Msss bulletin 7 2015

Issue 7 / 8 May 2015

Middle/Senior School Bulletin

Middle & Senior School News Thank you to all of the parents who attended the Parent Teacher Interviews. Conversations around student learning, specific areas for improvement and for praise, lead to accurate goal setting and improved outcomes for our young people. As a College we really value these sorts of evenings. That said, there really is no need to wait for a special evening, if you have any questions or concerns about your child’s progress, performance or homework/study requirements please get in touch with the class teacher or a member of College staff and arrange a time to meet. If I can be of assistance or if you have any feedback about the Parent Teacher Interviews please contact me virginiaw@salc.qld.edu.au

lations to Binging House, the overall winning House by 11 points. Truly, it was a day where each and every participant was a champion. Thank you to Mr Manion, the Sports and Grounds departments, and to all staff who were involved in making this a wonderful carnival for the students. We are all so thankful that the rain held off until Thursday.

Last Friday, at assembly, I spoke to students about our College Crest and the significance of the cross being at the center, symbolizing St Andrews being a Christ-centred College.

I also spoke about our Mission statement: Celebrating the Gospel, Nurturing the Individual and Empowering Lifelong Learners and the values that guide us as we live in community; the values that are in common with all Lutheran schools in Australia are written on the petals of Luther’s rose, and those on our shield are the enduring values of this special community.

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Last Wednesday we held our Inter-House Cross Country Carnival. The athleticism and House Spirit shown on the day was impressive. I think it was our best carnival yet. Mr Manion (Head of Sport) was beside himself with anticipation as the lead changed with each age division. Congratu-

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This year we have introduced a ‘Spirit of St Andrews’ award scheme to recognize students who through their actions embody these values and encourage others through actions and good deeds. Students are encouraged to nominate their peers for these awards.

AWARD Acknowledge students who contribute to the College and wider community and up-hold the catch cry “Where everyone is someone” by showing empathy, compassion

Next week there is a lot happening at St Andrews, students in Years 3,5,7 & 9 will sit the National Literacy and Numeracy Tests (NAPLAN). The work done to prepare our students for the testing has been embedded in our regular teaching programs; focusing on literacy and numeracy skills as key elements, vital to academic success. Year 8 will head off to camp at Tyalgum next Monday – Wednesday. Camp Kindness is an important part of our outdoor education program and a stepping stone to our Year 9 Edge program. There is no understating the wealth of learning and growth that takes place through these sorts of experiences. I would like to thank Ms Dockstader (Year 8 Coordinator) and all of the staff who are attending the camp for their ongoing work and passion for student learning. Last but by no means least, next Saturday 16 May is the College Fete and I look forward to seeing you there. If you are yet to do so, I encourage you to visit the College website to purchase ride passes and also to consider volunteering to help by emailing fete@salc.qld.edu.au

Year 8 Robotics and Environmental Incursion Following their return from camp the Year 8 cohort will spend Thursday morning at the College in two themed educational activities. They will participate in a robotics workshop developing some fundamental programming skills in the area followed by an environmental workshop focussing on the stewardship required for responsible care of the environment. Special thanks must go to Ms Polentas and Ms Dockstader for their organisation of these opportunities for our students.

Please get in touch should I be able to offer any assistance with any aspect of your child’s school experience.

Senior School News

Virginia Warner Deputy Principal Head of Secondary School virginiaw@salc.qld.edu.au

Middle School News NAPLAN During this coming week the annual NAPLAN testing for students in Years 7 and 9 will be held. The NAPLAN tests were originally devised as a means of providing parents with a ‘snapshot’ of how their child was progressing in relation to accepted national means and standards across the key areas of Literacy and Numeracy. It is my daughter’s first NAPLAN this year and I have sat with her in the evenings as she has excitedly told me what sort of things happen during the testing week. As part of our regular daily curriculum at the College we obviously incorporate some preparation for the Tests into Year 7 and Year 9; however, we also use the data from the series of tests to inform our practice as teachers within the College. The best things that a student can do when the tests arrive are to have a good night’s sleep beforehand, eat a good breakfast and ensure that they have all necessary items for the tests.

Year 8 Camp Next week Ms Dockstader and her team along with the Year 8 cohort will be heading to Tyalgum Ridge Retreat in the foothills of the Mt Warning caldera for three days. The Year 8 camp is a wonderful opportunity for students to explore some challenging activities in this delightful setting as well as experience the chance to live with some of their classmates for a few days. The Camp is also used as a springboard for introducing some of the inter-personal themes and elements of positive psychology which will be focused on by the group for the remainder of the year. I will be visiting the Camp on Tuesday evening.

Tom Casey Head of Middle School tomc@salc.qld.edu.au

Flourishing in the Senior School Leos play a very important role in reminding our students how important it is to serve in the community and by providing opportunities for our students to contribute. On Tuesday 12 May from 3.454.45pm our Leo members will be recognised for the work that they do with the Installation of the Executive; Jon-Ross Gordon, Ty Sheers, Khali Robins, Maddison Good and Chloe Harvie and the Induction of all other members. We look forward to family and friends joining us to celebrate this event which will be held in Main Administration - Common Room.

The Leos will also be visiting the residents in the Aged Care and taking over some art to brighten the main dining and reception area to celebrate Mother’s Day. While these visits are designed to brighten the day of the residents, it cannot be denied that we too get so much out of our visits. We see PERMA in action and our wellbeing certainly flourishes as we share stories of what we have seen and who we have talked to on the walk back to school.

Mindful May

This month we are focusing on being Mindful in May and being present in the moment. Mindfulness has certainly been receiving a lot of press recently and we will be sharing tips on how to be more mindful, therefore, more able to get into that state of ‘flow’ or utter absorption where we can produce our best work. One tip for being mindful is for our students to turn off their phones, Facebook, Instagram, SnapChat etc while studying. Imagine how much more productive students could be if they didn’t stop doing their task to message about the food they just ate, how much they dislike doing assignments or what some supposed star was

wearing. Students that tend to do very well in their final years of Senior Schooling have made a clear decision to limit, and for some completely remove, their use of social media during term time. Worth doing, I think.

Sergeant Tracey Clouston, the College’s Adopt-a-Cop, will be visiting this week to speak with our Year 11’s on their rights and responsibilities as a digital citizen. I would suggest that many of our students need to be mindful when using social media, digital technology and posting online. It is always great to have Tracey with us and we thank her for giving up her time.

Congratulations to: »» All of our students who attended the ANZAC Day March and represented the College with pride. »» To Lily Robinson (Year 12) who sent me the photo from Easterfest (below) and who is taking her role as ‘buddy’ to a Year 10 student – Jasmine Kirkman seriously. I’ve included the message from Lily.

cture of Jaz send you this pi “Just wanted to Easterfest! e were away at and me when w ung woman autiful, strong yo ing things She is such a be az g some pretty am is in store and God is doin t ha w e se to excited around her! So gether! Best for pairing us to for her! Thanks experience!!” buddy bonding

Chaplains Chat It’s easy to stand when you are standing on solid ground, but what happens when the ground shifts? What happens when the rug is literally pulled from beneath your feet? To what can you cling? And, where can you turn for safety?

These are good questions and questions that I imagine are very real for a number of College families at the present time.

Even if these kind of questions are not real for you at present because everything is “plain sailing” – one can easily look at the world around us, such as the tragic earthquake in Nepal – where the ground literally moved – and see that the very foundations of life sometimes change beneath our feet.

What we thought was safe and secure and what we thought would never change, changes.

In such unsettling times it seems as though there is nowhere to turn – that there is nothing to grasp hold of – nothing to keep us upright or to keep us going. Whilst we might have a sense of falling or failing, there is something to which we can hold. His name is the Lord God Almighty.

And no matter what has happened or no matter what kind of relationship we have had or not had with Him in the past – He has always listened to the cries of His created people and defended them in times of danger.

The love and mercy of God is always kindled when His people cry out in need.

God’s people from ancient times, the Israelites, knew something about this. They knew adversity but they also knew to depend on God in the midst of their hardest times.

Have a read of the following Psalm that has been sung and spoken throughout the centuries by people standing on moving ground:

Reminders: »» Now that the cooler weather is upon us please ensure that students have the correct combination of jumpers, blazers and sports jackets. »» If your child is arriving late they must sign in at Senior Administration and if leaving early sign out and present a note (or phone call) from parent/caregiver giving permission for the departure.

If you have any queries or concerns please do not hesitate to contact me on tanias@salc.qld.edu.au Tania Stewart Head of Senior School

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea.

Though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling.

There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High.

God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns.

The nations rage, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth melts.

The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Psalm 46:1-7 Pastor Nathan Glover Chaplain

Performing Arts News Zeal Theatre Company Incursion Last Friday our Acting for Stage and Screen and Years 10 – 12 Drama Students along with some Drama students from LORDS had the opportunity to view Zeal Theatre Company’s ‘The Apology’. This Contemporary piece explores the lasting effects of bullying through music, multiple role and physical theatre techniques.

Cilla Scott Head of Arts

Careers News Careers News Website!

For all latest careers news and information head to www.careerssalc.com or via the College website.

Queensland Core Skills (QCS) Test 2015 Community Representatives - Applications are now open for members of the community to apply for these positions.

To maintain the accountability, security and proper conduct of the 2015 QCS Test, the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) invites applications from community members for the positions of chief community representative and community representative.

A test centre is a secondary school, or another place approved by the QCAA, where students sit the QCS Test. All test centres are located within Queensland and have a chief supervisor to administer the test.

This year the test will be held on Tuesday 1 September and Wednesday 2 September. Applications close on Friday 22 May 2015.

Anyone interested should contact Mrs Wrigley in the CRC or via email at christina@salc.qld.edu.au or visit the QCAA website for more information about the positions and applying at https://www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/memos/15/019-15.pdf The QCAA can be contacted via email on qcs.admin@qcaa. qld.edu.au or by phone (07) 3864 0396.

Christina Wrigley Head of Learning and Teaching

Uniform Shop News Volunteers Needed The Uniform Shop is urgently seeking volunteers to assist in the shop for one hour a week from 8am - 9am. Full training is given and it is a great way to keep your skills current if you are wishing to return to the work force in the future.

UNIFORM SHOP NEW HOURS Monday 8am - 9.30am Tuesday 8am - 9.30am Wednesday 8am - 9.30am & 2.30pm - 3.30pm Thursday 8am - 9.30am Friday 8am - 9.30am

Congratulations to Binging on winning the event, and to all of our Age Champions who received their medals straight after the carnival.

Sport News Student Achievements St Andrews’ students continue to achieve outstanding results in sporting events.

District and Regional Sports Teams John Ramsey has been selected in the District Basketball team. John was also a member of the Division 3 Under 16s basketball team which won the State Championships a couple of weeks ago. Well done, John!

Darby Scott has been selected in the President’s 12 years AFL team to compete at the State Championships at the end of June.

Any 10 to 19 year old students wishing to compete at the upcoming Hinterland District Cross Country Carnival on Monday May 18 need to email me as soon as possible to nominate.

AFL - Gold Coast Suns Cup Recently St Andrews had our Girls’ AFL team play at Coomera. They did an outstanding job and finished second in their group. Zoe Cunningham was our highest goal scorer.

Shanea Pagels, Georgia Eller, Emily Richards, Emilie Robins, Cassie Crowe and Madeleine Tritton were some of our best players with all team members contributing very well. To top the day off, Emily Clark won the lucky prize of a signed Gold Coast Suns jersey. Well done, girls!

Stephen Lockhart has been selected in the Hinterland District Soccer team to go to Regionals.

Harrison Craig-Ward, Finlay Wardrop, Georgia Eller and Zoe Cunningham have been selected to attend a second trial for the District Soccer team selection.

National Swimming Championships Ieuan Watkins recently competed in the 13 Years events at the National Age Swimming Championships. He achieved some outstanding results finishing in 15th place in 100m Freestyle, 17th in 800m Freestyle, 25th in 400m Freestyle and 38th in 50m Freestyle. Well done, Ieaun!

Surf Lifesaving Kieran Croker achieved a bronze medal in the board race and a bronze medal in the flags event at the recent Queensland Surf Lifesaving Nipper titles. A few weeks later he repeated this performance at the first ever Australian Surf Lifesaving Junior Championships held for under 14s at North Kirra.

Congratulations on your success at the Nationals, Kieran.

Jack Read also competed at the State Surf Lifesaving Titles in March. Jack made the finals in the board relay, board individual race, swim team relay, swim individual race and the Iron Man race. He came 3rd in 1km run. Well done, Jack!

Cross Country Congratulations to all those who competed at our Carnival on Wednesday 29 April. You made it a great event by supporting your House group.

If any boys are interested, there is a Gold Coast Suns Cup competition for Boys under 14 coming up very soon. Please see me for details.

Andrew Manion Head of Sport

P&F News Fete – 16 May 2015 - It is fast approaching!!!

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED The P & F appreciates all the help we have had so far. We need more volunteers to help out with stalls and will be looking for volunteers to help on the Friday afternoon and the day of the Fete. We will also need assistance to pack up on the Sunday.

Fete meetings will now be held every Wednesday afternoon 3.30pm in the Junior School Staffroom, until the FETE. Every Wednesday from now until the Fete we will be collecting donations at the Bus Shelter from 8am and the P & F office from 7.15am.

DONATIONS NEEDED Chocolate Bed - We have 300 chocolates, we need at least 300 more!

Princess & Pirate Stall - Crowns, Tiaras, Wings, Glitter, Bubble blowers, Eyepatches, Plastic swords, Pirate hats

RIDE PASSES!!!

Dates to Remember - May Monday 11 Year 8 Camp Year 11 Business Management Excursion Tuesday 12 Year 8 Camp NAPLAN Testing Leo Induction - 3.45pm - Staff Common Room Wednesday 13 Year 8 Camp NAPLAN Testing Schoolgirls Breakfast Career Experience Fete Meeting - 3.30pm - Junior School Staff Room Partnerships for Learning - 7.00pm - CRC Thursday 14 NAPLAN Testing Year 8 Robotics and Environment Workshops Friday 15 Years 7-12 Assembly Starbound Dance Eisteddfod Saturday 16 College Fete – 10.00am-4.00PM Sunday 17 All Hallows 2015 Touch Carnival Monday 18 Hinterland Green Cross Country Carnival Legal Studies Seminar Year 12 Wednesday 20 Year 11 BCT Excursion Friday 22 Year 12 QCS Prep Workshop Junior Council GC City Council - Selected Students

Early bird ride passes are available now via Trybooking (link below) $25 for over 5 years and $20 for Prep and under 5 years. Prices on the day of the Fete will be $30 and $25, so get in early! www.trybooking.com/HDBD Raffle Tickets are due back to MAIN RECEPTION now.

Fete Chocolate Drive Goal – 600 + blocks of chocolate

WE NEED YOUR CHOCOLATE !!! we need a minimum of 600 BLOCKS OF chocolate to make this stall a success, so when they are next on special, please grab a few for the Fete.

NEED IDEAS FOR MOTHER’S DAY? Digital or Book Memberships Available Cost is still only $55.00 www.entbook.com.au/14404l5

Fete – 16 May 2015 - it is Fast approaching!!!

Fete meetings are held every Wednesday afternoon 3.30pm in the Junior school staffroom, until the Fete. every Wednesday from now until the Fete we will be collecting donations at the Bus shelter from 8am and the P & F office from 7.15am.

RIDE PASSES!!! early Bird ride passes are available via trybooking (link below) $25 for over 5 years and $20 for prep and under 5 years. prices on the day of the Fete will be $30 and $25, so get in early! www.trybooking.com/hdBd

Fete ChoColate Drive Goal – 600 + blocks of chocolate We NeeD YoUR chocolate !!!

We NeeD a miNimUm of 600 blocks of chocolate to make this stall a sUccess, so WheN theY aRe Next oN special, please GRab a feW foR the fete.

We need chocolate! chocolate! chocolate!

We have about 300 but please keep them coming. The kids really love this stall and we need MORE CHOCOLATE to keep this stall going for the whole day.

raFFle tickets are due Back to Main reception thank you to all oF the FolloWing Businesses For supporting our Fete!

air Factory – Burleigh currumbin Wildlife sanctuary titans Family pass x 2 currumbin rsl vouchers gold coast suns tickets Multifunction machine – konica Minolta aranyani Bison park – one night accommodation eco oasis – 2 nights accommodation – Valued at $650 Barbers on swan lane – one free hair cut kaisercraft – $20 gift vouchers x 2 tablet – donated by gisler group golf at hope island golf at coplicks Billabong prize packs x 3 Wax hands party Face painting party Beauty Bar Burleigh positive change purses holiway skateboard Miami stainless – tools John ahern – Layout author(cover): CAKE BOXES!! edge gym – currumbin TO BE RETURNED caltex – gift hampers FRIDAY 15 MAY ST ANDREWS LUTHERAN C cold rock ice cream plantation house café piece style and design Mrs red’s art room thermomix tupperware chevron yoga Proudly supported by Woodbox café Calte Madison Jane Mode Voyage Cruis tea therapy Gary Gannon 0407 994 041 Wicked Beans Scott Keatley 0408 387 330 goldsteins 2 B kids Bounce avon

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Layout (ticket): ST ANDREWS LUTHERAN COLLEGE PARENTS & FRIENDS

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Volunteers needed! please contact fete@salc.qld.edu.au Address

Gary Gannon

School Fete

Saturday 16 May

Bring everyone!

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out for the different stalls that will be at the fete and donate to help create fantastic stalls & prizes. All donations are much appreciated.

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Please contact PandF@salc.qld.edu.au if you can help

INSIGHTS Building parent-school partnerships

WORDS Michael Grose

Helping students get ready for the NAPLAN tests

The most resilient children and young people are those who rise to meet rather than retreat from the challenges presented to them. Perhaps it’s best to view the NAPLAN tests as good learning experiences rather than dreaded pressure tests.

During the second week of May Australian children in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 will take part in the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN). The stated purpose of this testing program is to gain an overall picture of educational attainment levels to assist education policy and decision-making.

The program first implemented in 2008 has drawn some criticism from a number of different quarters, particularly in regard to the use of the information gained through the NAPLAN tests. You’ve probably heard a number of different viewpoints expressed in the media over the last few weeks.

One view commonly put forward is that the NAPLAN tests put undue pressure on children to perform in test situations. If so, then perhaps the best approach for parents and teachers is to help them handle the pressure rather than avoid it. The most resilient children and young people are those who rise to meet rather than retreat from the challenges presented to them.

Perhaps it’s best to view the NAPLAN tests as good learning experiences rather than dreaded pressure tests.

Children and young people take their cues from their parents about how to handle many situations. American psychologist Martin Seligman discovered more than a decade ago, through his research into children’s thinking styles, how closely a child’s explanatory style

mimics that of the parent they spend most time around. Optimistic parents beget optimistic kids, just as anxious parents can beget anxious kids. The impact of a parent’s explanatory style seems to be magnified somehow in small families where there are fewer voices to be heard.

As a parent it helps your child, if you take a positive view of the NAPLAN tests. It’s better to see them as learning opportunities for kids as well as opportunities to overcome any anxieties or nerves that these tests may bring on. It’s also worth remembering that many children don’t stress over these tests. The vast majority take them in their stride, wondering what all the fuss is about.

Whether your child stresses or takes them in his stride here are some tips to help prepare for the NAPLAN tests: 1 Take your cues from your child: If your child doesn’t worry about them then neither should you. Be careful not to create a problem that doesn’t exist by incessantly talking about, or worse, worrying about the test.

2 Focus on doing their best and trying hard: Choose your words carefully when you speak with your kids. As with all their learning activities place your focus squarely on effort rather than results. The only pressure on kids should be to try hard rather than to do well.

3 Listen to any concerns they have: If your child confesses to some nerves then validate their feelings, rather than shut them down with a ‘get over it’ response. “Yes, sometimes tests can be a little scary, but they get easier every time you take them.” Use this as an opportunity to develop some emotional smarts, which starts with recognising how kids feel.

4 Give them some relaxation ideas: Anxious or nervous kids will benefit from some simple relaxation strategies. Taking some deep breaths, changing their thinking and exercising the morning of the test are some simple ways to help kids get some feeling of control.

5 Help them retain their perspective: One way to help children who become excessively anxious about an event is to ask what’s the worst thing that could happen?

Okay, they may not do as well as they would like but the sun will still rise tomorrow, regardless of how well they do. Keeping perspective is a life skill that we all need to practise.

A positive, caring parent attitude is one of the best gifts you can give a child when they are apprehensive or nervous about approaching any different situation whether it’s going on school camp, joining a new club or sitting a NAPLAN test.

e from Michael Grose. Join Stay one step ahead of your kids with great ideas & expert advic b.com.au. You’ll be so glad you did.

Michael’s NEW Parentingideas Club today at parentingideasclu

parentingideas.com.au

© 2015 Michael Grose

INSIGHTS Building parent-school partnerships WORDS Michael Grose

Help your children make sense of natural disasters

As adults we all want our children to live carefree lives and keep them from the pain and even horror of tragedies such as natural disasters. In reality we can’t do this.

Recent natural disasters wreak incredible havoc on so many people’s lives and will no doubt leave an indelible imprint on our collective psyches. Graphic images have been brought into our living rooms via the media over the last few weeks, and will continue to do so in the immediate future.

As adults we all want our children to live carefree lives and keep them from the pain and even horror of tragedies such as natural disasters. In reality we can’t do this.

So what is a parent, teacher, or other caring adult to do when the natural disasters fill the airwaves and the consciousness of society? Here are some ideas: 1 Reassure children that they are safe The consistency of the images can be frightening for young children who don’t understand the notion of distance and have difficulty distinguishing between reality and fiction. Let them know that while this event is indeed happening it will not affect them directly.

2 Be available Let kids know that it is okay to talk about the unpleasant events. Listen to what they think and feel. By listening, you can find out if they have misunderstandings, and you can learn more about the support that they need. You

do not need to explain more than they are ready to hear, but be willing to answer their questions.

3 Help children process what they see and hear,particularly through television Children are good observers but can be poor interpreters of events that are out of their level of understanding.

4 Support children’s concerns for others They may have genuine concerns for the suffering that will occur and they may need an outlet for those concerns. It is heartwarming to see this empathy in children for the concerns of others.

5 Let them explore feelings beyond fear Many children may feel sad or even angry with these events so let them express the full range of emotions. They may feel sadder for the loss of wildlife, than for loss of human life, which is impersonal for them.

6 Help children and young people find a legitimate course of action if they wish Action is a great antidote to stress and anxiety so finding simple ways to help, including donating some pocket money can assist kids to cope and teaches them to contribute.

7 Avoid keeping the television on all the time The visual nature of the media means that images are repeated over and over, which can be both distressing to some and desensitizing to others.

8 Be aware of your own actions Children will take their cues from you and if they see you focusing on it in an unhealthy way then they will focus on it too. Let them know that it is happening but it should not dominate their lives.

9 Take action yourself Children who know their parents, teachers, or other significant caregivers are working to make a difference feel hope. They feel safer and more positive about the future.

So do something. It will make you feel more hopeful, too. And hope is one of the most valuable gifts we can give children and ourselves.

Children’s worlds can be affected in ways that we can’t even conceive of so adults need to be both sensitive to children’s needs and mindful of what they say and how they act in front of children.

In difficult times, it is worth remembering what adults and children need most are each other.

e from Michael Grose. Join Stay one step ahead of your kids with great ideas & expert advic b.com.au. You’ll be so glad you did.

Michael’s NEW Parentingideas Club today at parentingideasclu © 2015 Michael Grose

parentingideas.com.au