have continued to demonstrate academic and extracurricular success and it was a privilege to listen to students discuss their aspirations and plans for the future during Personalised Learning Week Interviews.

- Mr Manvir Singh, Yr 9 Adviser

Reconnect Leadership Written by Chloe Norton 6 Year 9 students were selected to participate in a Leadership Program organised by The Salvation Army that taught students how to effectively work together in a group to achieve shared goals. These students went to multiple locations and faced difficult challenges, such as abseiling, rock climbing, treetops, bush walking and a low ropes

obstacle and had to use communication and leadership skills to complete the challenges set.

Participating students also attended group meetings every Monday to talk about and reflect on their leadership skills. Students were also encouraged to discuss how they had effectively used leadership skills and worked together to help people achieve their goals.

The program was a great way to teach students involved who about just how important it is to use leadership skills and work together with others to achieve common goals.

Science Fair This term RHHS had their annual Year 5 Science Fair and many of our wonderful Year 9 students worked with the Year 5 students to do experiments and participate in a variety of fun science related activities.

Year 9 Textiles Projects

Informal Assembly Written by Kieran Mills In Week 5 this term, all Year 9 students attended an informal assembly, presented by Mr Singh on the topic Making The Right Choices.

Data was presented during this assembly, which included that by week 5, 105 merit awards were issued to Year 9 students and this number has continued to increase this term. Data was also presented by the tell them from me survey which identified that 76 percent of year 9 students put effort into their class work and 87 percent of Year 9 students consistently demonstrated positive behaviour in class. At this informal assembly Year 9 had to complete their PERSIST values sheet and reflect on their achievements and progress this term.

LEAPS Written by Ruwand Talabani This year, 20 Year 9 students were selected to take part in the Law Firms Encouraging and Assisting Promising Students (LEAPS). As one of the selected Year 9 students, I have been entrusted to represent the school in this program. The best part about being a LEAPS student is the opportunity to be able to represent the school and meet with my mentor and to talk about our lives. My mentor and I have talked about a range of issues including sterotypes and how they negatively impact on people and we’ve also spent time getting to know each other and our values and beliefs.

I am excited to be part of the LEAPS program because it has given me the opportunity to attend a range of excursions, including going to Customs House as well as learn more about my mentor and his life.

YEAR 10 Young Entrepreneur Program (YEP) Written by Morwarid Faiz

This year, students of Year 10 were very fortunate to be given the opportunity to be involved in the Young Entrepreneur Program. Eight students who are a part of the Steering Committee at RHHS were invited to a workshop where they met Professor Yong Zhao as he introduced this program to the schools involved. To successfully complete the YEP students will generate an idea, and complete the YEP Business Plan template during the year while being guided by their educator/mentor throughout. Once again, I can’t emphasise enough how privileged our year group is to be provided with such an opportunity.

SALSA Written by Rhys Steward

The success that students in Year 10 have had on the SALSA program has undoubtedly been an achievement. An estimated total of students who were involved in the SALSA program has increased dramatically since last years results.

The SALSA program is specifically targeted at Year 8 students mainly because Year 8 is the basis which healthy lifestyles are formed.

Students in Year 10 were informed that they were to teach Year 8 students the fundamentals and basics of healthy lifestyles and to analyse the differences between what is healthy for your body and what isn't.

The SALSA program was a huge

success and students coming up to be in Year 10 are encouraged to join and become SALSA leaders for it has many benefits.

Year 10 Science Year 10 science classes learnt about chemical reactions this term and conducted a variety of experiments that were written up in a laboratory manual that was of a professional standard.

Australian History Competition On Wednesday 25 May, 6 students from Year 10 participated in the Australian History Competition.

Each student had 45 minutes to answer 50 Multiple Choice Questions to test their knowledge and skills of Australian History.

Students who participated were: Rene Men, Alexa Cruz, Ky Staal, Gladeomae Bandeleon, Joanna Gevero, Sharon Rogers. Results will be released late July.

Personalised Learning Weeks During Weeks 7, 8 and 9 over 700 students from Years 7-11 participated in personalised learning interviews. They read their reports, reviewed their goals, looked at their progress on the PERSIST values and planned for the future. Students took this opportunity very seriously and the staff who did the interviews said they were very impressed with the overall improvement they are seeing. Well done to everyone involved and thanks to the Learning Support staff and year advisers.

YEAR 11 Written by Deborah Gaskin WSU Day The Western Sydney University Day on the 1 June was a great day to lead students in the right direction for the future. Students engaged in an information session explaining what University life is all about. It was the perfect opportunity for students of year 11 to ask questions and get a taste of what each course could be like. Finishing off the day with a tasty sausage-sizzle, students were able to speak with current students of Western Sydney University about their experiences and ask for some helpful advice. Thank you to Miss Camillos for accompanying and organising the group.

Debating – A focus on Year 11 The debating team was better than

Year 11 Textiles students at work

Year 11 playing chess in the Senior Quad

Boys Tennis Team - Toby Stannard, Bailey Seaton, Logan Carling and Cameron Eccles

Chelsea Fuentes National Art School Portfolio

ever this term with Brayden, Araluen, Harsha, Laura, Jayden and Peapea representing the school in some challenging arguments. They scored a victory against Blaxland HS on the 10 May and again against Doonside Technology HS but unfortunately lost to Nepean HS. Thank you to Ms Kennerson, Ms Munzie and all those who were involved in coordinating these events and opportunities. Also for showing the year group constant support and assistance. To Year 11 students, look forward to the Crossroads Week and to receiving your varsity jackets. Remember keep on persisting Year 11, just one term away from Year 12!

students have also been working hard on their core performances where they can utilise their strengths in performance, composition, or musicology and Society and Culture students are completing their Personal Interest Projects. With many students working on a wide range of major works in a variety of subjects, it is great to see the effort and attention to detail that is being achieved by our year 12 students.

YEAR 12 With their schooling career coming to a close Year 12 proved once again to be excellent role models for our PERSIST values to other year groups. In Term 2, Year 12 students participated in a large range of activities, events, sports along with their studies.

Using the Senior Study The Senior Study was popular this term for trial examination preparation and HSC. It is a place where our Year 12 students can go to get away from noise and distractions and really take time to complete work or study. Assistance from Ms Aroney and Mr Ali helped these students have their best opportunity to achieve their potential and the support was appreciated by all students. A big thank you!

Trial HSC Examinations The trial HSC examinations were held in weeks 9 and 10, with the pressure mounting on a stellar Year 12, we expect another great academic performance from the year group. As always, the key to exam success is adequate study and the senior study as previously mentioned was utilised in high

volume for all those needing assistance or a place to complete their work. The trial HSC represents a significant portion of the total HSC mark and is very important to our students, not only for their grades but to prepare for the HSC exam setting. Year 12 will get their trial HSC results at the start of Term 3 to help them plan their revision for the HSC itself. HSC Timetables Year 12 Students received their HSC timetables this term. There was talk about some serious study and revision which we hope will convert to action. For further information regarding HSC timetables please access the following link: https:// studentsonline.bostes.nsw.edu.au/go/ exams/hsc_2016_exam_timetable/ HSC Major Works

In Term 2 students have been completing an array of major works in preparation for their HSC. Students in visual arts are expressing their views, opinions, beliefs and feelings through their major work with art like sculptures, canvas work and watercolour work. Drama students have been working diligently on their skit along with their individual component of film, monologue, script writing, costume/ set design or theatre reviews. Music

Year 12 Science Biology students replicated the 100year-old Pasteur Swan Neck Flask Experiment to demonstrate that microorganisms are introduced into food through dust particles and other things that land on the food.

Year 12 Physics had great fun with liquid nitrogen this term while learning about superconductors.

They demonstrated the Meissner effect by levitating a small magnet above a superconductor.

Careers Expo & Try a Skill
 The Careers Expo was a great opportunity for students to look at different types of options they have when leaving school. There were hands on workshops, university stalls, TAFE stalls and plenty of other options. The future is bright for all of our students with jobs, u n i v e r s i t y, TA F E , e x c h a n g e , scholarships and apprenticeships on the menu.

Staff vs. Student Games The staff vs. student games were a great success in Term 2! Both the teachers and students competed in a longstanding rivalry which was a fun experience for everyone both on the field and on the sideline. The teachers won the series winning softball, basketball, netball and ultimate Frisbee while the students came home with victories in soccer, oz-tag and volleyball.

Congratulations to all those who competed, supported and cheered!

Sporting Teams Many Year 12 students have been involved in sport in Term 2 - rugby league, softball, soccer, baseball, volleyball, touch football and athletics just to name a few. We had a great turn out for our athletics carnival with athletes from Year 12 still competing at the regional level.

With this participation across all sports it shows why Year 12 and RHHS are highly successful when it comes to sport.

Tell Them From Me Survey The majority of Year 12 students completed the Tell Them From Me Survey at the end of Term 1. This survey asks questions to help identify the views and needs of our students. A group of Year 12 students volunteered to assist in analysing the data from the survey.

Interpreting this data allowed us to assess the current views and needs of the year group and determined areas of focus that would help Year 12 throughout their final terms of 2016.

Looking ahead to the future we have an exciting Term 3 ahead with presentation from TAFE and comedian Rob Shehadie, a presentation and practical presented

by Wheelchair sports NSW, the Higher School Certificate, Graduation (Friday 23 September) and of course, the formal ( We d n e s d a y 2 3 N o v e m b e r ) .

Congratulations to all of Year 12 for the hard work and keep it up! Good Luck!

Thank you to Jack Clifton, Jacob Keaton and Jaryd McCormack for their contributions to the Year 12 Missing Link.

- Mr Aaron Hay, Yr 12 Adviser

SPORT Boys Rugby League

The Panther Trophy was an exciting day with RHHS being represented in the Under 13s, 14s, 15s and Opens Competitions. The Under 14s (pictured above) progressed through to the finals day against St Dominics after comfortably winning their semi-final match up. The Under 15s (pictured below) progressed through undefeated without having a point scored against them in 5 games. The Under 13s lost their semi-final match up after winning 2 and drawing 1 in the round robin competition. The Opens heartbreakingly lost their semi-final matchup against Loyola after conceding a try after the final siren.

All the boys who participated are to be commended for representing the school with outstanding sportsmanship, leadership and teamwork.

The Under 14s continue to progress through the stages of the Buckley Shield, while the Opens Team has also had wins to continue in both the University Shield and the GIO trophy.

Girls Rugby League The first RHHS Girls Rugby League team participated in the Western

Sydney gala day. They came up against some tough opposition from other school in the Western Sydney area. They managed to come away from the day with 2 wins and gained some valuable experience.

Cross Country There were a lot of excellent performances in the Mount Druitt zone cross Country headlined by Dylan Curmi and Lyrical FilisiTone. Congratulations to the 26 students who have progressed through to Sydney West level. A big congratulations to Rhys Steward who will represent Sydney West in the CHS Cross Country Championships.

Athletics

There were some outstanding performances in the Mount Druitt Zone Athletics Carnival with an incredible 6 records broken by RHHS students: • Seuga Pula - U17s Shotput • Akela Pitcaithly - U16s Long Jump • Rhys Walker - U13s 200m • Carlos Torzar - U13s High Jump • Christopher Gillett - U13s Discus • the Under 13s 4x100m Relay team Good luck to all students competing at Sydney West.

AFL U/15’s Giants Cup On Tuesday the 31 May, 19 students represented RHHS in the AFL under 15s Giants Cup held at Blacktown International Sportspark. They competed in three games, winning two out of three by over 15 points.

Their skills improved drastically by the third game with brothers Ali and Furat Almoail kicking the most goals for the team over the duration of the day.

plenty of action with excellent fielding from all players, stunning catches in the outfield, accurate throws to get runners out and some tactical pitching to confuse batters. It was a team effort both fielding and batting with multiple home-runs being hit. The final score was 13-4 with a solid victory to RHHS. The team progresses to the second round to vs. Wyndham College, a big challenge for the boys but it will no doubt be a thriller.

Opens Boys AFL Opens Girls Soccer Team

An inexperienced AFL side represented Rooty Hill HS in the GWS Giants Cup. Many members of the team had never played AFL before but picked up the skills quickly and managed to score a comfortable win in the final game of the day.

Open Boys Tennis

T h e B o y s Te n n i s Te a m w a s successful in defeating Blacktown Boys HS and Nepean HS in The Sydney West Knockout competition.

They remain undefeated this year and will progress to the next round.

The team (pictured) is Cameron Eccles, Toby Stannard, Bailey Seaton and Logan Carling. Kenan Hukic and Jaiden Abela have also represented on the team.

Softball The Boys Softball Team faced Chifley College in the first round of the opens knockout. There was

demonstrated persistence and school pride throughout the event, while both successfully achieving third place overall.

Netball NSW Schools Cup 3 teams of Years 7 and 8 girls competed in the Penrith Local Day. The teams were all very successful, each finishing first in their respective pools.

Opens Netball Team

The Opens Girls Soccer Team demonstrated excellent team work skills and commitment to the team during training sessions and on the field in Term 2. Congratulations to the assistant coach Brittany Menolotto on her outstanding leadership.

Opens Boys Soccer Team The Opens Boys Soccer Team progressed through to the Sydney West Semi finals after victories over Jamison HS, Plumpton HS and Kellyville HS. They then faced a formidable opponent in Castle Hill HS where they unfortunately were defeated.

Years 9/10 Touch Football Gala Day The Years 9/10 Boys and Girls Touch Football Teams competed in a gala day during Term 2. Both teams

Congratulations to the Opens Girls Netball Team on their win over Plumpton HS 19-14. The girls will now progress to the Gala Day to be held on Monday 25 July.

Representative Students: • Congratulations to Emily Stirk, Maja Zlomislic, Amanda Fuiono and Dane Terekia for making the NSW All Schools Under 15s Volleyball team.

• Congratulations to Joshua Deo of Year 12 who was named in the Super 6 at the NSW All Schools Championships.

Volleyball Written by Deborah Gaskin, Yr 11 Congratulations to Kiata Hemi, Peapea Ah Foon, Shaniah Tukuitonga and Rose Euese. The girls came first representing the Sydney West team at the CHS (state) finals.

Girls Make Your Move

In Term 2 20 students from Years 9 and 10 took part in a girls fitness initiative to get involved in fitness and make it part of their everyday life. The girls trained hard at school and at the SGAC at Rooty Hill RSL trying a variety of different training styles to find one they were passionate to continue.

RHHS Athletics Carnival 2016

SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WINNERS TERM 2 2016 Year 7 Ciela Bautista Cielo Bautista Taina Buadromo Nergiz Celik Kristy Chetty Luke Curmi Zaheda Faiz Tianna Fowler Ysabel Garcia Lorrye Genobili Kaitlyn Gulliford Kotahi Henderson Tanisha Howes Ann Rose Joseph Tania Juchkov Cassandra King Hannah Labuson Mikhayla McCann Jam Mendoza Jessica Miller Jonathan Moxham Paris Paraan Ava Roser Ranishka Sharma Elizabeth Small Lance Somera Britanya Stevanytantra Genoveva-Constantina Stuparu Ishir Thakur Aeron Vicente Year 8 Kimberly Aba Evan Ademovic Preeti Aisha Ali Divina Ambat Aleeya Balfas Keila Barbeau Angela Bermudez Takita Bradbery Emma Campbell Zane Catlett Christiane Convento Isabella Croft Tarsha Daly Ruchelle Dawe Aidan Goundar Maryrose Guerra Courtney Hagan Trinity Hanslow Lay Lateisha Hartley Shya Hedgman Jaspreet Kaur Katie Klumper Atsupui Delphine Koudakpo Tony Lee Kobe Lepua Alex Manarang Megha Martin Vanshita Marwaha

Hannah McDonald Kanyapat Meekoh Remiel Merlan Raizza Miclat Thomas Morris Marvin Muller Hanna Ngo Amber Nicholls Guihot Craig Ortiz Azzam Outim Claire Paler Piyatida Jade Ratanasirilak Jade Ridley-King Patricia Ross Jose Mari Sio Jonathan Thomas Francis Tinei Tipeni Tofilau Shayla Tran Vince Tumbaga Rachel Viemero Sophie-Lee Wenning Sussana Zaman Mike Zamora Year 9 Sarah Abbot Venesse Angeles Rosalie Bankler Jasmine Bayliss Nansita Charan Alessandra Delfin Jonathan Delos Santos Lyrical Filisi-Tone Amanda Fuiono Komal Gupta Charm Ilaya Caitlin Johnson Pranita Kumar Rhea Kumar John Marcos Samantha Mendoza Kieran Mills Lemah Orya Ethan Phillips Freshta Popal Narisha Prasad Hadrien Quesada Nikkash Raj Alec Remoticado Will San Emily Stirk Priya Thiru Sarah Umar Maria Vilca Valencia Year 10 Maryanne Abouchanab Victoria Ahofono Murtathah Al Khazaaly Zodiac Annan Alyanna Aquipel

Darren Balbin Crystel Bandal Gladeomae Bandeleon Seth Bayliss Brittany Bishop Brooke Bourke Ivy Bradley Jemma-lee Butler Memphis Carroll Joy Cayabyab Chadd Chesnutt Tarynn Cooke Alexa Cruz Kirsten De Los Santos Francesco Demasi Masse Faiz Morwarid Faiz Lara Ferri Tahlia Finn George Fonua Blake Ford Joanna Gevero Abby Giles Wyndelmhar Grefalde Kiyan Gucel Mirae Hemi Daniel Hicks Kenan Hukic Samiyah Hussein Tynae Jones Ayca Karsanbas Ryan Kumar Jasmine Lepua Helen Liang Andrew Lim Mae Limbaco Byron Lloyd Ashaldine Mailei Daniel Maroun Nicholas Maroun Mami Joyce Marsters Ethan Munday Jethro Ocampo Jeffry Ofoia Jackson Overton Imico Pablico Alyssa Parreno Elizabeth Paterson Brianna Pelayo Kyle Pont Caitlin Puckeridge Sophie Read Daniel Roberto Alexandra Robson Sharon Rogers Jayden Rowe Marco Santos Anneka Shankar Amol Sharma Romesh Sharma Jaz-Al Siaosi Nicole Singh

Sonia Soliz Ky Staal Rhys Steward Maythawee Suksom Chaithra Sumesh Aemar Sunga Dane Terekia Kiarna Terry Daniel Thick Judah Tirados Angel Tseros Raelyn Villegas Geordian Viloria Giandawn Viloria Andrew Vu Jaeda Zlomislic Year 11 Qasim Al Hameed Hend Almoail Taylor Ayoub Khyle Blando Liam Camilleri Shannen Fenech Chelsea Fuentes Yugant Gahlot Jayden Hicks Brayden Hurley Emily Johns Amilda Kasper Harsha Kumar Sydney Lavaro Samantha Lazaro Sandeep Maharaj Jake Manuhuia Laura Matekovic Mikayla McNee Araluen Phillips Matthew Varley Lisa Vu Sabrina Zaman Year 12 Keanna Kay BaldwinHartmann Elysson Coronel Joshua Deo Rose Euese Jaydan Formosa Angus Graham Emma Jurd Joshua Lancaster Patricia Lazaro Kobe Matatahi Brittany Menolotto Rachelle Rativo Brittany Ryan Harshita Sabharwal Alex Sewell Tamara Smith Nash Wiseman

Rooty Hill High School Learning, Leadership & Achievement North Parade, Rooty Hill NSW 2766 P.O. Box 70, Rooty Hill NSW 2766 Phone: 02 9625 8104 Fax: 02 9625 4208 Find us on: Web: www.rootyhill-h.schools.nsw.edu.au Facebook: www.facebook.com/rootyhillhs Twitter: www.twitter.com/rootyhillhs RHHS Alumni Network: www.linkedin.com (GROUP: Rooty Hill High School)