Shore Reports Summer 2023 by shore.official

Shore Reports #Article title#

Summer 2023

Contents Report from the Headmaster. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Excellence and Rigour in Teaching and Learning. . . . . . . . . 4 High Potential Learners Writing Project James Innovation Scholarship Music Old Boy Update HSC Nominations Highlight Integrity and Respect in Character . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Year 11 Building Connections Student Character and Wellbeing at Shore Early Learning Centre Middle School Play AFL Football Rugby Cross Country Rifle Club Snowsports Humility and Compassion in Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Chaplaincy at Shore CRU Service Learning Year 11 Immersion Camp, Arnhem Land Preparatory School at Northbridge: K,1,2 Preparatory School 3 - 6 Indigenous All-Stars vs Staff Touch Rugby Koori Club/AISNSW Waratah Project 2023

The Torch Bearer April 1916 Letter from Charlie Huxtable RAMC (’08) Do we not see in this time of war, a new meaning and a new beauty in the training which the old school gave us when she taught us that the great thing in life is to have a cause, and be loyal to it? And do we not conceive a new affection for those who act as the standard, who taught our boyhood’s years that we might take the old school as our cause, and all that she stood for besides learning—purity, manliness, mutual help, and that freedom from “snobbishness” taught by occasional defeat or shortcoming at our own game. For that reason it became as much a duty to shout yourself hoarse at a football match while barracking for “Shore” as it was to work hard for an exam, or to behave like a gentleman.

Faithfulness and Commitment in Community Life. . . . . . 31 Boarding at Shore Boarding with Cousins Archives Shore Parents’ Association The Shore Foundation Shore Old Boys’ Union Reunion News

Front cover image: Cousins Ben Alexander (Year 12) and Will Kowalski (Year 12) with their mothers Emma and Kate

Report from the Headmaster Semester 2

New House Captains of 2024 with Mr Derek Champion, Dr John Collier and Dr Andrew Mansfield

Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things (Philippians 4:8) This edition of the Shore Reports endeavours to provide a general progress report for Parents, Carers and other key stakeholders on the implementation of Shore’s Strategic Direction 2023-2025 as published earlier this year. Our Directions statement is structured around four major themes: • Excellence and Rigour in Teaching and Learning • Integrity and Respect in Character • Humility and Compassion in Service • Faithfulness and Commitment in Community Life These goals are aspirational and continuous. They emerge from our Mission which is, “to educate and shape students of strong

character, rigorous intellect and Christ-inspired virtue, who thrive and serve in their communities and beyond.” This Mission forms the backbone of the School, such that these aspects overlap and are multi-dimensional. We, therefore, seek to dig deeply into perennial Shore virtues as part of our programme of Building Good Men. Our tradition is one of Anglican schooling, wherein we commend and attempt to manifest the imperative of the Apostle Paul, “whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things.” (Philippians 4:8). The pages of this Shore Report are replete with samples of the dynamic School which is Shore. Our commitment to the formation of fine young men extends across our curriculum, our Christian education, our wellbeing programmes, our co-curricular activities and our outdoor education. These bountiful opportunities extend across our Northbridge and North Sydney campuses, appropriate to age and stage. At the point of graduation, we seek to launch young men who are comprehensively prepared to enter adult society and do good through a multitude of careers and engagements with our world. We are proud of our students, and the staff who seek to equip them in this mission. I commend this edition of the Shore Reports to you. Dr John Collier Headmaster

Excellence and Rigour in Teaching and Learning Rigour | Opportunity | Expertise of staff | Learning Spaces

Choir Camp Excellence and Rigour in Teaching and Learning: A Journey from Early Years to Global Achievements.

that excellence in teaching permeates every aspect of the educational experience.

From the earliest years of schooling at Shore to the moment students leave, the commitment to excellence and rigour in teaching and learning is woven into the fabric of their educational journey. This commitment finds expression in various remarkable initiatives that shape the holistic development of students, preparing them not just for academic success but for the challenges that await them as Old Boys in the wider world.

A feature of a Shore education is our focus on excellence and rigour in teaching and learning which extends beyond the classroom. This is exemplified by the Music Department and their outstanding work in ensuring a variety of opportunities for our boys to perform and refine their skills. The 2023 HSC Showcase nominations are also a testament to this. Sixty-three nominations for Visual Art, Design and Technology, Music, Drama, and Industrial Technology mark the highest number of nominations we have ever received for HSC practical work. This reflects the exceptional standards of students’ work which culminates in recognition beyond the School.

One such initiative you will read about is a Year 5 and 6 High Potential Learners (HPL) Project, where the magic of nurturing young minds unfolds. For some of our upper primary students to be transformed into published authors is a remarkable achievement. Under the guidance of multi-award-winning author Tim Harris, these young wordsmiths embarked on a year-long journey, not only refining their writing skills but also honing higher-order thinking, critical analysis, and problem-solving. The commitment to excellence extends beyond student achievements to the educators themselves. The James Fellowship, an innovative initiative of the Shore Foundation, exemplifies this commitment. Four talented staff members representing various disciplines showcase the dedication to teacher development and the provision of professional learning opportunities, ensuring

Similarly, it is inspiring to see Old Boys like Edward Nutt (’22) speak of their transformative journey from Shore to Princeton University in the USA. His words echo the sentiment that the education received at Shore not only prepared him academically but also instilled values of consistency, perseverance, and resilience. As he thrives in the diverse learning environment of an Ivy League institution, his story serves as an example of the enduring impact of excellence and rigour in teaching and learning at Shore. Mr Matt Leeds Deputy Head Academic

Excellence and Rigour in Teaching and Learning

High Potential Learners Writing Project

Rupert Bransgrove, Henry Grieve, Will McCowan, Conal Robertson, Zachary Robertson, Louis Williams with renowned children’s author and mentor, Tim Harris and Alexandra Geersen, High Potential Learning Teacher at Shore Preparatory School Years 3 - 6

Nurturing Tomorrow’s Wordsmiths Picture a world where upper primary school students, brimming with creativity and youthful exuberance, morph into published authors. See their beaming faces as they hold their own printed novels, their imaginations brought to life on the pages within. In a remarkable endeavour that ignited the fires of storytelling, these young minds didn’t just dream; they wrote. Their words are now bound within the pages of real, tangible books. Welcome to the enchanting world of the Stage 3 High Potential Learners (HPL) Project, where six young authors crafted their stories and embarked on a journey into the realm of published literature. Tim Harris, multi award-winning author, is known for his engaging and humorous book series for young readers, including ‘Ratbags,’ ‘Mr. Bambuckle’s Remarkables’, ‘Toffle Towers’, and ‘Exploding Endings’.

Designing book covers

With an impressive array of published works and commitment to fostering emerging talents, Tim Harris stood out as the perfect mentor for this project. The writing project was conceived with a clear vision - to provide a nurturing space where some of our best young writers could explore their creativity and refine their writing skills under the mentorship of an accomplished author. Beyond the aim of developing their writing abilities, the year-long project encouraged higher-order thinking, and promoted creativity, critical analysis, and problem-solving. By working closely with Tim as a mentor, the students gained first-hand exposure to the writing process, its nuances, and the discipline required to excel in the literary world. The writing process for these young authors was a dynamic adventure, beginning with intensive upskilling lessons that equipped them with the essential tools for storytelling. As they delved into the

Refining writing skills

world of words, they developed character bibles, breathing life into protagonists and antagonists with quirks and backstories that made them jump off the page. To ensure a well-structured narrative, they embarked on chapter mapping, and developed roadmaps of their stories, with every twist and turn meticulously planned. Collaborating closely with skilled illustrators, they provided creative briefs, ensuring their stories came to life with visuals, creating a complete experience for their readers. Throughout this journey, vision boards served as inspiration, igniting creativity and providing a constant reminder of their goals, and fostering a sense of purpose and direction. Of course, the true magic happened during the actual writing phase, where these aspiring authors artfully crafted their novels. Finally, they began the editing process, refining their manuscripts, ready to fulfil their goals of becoming published authors. The success of the writing project is a testament to the hard work and commitment of the young writers involved and the ongoing support of their families. With their manuscripts now ready to grace the world, their stories are not just words on pages, but vibrant reflections of their dedication, illuminating the limitless possibilities that unfold when youthful imagination is nurtured. ‘First Editions’ of these six novels will be available for borrowing in the Preparatory and Senior School libraries from 2024. All proceeds from book sales will be donated to the Indigenous Literary Foundation. Mrs Alexandra Geersen High Potential Learning Teacher

Tim Harris supporting our young authors Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Excellence and Rigour in Teaching and Learning

James Innovation Scholarship Enlisting our Educators in the James Fellowship The Shore Foundation is committed to supporting Shore to develop its team of teachers and support staff through innovative and sector leading approaches to staff professional learning and wellbeing.

Learning Enrichment Teacher and Master of Service Learning; and Madeleine Wilson, Psychologist and Senior School Counsellor were successful in receiving a Fellowship Grant, which saw them travel

around the world to gain skills, knowledge and experiences that all enhance their craft in teaching and nurturing the students of Shore.

The James Fellowship is an initiative of the Foundation that aligns with one of our key focus areas – teacher development – and, within that, the provision of professional development and learning opportunities for our dedicated staff. In 2023, four of our talented staff, Gareth Inches Head of PDHPE, Clare Froggatt K,1,2 Teacher Librarian and Kirsten Tootell ICT Integration Specialist,

New York, New York GARETH INCHES, HEAD OF PDHPE My time on the James Fellowship in New York and New Jersey was an enriching professional experience that I truly valued. The opportunity saw me embed myself in several major institutions in and around the US and allowed for an immersive professional learning experience that is difficult to replicate in Australia. Engaging with professionals in a vastly different setting to Shore, allowed me to see first-hand just how diverse education can be across the world. It was also a timely reminder of how similar teenagers are, no matter where they live! Franklin School in New Jersey was innovative in its approach to the academic development of its students, embarking on a focused, sequential Academic Skills and Academic Care programme throughout its senior school. Their use of an Australianbased effort-tracking App reinforces the benefits of collaboration between students, teachers, and parents to ensure sustained diligence and attainment by the students. Meanwhile, New Jersey City University’s Rising Knight Institute (RKI) is at the forefront of athlete wellbeing in the

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Clare Froggatt and Kirsten Tootell visiting a Library Learning Commons in Canada

National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) system. The RKI has a focus on the whole athlete, with a programme designed to assist athletes through social and emotional learning, academic support and the facilitation of service learning. Equipping students with real-life soft skills such as leadership, teamwork and followership through this programme has seen an increase in student retention rates and a decrease is reported in mental health issues amongst their elite athletes. I ended my trip with a visit to the New York Ironworkers Rugby headquarters to witness the growth potential of Rugby in the US. Their use of recruitment strategies, including High School Combines, similar to those done in College for the NFL, demonstrates a real commitment to growing the game in the country. I have no doubt that in due course, there will be opportunities for high-performing Shore Rugby players to use their sporting ability to access top-level Colleges in America, similar to the long-established and highly successful transition of many of our elite rowers over the years. Overall, the James Fellowship was an extremely valuable and enriching experience, and I am truly grateful to the Shore Foundation for the opportunity to

explore such different institutions during my time in America. The experience provided me with a great opportunity to reflect on our current offerings and consider what we can introduce in the future to ensure our School stays at the forefront of education in Australia.

New York Ironworkers training with Manhattan looking on

Chris Barnes, former Shore History Teacher, Director of Academic Care at Franklin School

Excellence and Rigour in Teaching and Learning Commonalities in Canada CLARE FROGGATT, LIBRARIAN AND KIRSTEN TOOTELL, ICT/ LEARNING ENRICHMENT Inspired by the innovative approaches of the Library Learning Commons (LLC) model, which has revolutionised schools in Canada, our James Fellowship experience saw us visit a variety of schools in Toronto. We met with teacher librarians, classroom teachers, school principals and ICT specialists to discuss what they felt had the biggest impact on their success. Many shared the importance of working collaboratively to plan and deliver programs, building on student interest, links to the curriculum, as well as being

culturally responsive to the needs of individual students. As we reflected on those conversations, we discovered patterns and strategies that we believe will also work in our context. Leaders of the LLC model are reflecting on the many impacts that COVID-19 has had on our learners, as well as other issues concerning racism, diversity and equity. Foundational to the LLC are the competencies of social and emotional learning. We also gained a fresh understanding as to why the school library is referred to as a Library Learning Commons. The word ‘commons’ is important because the library is not just a space where children go to have lessons with the teacher librarian, but

Claire Froggatt, Karen Devonish-Mazzotta and Kirsten Tootell

Teen Mental Health Trends MADELEINE WILSON, PSYCHOLOGIST It is imperative the School Counselling Team keeps up-to-date with current research in the field of School Psychology to achieve better outcomes for students and deliver a premier service. At the coal face of student’s emotional wellbeing and a port of call for students experiencing academic, social, emotional, or behavioural challenges - and their parents - having access to the latest research, emerging trends and international best practice, provides me and my team with the most practical tools and rigorous strategies required to best meet students’ needs. The James Fellowship provided me with the opportunity to attend a combination of conferences and interviews across the USA, including: The National Association of School Psychologist’s Advanced Summer Institute, where I received specialist training in creating student-centred goals in counselling, enhancing family-school partnerships through relationship building, and providing trauma informed care in the classroom.

rather, it is a common space shared by the school community. Children engage in a vast variety of deep learning opportunities, integral to which was a recognition that learners today need different opportunities to learners of the past. In addition to the traditional library classroom, the LLC has a variety of flexible learning areas, including calm spaces for mindfulness and makerspaces to develop critical and creative thinking skills. Library makerspaces provide multiple wellbeing benefits where making mistakes is part of the learning process, and students develop resilience in collaboration with others. We are so grateful for the learning we gained by undertaking the James Fellowship. Through this opportunity, we gained practical experiences from many schools, and the educators and leaders we met are eager to assist us in the implementation of the LLC in our School, not only through providing advice but by working collaboratively with our students and engaging in inquiry pursuits and projects, equipping them to be global learners with 21st-century learning skills.

The American School Counsellor’s Association Annual Conference, where I attended workshops on supporting students struggling with cannabis and vaping addiction, addressing youth-produced explicit online content, and restorative practices for disciplinary processes. Interviews with Professors from Harvard and UCLA, where I was fortunate enough to interview Dr Tal Ben-Shahar of Harvard University regarding his book “The Pursuit of Perfect”. Dr Ben-Shahar offered insights into how we can deter students from perfectionism and towards the path he terms “optimalism”. I also interviewed Professor Marvin Belzer of UCLA regarding his research in mindfulness. There are numerous benefits for teens who regularly practice mindfulness, such as improved attention, greater compassion, better emotion regulation and improved executive functioning. Meeting with a School Psychologist from the New York Collegiate School as an opportunity to ‘trade notes’ and evaluate practices within our similarly elite school environments. We found that both mental

Madeleine Wilson health trends and service delivery were largely comparable across our schools. I am very grateful for the opportunity to attend world-leading conferences and engage with experts in the field of School Psychology. Through the James Fellowship, I have been able to reflect on Shore’s current wellbeing offerings and consider what we can introduce to continue to develop a premier School Counselling service and lead the way in student wellbeing within the Australian educational arena.

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Excellence and Rigour in Teaching and Learning

Music learning activity. There are many benefits to performing live to an audience including team building, social interaction and cooperation; problem solving; developing a sense of personal identity; promoting selfmotivation and self-expression and building confidence. There were countless hours of rehearsal, and the long-term benefit of these rehearsals reinforces positive work habits such as punctuality, reliability, and communication to name a few.

Spring Concert at The Concourse Chatswood Learning comes in many different forms and in Term 3 we witnessed excellence and rigour in the teaching and learning of both curriculum and co-curricular activities in the Music department. Keen to partner with key institutions and professionals, Shore staff and students had the opportunity to: • learn from contemporary composers Elizabeth Jigalin, Lisa Young and awardwinning Beat Boxer, Conor Malanos; • attend concerts and recitals by professional pianist Javier Perianes, French horn player Stefan Dorh, Ensemble Offspring, Australian Romantic Classical Orchestra and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra; • participate in and observe a Masterclass with world renowned organist, Thomas Trotter. The Music teachers provided further activities within and beyond the classroom to enable parents to engage in their son’s education. Year 7 students participated in a one-hour workshop called ‘Taking Shape’ by Musica Viva, where students were asked to identify differences between melodies and were then asked to create original musical ideas that were performed by the ensemble. This was complemented in the classroom where students learned how to develop their musical ideas using different compositional techniques. They then created compositions that were 8

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

influenced by pictures that reflected an environmental concern and presented these to their parents in the War Memorial Hall. For some students, it was their first introduction to music software that assisted students to compose ideas and immediately hear the results. Many students reflected that the process was very worthwhile and is more important than the final product. They also noted that in the future, they would start the task much earlier! Parent feedback included “Really creative work, very meaningful”, “An excellent learning exercise for the boys. Thank you!” and “Brilliant to hear so many compositions – great idea to share with parents – really noticed how boys aimed to work with photos as inspiration.” In Term 3 we also held HSC soirees where Year 12 Elective Music students performed all their HSC repertoire. These soirees are often the pinnacle of the students’ musical career and are the culmination of great growth in skill development, musical maturity and collaboration. The rigour, determination and perseverance from these students is impressive. The learning spaces of students were expanded in other ways, such as the annual Spring Concert which this year was held at the Chatswood Concourse Concert Hall. This opportunity for the co-curricular Music ensembles to perform as a team in a professional space was a wonderful

Students also engaged in sacred works presenting the Christian Gospel through song at the Year 12 Family Service, Confirmation Service, Evensong, Year 12 Graduation and at the Spring Concert where a combined choir of Prep and Senior students performed Benjamin Britten’s Chichester Psalms. Much of this repertoire was prepared at the annual two-day Choir Camp and our music camps enable students to build stronger relationships across different year groups providing a sense of belonging to a crowd other than their regular circle of friends. The Music Department provides many opportunities for different interests and skill levels. Further performance opportunities for students in Term 3 included Studio Concerts, Music Function, Year 12 Graduation, Valedictory Dinner, Year meetings and Sporting dinners. American Tea was an outdoor performance event where students busked, co-curricular ensembles performed and the Music Department provided auction items, all to support the raising of funds for the Shore Parents Association. Rock Bands, horn duos, Stage Band, Jazz Ensemble and Barbershop Quartet’s all supported the event. Music complements academic study beautifully, and the benefits of learning and playing an instrument are welldocumented. It has been a busy summer for curriculum and co-curricular Music and these many opportunities would not be possible without the dedication of the wonderful Music staff at Shore, for which we are very grateful. Mrs Kim Barber Head of Music

Excellence and Rigour in Teaching and Learning

Evensong

HSC Soiree Year 12 students

Year 12 graduation

Studio Concert Daniel Hone

Year 12 Family Service

Alexander Gilchrist conducting at the Spring Concert

Presenting flowers at the HSC Soiree

Spring Concert Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Excellence and Rigour in Teaching and Learning

Old Boy Update all the guidance and assistance provided to me throughout my years at Shore which enabled me to achieve academic and sporting excellence. In my next four years at Princeton, I will be majoring in economics, as well as fulfilling many distribution requirements, such as a foreign language, historical analysis, ethical thought and more, in which I learn new concepts and values in an environment of critical thinking.

Edward at Princeton In August 2023, I left Australia and flew across the world to New Jersey in the USA to begin my freshman year at a world leading university, Princeton, as an undergraduate student.

As a student at Princeton, I am provided with a diverse learning environment which has astounding historical value, dating back to 1746 when the university was founded. On top of study, I also compete in Heavyweight Rowing at Division 1 level. Rowing is a skill I learned throughout my six years at Shore and has greatly aided me in my transition to Princeton.

Through this experience I have been integrated into a new culture and a very fast-moving program. My education at Shore has benefited me greatly and prepared me for life in ways I hadn’t expected. This opportunity to attend Princeton University is incredible! I am so thankful for

and slowly throughout the years I climbed my way up the ranks, with thanks to great guidance from both peers and coaches. I rowed in the Shore First VIII for 2 years (’21 and ’22) and now attend an Ivy League university doing the sport I love. My academic journey was similar. So, for whatever you do, stick with the process and stay consistent with your goals, as you may never know where the path will take you. I am grateful for being in the position I am today, even though it meant many tough sessions and early mornings as a student. I have especially learnt that everything means something. Mr Edward Nutt Old Boy (’22)

For current students at Shore, I avow that consistency and not giving up is key in everything that you do. In Year 7, I was in the very bottom crew at Shore for rowing,

Rowing competition Photo credit: Roy Matusek

HSC Nominations Highlight Congratulations to our Year 12 students that have been nominated for HSC Showcase. We’re very proud of you!

ARTEXPRESS

2 10

nominations

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Encore

nominations

InTech

4 7

Industrial Technology nominations Design and Technology nominations

OnSTAGE

31 19 19

Group Performance nominations Individual Performance nominations Double nominations

Integrity and Respect in Character Virtue | Wellbeing | Challenge | Discovery | Respect

Lord of the Flies cast

The aim of our studies is not to know what virtue is, but to become good – Aristotle. In addition to the formation of the mind, I believe that one of our most important tasks as educators is the formation of character. Dr Collier has mentioned previously that schools are ‘purveyors of hope’, and indeed we see in the book of Romans, the Apostle Paul writing about character producing hope. But what is character, and can it be taught? Over the last decade, the Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues has been researching character education in schools and has arrived at two definitions (2022): • Character is a set of personal traits or dispositions that produce specific moral emotions, inform motivation and guide conduct. • Character education includes all explicit and implicit educational activities that help young people develop positive personal strengths called virtues. In facing a world where truth is contested, where Artificial Intelligence is being navigated and where peace cannot be taken for granted, the value of a school where students and staff lead lives of kindness, respect and integrity will be a vanguard upholding a world of compassion and human flourishing. Indeed, the world needs fine young men. At Shore, we see the formation of character daily through our co-curricular programme. The development of sportsmanship, resilience, respect for others and the cultivation of a habit of

service are all explored through implicit and explicit opportunities on the sporting field, rehearsal room, theatre, cadets, clubs and service learning. We desire for our boys to thrive and flourish in life with a strong sense of learning, “to know the good, love the good and do the good” (2022). Finally, in August of this year, a group of international scholars from The Jubilee Centre and Harvard University gathered and formulated a statement on flourishing as an educational aim (2023). There is no doubt more to come in this area, but for now, the co-curricular life of Shore provides our boys with a strong sense of belonging and an opportunity to pursue the ‘good’, to flourish and to build a life of meaning and purpose. Dr Luke Gilmour Deputy Head Co-Curricular

…we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. (Romans 5:3-4) Bibliography The Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues. (2022). The Jubilee Centre Framework for Character Education in Schools. Birmingham: The University of Birmingham. The Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues. (2023). Statement on Flourishing as an Educational Aim. Birmingham: The University of Birmingham.

Integrity and Respect in Character

Year 11 Building Connections

Lunch break

A collaboration with Roseville College and Queenwood Our Year 11 students participated in our Building Connections Day with Roseville College and Queenwood. The day involved seminars from external speakers on the topic of resilience and respectful relationships. The aim of the day was to give time and space for students from all three schools to come together, learn and discuss these important topics. Following sessions with external expert speakers, the students spent time in small groups unpacking the key learnings of the day guided by pastoral leaders. The students also participated in different icebreaker sessions at each school to allow them to connect more informally and encourage helpful discussions and perspectives on these important social and emotional topics. The format this year differed, with our boys attending one of three programmes hosted at either Shore, Roseville College or Queenwood. This change to smaller groups of around 130 students facilitated more genuine and in-depth discussions, as well as providing an opportunity for students to meet new people and visit the different schools. The day is an important one for our boys and is a key learning experience and a way to demonstrate character and develop social and emotional skills in partnership with girls. The students heard from two external speakers, the organisation ‘Your Choicez’, and Matthew Johnstone. These 12

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Pilates class speakers addressed a range of issues, including mental health, respectful relationships, sex and consent, social media use and leadership. At each venue on the day, the girls and boys engaged well together, considering they didn’t know each other and that the subject matter required them to share their thoughts on sensitive topics and be vulnerable and open to discussion. Our Shore boys certainly did us proud, offering the most responses to questions posed by the guest speakers, as noted by staff at Roseville and Queenwood at the conclusion of the day. Each school used icebreakers to create excitement and fun to start things off. The hospitality and organisation from all schools were exceptional, and the staff who attended agreed that the day was a terrific experience for the students. The following excerpts are from Shore students who attended the day at the different venues: “Students from Shore, Roseville and Queenwood came together at their various schools to hear from experts and engage in meaningful discussions about healthy relationships with their peers. We kicked off the morning with various icebreaker activities such as pilates, gym circuits and indoor soccer simultaneously, which proved to be a great way of facilitating interaction amongst unfamiliar faces whilst also proving to be a fun and energetic way to start the day.

After an enjoyable morning tea on the Chapel Lawn, we were given an engaging presentation by guest speaker, Matthew Johnstone. Matthew gave an in-depth and provocative talk about his life and the way he uses illustrations and art to turn complex issues such as stress, anxiety, resilience and mindfulness into digestible imagery. Matt explained the importance of prioritising our mental health and talked to us about the little things we can do to remain mentally fit. We then broke off into smaller groups where we were able to further unpack Matt’s words, making our own lists in which we prioritised what we value in our own lives. Lunch was delicious and gave us time to chat, after which it was clearly visible that connections had been built through the now integrated collection of students sitting together on the Chapel Lawn. We were then given an inspiring and captivating talk from David Kobler. David’s company, ‘Your Choicez’, seeks to bring self-awareness to young students about the choices that they are making and how they affect relationships. David shared stories from his personal life and communicated to us the importance of building strong and healthy relationships in our own lives. He explored the struggles that young teenagers experience as a result of abusive and overbearing relationships and how that can affect their lives. On reflection, the day proved to be a positive experience for all of us to truly understand and prioritise the importance of building healthy relationships that

Integrity and Respect in Character positively affect us. We were able to put this into practice through comprehensive group discussions and an opportunity to interact with students outside of our day-today school environment.” Mr Derek Champion Deputy Head Pastoral Care Reflection by Matthew Connor, Pascoe House “The Building Connections Day between Shore, Roseville and Queenwood proved to be a fun and educational day, sparking new relationships between the schools. Both the Roseville girls and the school warmly welcomed us for a day filled with speeches and conversations surrounding mental health, healthy relationships, and emotional connection. The impactful messages and personal anecdotes of each speaker were truly enlightening and really crystalised our thinking as a community towards the many mental issues concerning the youth of today. The true beauty of the day, however, was found in connections and friendships made with both Roseville and Queenwood girls, something I’m sure many of us will maintain and cherish in the future. I’m sure all Shore boys can agree that the Building Connections Day was both entertaining and challenging and a valuable experience for all involved.”

Reflection by Jack Ingham Eldershaw House “Shore Year 11 students participated in a Building Connections Day joined by Roseville and Queenwood students. The first session at Roseville saw David Kobler talk about the various choices teenagers face in the areas of sex, dating, body image and relationships. Combining powerful personal stories and enlightening scientific research, David’s talk taught students the need for open and honest conversations about healthy relationships and the necessity of consistency, vulnerability, and love to sustain them. The second speaker, Dr Wall, illustrated the consequences of excessive stress and suggested various methods to regulate the biological, emotional, and intellectual brain to reduce levels of stress cortisol. Finally, Matthew spoke about youth mental health and shared ten tips for leading a mentally healthy life - accompanied by his stunning and profound illustrations depicting the ups and downs of the human condition. Throughout the day, the boys got to know the Roseville and Queenwood students through entertaining icebreakers, games, and general knowledge quizzes that saw a true bonding and building of connections occur.

Overall, it was an exciting day of learning and reflecting on youth mental health whilst also getting to form meaningful connections with new groups of students.” Reflection by Michael Kwak, Sawkins House For next year, each school is interested in continuing to find more opportunities to meaningfully connect and learn together. Our Building Connections journey can hopefully begin in early secondary school with events to lay the foundation for students and normalise our learning experiences together. Each of the three participating schools will host a day involving different dimensions of wellbeing, such as mental health, physical wellness, and social connections. Moreover, we will continue to collaborate as pastoral leaders and educators across our different schools to design and deliver engaging workshops, ensuring a range of diverse perspectives and well-rounded learning experiences for our students. I would like to thank our Housemasters, teaching staff and students who supported the day and helped it run smoothly. We look forward to continuing this important work together in partnership with Roseville College and Queenwood.

Pilates class Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Integrity and Respect in Character

Student Character and Wellbeing at Shore We acknowledge the value of creating time and space for learning, and doing, together in House groups, highlighting the pivotal role of our Housemasters and Tutors to help deliver quality social and emotional learning programmes. We bring alignment by providing training to tutors, staff, and coaches, fostering a common language across the many different educational settings at Shore. It is important to recognise that this is not limited to House time and adopt a holistic approach across the School. Therefore, continued collaboration with parents is essential to maintain a consistent approach to nurturing well-being and character in our boys at Shore. Consent Seminar with Brent Sanders Our Pastoral Care team at Shore is committed to providing our boys with the knowledge and understanding of what it means to be well. We can achieve this by delivering an evidenced based Character and Wellbeing programme for students that offers age-appropriate social and emotional learning experiences. We guide the boys in their House groups to build good character traits through real-life service-learning activities, such as serving at Our Big Kitchen or Rough Edges Café, helping them grow into responsible and compassionate young men. Additionally, we’re taking the lead in developing a Shore wellbeing programme that will help our boys face life’s challenges with confidence and a sense of purpose. The programme focuses on nurturing mental resilience to help our students cope with stress, succeed in their studies, and find purpose in their lives, all influenced by our belief in God’s presence and influence in the world. Our approach to student wellbeing encompasses several important areas of focus. These include helping students develop digital resilience, providing them with valuable information about careers through our Future Ready Programme, and offering engaging seminars with expert speakers on important topics like respectful relationships and mental health literacy. Following these seminars and special events like Leadership days or school camps, we follow up with the boys in Year Meetings to discuss the key takeaways and how they may relate to their current learning experiences, such as the Year 9 PDHPE curriculum. We also collaborate with our Chaplaincy staff to incorporate a Christian perspective into certain topics like sex and consent, and we work alongside our expert counselling staff to jointly present to the students. This comprehensive approach ensures that we address a wide range of wellbeing needs and provide support for our students throughout their educational journey. Our programme also provides boys with a sense of meaning and purpose through connection with others, a sense of belonging, and authentic service experiences. We understand the importance of providing positive role models and peer mentoring, enabling us to first reach them and then effectively teach them. Our mentoring approach in House groups is vitally important for building a sense of group membership and identity, and we support our older boys to lead tutorial sessions and reflections as part of our Building Good Men programme. 14

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Furthermore, we strive to promote a healthy perspective on masculinity by integrating this notion with our School virtues through character education. This comprehensive approach ensures that our Building Good Men programme goes beyond the discussion of character values. We instil virtues through character in action, by providing opportunities for all boys to be pro-social by participating in service-learning experiences in House groups. In 2024, our Shore Student Committee, comprising of students from Years 7-12, will play a significant role in gathering student voice and offer further leadership training. Our programme will then more closely align with the National Wellbeing Framework, providing more opportunities for leadership, student voice, inclusion, mental health support, and partnerships with experts and pastoral staff. The House system at Shore is the heart of our School and fosters a connected community where boys can belong and engage in many meaningful ways. The Pastoral Care team is committed to delivering on our strategic initiatives and guiding each boy on a clear journey to develop the skills needed for resilience and success at School. Mr Derek Champion Deputy Head Pastoral Care

For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.” For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. (Romans 15:3-4)

Integrity and Respect in Character

Early Learning Centre

Paige Choi explains how to make her favourite rice paper rolls

Shore students are shaped through a rich community experience. Building strong identities The Early Learning Centre is often a hive of busyness and learning. Our curriculum, which is underpinned by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), encourages principles of: Secure, Respectful and Reciprocal Relationships and Partnerships. These important aspects are woven into children’s daily learning and experiences, guided and scaffolded by our passionate teachers and educators. In doing so we

Caleb Yu sharing photos of himself cooking

Hugo Harris sharing his grandmother’s special recipe work to foster integrity and harness respect both in character and for others to grow and shape into well-adjusted individuals that go on to create lives of meaning and purpose. Children sharing ‘news’ is one way we embed and ‘live’ these principles. ‘News’ in the Early Learning Centre spans the Term with a key focus on the students. Sharing news requires the children to consider the topic, stand out at the front at group time and present it to their peers. The students listen to their peers and have an opportunity to ask questions, encouraging children’s thinking skills whilst also developing confidence to stand and speak in front of an audience. This takes great courage! The news focus for the past Term has been sharing favourite foods they like to make with their family and the recipe. This has led to a beautiful opportunity to learn more about each other’s rich

Belle Dawber sharing news about her favourite chocolate cake

Hamish Wu explains how to make ‘sleeping teddy bears’ diversity and culture by sharing the recipes and traditions of the ELC students (and teachers!). We were impressed with the creativity of the presentation from the students, from posters and long scrolls to photos of the students in action cooking with their families. Thank you to all our families who assisted their children in this activity. We appreciate your time to support your child in this activity. Seeing the students develop confidence in their self-identities and a sense of pride in sharing a piece of their family with us in the ELC has been warming. We look forward to compiling these precious recipes into a mini Shore Early Learning Centre family recipe book to be gifted at the end of the year. Mrs Michelle Thompson Director, Early Learning Centre

Benjamin Cheang explains his pizza making recipe Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Integrity and Respect in Character

Middle School Play

The Cast of Lord of the Flies

Middle School Play: Lord of the Flies Shore provides many outlets for students to shine and build character, none more-so than through Drama, a subject that inherently fosters an environment where every student is provided with opportunities to flourish. And flourish they do, as the resounding applause for the Middle School’s Play, Lord of the Flies, attested to earlier this year. From the foundations of the rehearsal period - a forum in which the Shore qualities of virtue, wellbeing, challenge, discovery, and respect all aided the process and ultimately one another, to seeing our students shine so brightly on stage on the night. We equip our students to embrace challenge and opportunity with confidence, broaden their horizons to pursue new passions and talents and form caring and respectful friendships that go on to last a lifetime. Nigel William’s stage adaptation of William Golding’s Lord of the Flies would appear to be a tailor-made play for a boys’ school. Featuring a band of British schoolboys stranded on an uninhabited island during a wartime evacuation as they daringly (and disastrously) attempt to govern themselves, the narrative provides boys with an emotionally charged vehicle with which to challenge themselves on stage. Nevertheless, given its status as a long-

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Ollie Bucktin as Piggy, Gus Manchee as Jack and Eddie Scougall as Ralph standing rite of passage in the curriculum for generations of teenagers, it could easily risk feeling tired and overdone. Not so with the 2023 Shore Middle School production! This production made a compelling case for the play as a cautionary tale with fresh, important, and enduring things to say.

As Shore Old Boys, Luke Gallant (’17), Director, Tim Ogborne (’17), Assistant Director and Riley Tapp (’16), Designer, exemplified Shore’s motto, “they hand on the torch of life.” They brought excellence to creating a production that would not only develop and inspire the next generation cast and crew, but also ‘give back’ to the broader community life of our School. As a sold-out season, it was wonderful to see that so many had the good fortune to experience this memorable production. A challenging story that asks important questions about the dire consequences of autocracy and anarchy, delusions of superiority and the ever more relevant need to hold fast to our democratic principles, this was not a show for the fainthearted. The role of theatre is not only to entertain, but to provoke our thinking when it comes to human behaviour and the world around us. This production bravely

As adults, many of us may carry lasting impressions of the story’s most familiar characters: the intimidating and controlling Jack, the commanding and more vulnerable Ralph, the menacing Roger and the voice of reason, Piggy. However, while these characters certainly made a galvanising impact, this production’s success rested on the impressive texture and energy of its entire company. The cast and crew not only included an outstanding group of Year 9 and 10 Shore boys, but also four talented girls who brought relevant diversity to this band Director Luke Gallant, Jack Holland and Cast of castaways.

Integrity and Respect in Character embraced this, not dulling down those uncomfortable truths, but meeting them head-on. Those who saw the production would testify to the extraordinary maturity and clarity with which the young cast grappled with those ideas. This maturity and professionalism, and the skill and expressivity of the young cast and crew, were also due to the expert guidance and vision of the Shore Old Boy team which reached beyond any limiting expectations of students their age. As Director, Luke

a cast to perform something that could speak to the audience on an empathetic level. Without the guidance and care of our directors, our experience would not have been as impactful as the last few months have been.”

Having watched many rehearsals, as well as the design, construction and bumpingin-and-out of the show’s compelling set, what was most evident was the joy, care and respect the cast and crew had for one another. This was a reminder of the extraordinary value our co-curricular Drama activities have in ways that go beyond the production itself. Through the collaborative effort required to stage a production, the students learn to value, support, and celebrate each other’s contributions. The process helps them understand and respect one another, Leon Li as Bill and Jack Holland as Maurice fostering healthy relationships on and off the Gallant embraced the School’s mission stage. The world of a production mirrors of fostering an environment where every the broader world, offering challenges student is provided with opportunities and opportunities for personal growth in to flourish. He and Tim Ogborne laid the a safe, inclusive environment, reinforcing foundations of the rehearsal period as one the importance of embracing diversity and in which the qualities of virtue, wellbeing, empathy in the study of human nature challenge, discovery, and respect were at through drama. the heart of the process. The words of Year Director, Luke Gallant, reflects on his own 10 student, Leon Li, testify to this. memorable experience, “My experience of being involved in the “I have been so fortunate to work with such play was extremely positive. The support professional and talented students. I am of the Old Boys, of Mr Luke Gallant and Mr so proud of all they have achieved. I’ve Tim Ogborne, influenced an atmosphere seen a great growth in their love for drama, of encouragement, collaboration, and maturity, and passion for what makes professionalism. From the rehearsal stage them happy. In my years of school, this is to the production, we all grew together as exactly what I learnt: to always be grateful

Christopher Griffiths as Simon for my opportunities but to always go for the things that I love. The Drama space and staff created a safe place to build that love. Since graduating, I haven’t left Shore because I want to give back to the boys what I gained going through my own years at the School.” Luke Gallant and Tim Ogborne were performing on stage as HSC students in my first year at Shore in 2017. Unquestionably, there is something particularly meaningful about seeing the full circle as they now lead and inspire our young people, drawing on their own lived experience as students in co-curricular Drama at Shore, continuing to enrich its culture. Most of all, it was the rich and dynamic characters, stage imagery and design that made this production memorable. Each cast and crew member brought with them a wonderful sense of theatricality, of focus and dedication in all their roles. Congratulations to all involved in bringing this thought-provoking, bold and powerful cautionary tale to the Shore stage. Perhaps we may even be fortunate enough to see some from this cast or crew return in years to come ‘to hand on the torch of life’ and direct or design a future Shore production! Ms Amanda Crompton Head of Drama

The Cast and Crew of Lord of the Flies Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Integrity and Respect in Character

AFL In a season filled with challenges and triumphs, the AFL programme at Shore has been an honour to witness the player’s dedication and hard work in continuing to build the programme. The strategic vision for Shore AFL began in 2022 with a five-year plan aiming for Division One competitiveness. The eagerness in our approach was evident from the get-go. Our First XVIII team underwent rigorous training sessions, including on-field training, video analyses, and strength and conditioning. Proving that learning can occur anywhere, the use of varied settings adds a dynamic layer to our programme, enhancing both skill development and personal growth. This meticulous preparation was not just about sports; it is about instilling a mindset that prepares our students for the challenges of life. The high standards we have set are not just for this season; they lay the groundwork for years to come.

Archer Hall snatching the ball

This season saw 83 registered players, allowing us to form four teams across different age groups and divisions. We have made concerted efforts to engage the whole AFL community, from families helping with umpiring to new friendships formed on the sidelines. We understand AFL is more than just a game; it is an opportunity for holistic development. Shore AFL offered challenges beyond the field too, like the physical and mental endurance tests organised by current and former Special Forces agents in the “Mission Ready Group,” which contributed to the boys’ personal growth. Our coaching staff, led by Mr Chris Murphy and supported by Shore Strength and Conditioning, used innovative approaches to maximise each player’s potential. They adapted their coaching style to the needs of the players, fulfilling our objective of developing our team through sector-leading approaches. Special thank you to Old Boy and two-time Sydney Swans premiership player Mr Lewis Roberts-Thomson (’01), whose inspirational words during the Presentation of the Guernsey night left an indelible mark.

Senior Squad, Challenge Day

Our learning extended beyond traditional boundaries, from Gore Hill Oval to Melbourne on an AFL tour, forming relations with Xavier College and Melbourne Grammar School. The highlight of the tour was experiencing the thunderous cheers when doing the guard of Honour for Geelong Cats at the MCG. The season ended on a high note, with an End of Season Function that celebrated our achievements, including Ben Hocking’s, “Lewis Roberts-Thomson” Best and Fairest Award. But this is just the beginning. As our current Year 12 students pass on the baton, we are excited about the future.

Matthew Hogg handballing it to Ben Hocking

None of this would have been possible without the collective efforts of our amazing staff, supportive parents, and committed students. You have not only made us proud but have also played a pivotal role in delivering on our mission of providing a rigorous, opportunity-filled, expert-driven educational experience. Here is to raising the bar even higher next season! Mr Geoff Tesoriero Master In Charge, AFL

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

First XVIII End of Season Function

Integrity and Respect in Character

Football

First XI Premiership winning side, 2016 It’s not just about wins and losses; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging, cultivating a positive environment, and creating memories that will be cherished by generations to come. Sport is taught not only to develop and refine technical skills but also instils values that are the foundation of a well-rounded individual – discipline, teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship. Speech dedicated to Ms Papworth, Coach First/Second XI 2005 — Present, at End of Season Football Dinner 2023. “I am 100% sure that what I’m about to say will never be repeated at Shore again; the announcement of a remarkable milestone – 25 years of dedicated service and unwavering commitment to the world of Shore football and to the boys who have had the privilege of learning under the guidance of a true leader. Tonight I would like to acknowledge Kelly Papworth, a coach, mentor, and visionary

who has left an indelible mark on the sport and on countless boys’ lives. Kelly’s journey began with a passion for the beautiful game and a vision to mould young minds through the power of sport. Over the years, her commitment to excellence, tireless dedication, and unwavering belief in the potential of each boy have been the driving forces behind Shore School’s football programme’s success. Through her leadership as the Master in Charge of Shore Football, Kelly has created a legacy that extends far beyond the field. She has not only taught the technical skills of the sport but has also instilled values that are the foundation of a wellrounded individual – discipline, teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship. Let us also acknowledge the countless hours she’s spent on the sidelines, rain, hail or shine, shaping young footballers into confident players and responsible citizens.

Her ability to inspire, mentor, and lead has undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping the lives of the boys who have had the privilege of being under her guidance. In the fast-paced world of education and sport, 25 years of commitment is a testament to Kelly’s unyielding passion and love for her craft. It’s not just about wins and losses; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging, cultivating a positive environment, and creating memories that will be cherished by generations to come. Kelly, your dedication, sacrifice, and passion have set a standard that will continue to inspire all who cross your path. Your journey is a shining example of the transformative power of education and the unwavering impact of a dedicated mentor.” Mr Mark Prowle Coach, Football

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Integrity and Respect in Character

Rugby against Newington was another wonderful day when Shore was victorious 43-31.

First XV Defending the Bridge 2023 was a successful year for Rugby at Shore. The First XV GPS Competition was another even contest with all teams having the ability to beat each other on their day. King’s were the eventual winners, and Shore finished 5th, ahead of a highly regarded Newington team. The team showed resilience and resolve in all Competition matches and brought much joy to the School and community. The support from so many Shore boys and parents in the crowd will also be remembered – a fine example of our community coming together to support the School. There were many highlights this season. The Round against Scots at Northbridge was one of the finest across the grounds in many years for Shore – Shore winning the 13A, 14A, 15A, 16A and Second XV games, and losing on the bell in the First XV. The 13As went undefeated in the season, and the 13Bs only lost one game, as did the 14Es. Our U16s had an excellent season, beating Joeys and Newington for the first time in their senior school years – showing good readiness for Opens next year. Other highlights included the Mothers’ Day Round against King’s, where Parramatta was awash in pink, New Boy’s Day Round against Joeys when a dramatic First XV draw took place in the afternoon, and our second Indigenous Round against King’s. The Thursday Competition match against Riverview at Northbridge was immense, and the designated Old Boys Round 20

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

The Shore community supported the Rugby season in an amazing way this season, and we are grateful to all our supporters who came to the early 8.00am games and ended up finishing watching the First XV. There was wonderful support at our Canteen, and we are grateful to Mrs Gaby Hunter for once again showing her great servant leadership to our School. What was also very pleasing this season was seeing how many of the younger Shore boys stayed behind for the afternoon games. At various times in the season, the Hawker Stand was completely full, and boys had to sit in the stairways! Throughout the season, boys were asked to, “Defend the Bridge” and defend the Bridge they did indeed.

Hugo Orpin was then selected in the Australia A Schoolboy XV to play against Tonga Schools. Thank you to all of Shore’s coaches who have developed not only the above representative players, but all players in our system. Mr David Mason-Jones Master in Charge, Rugby

“We defend this home ground. This is our place.” Finn Baxter (Year 12). Finn Baxter was Captain of Rugby in 2023, and Tom Klem was our Vice Captain. Finn led by example all season – on and off the field – and displayed the characteristics we seek from all Rugby players, namely humility, respect, courage and support of others.

Jye Peters and Jack Horwood in the 2023 Indigenous Rugby jersey

A number of Shore boys gained representative selections this year: GPS 1st XV: Tom Klem, Hugo Orpin, James McCreery GPS 2nd XV: Marshall Le Maitre GPS White: Finn Baxter, Eoghan Killick, Ben Whatley, Henry Conick

Tom Klem and Marshall Le Maitre mid year Rugby camp

Sydney: Felix Harvison GPS Under 16: Ed Baxter, Charlie Armati, Max Garner, Charlie Galligan, Rolly Smith, Bede Clout, Ollie Greig, Charlie Francis. Ed Baxter went on to be selected for the NSW U16 team NSW Academy Under 15: Nick Wendt, Lawson Armstrong Tom Klem and Marshall Le Maitre were further selected in the NSW Academy U18 programme, and Hugo Orpin, Ben Whatley, Henry Conick and James McCreery were selected into the NSW Schools 2nd XV, whilst Felix Harvison was selected in the NSW Juniors, with this team winning the national School’s tournament.

Shore NSW schoolboy representatives 2023

End of season Rugby dinner

Integrity and Respect in Character

Cross Country

2023 Shore XC Premiers

Blue St Cross Country The Shore Cross Country Team entered the 2023 Cross Country Season with a tad of trepidation. The pressure was on to go ‘back-to-back’ GPS Cross Country Premierships. Shore was the form team from last year, where we annihilated the competition, so much so that we nearly didn’t need to turn up at the GPS Championships to hoist the trophy!

Ben Frantz, King’s XC 2023 2023 proved to be a different and exciting change as the final point score, and premiership was not decided until the final race at the GPS Championships. Shore toed the start line with a narrow 1-point lead over our closest rivals, Scots. It was all ‘on the line’! However, as it panned out, we need not have worried, as our Open Team of Lachy Brown, Cam Burnett, James Bestic and Ryan Gilmour crushed their opponents in the final race, prevailing by a comfortable 10 points. Cross Country Captain Cam Burnett hoisted the NA Emery Trophy, and as a result, his dad aloft! The bronze sculpture, which is integral to the trophy, is inspired by an image of Cam’s dad Mr Antony Burnett (’88), as a young whipper snapper Shore athlete a few years ago, very cool!

Others who performed well this season included Nathan Stanmore and Matt Hogg, who were both point-scoring members of the Open Team during the season. Also, not far off the pace and always keeping those ahead of them accountable with their tenacious racing were Jesse Cochrane, Jock Fenwicke and Ronan Martin. As is the case, it is depth that secures titles, and this proved to be so in 2023 for our Open Team. Pleasingly, the future of Shore Cross Country looks rosy, with numerous keen younger athletes competing and others keen to be involved. Mr Michael Spratt Master in Charge, Cross Country

XC Start, Barker 2023

Opens Start, GPS Champs 2023

XC Starting Line Thoughts, Barker 2023 Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Integrity and Respect in Character

Rifle Club

Shore Eagles Team at Malabar Rifle Shooting is one of the oldest sports offered at Shore. This season, both the small-bore and full-bore squads have performed to the highest level and have seen an immense improvement in mechanical and mental skills, with all members seeing a substantial score increase. Small-bore shooters employ a 0.22 rifle shot at a 50 metre range. The full-bore shooters use a larger calibre rifle, 0.308, shooting at ranges between 300-800 metres. The Shooting season culminates in training camp for the full-bore squad in preparation

New shooting jacket in action

Team huddle at Hornsby

for the All-Schools match held at Malabar and a range of GPS matches held at Hornsby. This year, a large emphasis was placed on training and coaching the newer members of the squad due to the large influx of new full-bore shooters. Despite some difficulties adapting to the greater recoil, all new shooters performed admirably, particularly Edward McAuley, who made the Firsts team in his first year in the full-bore squad alongside Paul Russell, Hamish French, Max Entwistle, Tristan Noakes, Hugo Friend, Hugh Riley and Billy Thompson.

A highlight of the season was the AllSchools Match, with the Shore Eagles team composed of Paul Russell, Tristan Noakes, Hamish French, Hugo Friend, and Billy Thompson placing 1st. On the first day of the GPS competition, the Shore Squad showed similar prowess, with Max Entwistle, Paul Russell, Hugo Friend and Billy Thompson all achieving a perfect score of 40. Despite this strong start, a combination of nerves and equipment failures led to Shore finishing 6th overall.

focused and determined to deliver their best possible outcomes with glowing enthusiasm and passion.

in games at the School; the developing ability to assess risk and to perform at the physical limit, compounded by the adverse nature of the environment in which the competition takes place; the camaraderie developed from racing on courses which can be intimidating and unpredictable; and in this year’s case, the disappointment of being denied the opportunity to compete against the Nations’ best at the Australian National Championships.

Miss Natasha Whiteman Interim Master In Charge, Rifle Shooting

Snowsports

Duncan Cowan, NSW State Champion in Alpine and Skier X The 2023 season of Snowsports presented our boys and girls with many opportunities for growth, experience and forbearance. In a year where the conditions created very challenging environments for competition as well as an unfortunate premature conclusion to the season due to insufficient snow cover, our team remained 22

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Despite these challenges, our team enjoyed great success at the NSW State Championships with our Division 1 Skiers Duncan Cowan, Calvin Shortus, Lewis Kingdom, Adam Watson and Marcel Ewen achieving the title of NSW State Champions in Ski Cross and runners-up in Alpine GS. Duncan Cowan placed 1st in both events for the title of individual State Champion. Our Division 2 Slopestyle Snowboard Team of Noah Shepherd, Neo Pressley and George Lane won Team Bronze. The life experience opportunities gleaned from participation in Snowsports are perhaps the true achievements for our boys and girls. The sport is offered ‘in addition to’ the normal expectation of participation

It is through the basic nature of these experiences that qualities of virtue, resilience, passion and humility are fostered, and the boys and girls from Kindergarten to Year 12 at Shore continue to demonstrate these qualities admirably. Mr Warwick Payne Master in Charge, Snowsports Snowsport Photographer

Humility and Compassion in Service Learning to Serve | Sector Leadership Broadening Access | Reconcilliation

Barry House lending a hand at Rough Edges

We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give Winston Churchill. Shore aims to build an outward focus through Service as a guiding virtue in the strategic plan as recently publicised by the School. The act of service is profound and powerful in many different educational settings, not only at Shore but globally around the world. Looking to the needs of others as part of the School’s Christian faith is imperative as Shore deliberately shapes character, compassion, and men for the future. The connection between service and wellbeing is also well documented, with significant evidence-based research pointing to increased selfefficacy, self-esteem, and improvements broadly in one’s wellbeing. As service continues to grow at Shore, the breadth and depth of experiences offered will ensure that students understand service and have opportunities to be involved through Houses and of their own volition. These experiences are a vital part of a holistic educational experience at Shore from Kindergarten through to Year 12. As part of a broader school-wide approach, Shore aims to connect with charities, non-government organisations and well-known services to help all students, staff and families learn to serve and

shape their values well beyond their formal education at Shore. By partnering with organisations, Shore aims to help improve the lives of many disadvantaged communities and build connections with many people outside the Shore community. Through these partnerships, service will organically grow, with trust and support from Shore in the years ahead. Students will have the opportunity to participate, reflect and share experiences in tutor periods, House meetings and at home. Through reflection and shared stories, students will develop their own understanding of service whilst equipping them thoughtfully for the future. Moving forward, Shore aims to partner with key organisations such as the Salvation Army, Rough Edges, Bill Crews Foundation, Hope Street, Impact 100, Refugee Council of Australia and many more. Students will serve in many tangible contexts, reflect, share, and help to build a connection between themselves and the organisation. Students, as part of their respective Houses, will use some tutor periods to contextualise whom they are serving and be afforded opportunities to hear from patrons, representatives within organisations and guest speakers. As the School further develops service at Shore, we hope that each student and family will engage and look to the needs of others with humility throughout their educational journey. There is a plaque located on the Northern aspect of the War Memorial Hall as a gift from Year 12 in 2014. It depicts a wonderful quote from Winston Churchill and encapsulates the School’s mission regarding service to others, “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” Mr Huw Blood Head of Service Learning

Humility and Compassion in Service

Chaplaincy at Shore

Engaruka in Tanzania

Morris family visiting Engaruka

At the heart of the Christian faith is the person of Jesus. It is not only his amazing teaching that is remarkable, or even the miracles that he performed, but ultimately his death on the cross and his resurrection that is the key to the Christian faith. As Jesus himself says in Mark 10:45, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many.” The Christian faith calls us to not only trust in Jesus but to respond by living in a similar manner of loving God and loving our neighbour as ourselves. Part of this will involve service and looking out for the needs of others. There are multiple ways in which we can do this in our lives. In Term 3 in Chapel our Term giving was to assist in the development of a school in a place called Engaruka in Tanzania. The project was initially the vision of Jonathan and Katherine Morris, who visited the site in 2017 on a family trip that was planned before the death of their 15 year old son Marcus, who was a student at Shore.

On that trip, the local community shared their desire to have a school established to make it easier for educational opportunities for the local students. Jonathan and Katherine resolved to build a school in memory of Marcus. Shore’s response is to support this initiative as we seek to engage with and serve others. The fact that this is also an educational opportunity aligns well with Shore. As part of our Chapel Giving Week, we invited all boys and staff to give to this very important cause. In the course of time, we are hoping to make closer connections with the community and the School in general with potential visits and engagement with the local community of Engaruka. It is a small but important way in which we can engage with others around us, serve others around us and continue to have an outward focus in our lives as individuals and as a school. Rev. Anthony Benn Chaplain

CRU Since its foundation, Shore has sought to serve the broader community and raise students who will serve in their families, communities and careers. The CRU group at Shore provides a wonderful opportunity for students to demonstrate and participate in leadership. The CRU group is the student-led Christian group that meets weekly to encourage each other in the Christian faith.

Along with this opportunity to serve in the School context, our boys are given the chance to serve and lead others at our annual CRU camp with the girls from Abbotsleigh as well as various InterCRU events with the girls from Roseville. It is wonderful to see these studentled activities giving the boys excellent

As part of this leadership opportunity, our senior students serve those around them with their time and energy and Christian insight. This year, our senior leaders have continued to engage with the other students as they have reflected on the Christian faith in talks, small group discussions and the running of the CRU group itself. Ongoing training of the students has assisted them to hone and develop their capabilities, which are ultimately based on a Christ-like willingness to serve. CRU gathering 24

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

opportunities to engage with and serve those around them. While in many ways this involves their fellow students, it also gives invaluable experience that the boys can use after they leave school. Rev. Anthony Benn Chaplain

Humility and Compassion in Service

Service Learning The notion of giving is grounded in our Christian identity. Our students are encouraged to play a role in many activities centred around the notion of serving others, with humility and compassion. From supporting a wide range of Charities through various House based initiatives, to educating our students on the virtue of gratitude, it’s a portion of our tapestry that sets Shore apart.

Our Big Kitchen Here are a few great examples of our students actively engaging in the notion of Compassion in Service and playing an active and conscious role in the wellbeing of others. Some Houses have been actively involved in supporting Our Big Kitchen over the past few months. Our Big Kitchen is an organisation that helps volunteers make significant amounts of meals for victims of domestic violence, homeless shelters, and affiliated organisations and for many youth programmes as well. Hodges, Dixon and Pascoe Houses have all recently participated in this cause, with many families, siblings, grandparents, staff and students involved, making meals and preparing food on Sunday afternoons. During Term 4, Barry, Colebrook and Gilmour House will also had the opportunity to get involved.

Year 10 Service During the final week of Term 3, Year 10 students who were not attending the Cadet Bivouac had the opportunity to learn and engage with the Big Issue in Redfern, assist at a primary school in Blacktown and work together to support Our Big Kitchen. The boys were also part of further training in their White Card and participated in Barista Training. It was a successful week for the boys, and they each gave wonderful service within Sydney.

Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn Students in Gillespie House, under the direction of Ms Wolsely, attended the charity event, the Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn. Many students fundraised and turned up to brave the difficult 420 metre run up the infamous Awaba Street, with the Shore senior team, Jock Fenwicke, Matthew Hogg, Cameron Burnett and James Bestic, winning the Head of the Hill for 2023. Congratulations to all students who participated and raised much-needed funds for the Humpty Dumpty Foundation.

Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn Hodges House at Our Big Kitchen

Preparatory School – Literacy assistance Throughout Term 3, a selection of Emery House students kindly worked with students from the Prep School in assisting their comprehension and reading by visiting the Prep library each Monday morning before School. The boys have enjoyed working with many younger students and have continued to show patience and kindness in assisting boys from Years 4, 5 and 6.

Rough Edges Sleepout At the end of Term 2, Burrell, Emery and Mathers Houses combined for the first Shore Sleepout to be held at Rough Edges Darlinghurst and the end of Term 2. In the middle of winter, nearly 120 students across the three Houses slept out at Rough Edges and were involved in many activities. Students rotated through groups and listened to six patrons speak about marginalisation, homelessness, addiction, mental health issues and much more. Students were able to spend time reflecting on the stories and took part in a Q&A in the community hall. The night finished with a wonderful service held in the church by Rev. Benn, followed by a light supper and bed. In the lead-up to the event, the three Houses raised nearly $30,000, supporting the many causes at Rough Edges. This event was a wonderful display of community spirit, and significant thanks must go to Mr Lawry, Ms Papworth and Mr Maloney, alongside the many tutors and staff that assisted. Thank you to all Houses, students, parents and staff for their continued support of many service opportunities throughout 2023.

Emery House students assisting at Prep library

Mr Huw Blood Head of Service Learning

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Humility and Compassion in Service

Year 11 Immersion Camp, Arnhem Land

Yolngu Community, Shore staff and Year 11 students During the September School holidays, 25 Year 11 students and four staff travelled via two planes and overland 4-wheel drive to spend seven days in Gulkuala (GamaNhulunbuy-Gove) and Nyinyikay Homeland. Highlights of our Immersion included camping in the world-famous Gama Festival site, visiting the Yirrkala Community Centre, where we met local artists, and the 4-wheel drive to Makassan Beach to learn about the early spice and dried fish trade between Northern Territories and Asia. Changing a bus tyre in sand was a tremendous feat for the Culture College staff! Three hours overland and arriving at Nyinyikay Homeland, we were greeted with a traditional paint-up welcome dance and immediately felt a part of this community. The students were introduced to the Yolngu world-view and were taught in

Nyinyikay Homeland coastline 26

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

outdoor lessons with Elder Marcus. Clan groups, traditional marriage, lore of nature, language, traditional medicines, and fishing were explained with balance, harmony, and the promotion of good health for the whole community. Singing, dance, music, laughter and the practical lessons about life and survival in a crocodile-infested waterway brought a sense of reality and respect for the environment and this deeply spiritual community. Culture College Arnhem Land Aboriginal Corporation, through Marcus and his family, provided a week of intensity, lightness, physical exhaustion and exhilaration all at the same time. It was a special experience and a real privilege. Mrs Cay Camden Master In Charge, Immersions

Mrs Camden is presented with a bowl from Aunty Dorothy

Humility and Compassion in Service

The Aboriginal immersion to the Northern Territory in Northeast Arnhem land was an experience of a lifetime. The ability to learn from the First Nations people and their traditions will stay with me for life as their stories and reflections still impact my daily life in the city to this day. Through learning about all things in nature having a purpose, to the connection that the Indigenous people show towards the land, I was provided with insight into what we, as a community, can improve in respect to the land. The highlights of my trip to Northeast Arnhem Land would be all the lessons taught by the Indigenous Elders and the activities such as spear-making and throwing, fishing and bush medicine. For the students in the Years below, I would highly recommend to anyone entering Year 11 to take on this unique experience in the Northern Territory. The Indigenous people’s lives will help shape your understanding of respect and love towards your nation and the people you are surrounded by.

A fishy kiss - Rory H.

Rory Hall Year 11 medicine making

Over the holidays, Culture College and the Indigenous elders kindly offered to host a group from Shore in Arnhem Land, Northern Territory. After a long day of travelling, we were kindly introduced to our campsite near Nhulunbuy. We soon found ourselves sitting in front of five Indigenous Elders, eager to share their immense knowledge of the land. We learnt about the various bush medicine, which we then used to cleanse our hair and skin in an upper body massage, followed by a smoke ceremony. This immediate kindness and unique cultural experience set the tone for a mind-opening week ahead. The trip struck a fantastic balance between learning, experience, and recreation, while operating on Yolgnu time. We were educated about the history of Arnhem Land and the deeper meaning behind beautiful pieces at the art museum. We took walks through the bush, being presented with bewildering land usaes. We experienced a traditional welcoming at the Nyinyikay homeland . We made spear throwers. Among all this activity, we were presented with the beauty of Indigenous culture, offering an opportunity for deep reflection while obtaining a genuine understanding of the tradition and inherent sense of purpose embodied by the Yolgnu people in Arnhem Land.

universal lan

guage - Tom

Overall, it was an incredible experience that I highly recommend.  Tom George Year 11

Cro c watch

Smoking ceremony

On day one, we took two flights to get to Gove-East Arnhem land airport, from where we were driven to Nhulunbuy, our campsite for two nights. When we first arrived, we were greeted with a welcoming ceremony (smoking ceremony), shortly followed by a healing ceremony. The indigenous elders that were located at the campsite boiled a ‘bush medicine’ to create a thick, oily substance that healed the internal and external. Each of us took it in turns, having the Elders rub the bush medicine across our head and torso. It was an indescribable experience. While this took place, the Elders taught us about their rich culture and the connection they have with the land, expressed through the Dreaming (Aboriginal spirituality). Whilst camped in Nhulunbuy, we visited the Yirrkala art museum, where we saw religious artworks, and tombs for which they bury their loved ones. On day three, we went on a 4WD adventure to an Indigenous homeland where an Indigenous man named Marcus taught us about Aboriginal traditions that his ancestors have performed for many generations. We were lucky enough to build spear throwers, eat wallaby and turtle, and learn about the complex system of relationships, the Kinship. Overall, it was an enriching experience where we learnt about the complexities of Aboriginal spiritualities, experienced the Yolngu life firsthand, and gained a true understanding of Indigenous life in contemporary Australia.

Dinner sorted - Char li

e D.

Charlie Dale Year 11 Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Humility and Compassion in Service

Preparatory School at Northbridge: K,1,2 homes, why they could not take their belongings with them, what kind of things were essential, what items might bring them some joy or happiness. Our students took the time to do jobs to earn the money to purchase the items, to select the appropriate items for a boy or girl of a certain age and then bring them to school to sort and pack into suitcases to be sent off. They also raised funds at our Crazy Head, Hands and Feet Day, when the children wore a crazy hairstyle, wacky wig, or hat and crazy socks to school. KA group photo with suitcases At Northbridge, where we have the youngest members of our School community, we strive to develop essential lifelong qualities in our youngest children. To develop hearts that are focussed on the wellbeing of others and instil in our students the importance of giving from a very young age is a commitment that we foster throughout our students’ learning journey. Instilling a sense of giving is manifested not just in the physical sense but in the provision of kind thoughts, time and gratitude. Giving back to those who are less fortunate than us is not a new concept for the children at Northbridge. We do this in a variety of ways, such as through our Chapel money collections that go to our three sponsor children, to the various charities that we support and the time we give to connecting with the residents at St Paul’s nursing home. This year, under the guidance of our Master Assisting

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Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Service Learning, Miss Kirsten Tootell, all the Northbridge students participated in helping the charity, ‘Hope in a Suitcase’. ‘Hope in a Suitcase Australia’ is a non-profit organisation run by volunteers who show every child entering the foster care system that they are loved and valued by their community. They aim to do this by giving the children a suitcase of their very own to ensure they have a safe and secure place in which to pack their belongings and take with them wherever their journey may lead. The suitcases are filled with essential items to encourage self-care, such as toiletries, underwear, pyjamas and a change of clothing. They also include something to cuddle for the younger children, a book to read, a journal or colouring-in books and pencils to encourage creativity and provide a distraction away from their turmoil. Our students came to understand why some children may be in foster care

Our 145 children at K,1,2 created 21 suitcases with over 20 items in each. The children also made personalised cards for each child and placed the card in the suitcase, hoping to bring a smile to the face of the young recipient. This little gift of hope from the students at Shore may have brightened the lives of those less fortunate children. Through ‘Hope in a Suitcase’, we are empowering other children, giving them a strong sense of self-worth so they feel competent to cope with the basic challenges of life. Our students were very proud of their efforts and what they achieved as a team and will continue to participate in ways in which they can help others. Building a sense of humility and compassion in service within each new generation that comes to Shore is a hallmark of our distinct approach to educating and shaping the hearts and minds of our student community. Ms Natalie Valenti Acting Head of Northbridge Campus

Crazy Head, Hands and Feet Day

Humility and Compassion in Service

Preparatory School 3 - 6

Learning about energy poverty At Shore Preparatory School, we are focused on service to our community. The students are aware that our community can be as small as our School and as wide as the world. Service Learning is a major focus in the Preparatory School, from our youngest students in the Early Learning Centre to our Year 6 boys. Each grade level has opportunities to serve and to ‘hand on the torch of life’. We are mindful of teaching the students to give back to others, especially as we have so much. With so many examples of Service Learning, it was hard to choose just one! The Year 5 students are actively involved in a Service Learning Project, which includes fundraising for Solar Buddy, an organisation committed to eliminating extreme energy poverty by 2030. The students engaged in extensive research to understand the impact of energy poverty on communities and people globally. They used this knowledge to create informative texts and develop a Solar Buddy app prototype. This prototype, designed using Keynote, included instructions on constructing solar lamps and links to information sources to raise awareness about energy poverty. This extension of the Service Learning Project aims to help our students see their writing, comprehension and ICT skills being applied in a meaningful way, contributing positively to a real-world issue. During their Science lessons, the students assembled the solar lamp circuits, documenting the process using iPads. This handson experience builds on their previous learning about circuits. The students also wrote letters to the recipients of the solar lamps, fostering cultural awareness and empathy. The lamps have been sent to countries including the Dominican Republic, Papua New Guinea, Cambodia, and Zimbabwe.

This Service Learning Project offers a powerful and interconnected learning opportunity. It helped the students grow as globally minded citizens, working towards a world where no one is left behind in alignment with Solar Buddy’s mission, as stated by the CEO and Founder of Solar Buddy, Simon Doble. Not only did the boys enjoy assembling their solar lamp circuits, but they could also see how beneficial a small act of kindness can be in changing someone’s life. Vitai Lampada Tradunt! Miss Natasha Mitchell Head of Preparatory School

Assembling solar circuits Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Humility and Compassion in Service

Indigenous All-Stars vs Staff Touch Rugby

Staff vs Students During NAIDOC Week celebrations, our Shore Indigenous All-Stars team led a nail-biting game of touch rugby against the Staff team of current and past stars of rugby, rowing, football, and chess. The crowd of staff and students were cheering on as try-after-try led to the game going into overtime. The game was fast and

Bring on the next re-match furious and there were many staff feeling somewhat sore and sorry the next day. This is a great representation of bringing together the Shore community to support our Indigenous students’ voices and raise awareness of Indigenous Australia again. “Bring on the next re-match!” says the staff, beaten two years in a row.

Student team

Koori Club/AISNSW Waratah Project 2023

Jersey handover

Family Reconnect Weekend

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Our Koori brothers meet weekly with myself and staff member Braydon Mundy (’21), a Yalari Scholar, in the Art rooms or Graythwaite Yarning Circle. Cultural discussions and preparations for significant Indigenous events are born and played out from the meeting together of great young minds. Sorry Day, Reconciliation Week (embedding cultural awareness in the curriculum), the Indigenous round of rugby at Northbridge, with a weekend visit by the families, and NAIDOC Week, just to mention a few.

Koori Club is the place where the voice of our Shore Indigenous students is raised and responded to, by Shore staff and community. These boys are the future, and Shore encourages their insight, wisdom, and commitment to Indigenous Australia and our education. We thank AISNSW through the Federal Government Waratah Project for additional funding and assistance from a practical, educative, and supportive function. Mrs Cay Camden Head of Counselling Services Boarding & Indigenous

Faithfulness and Commitment in Community Life Identity | Relationship | Parternship | Readiness

Garden Party At the heart of our educational journey at Shore lies a commitment to shaping the lives of our students through a rich community experience. Active community engagement plays a pivotal role. For instance, for our Boarders, Shore is more than just a place to learn; it’s a second home. Holding regular group activities for our students and welcoming our families to events helps bridge the distance between home and School and ensures emotional wellbeing and a sense of belonging. Our targeted marketing campaign, launched in the last few months, has helped promote our wonderful facilities and community to interested parties. The Shore Parents’ Association (SPA) also plays a vital role in strengthening our community bonds. Celebrations like the American Tea showcase dedication to traditions, while volunteering and fundraising initiatives exemplify their commitment to giving back to the School in ways that benefit the students. Shore is also a part of the wider community, and it has been a pleasure to showcase the wonderful student achievements and experiences through our official social media channels, as well as to media generally.

Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive community is also exemplified through the Koori Club’s weekly meetings, events, and NAIDOC Week celebrations. These events bring students, staff, and alumni together in a spirit of camaraderie. The Old Boys’ Union has had a very busy six months providing fellowship, camaraderie and support to members through reunions and events. The worthwhile work of the Shore Foundation helps secure funding through a variety of community-minded initiatives, including but not limited to scholarship and bursary opportunities, teacher professional development, and the building of physical resources. And on the note of physical resources, we are happy to confirm that initial work on the Campus Master Plans has commenced. Together, we all work together to create a rich and positive community experience that shapes the lives of our students, preparing them for a future filled with promise and potential. Mrs Sarah Taylor Director of Community Engagement

Faithfulness and Commitment in Community Life

Boarding at Shore This summer, I have witnessed a number of very meaningful and profoundly significant celebrations that epitomised our Boarding Community at Shore. The Golden Boots Public Speaking Competition is an annual event in the Boarding Houses, and it was one of many highlights of the year for both students and staff. All Year 11 students participate in the lead-up to the final evening, where one nominee from each House speaks in front of the entire Boarding Community. This year’s competition was particularly special, with all four Houses delivering superb speeches. The speeches delivered by the boys were both heartwarming and inspiring, and they highlighted the many wonderful things about the boarding community at Shore. The topic of, “Try not to become a man of success, but rather try to become a man of value.” Albert Einstein, gave the students a clear focus. The messages delivered by every student centred around the importance of being a man of value and not simply racking up a lifetime of successful jobs and achievements. Commitment to a life of values and moral fortitude clearly illustrated how each boy felt that the Shore Boarding Community was having such a huge impact on their lives – it was wonderful to hear. The competition also provided an opportunity for students to develop important skills such as public speaking, confidence, and critical thinking. The students had to work hard to prepare their speeches, and they had to learn to overcome their nerves in order to deliver them effectively. This process can be challenging, but it is also very rewarding.

Hodges Housemaster, Mr Rod Fitch

School Housemaster, Mr Werner Pienaar

The end-of-year House Cocktail parties were yet another reminder of the wonderful community we have at Shore. One of the key themes that emerged from the speeches this year was the sense of friendship and camaraderie that exists amongst the Boarders. A number of boys emphasised in their speeches that Shore provided them with an environment that was not simply a nurturing and enriching community where most students don’t just survive; they thrive! The boys spoke about how they had been cared for by the staff in charge and how they had flourished in the company of their friends. They also spoke about the many cherished memories that they had made, and how they knew that their friendships would last a lifetime and a reminder of the many wonderful things about the Boarding experience at Shore. It was an opportunity for students to come together to celebrate their achievements and reflect on the special bonds that they have formed with their friends and teachers.

Dr John Collier addressing Barry House families

In addition to the speeches, the evening also featured a variety of other activities, such as videos and wonderful food. The overall atmosphere was one of joy and celebration, and it was a truly special evening for everyone involved. Mr Alistair Roland Director of Boarding Golden Boots finalists 32

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Faithfulness and Commitment in Community Life

Boarding with Cousins life skills and a network of lasting and meaningful friendships,” Ben added. Will echoed this sentiment, “The culture of support within boarding is something extraordinary. It’s as if you have a whole team behind you, cheering you on through every challenge and victory.” Ben will be taking on a distinguished role coaching sports and assisting teachers at Lambrook, a co-educational preparatory school renowned for educating the British royal family. Meanwhile, Will has been offered a role as a coach at Sandroyd School in Salisbury, where he will apply his expertise in sports to mentor the next generation of athletes. “Throughout my time at Shore, I have been very fortunate to participate in a wide variety of extra-curricular activities, ranging from cadets and drama club to a multitude of sports like rugby, basketball, and water polo. These opportunities not only enriched my life but also gave us the skills and confidence needed for the specialised roles we’ve both accepted in the United Kingdom,” Ben shared. Both young men agree that it is this holistic boarding environment with access to exceptional facilities, wide range of extra-curricular activities and meaningful connections built with teachers that was instrumental in shaping them. Ben Alexander and Will Kowalski (Year 12) From the countryside of the Southern Highlands to the busy streets of North Sydney, cousins Ben Alexander and Will Kowalski have grown up as close as brothers. As their boarding life at Shore has come to an end, the young men are gearing up for an exciting new chapter: prestigious gap-year opportunities in the United Kingdom.

a gap year, Ben and Will both attribute their post-school plans to the preparatory groundwork laid by their boarding education at Shore. Throughout their time, Ben and Will studied and lived together, strengthening their familial bond.

Ben and Will leave Shore as young leaders, deeply influenced by their unique Boarding journey, and prepared for their exciting international careers ahead. Before attending Shore, Ben had only a faint idea of what a gap year in the United Kingdom entailed and it was his experience as a boarder that brought this concept into focus.

Within their final year of schooling, their bond was further cemented by their fulfilment of leadership roles, Ben as Hodges House Captain, and Will as the Hodges House Vice Captain. Both partnered together in these roles of responsibility, which allowed them to refine their skills in teamwork, communication, and decision-making and prepare for the independence and resilience needed to tackle their international gap years.

With a greater idea of the opportunity for adventure and challenge presented by

“Sharing this boarding experience at Shore has provided both of us with invaluable

“Being a boarder gives me the invaluable advantage of building close connections with the staff at Shore, who are committed to our academic progress. Additionally, having the opportunity to collaborate closely with my peers has truly benefited my learning experience,” Will expressed. As they prepare to embark on their United Kingdom journey, Ben and Will stand as a testament to the enduring advantages of a boarding education. Mr Rod Fitch Hodges Housemaster

Scan to explore our virtual tour

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Faithfulness and Commitment in Community Life

#Article title# Archives

Senior School History Class Visit, 2012 Our Shore Archives collection is unique in that it reflects the mission, faith and traditions of the School through the wealth of records and memorabilia that have been acquired throughout our 134-year history. We are committed to continually collecting and sharing the rich history of the School by preserving the memories and experiences of all members of the Shore community, including Old Boys, current students, parents and staff. These memories and experiences are embedded within school records, photographs, letters, flags, trophies, plans, uniforms, artwork, schoolbooks and war diaries. School publications and a wealth of donated material further enhance the collection for the enjoyment and education of the community. At the Opening of the School in 1889, Dr Barry remarked in his address that, “the traditions of a school are often an altogether untraced influence in the life of the school, an intangible product acquired through many years of the school’s history and one which never fails to influence the lives of all students who are conscious of their school’s past. A school tradition is something handed down from one generation of masters and pupils to another by an ineluctable process of time and achievement – nurtured by scholastic and sporting accomplishment, cultivated by the educational, spiritual and social influences of the school curriculum, and brought to fruition in the development of similar values in the character, not only of the individual pupils who attend the school, but in the very life and tone of the school itself.” In 1964, the Headmaster, Mr BH Travers (’37), was conscious of the School’s history, influence and strong traditions. An Old Boy himself, he initiated the School’s commitment to collecting and cataloguing material of historical interest to the School community. His first step was appointing Mr TH Visser to establish the Archives. Mr Visser once remarked that the, “Archives and the maintaining 34

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

of the Archives becomes a very important thing, not for the present only but also for the future. It takes honesty to retain or to destroy... And furthermore, may I suggest that people...hunt, ..., to get every possible thing that is connected with your school.” Accordingly, Mr Visser, along with 13 boys, established the Shore Archives in Room 15 of the Library and, every lunchtime, opened the room with displays of photographs for all to enjoy. This became a popular attraction, and as more photographs were collected, the lunchtime displays overflowed into the corridor. “Boys became more interested in the School and what it stood for, as they felt they were part of a strong and colourful tradition.” (SWR Thursday 3 May 1979)

Student Archivists, 1981 By the 1970s, the School was conscious of the necessity to effectively manage and preserve the growing collection. Mrs Georgina Hart was appointed Librarian with archival duties, whilst the boys were still the mainstays of the cataloguing and the set-up of lunchtime displays.

Faithfulness and Commitment in Community Life especially, enjoy the opportunity to revisit their experiences and reminisce. Similarly, students learn from the achievements and experiences of those before them, listen to oral histories from Old Boys and see first-hand memorabilia, including Honour Caps from 1905 and Exercise Books used by boys in 1917.

Year 10 boys moving the Archives, 2013 In 1994, the Old Boys’ Union championed the significance of the Archives and committed itself to the raising of funds to enable the collection to be accessible. Thus began a search for a suitable location, and following various moves around the School, the Archives moved into the Tom O’Neill Centre, and the Bob Gowing Museum moved into the Stables in 2014. In his oral history in 2005, Mr Andrew Warden (’56) spoke of his memories of establishing an Archives Committee because, “What’s Shore Old Boys all about if it’s not providing a repository for all our history? And it has got to be a living repository where people can actually get at it, and it’s displayed.” Displays in the Bob Gowing Museum showcase our significant collection to our students and the broader community by way of tours, Foundation events and Old Boy Reunions. Old Boys,

Prep Boys Class Visit, 2012 The Archives is committed to sourcing and creating new ways to share the story of Shore with our community. Our Oral History programme records recollections of past staff and Old Boys to preserve their voice and memories that augment the written documents in the collection. Our Digitisation programme ensures that previous copies of Shore publications, such as the Torch Bearer, Shore Weekly Record and the Prep Peak, are available for reasons such as teaching, research, and keeping up to date with School developments. The value of sharing our story and history with our community is echoed in the words of Mr O D Meares (’14) when he sent a letter to the editor of the Torch Bearer in 1918. Mr Meares was stationed at Sutton Veny Camp whilst serving during World War I and conveyed that he, “Received the Michaelmas Torch-Bearer a few days ago, and needless to say could do nothing else till I had read it all.” Archives Team

Archbishop Loane and KG Smith (’33) visiting the Archives, 1976

Rifle Team, Premiers (Meares is standing Top Left), 1913 Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Faithfulness and Commitment in Community Life

Shore Parents’ Association

Volunteering fun at American Tea The Shore Parents’ Association (SPA) was established over 85 years ago to unite in a common loyalty those who were interested in the welfare and development of the School. Today, our purpose is still the same – to encourage community engagement by bringing parents together and fostering friendships in order to build a strong school community. As you have no doubt experienced, the SPA and our many parent volunteers run a variety of events and activities throughout the year.

Thanks to Ms Candace Rutka-Welch (American Tea Co-ordinator)

The American Tea is the largest event organised by the SPA annually. This year marked its 85th year. So much effort is involved in organising the event and our huge thanks go out to our event leaders, Ms Candace Rutka-Welch and Ms Katie Kelly, plus all the parents who volunteered in planning the event and on the day. For the second consecutive year, the morning rain made it a little soggy underfoot. And, if you happened to be outdoors, you were drenched. That didn’t stop the fun, the smiles, and the unwavering Shore community spirit as the many pictures show. Across both campuses in Northbridge and North Sydney, the Shore community enjoyed the rides, games, yummy treats and/ or shopping that our volunteers had worked so hard to prepare for the day. The ‘tradition’ of the Year 10 Father and Son breakfast, held before the American Tea, gathered a crowd of over 220 for bacon and egg rolls who scrambled for seating undercover when the rain hit. A huge thanks to year 10 parents Mr and Mrs Andrew and Meredith Robson for organising the event and to the team on the BBQ who cooked during the downpour and were still smiling at the end.

BBQ in the rain at American Tea 36

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Faithfulness and Commitment in Community Life All the Year Reps continued to do a fantastic job keeping parents informed of SPA and school activities as well as running a variety of social events for the parents in their respective years including tenpin bowling and a golf day for dads, weekends away, and drinks and lunches for mums. Regular activities included the Mothers’ and Fathers’ Day stalls to help the boys spoil their mum and dad with a fabulous gift; the Shore Protectors, who meet up to three times a month to cover books for Senior and Prep libraries (their current tally for 2023 is over 500 books and almost 60 volunteers); and our canteens at Northbridge throughout the winter Sports season and the R A I Grant Centre for summer Sports were open serving arguably the best food and coffee of the independent schools. We are very appreciative of our regular team - our canteen manager Mrs Gaby Hunter and our baristas - and every parent who volunteers on the BBQ or serves at the counter.

The oyster shucking team at American Tea

SPA events and our canteens raise funds that are used to improve the educational experience of students across all campuses. Based on current estimates, we anticipate, that the SPA, on behalf of parents, will donate $230,000 to the School for the year ending December 2023. At the end of 2023, some of the current SPA Executive will be finishing in their roles. On behalf of the SPA Executive and all parents, I would like to thank Mrs Angela Connor and Mr Aaron Patrick who are stepping down as Treasurer/Assistant Treasurer and Minute Secretary respectively after providing two years of awesome service to our community with great enthusiasm and knowledge.

Mothers’ Day Stall

I will also be finishing my role as Chair and handing over to our current Deputy Chair, Mr David Cambridge. I have thoroughly enjoyed engaging with the School community during the past two years and will continue to put my hand up to volunteer over the next three years that my son is at Shore. I encourage all parents to do the same. Ms Christine Bowen Shore Parents’ Association Chair

Fathers’ Day Stall

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Scan the QR code to sign up today. WWWC check required for all volunteers.

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Faithfulness and Commitment in Community Life

The Shore Foundation The mission of the Foundation is clear to us – we exist to assist and support the School to develop and maintain excellence in education, facilities and community service. The Foundation does this in many different ways: 1. Through the provision of scholarships and bursaries for boys to attend the School. The Foundation has assisted 83 boys and families this year. 2. Helping to fund capital campaigns, which provide new infrastructure to the School. The wonderful things we have in place today are due to the generosity of those who have gone before us. Almost everything at Shore has, in some way, come about through community-driven donations and philanthropy. 3. Helping to fund teacher professional development by continually investing in overseas study programmes through the James Fellowship awards. 4. Helping to fund strategically important areas of the School that may be new and need seed capital to get them started. 5. Helping to fund Service related initiatives such as resourcing for our First Nations programme and in the hosting of Sony Camp. The Foundation seeks to invest in programmes that benefit all students – from large contributions to the development of sites such as the R A I Grant Centre, to more strategic support to assist the School grow in areas such as Educational Services, Careers and Pastoral Care. Thank you to everyone who has continued to support the Foundation this year.

Voluntary Donations. Thank You We are grateful to all parents who take the time and effort to provide support to the Foundation via their fee statements. This is a critical way to support our activities, and much of it either goes directly into our Bursary programme or future capital needs.

Welcoming our Year 5 and Year 7 Grandparents The Foundation hosts two Grandparents events each year – a Year 5 morning and classroom tour and a morning tea for Year 7 Grandparents during American Tea. These events are wonderful community days where Shore boys get to proudly show their School to Grandparents and help welcome them into the Shore fold. Thank you for the love and support you give to our boys each and every year.

Year 5 Grandparents morning

Good Luck, Class of 2023 On behalf of the Shore Foundation Board and team, we send our very best wishes to you all. This year’s cohort is a fantastic group of boys and will certainly be missed. To those parents who have supported the Foundation, on behalf of future generations of Shore boys, we express our sincere thanks. Of all the fond memories and opportunities provided to me from my time as a Shore boy, the most valuable are the friendships. My school friends are still some of my best mates today. My hope for you all is that wherever life leads you, you will keep those connections and support each other as you develop into men. And I hope to see you around the School in the future or on the Old Boys Hill at Northbridge one day.

READY FOR THE FUTURE GIVING DAY 38

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Year 7 Grandparents morning tea

Giving Day 2023 ‘Ready for the Future’ In August, the Shore Community rallied to support our online Giving Day, supporting the School in building its Bursary programme and future capital needs. $640,303 was raised in 24 hours with Old Boys, parents, students and friends taking part. All donations made on the day were doubled, thanks to the generous matching donations.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT ON

GIVING DAY 2023 we raised a total of

BUILDINGS AND BURSARIES

$640,303

Faithfulness and Commitment in Community Life Shore Old Boys ‘Paying it Forward’ Mr Daryl and Peter Blaxland – a further gift in a Will to help regional boys board at Shore Old Boy, Mr Peter Blaxland (’37), passed away 15 years ago and left a generous portion of his estate to help Shore provide bursaries for regional boys to attend Shore when they may not normally have the opportunity. This award has helped many grateful boys and families. Peter’s brother Daryl Blaxland (’43) sadly passed away earlier this year and continued to pass on Peter’s estate to Shore. In this very generous act, another bursary under the Blaxland name has been generated. We are grateful to those Old Boys and past parents who think of Shore in their estate planning. It is surely one of the true ways in which we can pass on the Torch of Life. Mr Godwin Chan – Giving from Asia One of the great features of Shore is how the boys support each other. This trait remains with Old Boys, who continue to support the School – whether on the BBQ at Northbridge, in volunteering at American Tea, supporting teams from the sidelines or continuing to support the Foundation. Mr Godwin Chan (’93) was a boarder in the 1990s who came from Hong Kong and made Hodges House his home. Thirty years later, he continues to support Shore from Hong Kong and was a generous contributor on Giving Day. We are

Godwin Chan (’93), Dr John Collier, Mr David Mason-Jones grateful that you still think of Shore and help provide opportunities for boys on bursaries. If you are in Hong Kong and still want to support Shore, we have a tax-deductible vehicle via Chapel & York to enable local donations, which are directed to Shore. Check it out. hongkongfoundationforcharities.org/ donate-to-hkfc/ Mr David Mason-Jones Executive Director, Shore Foundation

Old Boys meeting up in San Francisco Andy Hughes (’12), Zach Chang (’13), Peter Conway (’70), Angela Evans, Richard Tapp (’70), Justin Cameron-Strange (’05), Jackson Elsegood (’05)

Shore Foundation in San Francisco As a member of the ‘Australian Universities and Schools USA Foundation’ (AUS USA), the Shore Foundation recently visited San Francisco to attend a networking and information event. The AUS USA allows US based Old Boys and families to make tax-beneficial donations to the Shore Foundation, supporting bursary and capital appeal programmes. Mr Peter Conway (’70) is the Chairman of the AUS USA and he uses this vehicle to make donations to the bursary at Shore in his name.

In addition to meeting with other member Schools and Universities, we were able to connect with Old Boys and members of the Shore Community. Shore Old Boys from across the years, joined me for an informal get together to network and reconnect. It was a delightful evening hearing stories from Shore ranging from the 1970s to more recently. Ms Angela Evans Manager, Shore Foundation To find out more about US-based donations, please read further at aususafoundation.org

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Faithfulness and Commitment in Community Life

#Article Shore Old title# Boys’ Union The Shore Old Boys’ Union (OBU) has seen a successful schedule of events take place in the last Semester including:

General Committee

Fellow of the Union Awarded

Charlie Clayton (’90)

• The Mitre Club Legends’ Lunch (the Mitre Club being an important subset of the OBU - Old Boys aged over 65); • 13 Year Group reunions; • Old Boys’ Day at Northbridge; • The Tamworth regional reunion; • Since the last report, Christopher Richard Johnson AO (’62) – was made an Officer of the Order of Australia; • A Fellow of the Union award bestowed for the first time in many years; and • Leavers’ Lunch for Year 12 Leavers on Friday 15 September where the winners of the OBU Scholarship were announced and OBU ties were presented to the Year 12 students.

Sean Docker (’87)

At the August OBU Committee Meeting, Rick Clive (’68) was made a Fellow of the Union, a rare honour reserved for people who have given outstanding service to the OBU and School.

Old Boys at Leaver Lunch for Year 12 In the second half of the year, successful regional reunions have been held in Wagga Wagga, Orange and Melbourne. In December, The Mitre Club Christmas Lunch will be held while the UK Old Boys are getting together again for a casual endof-year drinks event. Earlier this year the OBU held its AGM, during which the following Old Boys were confirmed in the following positions for the next 12 months:

Executive Committee: President - Stephen Woodhill (’79) Vice Presidents Simon Ascroft (’84) and Ian Macdonald (’79) Honorary Secretary Jon Perry (’83) Honorary Treasurer Angus Warden (’91) Immediate Past President Andrew Winslade (’87) Community Chaplain Rev. Dr Nick Foord (’80) 40

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Jason Gram (’86) Jock Lehman (’11) David Mason-Jones (’92) Tom Rees (’02) Alex Streeter (’84) Hugh Watson (’94) James Watson (’92) Following three years as Chair of the Shore School Council and six years on the Council, Bay Warburton (’88) decided not to seek re-election as an Old Boy representative to the School Council for family reasons and will therefore be stepping down as Chair. During his time as Chair, Bay led the Council through COVID-19 lockdowns and the transition of the Headmasters Dr Petterson to Dr Collier, as well as the development of the Strategic Direction 2023 - 2025 which will guide the School in future years. The OBU would like to acknowledge the hard work, and the long hours Bay gave the School and Council first as a member, and in recent times as Chair and to thank him for the support he gave the OBU, and in particular the regular communications with me as President.

Rick Clive (’68), Andrew Winslade (’87)

Annual Golden Boots Award The finals of the Annual Golden Boots Public speaking competition for Year 11 Boarders were held on 8 September with Joshua Tang announced as the winner.

Every three years, Old Boys have the opportunity to vote to put five Old Boys onto the School Council. As 10 Old Boys were nominated, under the Constitution of the Shore OBU, a ballot of members was held to elect our five OBU Representatives. As a result of the election, the following Old Boys have been elected as the OBU representatives on School Council: • Douglas Ferguson (’91) • David Lloyd (’97) • Malcolm Nutt (’94) • David Scammell (’91) • Stephen Woodhill (’79)

David Stratton (’76) with Golden Boots debating winner Joshua Tang (Year 11)

Rodney Northam has stepped down from the Mitre Club Conveners role after four years at the helm. The OBU thank him for his unwavering commitment and leadership of the committee. We welcome Andrew Cavill as the next Mitre Club Convener and wish him well in the role.

Faithfulness and Commitment in Community Life Mitre Club Legends Lunch Special mention should be made of the Mitre Club Legends Lunch, this year honouring Shore Legend Bob Grant, former Headmaster (1984-2002). Over 150 Old Boys, as well as a number of Mr Grant’s family and friends, attended and heard special guest speaker Rod Morrison pay a moving tribute to him. The Mitre Club is a group of the Old Boys over 65 years of age.

Peter Jackson (’58), Dennis Doyle (’58) Nick Heath (’57), Gordon Shadforth (’58), Chris Stevens (’64), Rod Tubbs (’63/64) and David Mullen (’58)

Graham Robertson, Glenn Davies (’68) and Stephen Woodhill (’79)

Bob Grant, John Sedgwick (’57/58), Rick Clive (’68), Andy Cavill (’71) Trish Grant, Rodney Northam (’60) and Rod Morrison, Former Deputy Headmaster (1986-2021)

Tom Keene (’64), David Brewer (’69) Grant Hawkins (’69), Geoffrey Hawkins (’65), Garrick Hawkins (’67), Ian Byrne (’67) Grahame Hawkins (’68) and Conrad Burge (’68)

David Mason-Jones (’92), Angus Warden (’91), Bob Grant, Mal Nutt (’94), Rod Morrison, Doug Ferguson (’91) and David Grant (’91)

Mitre Club Legends Lunch

Post Vietnam Operational Service The School wishes to update its records for those Old Boys who have had Post Vietnam War Operational Service. If you have served and would like to share your information with the School, please email oldboys@shore.nsw.edu.au with your details, including supporting information and documentation.

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Faithfulness and Commitment in Community Life

Reunion News Class of 1968 - 55 Year Reunion

Tamworth and District Reunion

Nic Burton Taylor (’68), John Foulsham (’68), Geoff Brodie (’68) and Murray Smith (’68)

Class of 1993 – 30 Year Reunion Angus Warden (’91) and some of the Tamworth Reunion group

Class of 1983 – 40 Year Reunion 1993 Reunion Group on Friday 4 August

Class of 2003 – 20 Year Reunion

2003 golfing group

Class of 1983 Reunion group

Old Boys’ Day Every year, the OBU hosts Old Boys’ Day, at Northbridge to support the teams and to catch up with each other and the wider Shore community. This year, Old Boys’ Day was held on Saturday 5 August and a large contingent of Old Boys watched the Shore First XV defeat Newington. A big thank you for all our helpers on that day: Maria Black, David Griffin (’86), Hugh Watson (’94), Nick Foord (’80), Lincoln Gram (’89), and Jason Gram (’86). Mr Stephen Woodhill President OBU

Old Boys at post match event

Shore Reports | Summer 2023

Old Boys’ Day post match event volunteers

Class of 2022 supporting the First XV

I must offer my congratulations to our 2023 Year 12 students who acquit ted themselves beautifully at both their Graduation ceremony and the Valedictory dinner which followed. Dr John Collier Getting their Old Boy ties

F ather and Son breakf ast

Mother and Son breakf ast

To: Dr Collier

Valedictory Dinner

Family Service

Graduation Ceremony

Strongman competition

I wanted to pass on our thanks and gratitude to you and your team on the end of year events for Year 12 this year. Together with our wider family, we found the breakfasts, graduation ceremony and dinner to all be excellent events and we appreciated the ability to bring the extended family to graduation in particular. Keeping the boys busy and active through the week with their parents was an enormous positive! Congratulations to you all on a great week! Sincerely, Shore Parent

GPS debating trophy Michael Kwak (Year 11), Lachlan Hunt (Year 12), Blake Fite (Year 12), Jimmy Nicholas (Year 12)

Sydney Church of England Grammar School Blue Street, North Sydney PO Box 1221 North Sydney NSW 2059 Telephone: +61 2 9923 2277 www.shore.nsw.edu.au CRICOS 00772M

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