The Dragon | Edition Nine | 16 June 2023

Edition Nine 16 JUNE 2023

THE DRAGON FORTNIGHTLY NEWS AND EVENTS FOR ST GEORGE’S PARENTS

From the Principal Tina Campbell

Success, they say, is something that you define for yourself. No one can do it for you and it is measured by what engages and energises us. Success will be different for each of us as we all have a different mix of strengths and talents that help us to define our own version of what success means. What matters is that we each create our own definition of what it means to succeed and therefore have our own formula for success. Each of our versions of success should be unique to us.

this semester? Have we achieved the goals that we set ourselves for the commencement of the 2023 academic school year?

For some students they will be celebrating achieving top marks in their recent examinations, for others, like Niamh (pictured above), it is likely that success for her will be receiving the news that she has been selected as a Youth Rotary Exchange participant for 2024 (full details on our Superstars page). Some students will be proud of their successful completion of Year 8 Camp, whilst others will have accomplished success on the sporting field. There will be many of our new students who will be celebrating their newfound friendships and for some making it through a whole day of school without getting lost or exhausted by the never-ending flights of stairs will be cause for celebration. Whatever successes have occurred, there is indeed much that has been accomplished this semester by all within the St George’s Family.

To succeed is to accomplish one’s dreams. It is to have a sense of accomplishment and achievement although success is not to be confused with winning.

My hope as Principal is that as we begin to think about the end of Semester One that there is chatter amongst both students and staff about the degree of success or otherwise that has occurred throughout our 20 weeks together. What have we accomplished

What is certain is that there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to success. It is unique to us as individuals as our DNA and that through our goal setting, we set our own template for success.

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St. George's Anglican Grammar School – THE DRAGON

Sometimes success will escape us, yet the biggest success often comes from our failures. As Churchill said “Success is not final, failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts’’. Whether we have made huge strides towards our successes this semester or not quite reached our own targets for achievement, it is that resolve to never give up, to persevere even when life gets tough, that adds to our strength of character and allows us to find the resilience to weather the storms we inevitably face in our life.

their approach to life and their interactions with others as these will define them as successful individuals far more than a final mark or score. There is also no time limit to success, so if in considering our successes in Semester One we believe that it has not been as inspirational as we would have hoped for, it is never too late to write our own success story for Semester Two. I urge our students to look to the future with anticipation of the successes that are yet to come, allowing them the space between where they are and where they want to be to inspire them. To learn from what has happened, to believe in what might be and most importantly to believe in themselves and their abilities to achieve their own version of their own definition of success for the future.

The key to success is first to establish what we want, what we desire, what would make us happy, and then set our goals to achieve this. As we enter the final weeks of Semester One, I wish all our students’ as well as St George’s staff personal success; to determine and embrace their own self-worth and to create their own success story. I encourage them to remember their character,

Mrs Tina Campbell Principal

The Great Debaters Congratulations to our Junior Debating Team which won a debate against Wesley in the WA Debating League on Wednesday night.

This was an impromptu debate on the topic “This house regrets the narrative that people should follow their dreams”. St George’s successfully argued the negative. Once the topic was released, Paige Karl, Eli Holbeach, Cooper Grant and Lawson Forrester (pictured left) had an hour to plan without any coaching or access to technology. The team produced some excellent arguments and were able to develop convincing rebuttals during the debate to secure the win.

School Operations Shannon Allen

I would like to remind students of our Uniform and Grooming Policy as we are currently seeing breaches, especially in regard to the wearing of blazers. Please remember the following: • Winter uniform is worn in Terms 2 and 3.

• Blazers are to be worn throughout the day but may be removed in class for comfort or activity. They are to be worn to Chapel on Mondays throughout the year and should be worn to and from school.

• School jumper and blazer sleeves are not to be pulled up to the elbows and jumpers should not be tied around the waist.

Coming up in the last week of term

• Shirt buttons must be done up when wearing a tie.

• Skirt length should touch the top of the knee cap.

• Shirts must always be tucked in.

• Sports uniform may be worn home at the end of the day if a student has sport in Periods 5/6, or to School at the beginning of the day if a student has sport in Periods 1/2.

Students who may need to re-familiarise themselves with our expectations of uniform can find the full policy in the “Parent and Student Information Handbook” available on SEQTA.

20-21 June

NWAS One Day Carnival

22 June

Year 9 Social - Mini Golf

23 June

Year 12 Biological Excursion`

23 June

Year 9 Orienteering Excursion

23 June

ASC Rock Concert

27 - 28 June

St George’s Music Festival

27 - 28 June

Year 10 Work Experience

30 June

Lincoln Charity Day

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Staff in Focus Chloe Hewitt studied engineering at UWA before joining St George’s in 2017. Now Head of Mathematics, Miss Hewitt explains what makes our school special and how students can continue to improve their results.

Why did you embark on a career in education?

It is a huge privilege to teach young people and partner alongside their parents in the education of a child.

When I applied for the position of maths teacher, St George’s had 270 students and I thought it would be cool to work in a small school and become integrated in the community.

What makes St George’s special?

Firstly, the students – they are simply the best. Our students are genuinely good people. Also, the vertical PCG system and the connections in general between the different year groups across the School. A real point of difference at St George’s is that students aren’t typecast – everyone is welcomed and everyone connects.

They can be in the production and be very academic. We celebrate all success stories and encourage students to follow their passions and be true to their dreams and aspirations.

What can students do to improve their results in maths?

Middle school students should be spending 30 minutes a week revising old content to ensure they retain the knowledge in the lead up to tests. They should also keep a list of any questions they have struggled with and ask for help to complete these questions.

There is so much Maths Help available, they merely need to ask for assistance.

When preparing for a test, the first step is to print out the list of topics and complete a traffic-light survey. Green means you know you’ll get that topic correct in the test, orange means you understand the topic but can get more challenging questions incorrect; and red means you need to learn the topic. Then plan to start learning the topics in red by reading your textbook, looking back on your class notes, asking a peer or an older student for help or coming to Homework Help and asking a teacher.

Maths is like sport - you have to practice!

What is a highlight of your week at St George’s?

My PCG for sure (everyone knows M6 is the greatest PCG) and also Park Play. It is lovely breaking up the day by getting outside and hearing how students are finding the week whilst being surrounded by the city landscape.

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Curriculum Update

Pastoral Focus

Year 11/12: Reports and Predicted ATAR Letters

As i welcome a new addition to my family, perfection is absolutely not possible within the Hardman household, but for us as a new family of four to share the love and connection that abounds between us gets pretty close to feeling like perfection.

Hilton Hardman

Anthony Bochrinis

We are pleased to announce that the academic reports for the first semester for all students in Year 11 and 12 will be accessible via SEQTA Learn and SEQTA Engage from 6pm on Monday 19 June.

Additionally, all Year 11 and 12 students undertaking an ATAR course will have their predicted ATAR scores available on the same platform at approximately the same time. Viewing both together is important in making firm decisions for the future.

I look forward to returning to St George’s next week at the conclusion of my paternity leave where I have enjoyed spending precious time with my family.

Course Change Applications for Year 11 With the majority of marks for Semester One courses now available, With most marks for Semester One courses now available, we have opened the opportunity for Year 11 students to apply for course changes for Semester Two should they wish to do so. Interested students can pick up a form from the Head of Curriculum Office on Level 1 and should consult with academic staff regarding potential course changes before submitting the form for further discussion.

Please note, these applications can be submitted and will be processed from today until the end of Week 1, Term 3 (Friday 28 July). This is the final deadline for any changes to occur.

Year 10 Results and 2024 Subject Prerequisite Forms Hearty congratulations to all Year 10 students who successfully completed their first-ever examination period this week. We commend the outstanding conduct of our students at the CQU Examination Centre and appreciate their dedication and hard work.

The results will be given to all Year 10 students by Friday 23 June, during their regular class times. It was heartening to see many students making use of the after-school revision seminars at the Laurence Library and using this time for independent study in preparation for their exams. After the results are released, Year 10 students will be provided with their Year 11 2024 subject prerequisite forms to review and fill out over the July holiday break.

We will soon share more information for Year 10 students and families as we eagerly prepare for our subject selection interviews next term!

Perfection - at what cost?

Many staff who work in schools are parents. Working parents today (especially mums) feel enormous pressure to achieve:

Winter Holidays OLNA Preparation Program During the upcoming holidays, Mastermind Australia will conduct local preparation sessions for the OLNA Reading, Writing, and Numeracy tests. We strongly recommend our students who seek additional preparation and resources to take part in this excellent program. St George’s students are eligible for a discount.

• happy and contented children • amazing relationships • a well-nourished family • a clean and tidy home • well-cared for extended family • ‘awesome’ kids’ parties • being fit, healthy, vibrant and immaculately dressed • a gorgeous home • financial security The list is endless.

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But what’s so great about being ‘perfect’?

According to research by Professor Brene Brown, we perfect ourselves and our children to avoid shame or blame and avoid feeling unworthy – but it doesn’t always work in our best interests. By attempting to live up to these ‘perfect’ expectations, enormous pressure is placed on everyone to be ‘awesome’ or ‘the best’ but it misses the point, which is to belong and feel worthy of love and connection is the most important part of any family.

Aiming for perfection 100% all the time is impossible.

Chaplain’s Corner SUPPORTING OUR STUDENTS IN EXAM WRITING The past three weeks have been busy ones for everyone within the School. Our Year 10, 11, and 12 students have been writing examinations and students have also been busy with final assessments for the semester. I have been encouraged by the work ethic and positive energy levels that I have seen, students studying together in our school library and even staying beyond the normal school hours to get help with their studies and prepare themselves for their examinations.

I was also proud to see some Year 12s studying together at the public library on a Sunday - never mind how cold it was. As School Chaplain, supporting my students in times of examination writing is very much in my heart and what I believe I have been drawn to this school to provide. Our society puts so much pressure on young people, not just to pass their exams but to do so with A grades!

Society today celebrates those who excel academically, while it frowns on those who fail. But the truth is, failing is a normal part of a student’s journey. I failed several times during my high school days, yet I still made it! So, I counselled students to celebrate where they performed well and not to be discouraged where they did not do well. I reminded them about the wise words of Confucius, welldisplayed in the school lifts, that: “Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising every time we fall!” To our students I say, be

RESILIENT. Just keep doing your best. Focus on the bigger picture.

Be inspired by St Paul’s motto: “But one thing I do: forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me…” (Philippians 3:13-14). Press onward – holidays are almost here.

Father Gift

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Heads of Year Reports Year 7 and 8 It is wonderful to see our Year 7 and 8 students engaging with the many opportunities on offer at St George’s.

Whether it is one of the co-curricular activities, involvement in the Puff’s School Production, Park Play, the recent ACC carnivals or signing up for House Challenge week next week, these opportunities all assist students to make widen their connections and strengthen their friendships within both their own year group as well as across the school. These are all crucial for school success and positive wellbeing.

With the assistance of our Year 12 leaders, Level 4 was transformed with balloons, streamers and coloured lights and became the perfect space to hold the disco with the city lights visible through the windows. With three channels of music on offer, everyone found something they wanted to dance to.

Pizza, chips and drinks were enjoyed midway through the evening.

The Year 7 Silent Disco last Friday was once again a hit.

All students who attended the Silent Disco should be commended on their enthusiasm and support of the social evening. It was a wonderful way to end the school week.

Ms Taryn Sephton Head of Year 7 and 8

Year 9 and 10

A reminder that the Year 9s have their social on Thursday 22 June. If there are any last-minute tickets needed, please do let me know via email or direqt message, as there are a few spots left. We are off to Wembley to play golf.

Well done to our Year 10s who have just completed their first exam period and thank you to parents and guardians for your ongoing support with ensuring their confidence is high and minds are clear. Work Experience Week is just around the corner, and I hope it is huge success for everyone. Thank you to all those who have encouraged and helped them find and secure work placements. It is an exciting first for St George’s in promoting work experience in the city.

Finally, you will have undoubtedly heard that I am sadly leaving St George’s at the end of this term. I have loved my time as part of the St George’s Family and would like to congratulate Conrad Sloan as I pass the baton of Head of Year 9 & 10 on to him. I know the students are in very safe hands.

Miss Katie Wilkinson Head of Year 9 and 10

Year 11 and 12 reflective learning can yield unforeseen benefits, unravelling new insights and potentially enhancing your academic writing skills.

As the Year 11 and 12s return from examinations and receive feedback from their teachers, it is important to remember an important process that can be forgotten throughout the hectic daily processes that are ‘our lives’ - reflection.

For the students who achieved what they wanted in their examinations, I say congratulations, keep doing what you are doing.

To the students who did not think they achieved what they wanted to, I will leave you with a quote from my favourite TV show at the moment, Ted Lasso: “You know what the happiest animal on earth is? It’s a goldfish. You know why? It’s got a 10-second memory. Be a goldfish”. Learn not to focus on your mistakes but be proactive in how you prepare in the future.

Reflection is important not only for a teacher but for people who continually want to grow. For the students, engaging in reflective learning entails elevating your learning to a conscious level, fostering an active approach by posing inquiries and critically evaluating your own ideas. This practice can be incorporated into your personal study strategies or integrated into formal assessments. Embracing

Mr Peter Quan Acting Head of Year 11 and 12 6

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the working world, helping them develop crucial employability skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving and adaptability. Students gain insights into workplace dynamics, industry practices, and professional expectations.

By bridging the gap between theory and practice, workplace learning enhances critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and confidence. Students develop a deeper understanding of how their academic studies translate into real-world outcomes, preparing them for future challenges. Five of our students recently completed their first block placement at primary schools, putting what they have learned at TAFE into practice. They all said they loved being able to turn theory into practice.

Workplace Learning - Gain an Edge Benefits of Practical Education

Studies show that students who engage in workplace learning are more motivated and focused on their studies. They see the practical application of what they learn, making education more meaningful and relevant. This increased motivation often leads to improved academic performance. This is good news for our Year 10 students who will be going out on work experience in Week 10 of Term Three – a new venture for St George’s. Our students will make use of the collaborations St George’s has with local businesses, organisations, and industry partners to facilitate these unique experiences. This collaborative effort benefits students and strengthens the relationship between education and the wonderful city community that we are so blessed to be part of.

Year 11 and 12 Students at St George’s are discovering the advantages of workplace learning while studying for VET Certificates. This unique combination of classroom education and practical experience offers numerous benefits, shaping their careers, fostering personal growth, and providing a competitive edge in the job market.

WA’s education system recognises the value of workplace learning, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

Work placements, internships and vocational programs empower students to explore potential career paths, make informed decisions and set meaningful goals.

Mrs Sharan Tagore

Engaging in different industries exposes students to the realities of

APEx, Careers and Curriculum Coordinator

to the Library. Titles included; Addicted to Plastic, Superworms Eat Plastic and The Plastic Wrap Alternative. Also added was the recent release of a documentary on Andy Warhol from the South Australian State Gallery – nothing to do with the environment, but an excellent resource. ClickView provides wonderful resources for teachers, often these are interactive and have support material for teachers.

Our most popular reads this term are Catching Fire, the second novel in Suzanne Collins’ Hunger Games series. Also popular is Loveless, by Alice Oseman. This young adult novel explores the difference between love and romance. The third most popular novel, Anything But Fine, by Tobias Madden, conflates two seemingly mutually exclusive worlds, ballet and AFL football and the results are fireworks. I would like to say, “these books are available on our shelves”. But the reality is they don’t seem to ever return to the shelf.

Homework Club has been particularly busy preparing for the Year 10 examination period with teachers on hand to run seminars or work one-on-one with students, assisting them with effective study routines. In the aftermath of the examinations there is an opportunity for our students to reflect on where they performed well and where they require further assistance to improve.

Homework Club on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoons is the perfect opportunity to finesse skills with teacher assistance and support.

As Term 2 concludes the Library has expanded its fan base. Many more of our young people are finding peace and quiet, access to other worlds and help with their studies in our space. We have a group of devoted readers and it is interesting to see them extend their reading beyond the popular. One young student who reads prolifically has accepted the challenge of reading T H White’s Once and Future King. I am excited to hear what the student makes of this classic.

Our new books are all processed and the library shelves have been replenished. We have a lovely selection of new publications with something for all tastes. All our new senior fiction is ready for readers. Included in that is a selection of local writers’ works from Fremantle Press. These include, for example, David Whish-Wilson and Karen Herbert, whose novels are set in Western Australia, a setting readily recognisable to us. We also have Steve Hawke’s novel, The Valley, set in the Kimberley.

Together, let us read.

Dr Annette Pedersen

World Environment Day was June 5. To support raising awareness ClickView released new documentary material that we have added

Library Services Coordinator 7

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GANDHI HOUSE

LINCOLN HOUSE

Gandhi House recently congratulated two more of our amazing students for the month of June - Emma-Jane Scott who has been bestowed the title of Junior Gandhite of the Month, and Ben Humphreys for Senior Gandhite of the Month.

During extended PCG this week, students had the fantastic opportunity to discuss advocacy and global issues. The students were able to research and discuss topics of social justice that were important to them before creating an advocacy campaign plan.

Emma-Jane’s dedication to supporting our new students has made us extremely proud. The senior honour for Ben Humphreys has been awarded for his unwavering support and dedication to Gandhi House. Ben’s steadfast commitment is genuinely admired, and it is wonderful to see him engage in so many aspects of House life with such positive energy and enthusiasm.

We are also very proud to see one of our House Captains for 2023, Niamh Bingham, being successful in her application to be part of the Rotary Exchange program.

Congratulations Niamh!

We’re excitedly looking forward to House Week in Week 9, featuring a newspaper fashion show, Mario Kart Tournament, and table tennis tournament. We anticipate a strong turnout from our Gandhi House champions, eager to bring glory (and points!) to the House.

Let’s shine, Gandhi House!

Mr Alex Hanssen Acting Head of Gandhi House

MANDELA HOUSE With Semester One soon coming to an end, Head of Mandela, Mr Thomas Dempers, asked our two House Captains, Ella Moss and Nick Millington to write a short summary of the year so far.

Next week marks the start of our second House Week, an event that runs every term and is an opportunity for students to compete against the other Houses in competitions for points towards the House Cup. This term students will participate in Mario Kart, a newspaper fashion show and a table tennis competition. Sign-ups were available from a form on the notices, and I thank all of the Lincoln students who have volunteered.

At the end of this term, we will be hosting the annual Lincoln Charity Day at Supreme Court Gardens.

We will once again be raising funds for Headspace and raising awareness for youth mental health. A link for the donation page will be available soon. The event will start at lunch and will continue to the end of the day. Please look forward to food trucks, inflatables as well as games and activities to finish the term with a positive spirit and much house pride.

Mr Vincent Lim Head of Lincoln House

What a remarkable semester it has been!

We dominated the Sync Swim Event at the Swimming Carnival in Term One with our impressive, synchronised dance, creating a powerful bond within our House. Our office-themed dance won the prestigious Interhouse Dance Competition trophy, showcasing the creativity of our amazing dancers. On the sports field, we excelled by securing first place in the Interhouse Cross Country, earning valuable points for our standing on the House leader board.

Students of Mandela have made us immensely proud. What a great group of people they are.

Throughout the semester, engaging in House PCG contests brought students from different year group together, fostering collaboration and lasting bonds.

From scavenger hunts to creating the longest minty wrapper, to ultimately win a pizza party at the end of term. Mandela House PCGs certainly know how to have fun!

Each term, we celebrate our collective achievements with a delightful morning Mandela Breakfast, reflecting on our many fine successes. Last term, Zuri Hawkins received the prestigious Mandela GOAT award for her kindness and dedication and this term students and teachers will vote for another worthy recipient.

Thank you, Mandela House, for an exceptional semester.

Let’s continue striving for excellence and creating lasting memories, cheering each other on and being the best that we can be.

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Around the School

Year 7 Drama

Puffs Progress!

Over the past few weeks, the Term 2 Year 7 Drama students have been working hard to develop their physical comedy performances.

After working with Yip Yip Circus again in Week 2 to develop their movement techniques and physical comedy techniques, the students then devised their own physical comedy performance inspired by a past comedic experience.

We are thrilled to share an update about our school production the enchanting play “Puffs”. We have just completed the “blocking” phase of the production, bringing us a step closer to a magical and memorable performance.

Blocking is a pivotal phase in any theatrical production, where the director and cast work collaboratively to establish the physical movements and stage positions for each scene. Over the past semester, our talented cast, dedicated crew members and creative team have been hard at work, pouring their passion and dedication into every moment of Puffs. The energy and enthusiasm emanating from our students during the blocking process has been extraordinary.

Some of the performances included: • Island Dream • McDonalds Combat • Friends Clash • Tik,Tak,Toe goes wrong

For those unfamiliar with the play, Puffs is a heartwarming and hilarious parody that celebrates the unsung heroes of a certain magical school. It tells the story of a group of students who find themselves in the “Puffs” house — a house often overlooked in favour of the more famous houses, but is brimming with heart, loyalty and an unwavering determination to make a mark. Through their adventures, Puff house students learn the meaning of friendship, bravery, and the power of being true to oneself.

The creativity and enthusiasm shown during the performances was admirable and their productivity and comedic zest has again, been a highlight throughout the term. Over the next few weeks the students will take on the role of marketing/publicity as they create posters and materials to hypothetically promote a season of their devised performance.

As we move forward, the cast and crew will focus on fine-tuning their performances, working with elaborate props and costumes, polishing their delivery and perfecting every aspect of the production.

Mark your calendar – 24 to 26 August. We encourage everyone to come and witness the incredible talent and hard work that has gone into this production. Get ready to laugh, cheer and perhaps shed a tear as we embark on this magical journey together. Tickets will be on sale soon.

Well done Year 7s for your hard work an engaging personas.

Miss Jessica McGaw

Miss Jessica McGaw

Dance and Drama Coordinator

Dance and Drama Coordinator 9

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Students Shine with Feet First Collective The Year 11 and 12 Drama students participated in an inspiring devising workshop with the renowned Feet First Collective. This is the second time this company has worked with students at St George’s Anglican Grammar School. This workshop helped prepare our students for their upcoming Monologue 1 assessment.

The Feet First Collective, known for their innovative approach to theatre-making, provided our students with an exceptional opportunity to develop their creative and collaborative skills.

Throughout the workshop, our students engaged in various devising techniques, exploring different avenues of storytelling and composing.

Under the guidance of the talented artists from Feet First Collective, our students delved into the art of creating original work. They experimented with improvisation, physical theatre, and ensemble building exercises, which allowed them to unlock their imaginations and explore new dimensions of theatrical expression.

pushed the boundaries of traditional dance and challenged our perceptions of what can be achieved through movement.

The results of their hard work were evident during the final showcase, where our students presented their short, devised pieces to their peers. The performances were a testament to their growth, showcasing their innovative storytelling techniques, emotional depth, and impeccable delivery.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Façade was the seamless integration of design concepts and dance styles. From classical ballet to contemporary and even elements of hip-hop, the performance showcased the versatility of the dancers and their ability to adapt to different styles with grace and poise.

As we approach the Monologue 1 assessment, we have no doubt that our Year 11 and 12 drama students are developing the skills, confidence, and inspiration they need to deliver outstanding performances.

Accompanying the captivating choreography was a stunning visual spectacle. The lighting design, set elements, and costumes all contributed to creating a world that felt ethereal and otherworldly. The synergy between the dancers, the music, and the visual elements was extraordinary and added another layer of depth to the performance.

Façade - A Visual Spectacle On Wednesday 14 July, the Year 9, 10 and 11 Dance students attended the live performance of Façade by Chrissie Parrott in collaboration with dance company CO3. The evening was extraordinary, as students witnessed an enchanting blend of opera, dance and choreography. Exploring an avant-garde style, Façade

We look forward to future performances and reading the students critical reviews on the piece.

Miss Jessica Ann McGaw Dance and Drama Coordinator

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Anglicare WA School Sleep Out It is that time of year again when we think about the effect winter has on those experiencing homelessness in Perth.

The Anglicare WA School Sleep out at Optus Stadium - on Friday and Saturday 11 and 12 August - challenges young people to swap their school bag for a sleeping bag and sleep out under the stars at Optus Stadium.

Hundreds of high school students gather for a night to remember.

As well as raising funds for an important cause, students experience a side of life they may have never considered before. It is an experience not to be missed!

This year, the Sleep Out is open to students in Years 10, 11 and 12.

All funds raised go directly to Street Connect, which works with young people on the streets of Perth to help them get their lives back on track. The sleep out is the largest single fundraising event for Street Connect, which needs $500,000 a year to keep the Street Connect Bus and services running.

Book Drive attracts 300 donations Over three weeks this term, Community Captain Ben Gardner, Academic Captain Greta Bushell and myself held a drive to collect second-hand books to donate to the less fortunate. To get everyone excited we created a friendly competition in which there was a puzzle of a book cover on each level of the school, and students could work together to complete it for a prize. Students brought in books they had at home in good condition, which were then sent to one of several places that needed our support. Books for children aged 0-5 were sent to the Arbor Grove Primary School through the school’s connection to Anglicare WA. The school has a large population of refugee and immigrant students, so the aim was to help the younger students develop their English skills through reading. The books for older children went to Sparrow Early Learning Centre in Canning Vale to encourage the centre’s more advanced readers. Finally, educational books such as textbooks were sent to Merredin Senior High School. These books will be given to students who don’t have access to the necessary educational resources and help them to complete their schooling.

This year, Team St George’s has set a goal of $10, 000.

Register here https://anglicarewaschoolsleepout.org.au/team-stgeorges or use the QR code on the poster seen here and around school.

If you have any questions or require any further information, please email me on rmcbride@stgeorges.wa.edu.au.

Mr Ryan McBride Service-Learning Coordinator

As a school, we collected more 300 books. I am very proud of what we achieved, and I hope that in the future we can continue to provide this service.

Thank you to everyone who supported this initiative.

Miss Orphelia Burchell Service Captain

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Science News

Art Club

Earlier this term students from Year 7 -10 sat the annual Big Science Competition, a 50-minute, multiple choice test of science knowledge, critical-thinking and problem-solving skills. Questions are set in real-life, contemporary contexts, making them relatable and interesting! The Big Science Competition is one of the biggest international science competitions and questions are aligned with the Australian Curriculum – Science.

This term the wonderful Art Club students have been working hard to paint a very, very big backdrop for our school’s upcoming production, Puffs.

We are almost finished, and we are all very excited to finish painting the final details and to show Ms McGaw! Here are some sneak peaks of the backdrop and everyone having a lot of fun.

We are pleased to announce the highflyers in this year’s Big Science Competition.

Miss Mia Kelly

Congratulations on your success!

Visual Arts and Design Teacher

Year 7

Year 9 Design

Credit Distinction High Distinction

Ameesha Brien, Max Eldridge, Alexander Jeffs, Daniel Johnston, Sienna Karl, Lucas McAuliffe, Kaleb Oh Jacob White Liam Thompson, Edward Nicholas

Year 8

Credit Distinction High Distinction

Lorelai Barnes-Smith, Ruth Duuring, Lucas Holbeach, Adam Lowe, Spencer Reid, Emelyn Tham, Tristan Wilce Izabella Kodituwakku, Meg Docherty Finn Craig-Harding, Caden Hart Students in Year 9 Design have been creating some very cool, innovative and beautiful designs this term. Drawing from their knowledge of the Bauhaus movement, they are following the Bauhaus design principals to design new furniture for the new school. Here is a sneak peak of some of the students’ brilliant designs (all works in progress). We are very excited to see how they resolve.

Year 9

Credit

Cooper Grant, Zeming Guo, Abigail Jones, Harvey Miller, Dylan Momberg

Federico dos Santos, Sebastian Munday Distinction High Distinction Adam Lavarevski

Year 10

Credit

Blake Hutton, Ethan Mead, Nash Pittaway, Yongfan Tan

Maia Distinction High Distinction Alex Brown Happy Science!

Miss Mia Kelly

Mrs Charlotte Donovan

Visual Arts and Design Teacher

Head of Learning Area - Science 12

St. George's Anglican Grammar School – THE DRAGON

Pulse Perspectives at the Art Gallery of WA

The sailing co-curricular this semester has been an amazing experience, alongside sailing we have had the opportunity to try motor boating and stand-up paddle boarding! My favourite thing we did was play a game where we had to collect tennis balls worth a certain number of points each out in the open water and see who got the most points. The funniest thing from sailing has definitely been when Owen fell off the boat because I let go of the steering stick (tiller) by an accident.

Both the Year 11 and 12 Visual Art students recently visited Pulse Perspectives which features 61 selected artworks from 2022 Year 12 students across 36 WA schools. The artists explored themes around mental health, social pressures, gender, culture, environmentalism and technology. This year there were many very impressive artworks made from a range of different mediums and materials, using sculpture, painting, photography and drawing to name a few. Also featured were St George’s graduates Ela Findlater and her artworks Drained and Dissevered, and Jana Bezuidenhout’s ceramic sculpture Body Bag. It was wonderful to visit the exhibition and see the amazing artworks of St. Georges students exhibited amongst the other young talented artists. Taking the students to Pulse Perspectives is a particularly special exhibition for students.

Overall, it has been an amazing and highly recommendable experience.

Miss Quinn Slater Year 8 Student

In the Visual Arts, it is always fantastic to visit AGWA, as students are exposed to an enormous range of artworks and always return inspired and invigorated.

Miss Mia Kelly Visual Arts and Design Teacher

Sailing Winds Up This semester we had yet another amazing opportunity to go sailing every Thursday after school with Mounts Bay Sailing Club.

Students learnt how to master the controls of a pacer boat safely and in the last lesson, attempted to sink other people’s boats, which was loads of fun! We ended up sailing on a high, with new knowledge and friends.

Students were able to take part in sailing and sailing concepts, powerboating and stand-up paddle boarding. The last lesson saw students racing to collect tennis balls for points. The catch, students were able to capsize each other to steal the points. It will run again in Term 3 and Term 4 if students are interested.

Courage to Care - Modern History Incursion

Mr Oliver Bratley

Miss Katie Wilkinson

Year 11 Modern History students participated in an incursion on Tuesday, hosted by the Courage to Care organisation, about the Holocaust. The guest speakers shared stories of Holocaust survivors, rescuers during the Holocaust and provided real-life examples of how to be an upstander. Our guests were impressed with the students’ maturity, knowledge on the subject and kindness showed. I was incredibly proud of how our students responded to the challenging issue.

Year 9 Student

Humanities Teacher 13

St. George's Anglican Grammar School – THE DRAGON

ACC Hockey Championships

Niamh Bingham Maya Hardley Emily Ross Holly Williams Jess Muir Emily Muir

Our inaugural St George’s ACC Hockey Team competed in the Associated & Catholic Colleges of WA (ACC) Championship Hockey Tournament at the Perth Hockey Stadium in Bentley on 13 June.

The girls played John XXlll in the first-round, succumbing to them 2-0.

Caitlin Humphreys Alyssa Peake Anouk Potter Cate Williams Cassia Douglas Goalie Sascha Bott

Coming up in Sport

The next game, against Mandurah Catholic College, saw play predominantly down our forward end - with some cracking shots on goal - but unfortunately we never found the back of the net.

Mandurah had one fast break and we went down 1-0. The team then battled it out for fifth and sixth position against Ellenbrook Catholic College – winning 4-0. Maya Harding scored two goals and Emily Ross and Cate Williams scored the latter two.

Next week the North-Western Associated Schools’ (NWAS) Winter One-Day Carnivals will see our Year 7 and 8 teams play on Tuesday 20 June and the Year 9 and 10 teams playing on Wednesday 21 June. Teams will compete in Badminton, girls soccer, boys soccer, touch rugby, girls netball and mixed netball against Kingsway Christian College, Emmanual Christian Community School, Aranmore Catholic College, Carmel School, Mercy College and John Septimus Roe. We wish all players the best of luck.

Congratulations to the following girls on their fantastic representation in our first hockey team. This year the boys missed out as there were limited places with only six schools being able to compete on the day. Hopefully we can get both teams in for 2024.

Ms Jodie Scheele Head of Learning Area - HPE

14 St. George's Anglican Grammar School – THE DRAGON

Jürgen Brooks Year 8 Congratulations to Jürgen Brooks who has earned a place in the Under 14s WA State Soccer Team as a goalkeeper. He will represent WA against Malaysia in Borneo this October.

Niamh Bingham Year 12 Year 12 student Niamh Bingham has 2024 all mapped out – albeit destination unknown.

This week Niamh learnt that her application for an international Rotary Youth Exchange placement was successful - and during the July holidays she will find out which country she is heading to in early January.

“I applied for the exchange as I saw it as an opportunity to get to know another country and its culture, and I wanted to push myself outside my comfort zone and experience new things, gain more independence, maturity and confidence,’’ Niahm says.

“There were a quite a few steps to the process, including submitting a 40-page application to the Rotary district board and interviews. I haven’t really celebrated yet. I’ll probably celebrate when I find out country I’m going to.’’

While Denmark, Sweden and Belgium top Niahm’s wish list, the Rotary list of options includes Finland, Estonia, Norway, Argentina, Brazil, Poland, Belgium, Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Germany, Italy, France, Taiwan and Mexico.

Niahm will live with two or three host families over the year while attending school. The Gandhi House captain is currently completing five ATAR subjects and sees her future as “design and tech focussed’’.

Meanwhile, St George’s is preparing to welcome a Year 11 exchange student in August.

Jürgen started playing soccer at age four when his dad introduced the sport. He follows the Bundesliga Football League, which is the top tier of the German football league system, and his favourite team is Bayern Munich. His favourite player is Manual Neuer, the goalkeeper and captain of Bayern Munich.

Jürgen trains six or seven times a week for the state team and his club, Bayswater City Soccer Club. His drive for being a goalkeeper comes from seeing the expression on people’s face and the rush after marking a good save.

We wish Jürgen the best of luck in Borneo.