St Spyridon Stylus 16 August 2013

The voice of St. Spyridon College

| August 2013 | NUMBER 16 |

Faith and Resilience Artist: Juliet Manolias Year 10 student Photography by Mike Flokis Photography and Anthony Condous

stylus The Strategic Plan 2012 – 2016* The new Strategic Plan 2012-2016, will pursue “Excellence in All Things”.

The College will provide students with a culture of high expectations driven by best effort from everyone – from students, teachers, parents, the Board and Parish.

A focus on programs for students with a high intellectual potential, will enrich the educational practices of differentiation and innovation.

Students will experience an education with a moral purpose. As Global citizens, they will work together and alone to make a difference – to make the world better by their presence, thoughts and actions.

Students will have faith in God and in themselves because they learn in a culture of confidence and trust, that upholds the dignity and worth of every person.

Strong and effective operations will ensure a safe and secure environment where students learn in functional and conducive buildings and facilities with optimum access to up to date technologies.

The Seven Goals of the Strategic Plan 2012 – 2016 Goal 1 - Rich and diverse educational experiences that aim for excellence and demand best effort.

Goal 2 - A Passport to Global Citizenship for students.

Goal 3 - Teachers of excellence.

Goal 4 - Strong and dynamic partnerships with parents.

Goal 5 - Established reputation as a centre of excellence.

Goal 6 - A safe environment based on sound policies and procedures.

Goal 7 - A secure financial future with functional and conducive buildings and facilities.

The Pursuit of Excellence in all things

The term Stylus is used to describe a myriad of different devices used in computing, science, medicine, art and technology. In ancient times, a stylus was the bone or ivory pen used to write on wax or clay tablets. Stylus is also the Greek word for pillar, denoting strength and grace. * A copy of the full Strategic Plan is available for download at www.stspyridon.nsw.edu.au

M

ary Hamer (Rayias) was born in the Village Ashia, Cyprus on the 30th August 1951.

When she was three months old her father left for Australia to prepare a new life for his

family leaving behind his wife and two young children. He worked hard to save a passage for his family and in 1955 they were again reunited and in the following year and soon after Mary’s younger brother Michael was born.

As with most migrant families of that period times were not easy, Mary’s father worked hard and long shifts at the Steelworks in Port Kembla to provide for his family. After a few years they were able to purchase their first house at Fairy Meadow.

He sustained a number of serious injuries working at the blast furnaces but in the end suffered from leukaemia and passed away at the age of 48 leaving behind a young family when Mary was only 15 years old.

Mary’s mother struggled to raise the family with limited English and resources. But she always ensured that the children’s and education and welfare came first.

Mary attended Fairy Meadow Demonstration Primary School and then Smiths Hill girl’s school.

Being a large multi-stream school the principal was surprised that a young Greek girl topped English for the whole grade.

Mary’s ambition had always been to become a teacher and work with children, to this end she graduated from Wollongong Teachers College with excellent grades. In those days teachers were bonded to pay for their College education.

After completing her studies she was sent out to Mount Druitt as her first bonded school. Even at that time this was a difficult assignment. After a number of teaching positions she accepted a teaching position at the Catholic school of St Charles in Ryde and then moved across the road to Holy Cross College.

She taught senior classes and worked as an English co-ordinator and then ran the school “English as a Second language” program. Mary was instrumental in writing the State Multicultural program

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and school syllabus and to this day a young Mary Hamer can be seen helping migrant children on a number of the teaching program pages.

In 1981 at Holy Cross College, Mary met a difficult graduate colleague, refusing to ever follow her instructions and at that time much to her dislike. This was the start of a new beginning with her Husband to be Peter Hamer.

Peter continued to put a smile on her face with his humility and humour being mentored under her authority which continues to this day. Together they worked alongside each other to make a difference in many student’s lives.

As a senior teacher she completed the extensive “St John of God” Counselling Course. Her studies - she continued to complete the School Leadership Graduate Diploma which was in its first year at the Catholic University. This course being in its inaugural year was not only very demanding but required a lot of extra work in order to be established and an ongoing unit of study.

When Mary saw an advertisement for the position of principal to establish a New Greek Orthodox school she was very excited having great respect for her faith and heritage but was well aware that this would be a very difficult and demanding task not having a system or department to back her up and provide support.

The interview process was gruelling and consisted of a number of interviews.

The new St Spyridon Education Board was very keen to get the right person for the position as they were well aware of the hard work ahead for all concerned.

Mary considered it a great honour to be selected, being one of the youngest Principals in the State and right away in co-operation with the Parish started preparation for the year ahead. In those early years she collected and borrowed resources from other schools and even used her own furniture for the good of the school. Right from the beginning she established a close working relationship with the Parish Priest Father Steven Scoutas as this school had always been his driving passion and ambition.

In 1983 the School bell rang for the first time calling to assembly the first three grades and the wonderful parents who had invested their children’s future in this new school.

In these early years the school operated very much like a family with close relationships and all working together set the tone of the school for the future.

Many friendships established in those early years of the College form the basis of their families friendship groups today.

At times these early years were difficult with a Parish Board wanting to be involved in every decision and demanding to know why every move was made.

Although their intentions were good, they lacked the experience of what was needed to run a good school.

Mary, from the beginning stood her ground demanding what was best for the student’s development and the well-being of her staff, this ethos continued till her very last days at the school. Being firm in her expectation, in discipline of students

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and teachers alike this at all times combined with a loving and forgiving care that did not carry grudges. What was a reprimand one day was a loving support the next.

Her unique approach of firmness for the school rules and policies blended with a genuine love resulted in gaining respect and the love of those who passed through the College over the past 30 years.

Reports from past students state that the guidance and support they received has ruled their lives and their academic and life pursuits. Past students who were able to master getting over the term of “Mrs Hamer” moved on to the more personal title of “Thea” an indication of love and respect.

Mary and Peter’s engagement took place at the Old St Spyridon Parish Centre and their marriage was here at St Spyridon Church celebrated with Father Steven starting a long journey of mutual respect and trust with him and the Parish.

Mary Hamer was not only a principal to many children, but she took on the motherly role of dedicating her kind, caring and nurturing nature to every student that entered St Spyridon College. Her first child Anthony attended this school at only one week old in his pram as his mother had to prepare for the school’s first inspection.

Despite her true dedication to the College and every child, Mary’s heart was fulfilled through her love for her three children: Anthony, Christopher and Lydia. Together Peter and Mary spent their school holidays dedicated to spending quality family time with their three children, who stuck by her with strength and courage through her 10 year battle with cancer. Her love for her husband and children gave her the strength, optimism and motivation to fight for her legacy.

Mary loved seeing her children develop into adulthood as they grew within their individual careers, making her proud of their achievements. Mary inspired both her sons Anthony and Christopher to put their heart and passion into their daily lives - being able to recognise the good in people and learn the value of family and friendship.

Her daughter Lydia idolised her mother’s devotion to education and aspired to follow in her footsteps as she has recently graduated as a teacher. Lydia believes that her mother’s legacy will live on through the inspiration and strength she has given to not only herself, but also to all her teaching staff throughout the years.

Lydia following her parent’s care for others was involved in Rotary, the Dutch Community and had recently returned from Kenya in Africa supporting a Slum Children’s Education project.

Together we can all be full of the love that she shared with each and every person that came into her life.

The family would like to thank you all for sharing this final respect to her and to please remember her in your prayers. She is with the Lord Jesus our Saviour at this time looking down on us in the hope that she will live on in your heart and in the life choices you make.

The Hamer Family

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Building Leaders

College Captain - Mathew Kambos welcomes Vice Admiral Alexandros Theodosiou and Commander Georgios N. Pelekanos to the College.

Mrs Stefanou, Mrs Katsogiannis, Mrs Tsaconas, other distinguished guests, teachers and fellow students. Με μεγάλη συγκίνηση δεχόμαστε σήμερα τους εκλεκτούς προσκεκλημένους από την Ελλάδα, τον Αντιναύαρχο Αλέξανδρο Θεοδοσίου, Υπαρχηγό ΓΕΕΘΑ και τον Αντιπλοίαρχο Γεώργιο Πελεκάνο για να τιμήσουμε μαζί τους, αυτούς που έδωσαν το αίμα τους για να ζούμε εμείς ελεύθερα πολίτες σε ένα κόσμο που κρατά ψηλα το ιδανικό της αξιοπρέπειας του κάθε ατόμου και όλων των λαών.

In my experience at this school, much of what we have achieved and do arises from standing for the values of self sacrifice and the capacity to show bravery and exhibit resilience in the most troubled of times. At our school, yes we are safe due to the sacrifices of generations before us. Yet we strive and struggle to achieve the best for our school and our community. This notion of self sacrifice and selflessness is instilled in us at this school and is one of the many things that everyone in our school can be extremely thankful and proud. It is this belief that we must lend a hand to assist our friends and peers in need, that allows our school to be so tightly knit – and to punch above its weight in all aspects – ranging from our incredible sports teams, to our academic successes.

Our generation of people are not forced to fight the visible evils of the world, where taking arms is the solution. We are forced to struggle against the impurities of the modern world and thus keep our head up high. We must achieve this by knowing who we are as individuals and our responsibility to STYLUS Page 4

others in the community and the world around us; This is how we show defiance against the media’s influence on our paradigms by trying to instill a sense of materialism, selfishness and unethical and immoral greed. A multitude of fears are practically thrown upon us in this modern society. However, it is our duty to overcome these and remain pure and good. We cannot give into the fears and become racist, cynical and most of all self-centered. We must rebel, as our fight in this modern time is an unseen evil which attempts to destroy what is good in the world and what is important, such as integrity and justice.

To triumph over this, we take strength from both our heritages, our new nation which the ANZAC legend is so highly regarded and respected and where selflessness was always displayed; and from our Greek heritage in which standing for freedom has been the basis of all boast and brag; rather it endows on us a responsibility and glory which is placed upon all the Greek people of the world as only the best is demanded of us, as we try to emulate our ancestors’ extraordinary achievements. Θα θέλουμε, οι υψηλοί προσκεκλημένοι μας να μεταφέρουν ένα μήνυμα από εμάς στους Έλληνες πίσω στην πατρίδα. Εμείς, οι Έλληνες του εξωτερικού, εδώ στο Κολλέγιο και στην ενορία του Αγίου Σπυρίδωνα στέλνουμε ένα μεγάλο ευχαριστώ στις ελληνικές ένοπλες δυνάμεις που με αυτοθυσία πολέμησαν πάντα για την πατρίδα. Καταλαβαίνουμε την οικονομική κρίση που περνά αυτή τη στιγμή η Ελλάδα και κάνουμε ό, τι μπορούμε για να σταθούμε στο πλευρό της.

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NSW Schools Titration Competition 2013 The NSW Schools Titration Competition is a quantitative analytical competition open to NSW students currently enrolled in Senior Chemistry studying towards the Higher School Certificate. Students compete in teams of three and, in ninety minutes, must complete a set of acid-base titrations to determine the unknown concentration of a weak acid.

In Term 2 three students from St Spyridon College competed in the NSW Schools Titration Competition which was held at the University of NSW and is run by the Royal Australian Chemical Institute.

The boys won first place in the competition by achieving the most accurate team score, though they encountered some tough competition from schools such as Sydney Girls High School and Scots College.

The boys will now compete in the National Competition later in the year.

Congratulations to Year 11 students: Panayioti Kapodistrias, Luka Kasalovic and Dylan Kontos for winning this competition and their dedicated Chemistry teacher Mr Giles.

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Building Leaders Prefects’ Leadership Day

The three Senior Leaders (Mathew Kambos, Leonidas Andrew and Maria Mio) represented the Prefect Body by attending a Leadership Day held at SCEGGS Darlinghurst. The event was organised so that student leaders from schools all around NSW can get together to discuss and share our leadership goals and leadership advice. In doing so, the aim of the event was to further educate the leaders from the many schools about what it means to be a good leader.

One of the main ideas was that endless conversation about change is more a barrier than anything else. Actually committing to doing something and then acting is what is required to advance and prosper as a leader. The final lesson we were communicated is that leadership is a service and that it is imperative to observe the people that you lead.

This was a very enjoyable and inspirational meeting for the three of us and is just one of the many leadership opportunities we have the privilege of attending.

Leadership Day at NSW Parliament House Our three Senior Prefect Leaders Mathew Kambos (College Captain), Leo Andrew (Vice-Captain), and Maria Mio (Senior Prefect) joined with other Captains from within the Independent School Sector to attend the annual Secondary School Leadership Day at NSW Parliament House. They were invited there by Her Excellency Professor Marie Bashir AO, Governor of NSW, and the Presiding Officers of Parliament.

The program of the day offered school leaders the opportunity to develop their knowledge of Constitutional Parliamentary proceeding and the role of the Governor.

Prior to meeting the Governor, students viewed proceedings in the Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council at NSW Parliament House, in Macquarie St, Sydney.

Peer Support Leaders on Year 7 Camp

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Junior School Buddies At St Spyridon College Year 6 and Kindergarten participate in a Buddy Program every year. The Buddy Program gives Kindergarten an older brother or sister from Year 6 to show them what to do.

My buddy is Ryan Lynch. He handled his first days at school very well. What I did to welcome him was to make a card, introduce myself and play some games. When we were playing, he always stayed close by me.

In February, Year 6 met their Kindergarten Buddies. The Buddies involves Year 6 and Kindy at St Spyridon College.

Each Year 6 is matched with a buddy from the Kindergarten classes. The main purpose of this is so the Kindies get settled into big school easily and learn the school rules.

One day last week, after lunch, we sat on the silver seats and waited for Kindy. When they arrived their teachers called out all the pairs of buddies one by one. My buddy is Lara. She is in KJ.

Others were less successful at first. Some of the Kindies were shy and cried. Probably an advantage for a good buddy is to have the same gender. That’s what I think anyway!

When I first met Lara I gave her a colourful card, some stickers and wacky bands as a gift. She gave me a special picture of her surfing.

I loved meeting my buddy because whenever I see him he smiles. When Ryan smiles, I smile. My buddy, Ryan, does bring back memories of when I was in Kinder because he handled school the way I handled school- with pride and confidence.

I could tell that she enjoyed meeting me because she kept on smiling and couldn’t stop. My buddy reminds me a lot of when I was in Kindy as I had blond hair like Lara does!

I think Buddies is a fabulous idea and a lot of my peers think so too.

By Stella Ktenas Class 6M

By Jonathon Lynch Class 6M

Building Women Leaders Sandra Milisavljevic and I visited NSW Parliament House on International Women’s Day (Friday 8th March).

There we discussed female rights and what it takes to be a successful leader. We represented our school throughout the day and thoroughly enjoyed this rare experience. We met many accomplished women such as The Chief Scientist for Australia from 2008-2011, Professor Penny Sackett. They shared their stories, and life experience to demonstrate how they have contributed towards the recognition of equality for women.

During Ms Quentin’s talk about what it takes to be a leader she shared these words of wisdom: “Don’t try to be superwoman, don’t try to be perfect”. In other words, try your best and strive to achieve your dreams and goals, but don’t try to be perfect; no one is perfect.

Another inspirational speaker named April stated that there are still many limitations today because of being born a woman. She advised us to “take these limitations as opportunities and try and move forward … see these negatives as positives of being a woman”.

Pamela Prineas and Sandra Milisavljevic with Prof. Penny Sackett

Following the talks we were given a tour of some of the rooms in Parliament House such as the Legislative Assembly Room where we were fortunate enough to be able to sit in Madam Speaker’s chair (as shown in the pictures below).

In these rooms we were told that it was in these rooms that the laws relating to women’s status were changed over time, and from where future successes will originate. Overall, the day was a very inspiring experience and both Sandra and I were very appreciative for being able to attend this event.

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Educational Excellence HSC Class 2012 Highlights We congratulate our HSC Class of 2012 on their achievements and wish them well in their tertiary studies and future life choices.

We are proud to share these highlights with our readers:

• 97% of students have now begun Tertiary studies. Only one student not studying, working in family business.

• 86% of students now studying Undergraduate courses.

• Out of 38 students, 51% results 80% and above in a given course.

• Top 130 in the 2012 HSC Top Schools media lists.

• Kathy Thimakis ATAR 97.05, UNSW AAA Scholarship, Professor Manuel Aroney Award, and University Scholarship recipient. Currently studying for Bachelor of Medical Science UNSW.

• Stephanie Retsas recipient of 2012 UTS Science Scholarship. Currently studying Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Arts in International Studies UTS.

Undergraduate Degree Destinations of HSC Class of 2012

USYD - University of Sydney UNSW - 32%

UNSW - University of NSW

UTS - 22%

UTS - University of Technology Sydney

UMAC - Macquarie University

UWS - University of Western Sydney

ACU - 10%

UND - Notre Dame

WOLL, UMAC, UN - 10%

UWS - 16%

WOLL - Wollongong University ACU - Australian Catholic University

USYD - 10%

Destination by Course Type Science / Engineering

Arts / Education

Technology Commerce / Business

Destination by Course name: Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor

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of Medical Science UNSW Computer Science and Technology USYD Applied Science (Speech Pathology) USYD of Science/Arts International Studies UTS of Science UTS of Psychological Science ACU of Commerce/Science UNSW of Commerce UNSW of Commerce UMAC of Economics UNSW of Education/Arts USD International Studies UNSW

Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor

of of of of of of of of of of of of of of

Interior Architecture UNSW Media (PR and Advertising) UNSW Business UTS Education Primary UTS Business and Commerce UWS Arts UNSW Arts ACU Arts Psychology ACU Arts UWS Arts Film and Screen production UND Engineering UNSW Engineering Civil UWOLL Engineering ICT UTS ICT UWS

Developing the Mind ACER Scholarships Winners Years 11 and 12, 2014 - 2015

ACER Scholarship Winner Year 7, 2014 – Year 10, 2017

Congratulations to Nikyle Konstantin of Woollahra Public School, who has been granted the 2014 four year scholarship to St Spyridon College.

Juliet Manolias

Sophia Rizzo

Congratulations to Juliet Manolias and Sophia Rizzo who have each been granted a two year Scholarship for continued study in Years 11 and 12 on the basis of the ACER Examinations.

The scholarships are based on the results of ACER Scholarship exams held on 23rd February, 2013. There was a strong field of candidates from other primary schools, our Year 6 and Year 10 students.

We commend all students who attempted this challenging exam.

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Scientists In The Making Year One Visit The Vision Centre In April, Year One went on an excursion to the Vision Centre at New South Wales University.

First we went on the bus with 1T. When we got to the Vision Centre we got our eyes checked. They used an instrument with six circles. After that they put us on a very high chair and tested us on our letters. I could see all the letters.

Next we went out of the testing room, had recess and watched a movie. After the movie we were told about the eye and how the black hole helps you see, but everything actually is upside down and your brain makes everything the right way up.

Finally it was time to leave and we went back to school.

Overall it was the best day ever.

Julia Kamaras Class 1V

Students enjoying cooperative activities

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Sense Of Community Harmony Day @ Junior School Congratulations To Dr Nicholas Pappas AM Many Stories: One Australia was the shared national theme for Harmony Day 2013. Year 6 leadership students planned a fun day focussing on all Junior School students and their teachers sharing stories and respecting culture. Australia is a country of harmony, tolerance, acceptance and equality. We live in a multicultural society.

To celebrate who we are, K-6 students and teachers dressed in orange (for Harmony) and blue (for Greek Independence). During the day, students shared messages on a special ‘Harmony Day Graffiti Wall’, listened to the stories of others and participated in other fun ‘harmony’ focused activities. Well done to the Year 6 group for being prepared on the day. A huge thank you to the Prefects in particular who ensured whole school inclusiveness.

We congratulate Dr Nicholas Pappas AM, for his appointment to the “Member (AM) in the General Divisions of the Order of Australia”.

Dr Pappas was inducted as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his long and significant services to Rugby League, the Arts and the wider Greek Australian Community.

We are proud to have such an esteemed and dynamic Australian as part of our St Spyridon Community.

Thank you to all who got involved!

Ms McCarthy Stage 3 Coordinator

Year 6 shared fiction stories from many different cultures with K-5. They also shared their own personal stories.

Parents And Friends We love the sense of community we have at our school and this was evident to the P and F Committee over the past two weeks. A special thank you goes to the parents outside the P and F committee who assisted with distributing the snacks and water to all our children. Lots of hands did make light work and ensured the kids were happy very quickly after a hot morning.

We were so proud of our teachers and students turning up and looking so smart and beautiful and celebrating a significant day in our history.

Desma Spyridopoulos - P & F Secretary STYLUS Page 11

Shouldering Our Responsibilities

On Holy Wednesday Year 9, Miss Gambriell, Mrs Mio, Mrs Faletas and Mr Georgoulopoulos went to St Basil’s Nursing Home to visit and give the elderly their Easter cards which Year 7 had prepared. On the same day our Serbian students, with Mrs Belajcic, visited St Simeon’s Village. A very emotional and rewarding experience.

Senior Boys carry the Epitaphios on Good Friday Procession.

“We were blessed to be able to give something back to people who have done so much for the world we live in. A moment that will remain forever in our memories are the tears and joy expressed by the residents when we chanted the tropario of St Spyridon”.

I will if you will. Dare the World to Save the Planet.

What the Senior School is Doing… St Spyridon students dedicate Period 4 of each day to Earth Hour. Signs went up in all rooms, the library corridor was decorated with lanterns, some of which were made by our Year 7’s, to remind everyone about conserving our resources and switching off STYLUS Page 12

non-essential lighting across the school, especially during period 4. One of the jobs of each class Student Council Representative is to assist their peers and teachers to remember that Period 4 each day is St Spyridon’s Earth Hour.

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Congratulations to Mrs Christina Tsaconas and Mrs Artemisia Ierokles who received the Rotary Pride of Workmanship Awards for outstanding service to our Parish and College over many years from the Rotary Club of Burwood.

Sydney Children’s Hospital To date St Spyridon Parish has held a Golf Day to raise funds for the Sydney Children’s Hospital. In April the Parish presented the Hospital with a cheque for $25,000.

A donation is given annually. Since 1995 the Parish of St Spyridon has donated $330,000 to the Sydney Children’s Hospital.

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Sense Of Community Lambatha Stalls Our Lambatha stalls almost exactly matched our fundraising record for this activity, with a total profit of $3547. Furthermore with our lovely donated Chocolate Easter basket we were able to raise $500 in raffle ticket purchases before and during the Junior School Easter Focus Assembly. This is a great result considering the school holidays were in the middle of our stall dates.

Clean Up Our School Day As part of the ‘Clean Up Australia Day’ campaign that occurs every year across our nation, students here at the Senior school rolled up their sleeves, donned pink white and yellow gloves, and set to work. Every year group had a designated area to focus on and they did a brilliant job all round.

This has now inspired us to allocate the last Friday of each month to a single Year group taking a turn in helping maintain our pristine school environment.

Palm Sunday Lunch Our Palm Sunday lunch was the most well organised community event we have ever run. While our numbers were lower than previous years, 160 community members very graciously gathered to enjoy and share a variety of Lenten mezethes and a main meal of BBQed whole snapper or fried calamari with roasted potatoes, village bread with tarama and/or skordalia and ending with a traditional Lenten desserts. A huge thank

you is extended to all those members, parents and friends who assisted with the preparations and management of the meals on the day. We are happy to announce a profit of $3478 for this event.

This means we have achieved a total of $7525 in funds raised for our school thus far and we are just beginning, we have many more events/ activities planned till March 2014.

Community Service At St Constantine And Helen’s Church Year 9 were due to begin their Community Service duty this week by assisting at the Soup Kitchen in Newtown, however due to it being St Constantine and Helen’s Day, the Church hall from which the soup kitchen is normally run, was instead being set up for the celebratory dinner. Father Nectarios and representatives of the Ladies Auxiliary who were there making the necessary preparations warmly welcomed us and were very grateful for the donations of food we brought and our willingness to assist with the setting up of the special dinner.

Students Alexander P Cardamis, Tori Stamatopoulos and Anastasia Gousetis, worked enthusiastically and enjoyed the freshly made Loukmades offered.

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Focusing on Family and Mothers The Kindy Orientation Morning is when new parents and familiar faces come along to hear about our wonderful school and the journey their children will undertake as they start Kindergarten in 2014. It is always a nice event on the school calendar allowing parents to connect in a very personal way to the staff and other parents and to see the classes and school facilities first hand. We provided morning tea and had a few P&F members on hand to impart a reassuring parental perspective.

The Mother’s Day stalls have been a wonderful success thanks to Erenie Bourdaniotis and her team of P&F volunteers.

We raised $4500 in profit for the school. Thank you to all our students, staff, parents and friends of the college who bought a special gift for a loved one from our stalls. We hope it was well received by the recipient on or before Mother’s Day.

we exceeded all expectations with wonderful relaxation and hand treatments, A-M-AZING raffle and novelty prizes, beautiful food and surroundings at the Graphic Arts Club.

Overall the evening had a calm and fun atmosphere. A special thank you goes to Mrs Stefanou for her very kind words of encouragement to our team. Thank you to all of the 95 mothers who attended this event and contributed towards our fundraising effort. We raised $3200 in profit. This could not have been possible without the wonderful individuals and businesses that donated their services or prizes for the event.

This month we have taken our tally for fundraising for the year to $15,225. We look forward to the next lot of events and are already preparing for Spring Fair.

Desma Spyridopoulos P & F Secretary

Our Mother’s Night Out was an amazing night with great feedback from attendees. Everyone enjoyed themselves and

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A Sense Of History Anzac Day Commemoration Services

At Hyde Park, on Wednesday 10th April, Miss Gambriell, Year 11 Modern History students and the two captains of the Junior School attended the RSL and Schools Remember ANZAC Commemoration Service at the ANZAC Memorial in Hyde Park.

Students honoured the sacrifices made by the Australian servicemen and women by laying a wreath at the top of the ANZAC Memorial steps in Hyde Park. There were representatives from both Public and Independent schools at this event. It was very moving to witness the respect and honour shown for the fallen soldiers.

It was a great honour for St Spyridon College to have been selected by the AIS to act as Wreath Presenters. Spiro Zafiropoulos and Katherine Raptis attended the service and presented the wreaths to VIPs such as the Minister of Education and other Ministers and representatives from the Armed Services.

Battle of Crete Commemorations Martin Place, Sydney 18th May, 2013 “Each time a person stands for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, a tiny ripple of hope is sent, and crossing each other from a million different centres of energy and daring, those ripples build a current which can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance�

Robert Kennedy

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25th March Celebrations

Congratulations to students of our College for their participation in the 25th March celebrations of our Church and Archdiocese.

Congratulations and thank you to Mrs Haskas who for so many years inspires our students to dance at these events.

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Past Students

Patricia Lianos

Katherine Coucouvinis

HSC Class 2006. College Vice Captain. College Dux. UNSW AAA Scholarships winner. Professor Aroney Award winner. Bachelor of Optometry (Hons) and a Bachelor of Science (Vision Science).

HSC Class 2006, Senior Prefect.

Bachelor of Pharmacy University of Sydney.

Graduated 2010.

A DYNAMIC PRESENCE

Angelina Flokis

Deanne Constantinou

Ben Papadopoulos

HSC Class 2010, Senior Prefect.

Studying Bachelor of Media Communications and Journalism.

HSC Class 2011, Sports Captain.

Studying Bachelor of Management in Events and Leisure at UTS.

HSC Class 2011, Sports Captain.

Studying Health and Movement at ACPE.

Netball coach

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Netball coach

Soccer coach

Bianca Kristallis HSC Class 1995. Founder and Director of Pamper Hamper.

Proud mother of twins Chloe and Connor who are now St Spyridon Students at the Junior School.

Monica Kilias HSC Class 2006, Prefect.

Completed a Bachelor of Pharmacy, University of Sydney. Graduated 2012.

Erin Criticos Netball coach

HSC Class 2012, Sports Captain.

Studying Bachelor of Speech Pathology at Sydney University.

Demi Flokis

Netball coach

HSC Class 2012, Vice Captain.

Studying Bachelor of Arts Psychology at ACU.

Kostandino Baratsas Basketball Coach

HSC Class 2012, College Captain. Studying Bachelor of Computer Science and Technology at Sydney University.

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stylus Miss Tina Bletsogiannis

Qualifications:

• University of Sydney • Bachelor of Education Degree - Primary • Major in LOTE -Modern Greek (2003)

Roles and responsibilities:

• Stage 2 Coordinator • Year 4 Teacher • TAA Mentor • Year Book Coordinator • New Scheme Teacher Accreditation Supervisor • Teaching Internship Supervising Teacher

As Stage 2 Coordinator, Miss Bletsogiannis leads a positive, dynamic and goal-driven team and provides ongoing leadership, support, advice and direction. She provides instructional leadership on curriculum planning and development; assessment and reporting; the delivery of teaching programs; and student behaviour management issues. Furthermore, she supervises New Scheme Teachers through their Accreditation process and Tertiary Education Students with their Teaching Internship.

As a teacher, Miss Bletsogiannis strives to nurture selfesteem and self-respect, and promote respect of others.

She believes that Learning Programs should foster the student’s development as holistic human beings: considering intellectual, emotional, social and physical development.

every learner in meaningful activities and helping them to enjoy learning. Motivation is fostered by the opportunity to succeed and build upon self-esteem. A success-oriented classroom environment is one which is positive, stimulating, caring and safe. Our classroom motto is ‘We Are Brilliant!’”

Some of the projects Miss Bletsogiannis has coordinated for the College include the Randwick Council’s ‘Community Street Tree Planting’ project (2011); The Lions Club ‘Skills for Growing’ DVD (2010); and the ‘Live Life Well @ School’ program (2012-present).

Miss Bletsogiannis leads with high expectations, dignity and self-worth. “With great faith in God and in myself, my purpose is to be a significant contributor in the College’s pursuit of ‘Excellence in All Things’.”

“I believe that intrinsic motivation is the key to engaging

Romeo and Juliet

Year 11 Drama Production

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Fostering The Arts

Year 11 Drama students performed “Romeo and Juliet� for their HSC Preliminary Assessment. They were responsible for all aspects of the performance, from publicity design, set design, costuming, lighting and sound as well as stage management. The students did an outstanding job, bringing freshness and a vitality to this well-known play.

We congratulate the students and their teacher Ms L. Davis.

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St Spyridon Sports Stars National Schools Event 2013 On Wednesday, 8th May, to Friday, 10th May, 2013, Oakleigh Grammar, Melbourne hosted the Annual National Schools Event.

Congratulations to all students who attended along with Mr Meintanis, Mr Kaldis, Ms O’Shea, Ms Gonzalez, Ms Gambriell, Mr Zafiropoulos, Mr Georgoulopoulos and past student Angelina Flokis.

We are pleased to report that St Spyridon College came first in Netball, Girls Basketball and Girls Volleyball.

We thank Oakleigh Grammar for hosting this event with professionalism, warmth and hospitality.

St Spyridon College will be hosting the 2014 Event.

A highlight of the tour was the stirring performance of Aphroditi Zafiropoulos and Panayioti Kapodistrias in the performing arts performance.

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Swimming Carnivals

Congratulations to the Corinthians who won the Junior School carnival! And well done to the Olympians in 2nd place, the Delphians in 3rd place and Nemeans in 4th place.

AGE CHAMPIONS 8 Yrs James Cardamis 8 Yrs Sia Manos 9 Yrs Marlon Rallis 9 Yrs Eleni Haralambides 10 Yrs Anthony Hatzigiakoumis 10 Yrs Nicola Skouteris 11 Yrs Jordan Frazis 11 Yrs Stephanie Augoustis and Desi Kapodistrias 12 Yrs Jonathon Lynch 12 Yrs Christina Vlahos New Record:

Congratulations to the Champion of Champions Theodore Kipriotis (Year 12) & Keira Kipriotis (Year 9)

Girls 8 Years 50m Freestyle: 56.41 Well done Sia Manos!

Congratulations Junior Greek Orthodox Swimming Carnival In March, the Greek Orthodox Colleges Swimming Carnival was held. We were pleased to be able to meet our sister schools, St Euphemia and All Saints in friendly competition and are happy to report that St Spyridon College Junior School were the champions on the day.

Thank you to Mrs Diavadiotis for all her work in preparing for this carnival and to Mr Arnott for accompanying the students.

Well done St Spyridon Swim Team we are very proud of you!

ISA Swimming Carnival 2013

This year will be best remembered for winning the ISA championship trophy for the Junior Boys, finishing second in the Senior boys and 3rd overall in the boys.

Congratulations to the winning Junior boys team of 2013 and thank you to our Senior students for their contribution to all our swimming squads over the years.

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ISA Representative News Congratulations to the following students who were selected to compete for ISA representative teams.

Anja Djukic ISA Football Firsts XI

Natalie Michos ISA Football Firsts XI

Chrystal Christie ISA Football Firsts XI

Nicole Adam ISA Football Firsts XI

Cassandra Georgiou ISA Netball Firsts

Christopher Kolistasis ISA Football Firsts XI

James Andrew ISA Football Firsts XI

Niko Fotopoulos ISA Football Firsts XI

Nicholas Makridopulus ISA Football Seconds XI

Luka Kasalovic ISA Basketball Seconds

NSW CIS Representatives

Nicholas Frazis ISA U13 50m Backstroke James Andrew NSW CIS Football STYLUS Page 24

Cassandra Georgiou NSW CIS Netball

stylus Cross Country 2013

In March, St Spyridon College students travelled to Chevalier College for the annual ISA cross country carnival. This year students participated in a cross country run through their PE lessons and were given an option to attend the day based on results and their expression of interest. Thirty eight students attended the day, one of the biggest squads we have had in recent times.

Excellent results included Rhea Tsimboukis of Year 7 finishing 13th in the 12 years girls 3km run and John Trovas finishing 17th, other results included Simeon Kerameas 31st, Anastasia Vorgias 33rd, Chrystal Christie 25th, George Contominas 23rd, Nicole Adam 21st, Nicholas Frazis 32nd, Rothopi Nicolaou 35th .

Football in action...

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It’s all about building young lives

1130 Anzac Parade, Maroubra NSW 2035, PO Box 462, Maroubra NSW 2035 Phone: 61 2 9311 3340 Fax: 61 2 9311 4532 Email: admin@stspyridon.nsw.edu.au Website: stspyridon.nsw.edu.au Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia, St Spyridon Parish of South-East Sydney A.C.N. 000 410 891 A.B.N. 84 480 080 247 CRICOS Provider Numbers: Junior School ~ Years K-6 ~ 061558A Senior School ~ Years 7-12 ~ 02319E