Newsletter 1 2020

Newsletter ST GEORGE’S ANGLICAN GRAMMAR SCHOOL

Edition One 07 February 2020

Contents From the Principal ......................................................................................................... 1 From the Head of Curriculum ................................................................................... 5 From the Head of Pastoral .......................................................................................... 7 From the Head of Year 7 ............................................................................................ 11 From the Head of Science and Mathematics ......................................................... 12 From the Head of Music ............................................................................................. 13 From the IT Manager .................................................................................................... 14 From Head of Health and Physical Education .......................................................... 15 School News ..................................................................................................................17

St George’s Anglican Grammar School; an exciting, innovative co-educational secondary school based in a high-rise building in the Perth CBD. The School caters for local and international students in Years 7-12, and is a proud member of the Anglican Schools Commission network of schools in Western Australia.

We are committed to child safety and protection, and expect all staff, volunteers, visitors to the School and contractors to respect and abide by all policies, procedures and practices developed and put in place by the Anglican Schools Commission (ASC) and/or the School in this regard.

From the Principal Mr Gary Racey

Welcome back one and all! The soul of our school has finally returned after a long holiday break.

scheduled activities. It has been pleasing to see the students return so positive, well rested, energetic and eager to learn.

Visiting classes over the first two weeks of the school year and seeing the engagement of our students in their learning, particularly our new and vibrant Year 7’s whilst they settle into secondary school has once again inspired and motivated us all.

Along with students returning, the start of term permits increased engagement with the parent body and I have truly enjoyed re-connecting with those familiar to me, as well as getting to know those who are new to our community. The positivity and eagerness from the parents that I have spoken with has greatly encouraged me to hope for even deeper relationships with our families to partner with the school in the education of their children. One of the elements that came out strongly in the conversations that helped develop the 2020-2025 Strategic Plan was a more formal In the Chinese tradition, this will be the year way for the parent body to have input and of the Rat, which is predicted to be a lucky support our school as we move forward. year. The Rat has the first position in the 12- Therefore, it is with great enthusiasm that year Chinese zodiac and 2020 is rather rare I inform you that we will be introducing a in that it marks the start of a new zodiac Parent Engagement Group – a refreshed cycle as well as the start of a new decade and 21st century version of the traditional in the Western calendar. The Rat represents Parents and Friends Association (P&FA) – in diligence, kindness, and generosity, which are 2020. Whilst it may take a few months to themes we will explore as a school roll this out, it will be a long-term throughout the year. We hope this year will investment for the benefit of our school – be productive for everyone and brings you we can’t wait! all luck and happiness.

Whilst I have already welcomed families to a new academic year in my mailout a couple of weeks ago, as this is the first newsletter of the year I do so again. If you have not read the previous communication please do so to find out about some of the exciting things we are doing and planning for this year, and to be introduced to the new staff who have joined us. Whilst there are a few new faces, we only replaced two teaching staff from last year, which demonstrates our growth and stability.

The new school year brings with it much excitement for students as they actively participate in their classes and the 1

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Apart from the more strategic engagement of our parents, the success of each child’s experience at St George’s Anglican Grammar School relies on the partnership that exists between the home and staff and we look forward to strengthening this partnership with all parents throughout this year. I remind parents to please seek to communicate with staff whenever you feel inclined to. Early conversations are usually the best ones. A continued focus in 2020 will be in the area of formative feedback via SEQTA to seek consistency in the provision of relevant information that students and parents can use to enhance performance and understanding; so if you are not feeling informed please be proactive in seeking this.

2020 is shaping to be another very positive year for St George’s. There has been an overwhelming reaction from the children regarding our new urban café and learning spaces on Level 4, and we look forward to the imminent completion of the ground floor space at 50 William Street and Senior Learning Centre at Central Queensland University. Over 370 students are enrolled to commence the school year and we are very hopeful that we can attract more students throughout the year – don’t forget to advocate for our school with your friends, family and colleagues. We have a handful of spaces available in Year 7 and Year 10 (due to opening a third stream this year) and look forward to opening a third class in Year 7 2021.

School Chaplain As you are aware, we have been patiently praying and searching over the past 12 months for a new School Chaplain; someone who reflects who we are as a school and fits in with our philosophy towards education and the development of faith in our young people. Whilst this has been challenging, it is with great pleasure that I announce to our community that we have been blessed to have finally found this person.

Therefore, I am pleased to announce that following the ordination, God willing, on 24 February 2020, Mrs Sarah Stapleton will take up the position of School Chaplain to George’s Anglican Grammar School from 25 February. Sarah will also be the Assistant Curate in the Cathedral, which is hoped helps to continue and enhance the special relationship we have with the Anglican Diocese of Perth and the Cathedral itself.

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I take the opportunity to thank the Archbishop of Perth, The Most Reverend Kay Goldsworthy AO, who was pivotal in bringing Sarah to St George’s and making this appointment possible.

God is good!

Mobile Phone Policy Update As many would be aware, the Western Australian Government has initiated a mobile phone policy banning the use of mobile phones in public schools from the start of the academic school year. Parents, guardians and students of St George’s are requested to take note that the School is currently reviewing our Mobile Phone Policy and anticipate an adjustment to this in the coming weeks. We will be consulting with staff, students (via the Student Guild and student survey) and families (survey) before finalising this document. Thankfully, the School already has a strong policy in place so it is hoped that any changes will easily be implemented; however, increased expectations and sanctions will be developed to ensure consistency. A time of transition will be provided.

Thank you to parents in anticipation of your support of this update that will be driven to enhance student mental health, academic engagement, safety, and the reduction of online bullying.

Novel Coronavirus Thank you to the positive manner our entire school community has responded to the ongoing updates and actions the School has been required to take regarding

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the management of the novel corona virus.

Family support is crucial in such matters and I am pleased to say that as a community we have all responded in the appropriate way, in what is a rare and unusual circumstance. We will keep you informed ongoing when any updates are presented.

Conclusion The beginning of a new year brings hope and energy and a fresh start for all. New goals are set and dreams formed. I look forward to sharing in your child’s journey this year and celebrating their joy and success. The 2020-2025 Strategic Plan is now in play and I can’t wait to see the great things that come out of this community developed document.

The Strategic Plan Launch will be held once the new learning spaces and front of house space are complete.

Wishing you luck in the Year of the Rat! Every blessing.

Gary Racey Principal

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From the Head of Curriculum Ms Victoria Kelleher

It is with great pleasure that I write to you as Head of Curriculum of St. George’s Anglican Grammar School for first time, and for the first time in 2020. I trust that you have all had a restful and enjoyable time over the holiday period and you are ready for the year ahead.

One of my initial observations has been that staff at St. George’s Anglican Grammar School, approach education through a holistic lens. They go beyond the confines of the classroom and focus on the fullest possible development of the person, encouraging them to become the best that they can be. Although the WACE results provide just one dimension of this focus, it would be remiss of us not to congratulate the 2019 Year 12 cohort and celebrate the best that they have achieved.

Our Year 12 results were exceptional, with a Median ATAR of 85.20, which is outstanding for a non-selective school dedicated to providing an all-round education. There were remarkable individual performances, reflecting the hard work which these students put into their studies over the past two years and we are delighted that they have achieved what they deserved.

of our teaching staff and the partnership between our staff, parents, and students to provide these learning outcomes. In my first few weeks here, I have heard the phrase “we do it for the students” used by the staff here in a wide variety of contexts. I am inspired and heartened to work with a group of staff who go above and beyond for their students, who show genuine care and compassion and who do so with positivity and creativity.

It’s obvious the staff at St. George’s take time to know each student and how they learn. They support every student in an open and collaborative environment. They are very aware that their students are no longer the passive recipients of knowledge; that they are co-creators of their own learning experiences. As educators we have an incredible opportunity to prepare our students with the knowledge and skills they will need to thrive in a constantly changing environment outside of school.

In my short time here, I have seen the staff at St. George’s embrace this chance that wholeheartedly. It is with a great sense of excitement that I look forward to many happy years working with an awesome group of people. The opportunity for you to meet with key staff in your child’s year occur during the following Parent Information Evenings this term: Year 10 Parent Information Evening Wednesday 12 February 6:00 pm– 6:45 pm Year 7 Parent Information Evening Wednesday 19 February 6:00 pm– 6:45 pm

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Stepping into the role of Head of Curriculum at St George’s Anglican Grammar School is a true privilege. Not just because of the unique city environment, the distinctive teaching and learning spaces or the talented staff who bring those spaces to life, but also because of the students. I am reminded of the words of Dr. Amy Fast, “I am a better person for being around teenagers… not because they test me, but because they have this perfect balance of unapologetic and fiery strength and unfiltered, raw vulnerability.

They are beautiful examples of aliveness.

We should all strive for a little more of that.”

Victoria Kelleher Head of Curriculum

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From the Head of Pastoral Mr Hilton Hardman

Pastoral Care Programs in schools continually need to be reviewed and improved. In saying this, our schools Pastoral and Wellbeing sessions (PAWS) was reviewed by staff and students at the end of last year, and some changes have been implemented. This year will see the introduction of a theme for each year group. These will be promoted through guest speakers, lesson resources and activities during the year. Each Years themes can be seen below: YEAR 7: Unity YEAR 8: Identity YEAR 9: Resilience YEAR 10: Growth YEAR 11: Independence YEAR 12: Transition Our students will be lucky enough to have over 30 guest speakers coming in to speak to them this year. Guest speakers play a key role in our pastoral program, they deliver information on topics that are relevant for our students at their current stage in life.

One of the many providers who will be coming in to talk to our school will be Anglicare. St George’s Anglican Grammar is one of the few schools who will be running their “One” program through Years 7 – 12.

One: Anglicare WA’s community education initiative It only takes one to make a difference.

One, Anglicare WA’s community education

initiative, raises awareness of critical social issues and empowers young people to see themselves as part of the solution. Through presentations and interactive exercises, young people are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need in order to make a positive difference in their community. In 2020, The One Initiative will be piloted with several schools, and will cover key topics: Healthy relationships and prevention of violence Mental Health Poverty, Inequality and Homelessness For each topic, The One Initiative provides information for teachers, a guest presentation for each year group (Years 7-12) with follow up content which is delivered by teachers, an evening session for parents, and a guide to local community resources.

It only takes one person, one class, one school, one community to make a difference.

Anglicare will be our parent guest speaker for Term one, this will be taking place in week six. More information around the Parent guest speaker will be sent out in the next few weeks.

The Pastoral team looks forward to another year filled with guidance and support.

What parents need to know about SNAPCHAT (National Online Safety) With all the changes in modern-day technology, each newsletter, I will be looking to share some information on areas that could support parents.

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The focus of this newsletter will be Snapchat which is a photo-sharing app for mobile phones and tablets. The app allows users to share images, videos and chat with friends through voice call or text message.

Users can share images and videos directly to specific friends, or through a ‘story’ shared with their entire friend list, which documents the previous 24 hours.

Damage to Confidence Snapchat’s selection of filters and lenses are seen as a great way to enhance your ‘selfie game’. Although the filters are often created to promote entertainment and humour, using the ‘beatify’ filters on photos can set unrealistic expectations and create feelings of inadequacy. Children may strive for admiration and appreciation by sending these ‘edited’ photos to their friend list. Judging themselves against other users on the app might threaten their confidence or self-worth.

Exposing Your Childs Exact Location The ‘Snap Map’ lets you share your EXACT location in real-time through a map on the app. The user’s location updates when the app has been opened on the device. There is a warning on the Snapchat website about uploading images and videos to ‘Our Story’ stating that“snaps you submit to ‘Our Story’ can still show up on the Map, no matter which location setting you choose!”

When uploading to ‘Our Story,’ your child’s image or video could appear in “Search results and Stories on or off Snapchat today or in the future.”

Top Tips for Parents The Risks of Sexting It can be slightly awkward talking about this topic with your child, but if it helps them protect themselves, it is worth it. Talk to them about the consequences of sexting and make sure that they’re aware of the risks.

Ensure your child knows that ‘Snaps’ can be screenshotted. Teach them that if they post anything potentially embarrassing or harmful (either of themselves or someone else) it can have severe consequences as the message, image or video can be shared further.

Use “Ghost Mode” We highly recommend enabling ‘Ghost Mode’ on the app so that your child’s location will no longer be visible to anyone on the ‘Snap Map.’ To enable this, go onto the Snap Map and tap the cog in the top-right corner. Here, change the setting to ‘Ghost Mode.’

Restrict Story Views Your child can add videos and images to their ‘Story’ throughout the day which will last for 24 hours. By default, anyone in a user’s friends list can see their story. We recommend checking the privacy settings to ensure that this has not been edited.

This can be done in the app’s settings under the ‘Who Can View My Story’ section. The options to choose from are ‘My Friends,’‘ Everyone’ or ‘Custom’ - we suggest that it is set to ‘My Friends.’

Hilton Hardman Head of Pastoral

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From the Head of Year 7 Mrs Gaile Racey

A new chapter for our Years 7’s at St George’s begins!

Week One started with a bang and Level 2 came alive with the buzz from all the new Year 7 students filling the classrooms and corridors. The atmosphere was positive and full of excitement as they started to develop new friendships, navigating and exploring the other levels of the school (especially venturing into the new, amazing café) and using their lockers for the first time. Capping all this off with a fantastic trip down to the Supreme Court gardens on Friday afternoon for some team building games and House activities.

The Year 7 team and I have already been so impressed with the care students have shown each other and their willingness to try new things. We look forward to a wonderful year ahead with such a dynamite group of students.

Please remind your child if they have any questions or problems over the next coming weeks, please find me or their PCG teacher (our office is on Level 2), as we are here to help.

Gaile Racey Head of Year 7 11

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From the Science and Mathematics Department Ms Charlotte Donovan

The Science and tuned to hear more about these events from Maths Department the organising teachers. warmly welcome back all our students Happy Science & Maths! and new families to St Georges for 2020.

We are looking for- Charlotte Donovan ward to Head of Science and Mathematics delivering a dynamic set of programs to engage, excite and extend you all.

We welcome to the team Mrs Gaile Racey, Head of Year 7, who will be teaching Science and Maths, and also Mr Jaydon Battersby who is teaching Maths from Year 8 – 12. Mrs Janeen Hay will be covering Mrs Natalie McCann’s maternity leave for Term 1. All teachers bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the department.

Congratulations to the graduating class of 2019. We are all so proud of the efforts they put in over the final years of schooling, they are a testament to the old adage that with the right attitude and work ethic, you can achieve your goals. Special mention must go to Miss Chloe Hewitt and her Maths Applications class who collectively resulted in the top 15% of all students enrolled in Maths Applications. Considering that 205 schools in WA offered this course, to achieve at this high level is a phenomenal result.

This term we will have some incursions from Earth Science WA (Year 9 Science) and excursions to Perth Zoo (Year 11 Biology ATAR and General), plus the annual Science and Engineering Challenge competition. Stay 12

From the Music Department Mr Michael Newton

Electrocity Ensemble has been back at school for the last 2 weeks rehearsing in preparation for their FRINGE WORLD shows on the 11 and 12 February at The Actors Hub in East Perth. There’s just a handful of tickets left, available from https:// fringeworld.com.au/whats_on/electrocity-ensemble-fw2020. Electrocity Ensemble’s album “Voices” will be available for purchase at the shows.

5. What’s your advice for anyone learning Music?

Always ask someone for advice as it’s always a way to improve yourself.

Coming Up & Opportunities 11/12 February – Electrocity Ensemble FRINGE WORLD, The Actors Hub East Perth

Michael Newton Head of Music

Instrumental lessons and ensemble/band rehearsals begin in Week 3.

Muso Profile - Lachlan Spencer-Starkie 1. What instrument(s) do you play?

Piano 2. What first got you interested in Music?

Listening to the OST in movies and being more interested in music.

3. What’s the best thing about Music at St. G’s?

It’s an open path afterwards. Meaning that there are more music options than other schools.

4. Why should other people do music?

Cause anyone can play music, from simply singing or the Triangle to finding more hidden talents such as piano and guitar.

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From the IT Manager Mr Jason Wakefield

Home Internet Management Welcome back to all parents and guardians!

Let’s begin the year helping you manage the time spent on your home network’s devices with absolute ease using Circle with Disney.

There is an excellent review here from a parent testing out the product: https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=mvXxPls530c

time limits per application such as Netflix or Facebook. When the time limit runs out, the app simply stops working.

It’s not all doom and gloom for the kids though, as it incorporates a reward system where for example, they complete their chores, you can then reward them with more time on their favourite app or game console.

There is plenty more information on their website here. If you think this could be worthwhile, give it a go. The mobile app comes with a 30-day trial.

The Disney Circle Home box is available at JB Hi-Fi for $99: https://www.jbhifi.com.au/ products/circle-with-disney-wi-fi-parentalcontrols

Your options include: A home solution which includes a small white box that manages all devices of your choosing on the home network via a The IT department recycles smartphone; your household batteries.

Or the mobile app for all Apple iOS and Please use this FREE facility to Android devices including iPhones, iPads and dispose of all your expired tablets for where ever they go; batteries (not including car Or both 1 and 2 options to cover all devices and phone batteries). The bin anywhere they go… except for Windows, macOS or Chromebook computers outside can be found in the IT Manager’s office on level 1. of the home.

More info on the battery recycling program I have personally tested the Circle Home box in my own home and was very surprised here. at how easy it was to connect and setup Let’s reduce landfill together! managing any device connected to my network, whether it was on cable or wireless.

Jason Wakefield

IT Manager

You can not only filter Internet categories like “News”, “Social Media”, etc. per device but set

From the Health and Physical Education Department Ms Jodie Scheele

Welcome to Physical Education (PE) 2020!

I am pleased to announce that there is a new and exciting Outdoor Education Program ready to launch and a wonderful new staff member, Mrs Jackie Sullivan, who is enthusiastic to deliver it. Mr Yousri Gharsallah will continue to provide his valuable expertise to the PE Program as well as myself, Ms Jodie Scheele!

advance your efforts to get your child/ward to training.

We are kickstarting the year with early morning swimming training sessions open to all students. For PE lessons, students will engage in the St George’s Aquatics Program, where students will be travelling to UWA during their PE lessons to refine, engage and train their swimming skills. A “Consent to Go” will follow this information letter.

Week 3 Monday, 10 Feb and Wednesday 12 Feb

Early Morning Swimming Training – open to all St George’s students.

DAYS: Every Monday and Wednesday mornings STARTING MONDAY 3 FEB 2020.

TIME: Arrive 6.15am for a 6.30 start VENUE: TRINITY COLLEGE POOL SUPERVISON: Western Spirit Coaches and Ms Scheele and/or Mr Gharsallah ARRANGEMENTS: Students make their own way to the pool at Trinity College at 6.15am. I know this is a family commitment and appreciate in

Pool session will finish at 7.30 am.

Students have 15 minutes to shower and change. Students will need to bring along their full School Uniform. We will meet and walk to the red CAT bus to return in time for the Period 1 lesson at school.

COST: Covered by the PE Dept.

DATES: Get your goggles and your St George’s bathers and/or appropriate swimming bathers ready as we are training straight away.

2020 Swim Training Program - 6.15am

Week 4 Monday, 17 Feb and Wednesday 19 Feb Thursday 20 February INTERHOUSE SWIMMING CARNIVAL AND SYNC SWIM, UWA Week 5 Monday 24 Feb and Wednesday 26 Feb Week 6 Wednesday 4 March Week 7 Monday 9 March and Wednesday 11 March Week 8 Monday 16 March and Wednesay 18 March Friday 20 March ACC F-DIVISION SWIMMING CARNIVAL, HBF STADIUM

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Associated and Catholic Colleges of WA (ACC) North Western Associated Schools (NWAS) Summer Sporting Fixtures against other Schools, begins in Week 5. Students will be bused to and from the venues where they will play games from 4.00 -5.00 pm.

There is a total of 5 fixtures. The Year 7 and 8 competition takes place on Tuesdays and Year 9 and 10 on Wednesdays after school.

It is compulsory for all Year 7-10 students to represent the School in one term of sport, or both if they are keen.

Please send me a return email at jscheele@stgeorges.wa.edu.au so I can build a list of our 2020 St George’s Swim Team.

Email is the best way to contact me.

Summer sports for Term One are: • Boys Basketball • Girls Basketball • Ultimate Frisbee • Cricket • Indoor Beach Volleyball Winter Sports for Term Two are: • Boys Soccer • Girls Soccer Year 7-10 • Girls AFLX Year 7 and 8 only • Badminton (boys) • Netball (girls) • Touch Rugby Pease discuss these options with your child/ ward and stay tuned for further information about NWAS closer to the date. For now, let me know if morning swimming training is of interest.

Note for past Swim Team members: We were unable to use Mercedes this year, but Trinity were happy to have us!

I wish all families the smoothest start to the 2020 school year and look forward to providing an inclusive, fun, interactive and innovative PE Program for everyone.

For new families, the ACC is our inter school sporting body with about 80 affiliated Jodie Scheele associated independent schools. The Head of Health and Physical Education 16

School News Student Term Dates - 2020 Term 1 30 January - 9 April New Student Orientation 29 January Students Mid Term Break, Friday 28 February Term 2 30 April - 3 July Students Mid Term Break, Friday 29 May Term 3 27 July - 25 September New Student Orientation 24 July Students Mid Term Break, Friday 21 August Term 4 13 October - 9 December Enrolments The School Enrolment Policy requires one full term’s notice in writing prior to the withdrawal of a student from the School.

Where such notice is not received, the School will charge an amount equal to the tuition fees for that current term.

If the account has been paid in full and a refund is due, payment will be processed for the full refund due within seven days of exit.

SEQTA The St George’s Anglican Grammar School SEQTA account is not assigned to a staff member and, therefore, is not monitored.

Please contact the staff member directly to ensure prompt action to your message.

Science Department Request

The Science Department is still after any plastic icecream containers that they could use in the laboratory. Any donations greatly appreciated.

To avoid fees in lieu being charged, notice of a student’s withdrawal must be received by the School before the first day of the School Term preceding the Term of the student’s departure. If this does not occur, families will be charged the remainder of the current Term, plus an additional Terms fee in lieu.

Upon withdrawal of a student from the School, all fees and charges incurred for that student are payable to the School in full within seven days of exit.

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St George’s Anglican Grammar School Newsletter