AMMONITE 2020 // Semester One
“I would like to thank all staff, students and parents for their ongoing support during these challenging times, in what is definitely a memorable period in the School’s history.”
FIONA JOHNSTON
In this edition... // FROM THE PRINCIPAL // FROM THE COUNCIL // FROM THE FOUNDATION // OUR QUIET ACHIEVER // CHANGING LANES // Q&A // DUSTY BOOTS AND CITY SUITS
// SKIPPING THE SKIP // INDIGENOUS SCHOLARSHIPS // SPLASHING ABOUT // OUTDOOR ADVENTURES // CAPE TO CAVE // YEAR 5 ADVENTURE DAY // WACKY FRIDAY // CANBERRA COMES TO CHIDLEY // COOKING FOR THE COMMUNITY // COMMUNITY SERVICE CONCERT // ST HILDA’S TV // ONLINE LEARNING
// LEGO PICASSO AND FRIENDS // WE HAD A BALL // SCHOOL WORK // OSA UPDATE // VALE // P&F UPDATE
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Can you find all seven insects?
WATCH OUT! Studying insects as part of their Science unit, the Year 1 students painted insects during art. Drawing insects from science trays, some in resin and some from books, students transferred their image onto canvas with carbon paper. They painted in the lines of their drawing in black, explored mixing different tones of one colour for the background and then painted in the colours of their insect. // These insects have come to life and are roaming around this edition of Ammonite! //
AMMONITE 2020
// FRESH NEW SPACES
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THE JOY OF RETURNING TO SCHOOL
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// FROM THE PRINCIPAL
In a matter of weeks, COVID-19 changed the way students were educated around the world. For St Hilda’s, late in Term 1 the School closed and we moved to online learning. COVID-19 has been a catalyst for change. As a community, we have been reminded of the skills our students need in this unpredictable world: informed decision making, creative problem solving, and, above all, adaptability and agility. What has
also emerged for our community is a heightened interest and willingness to help each other which has ultimately strengthened our partnerships and relationships. It has been an excellent reminder that we are all in this together and there is strength in unity and alignment. I’d like to personally thank all those parents who expressed their gratitude during this period. It was your positive feedback that helped us all navigate our way forward. We introduced St Hilda’s TV as a way to keep our community connected and without doubt this innovative initiative certainly did that. Everyone loved watching it online and staff enjoyed making fun of themselves to put a smile on the faces of our girls in a time of uncertainty. It was so successful it even went viral and Head Girl, Neli DeSilva, Head Boarder, Maddi Wray and I appeared on Channel 9’s Today Extra show to talk about the skits, awards, birthday celebrations and staff Tik Toks!
With the easing of restrictions in Western Australia we are eagerly awaiting the commencement of Term 3, so the School can come back to life with assemblies, events and sport. Despite COVID-19 we have been able to progress with a number of new projects for 2021 that were in response to community feedback last year. They include: • Our partnership with Madalah to offer Indigenous Scholarships for 2021 • 2021 Year 8 Cape to Cave: a combined outdoor education experience with Christ Church Grammar School • 2021 Year 7 Dance Program • 2021 Year 9 Rites of Passage, Wandering Spirit Program We will continue to adapt our programs and offerings to suit current student needs over the next semester, leading up to a very exciting 2021. I would like to thank all staff, students and parents for their ongoing support during these challenging times, in what is definitely a memorable period in the School’s history.
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We have had such a tumultuous start to the year, not only here at St Hilda’s but the world as a whole. No sooner had we started off the year with enthusiasm and vigour, than in March we were thrown into unchartered waters with the coronavirus pandemic. All activities, trips, events and sports came to a grinding halt which resulted in great disappointment for our students and staff with a number of major events and trips cancelled or postponed indefinitely. For our Year 12 students this is what they had worked so hard for and looked forward to, in their final year. But, rather than dwell on a situation that is beyond their control they have embraced it. I am extremely proud of the resilience our girls have shown; it demonstrates the true Spirit of St Hilda’s.
// FROM THE COUNCIL “I would also like to acknowledge the manner in which staff 6
responded to the impact of COVID-19. Their teaching world was thrown into disarray...”
In light of the current coronavirus pandemic that has taken hold of 2020, it has become apparent that the strength of a school lies in its ability to be decisive under pressure. I would like to recognise the efforts of our Principal Fiona Johnston, Council members and the Executive Leadership Team for the way in which they responded to this. Resolutions were made quickly and communicated to staff, parents and students in a timely manner. In most instances St Hilda’s was the first of the private schools to initiate decisions and take action. Not once did the School waiver or second guess our choices and this shows true leadership. I would also like to acknowledge the manner in which staff responded to the impact of COVID-19. Their teaching world was thrown into disarray with the School having to close and our boarding girls return home. With little time to prepare, they delivered an online learning program to ensure our students would not be disadvantaged and could continue learning remotely. Our students took this in their stride and I am extremely proud of their resilience and ability to adapt to an ever-changing situation. Although our staff are used to a face to face learning environment, the new technology enabled teachers to connect with students virtually and support them during this difficult period.
The pandemic has had a financial impact on a number of families within our community as well as the School as a whole. With the fallout of COVID-19 not fully evident and the return of face to face teaching for Term 2 remaining uncertain, the Council made the early decision to reduce Term 2 fees by 25% for all parents, no matter their circumstance. Fortunately, the School was able to return to campus for the commencement of Term 2 and we are now seeing an easing of restrictions and School activities resume to ‘normal’ for Term 3. We must still remain vigilant to ensure we don’t see a repeat of shutdowns, however the School is fully prepared should this need to occur. We would like to thank the School community for their support during this extraordinary period in our history and trust that you have a restful semester break. Ms Nita Peploe Chair of Council
// FROM THE FOUNDATION St Hilda’s has had a reputation for providing excellence in education since its inception nearly 125 years ago. As the Foundation, we believe it is our role to support the School to continue to make improvements and build an environment that attracts and retains staff and students for future generations.
Last year, we saw merit in funding a new role at the School to ensure that we are well positioned to build facilities and programs that can take us into the future. The Director of School Development and Philanthropy was appointed in November and Kellie Hasluck joined us in 2020 to fulfil this role. Despite a challenging start to the year, the Foundation has worked with Kellie to create a fundraising and philanthropy strategy that will be implemented over the next five years to support the School in achieving its goals.
With our 125th anniversary just over the horizon, we hope to use this milestone to celebrate the School’s legacy as well as build foundations for a stronger future. We look forward to sharing our plans with you as the year approaches.
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Mr Sherif Andrawes Foundation President
INTRODUCING KELLIE HASLUCK In January of this year, St Hilda’s welcomed the new appointment of Kellie Hasluck, in the position of Director of School Development and Philanthropy. Kellie has been working with the School Development Team as she begins a new chapter in her professional journey, implementing progressive change and initiatives for the new direction of St Hilda’s.
Kellie has a strong community focus, having raised funds for the State Library of Western Australia, the Ability Centre, Annual Giving Success Sensorium and many other local community We would like to extend a warm and heartfelt groups. Kellie has sat on thank you to our generous community who boards and committees have helped us raise over $55,000 to support to raise the profile and Indigenous and boarding scholarships. the financial position for Due to its success, we have extended the organisations who need campaign until the end of July. support. She brings substantial commercial If you would like to donate, experience, management, please visit www.charidy.com/sthildas expertise, coaching skills, communication and brand knowledge to the position. Kellie looks forward to meeting many of you at future events.
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No one could have predicted the impact of the coronavirus on all parts of the world this year. While the value of our investments has been affected in the short-term, we responded quickly to work with advisors and with the School in order to create a safety net, if and when the School should need it. We are fortunate that a prudent approach to our portfolio management will help us weather this storm and retain the ability of the Foundation to support the School in the long-term.
Part of the plan is to build a greater culture of philanthropy in the School and we have already seen results of this with the launch of this year’s annual giving campaign raising over $55,000 for scholarships. Much of this funding will be directed to our new Madalah Scholarship program to support Indigenous boarders and more general boarding scholarships to support our regional families.
// OUR QUIET ACHIEVER
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On the surface, Director of Junior School, Trish Jakovich is a gentle soul. Get to know her and you find a strong woman, who leads with the heart.
informed made such a difference. I was so grateful for all the positive feedback from parents – it made the hard decisions so much easier.”
Trish is a long serving member of the St Hilda’s staff, having started with the School 15 years ago as a Junior Kindergarten teacher. Through her hard work, and commitment to developing her own skills and mentoring others, she now leads the Junior School.
Family is Trish’s driving force. Her two children are the love of her life, but it sounds like they are pretty good at getting their own way.
Driven to support others, Trish believes that one good turn deserves another. She says one of the highlights of her day is when one of her Kindy students ask her to “do her a favour”. “That’s exactly the language I use when I work with others. I believe we are all in this together and by supporting each other through good times and bad, we are stronger as a result.” COVID-19 definitely tested this attitude. As part of the Executive team, Trish was frontline in managing workforce, ensuring teachers were ready for teaching online, her families were prepared to learn at home and that the School was geared to close down and then re-open just as quickly. “I learnt so much during this period. Strong decision making, quick responses and keeping our community
“My children know how to charm us, so much so that they manage to get what they want without us even realising. My husband and I can’t believe what we’ve agreed to sometimes!” Her mother was also a role model. “My mum was very strong, highly respectful and loyal. She did not let anything stand in her way especially when it came to making changes that would be in the best interest of others. These aspects are important to me in an individual and I strive to fulfil them as well as she did.” Trish’s immaculate grooming may be explained by her little known childhood hobby – rollerskating. Not many people know that she represented Australia a number of times, her last year being 1995, as an international artistic rollerskating champion. Now, that may explain her grace and flexibility in the face of a challenge!
TRISH JAKOVICH
“I believe we are all in this together and by supporting each other through good times and bad, we are stronger as a result.”
// CHANGING LANES
Andrea McNally is a familiar face at St Hilda’s, however this year she took on a very new role at the School in more ways than one. After six years as Head of Junior School, she took on the newly formed role of Director of Senior School late last year. It’s a leap that many had not expected but for those who have seen her in action, it’s a role she has embraced.
ANDREA MCNALLY
“I was the type of kid who had to do everything – sport, art, drama – you name it, I was into it. I probably drove my parents crazy...”
Her love of school started the minute she entered Kindy. “I was the type of kid who had to do everything – sport, art, drama – you name it, I was into it. I probably drove my parents crazy, but I can absolutely say without a doubt that I made the most of my time at school.” “This carried onto my work life. My first job was in regional WA, where I found myself teaching everything – music, sport, art and the rest. Those experiences taught me how to stay flexible, adapt to the student needs and how to keep it engaging. It was hard work but so valuable.” On returning to Perth she took up a number of roles in the public and private sector and was Deputy Head of
Possibly the most challenging role she has had in her career to date has been her appointment to run the COVID-19 response at the School. As Lead on the Pandemic Response Committee she was fielding hundreds of emails a day from staff, students and parents, while making some very difficult decisions with little line of sight. There were some very long days as the School prepared workflows for health and risk management as well as preparing teachers to go online. But rather than complain she regards it as a privilege. “COVID-19 showcased the depth of knowledge, commitment and collaboration we have in this school. I can’t thank the team enough for their decisive, pragmatic and well informed approach, whilst keeping the student at the heart of every decision we made.” Andrea has a vitality that is contagious and one that she shares with the girls on St Hilda’s TV. It’s her ability to poke fun at herself and enjoy the silly things in life that keep her young at heart and really relatable to the students. And where do you find Andrea on the weekend? Hanging out with her husband and eight year old son; cooking up a storm in the kitchen and possibly snuggling up in her PJs and Ugg boots with a hot cinnamon scroll.
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“I’ve always said I was born to teach. Mum was a passionate teacher and she would get me involved in her lesson planning during the school holidays. It demonstrated that teaching isn’t just a job, it’s a vocation,” she said.
Junior School at Scotch College before coming to St Hilda’s.
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Like this artwork, our boarders are unique individuals from around the world who come together to create one happy boarding family.
// Q&A
with Head Boarder, Maddi Wray
How long have you been a boarding student for?
How has your education been impacted since the coronavirus ‘pandemic’?
I have been a boarder for 6 years, starting in Year 7 when I was 11 years old, I’m now in Year 12.
At the end of Week 8 due to coronavirus, St Hilda’s gave parents the option to send children to school or stay at home, but all classes were moving online. My parents decided to bring me home as there were only two weeks left before school holidays and I was able to do online learning from there.
What are the reasons behind you becoming a boarding student? I come from a small country town called Gnowangerup, so there aren’t many high school education opportunities here. Luckily my parents gave me the opportunity to be a boarder at St Hilda’s
A positive is making so many new friends that I will keep in touch with after I leave school and living with your best friends all the time is very fun although challenging at times. A negative is definitely missing home, family and my pets. How do you manage to keep a balanced life while juggling school and life as a boarding student? Studying with your best friends next door can be quite hard, so I have learnt to not get distracted easily by sticking to the routine of prep times.
It was very normal, with normal routine, classes and group activities and events such as assemblies. How does your typical school day look now? There are lots of changes in the assessment schedules and changes to group gathering such as assemblies and year/house time. Unfortunately, lots of our school events have been postponed or cancelled as there is a bigger emphasis on personal hygiene because of the virus. The Boarding House is not as lively as not everyone is back or some have become day girls for the time being. What do you hope to do when you leave school? Study Agricultural Science at UWA What have been the biggest challenges for you as a student and boarding school student throughout this pandemic?
MADDI WRAY
Living rurally, as the internet was an issue, so it meant keeping the connection with others was difficult at times.
Most of our boarding families are all too familiar with words like ‘distance’ and ‘remote’. This year those two words would be used in relation to the annual Dusty Boots and City Suits event, due to travel restrictions. Although our day parents and boarding parents couldn’t catch up in person, this turned out to be a blessing in disguise as our community were able to get an insight into how and where each other live. Our families came together virtually on 8 April, by sending in photos reflecting their isolation location, proving that the St Hilda’s community really transcends boundaries.
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What are the positives and negatives of being a boarding student?
What was your typical school day like before the pandemic?
// DUSTY BOOTS AND CITY SUITS
// FRESH NEW SPACES Over the 2019 Christmas break, St Hilda’s embarked on Stage 2 of the multi million dollar Boarding House refurbishment. This improved the living spaces for our girls, helping to create a feel of consistency between the internal feel and beautiful external surroundings.
The refurbishments included a new reception area, upgraded bedrooms and bathrooms, the creation of an enclosed gym, a soundproof music room, larger communal spaces, a transformation of the activity room into a multi purpose flexible recreation space and ‘end of
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journey’ facilities for parents, among other improvements. Designed to provide the girls with a more comfortable and practical living environment that reflects the everyday feel of home life, the refurbishments encourage our girls to utilise communal spaces and spend valuable time with each other.
// SKIPPING THE SKIP Originally from Kenya, Michael has been collecting leftover furniture and construction materials from refurbishments and placing the items in shipping containers destined for schools in Kenya. A project St Hilda’s were more than happy to support, knowing that the old furniture was going to those less fortunate.
“Before I throw anything out I always ask Michael if he wants any of the fixtures for Kenya.”
The recent refurbishment of the Boarding House has not only provided more comfortable and practical living spaces for our girls, but it has also had an impact in Kenya with leftover furniture being delivered to schools in remote villages. Over the last two summer school holiday periods, the Boarding House has undergone refurbishments with the works being undertaken by Cooktown Constructions. Michael Wufula, a builder for Cooktown Constructions as well as studying at ECU to be an accountant, saw an opportunity for construction sites to reduce waste and make a difference.
Michael hopes that collecting items such as old carpet, furniture, doors, locks and even steel beds from the Boarding House Medical Centre will be an ongoing project that will help build better schools in Kenya. When asked about the motive behind the project, Michael put it simply; “I’m just happy to help people.”
AMMONITE 2020
MICHAEL WUFULA
With the price of taking skip bins to the rubbish tip costing up to $600, site supervisor Dave Harborn explains that “When I see Michael take rubbish that is destined for the tip, I think not only is it saving us money, it’s better for the environment as it reduces landfill. It also helps poorer communities who would not be able to afford these items. So before I throw anything out I always ask Michael if he wants any of the fixtures for Kenya.”
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// INDIGENOUS SCHOLARSHIPS
“We are very excited to be 14
partnering with Madalah to offer Indigenous Scholarships at St Hilda’s for the first time in 2021 and beyond.’
After 27 years of educating in rural and regional Western Australia, I recently returned to Perth to become St Hilda’s newly appointed Indigenous Liaison Coordinator. I’m an old scholar and on finishing a teaching degree at university headed to the bush, as you had to in those days, and married a farmer. Over the years I have taught Indigenous students and worked with their families and communities, which I found to be extremely rewarding.
LESLEY AND IMOJEN DESIGNED THE SAND MURAL TO CELEBRATE NAIDOC WEEK
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THE NAIDOC COMMITTEE HELPED BRING THE MURAL TO LIFE As a group, Indigenous students face significant barriers to educational achievement. In order to overcome these barriers many Indigenous parents are enrolling their children in independent schools. We are very excited to be partnering with Madalah to offer Indigenous Scholarships at St Hilda’s for the first time in 2021 and beyond. Madalah Limited is a not for profit organisation that offers secondary and tertiary education scholarships
for Indigenous students from remote and regional communities to Western Australia’s leading boarding schools and national universities. They, and St Hilda’s, believe education is the key to generational change and opportunity, and we are committed to making a difference in the lives of Aboriginal students, their families and communities. We look forward to the opportunities we can share. This is an exciting time for our School community
with a large number of strong scholarship applications received from all over WA. I hope as a school community we can make a difference in the lives of Aboriginal girls in rural and remote parts of Western Australia as we welcome them to St Hilda’s. Catriona Nixon
It was a beautiful day under the sun for our Junior School Interhouse Swimming Carnival. The high level of participation of the girls in the races and novelty events was wonderful to see. Congratulations to Gascoyne who took home the trophy for first place.
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JUNIOR SCHOOL INTERHOUSE SWIMMING CARNIVAL
SENIOR SCHOOL INTERHOUSE SWIMMING CARNIVAL
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// SPLASHING ABOUT
The Senior School Interhouse Swimming Carnival at HBF Stadium saw our girls racing fast, cheering loudly and demonstrating great sportsmanship. Taking home the winners’ cup was De Grey, with their first Interhouse Swimming Carnival win in over 8 years.
“We want our girls to have positive experiences in the outdoors. To rekindle their innate desire to connect with nature.� // Photography by Nick Covelli
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// OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
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Travelling to Margaret River, the camp involved bushwalking on the Cape to Cape track, an Indigenous cultural
session with Joshua from Koomal Dreaming, caving at Ngilgi Cave, snorkelling at Yallingup, and standup paddle boarding on the Margaret River. Acting Head of Outdoor Education, Craig Sentry explains “We want our girls to have positive experiences in the outdoors, to rekindle their innate desire to connect with nature. Our Year 7 program starts this process by providing the girls various ways of interacting with each other and the environment. It’s always immensely satisfying seeing the girls leave with huge smiles on their faces.”
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The Year 7 Outdoor Education Camp held early in Term 1 was a great opportunity for girls to ignite their interest in the natural world, encourage adventure and develop relationships between students.
Our new dance program will launch for Year 7s next year. The course will involve both technical and theoretical components of dance and will build the girls’ skills across a range of dance genres. It has been designed to give girls at all levels and experience an opportunity to build their strength and flexibility, their rhythm and understanding of music, as well as their understanding of dance across cultures. Over the next few years we will continue to build the program to include cocurricular opportunities and new electives for our Senior School. Whilst we have always run a dance program in Junior School, it has now been extended to include Pre-primary. Years 4, 5 and 6 will now have full year courses. 20
This is an exciting new era for St Hilda’s, particularly given we are blessed with a phenomenal performing space at the Joy Shepherd Performing Arts Centre.
// CAPE TO CAVE St Hilda’s Anglican School for Girls and Christ Church Grammar School are collaborating in a unique outdoor education experience for Year 8 students, starting next year. A first of its kind in Western Australia, the Cape to Cave expedition will introduce students to a range of physical, social and cultural activities designed to build their confidence and appreciation for the environment. Using the Leeuwin-Naturalist National Park as a base, students will spend five days walking part of the Cape to Cape, pitching tents, cooking their own meals and learning about the local indigenous culture. A highlight of the trip will be caving and abseiling in Giants Cave and WI-16, where they will learn about WA’s geological history. Christ Church Grammar School Principal, Alan Jones, said he was keen to partner with St Hilda’s to create a unique opportunity for boys and girls to connect through outdoor adventure and teamwork. “We hope to give the students a new perspective on this region that they may have visited many times before. Working with the local Wardandi people, our instructors will expose the students to local culture through storytelling, bushcrafts and bush tucker,” he said.
// ST HILDA’S DANCE
St Hilda’s Principal, Fiona Johnston, reinforced the importance of having a shared experience of this type with its brother school. “We have been holding outdoor education experiences in this region for many years, but to share it with Christ Church boys will make this trip an even richer experience,” she said. While the Schools are both committed to single-sex education, both Principals acknowledged the importance of providing opportunities for the students to work together in a noncompetitive environment. The Cape to Cave represents stronger connections between the Schools and their students. THE FIRST EXPEDITION WILL BE HELD IN OCTOBER 2021 AND WILL INCLUDE MORE THAN 300 STUDENTS ACROSS 3 CAMPS.
W A N D E R I N G
S P I R I T
In this rapidly changing world, academic results alone will not be enough to ensure the success and happiness of young women. Young people will thrive and be successful when we focus on their wellbeing, emotional intelligence, natural gifts and talents to the same extent as their academic results.
For thousands of years traditional cultures have recognised the importance of supporting young people transition to adulthood through a Rite of Passage. That is why St Hilda’s will be introducing a genuinely transformational Rites of Passage program called St Hilda’s Wandering Spirit to support all Year 9 girls from 2021. The highlight of the program will be a two week immersive experience at our Yeagarup campus. It will be led by experienced coordinators and mentors that will involve both our girls and their families. It will be a chance for students to share and reflect on their life experiences, build healthy relationships, discover and develop who they are and who they really want to be now and in the future. Away from the pressures of daily life, it will allow them to connect with nature and stretch themselves physically, spiritually and emotionally. It is a unique offering for our girls that enhances our current wellbeing and academic programs. It has been tailor made for our community to ensure students are set up for long term success.
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We believe an innovative approach to wellbeing will support the girls leaving their school years with not only academic excellence but as wellrounded leaders of the future.
// YEAR 5 ADVENTURE DAY
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You could hear the laughter and see the smiles from a mile away on Friday 6 March when the Year 5 students visited Point Walter for their Adventure Day. The Point Walter Adventure Day is a great opportunity for girls’ to form strong friendships, build confidence and most importantly, have fun.
With Year 5 being an entry year at St Hilda’s, the Adventure Day is designed to give new students an opportunity to develop relationships outside the classroom and allows the cohort to begin building necessary skills for their transition to Senior School in Year 7.
Integrating classes, the girls took part in a variety of activities including nature and art sessions, standup paddle boarding, a nature walk from Point Walter to Bicton Baths and team games. The Year 5s really enjoyed the Adventure Day and the opportunity to engage with learning concepts in a different environment.
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MISMATCHING SOCKS, SPOONS AS GLASSES, A MISSING SHOE, SHIRTS ON BACKWARDS… THERE WAS SOMETHING WACKY IN THE AIR. 23
// WACKY FRIDAY There was something WACKY in the air at the Junior School on Friday 15 May. Inspired by Dr Seuss’ book Wacky Wednesday, the Junior School students and staff channelled their inner crazy and celebrated ‘Wacky Friday.’ There was plenty of colour and laughter radiating through the Chidley campus, and it was a lovely way to finish off the school week.
The five candidates were; Snickers, Mars Bar, Crunchie, Cherry Ripe and Kit Kat.
// CANBERRA COMES TO CHIDLEY Whether it’s voting for the next Prime Minister or the best chocolate bar, following a fair and just process is necessary in ensuring the winner represents the majority.
The girls were divided into different roles to reflect a proper election, including party leaders, political spruikers, queue managers, issuing officers, ballot box guards and vote counters.
Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, our Year 6s were unable to attend their annual Canberra Tour. Instead their teachers worked hard to bring concepts covered in the tour to St Hilda’s.
Required to fill in both the preferential voting card and first-past-the-post card in the official AEC polling booths, the activity reflected and educated the girls on Election Day processes.
Creating an ‘election day’, students had the opportunity to vote for their favourite chocolate bar. The five candidates were; Snickers, Mars Bar, Crunchie, Cherry Ripe and Kit Kat.
The results concluded that Mars Bar was the winning party, followed by the opposition party Crunchie. The afternoon was thoroughly enjoyed by the girls and covered important learning outcomes in a practical and immersive way.
// COOKING FOR THE COMMUNITY // COMMUNITY SERVICE CONCERT Although the first half of 2020 has restricted the opportunity for our girls to perform in the community, St Hilda’s was proud to launch an online Community Service Concert that was distributed to aged care homes around Perth.
This was no exception on June 9, when over 350 hot meals, as well as baked goods and care packages were prepared by students and donated to the homeless. Junior School, Senior School and Boarding students got together with their friends to prepare, bake, steam, boil, and mix food ready to donate.
Asked to provide 250 hot meals, the girls went above and beyond expectations and demonstrated the generosity of our School community. Six of our staff, including Principal, Fiona Johnston and Director of Senior School, Andrea McNally, loaded their cars and transported the meals to the city to distribute that evening. Leftover meals were also delivered to the Perth Inner City Youth Service (PICYS), an organisation that St Hilda’s looks forward to further helping with a direct service to the Leederville centre to occur twice a term beginning in Term 3. Watching the girls come together and donate so generously is always wonderful to see and we thank our St Hilda’s families for their time and dedication to helping others.
The St Hilda’s Community Service Concert was distributed to 15 aged care homes.
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The St Hilda’s spirit is seen in many different ways throughout both the Junior and Senior School. Whether it’s sporting achievements, music performances, girls achieving their personal best in a test, receiving an award or simply hanging out with your friends at lunch, it’s always around to see.
The concert combined a selection of pre-recorded musical performances from our students that the aged care homes watched in their own time. With the elderly being particularly vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic, the concert aimed to bring some joy and normality to residents around Western Australia.
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// ST HILDA’S TV Keeping a community engaged, connected and involved is always important, however, it’s especially vital amid a crisis.
An initiative titled St Hilda’s TV Launched on the first day of online learning. St Hilda’s TV is an internal, online program
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When St Hilda’s made the decision to transition to online learning towards the end of Term 1, maintaining the St Hilda’s community spirit was more important than ever.
tailored to students, parents and staff that aimed to keep the St Hilda’s community engaged and connected while restrictions were in place across the country. Produced in-house and hosted by Principal Fiona Johnston, St Hilda’s TV covered a wide variety of segments including positive messages from a range of staff and students, skits, virtual PE lessons, a forum celebrating birthdays, competitions, online assemblies and much more.
“We know our School is so much more than just our buildings and grounds, it’s about relationships and rapport and St Hilda’s TV enables us to connect and share stories.”
“It’s a forum that’s not just teacher-led but student-led as well, and we’ve had incredible engagement in the space with the girls using it as a platform to share stories, experiences and voice their opinions” explains Fiona. Episodes were made available to students, staff and parents through the School online learning management system and daily episodes were broadcast each morning prior to online classes, keeping the St Hilda’s spirit alive.
It was amazing to see our students, staff and families embrace and adapt to online learning so quickly. Although we missed having students on campus, it was great to see their remote learning work spaces in action. The transition to online learning, although challenging, led to positive changes, connections for families and rethinking of how education can be delivered. 28
// ONLINE LEARNING THE TRANSITION TO ONLINE LEARNING, ALTHOUGH CHALLENGING, LED TO POSITIVE CHANGES.
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Keeping entertained during the Term 1 school holidays required creative and unique thinking given the restrictions that were enforced across the country at the time. As part of St Hilda’s TV, Junior School students had the opportunity to take part in a holiday art competition. Asked to create a self or family portrait in any medium, our students delved into their creative side and began sketching, painting, building and gluing. The entries ranged from traditional pencil or paint drawings to incorporating elements of nature into the image. It was great to see the girls using the holidays to express their creative sides while engaging with the St Hilda’s TV platform.
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// LEGO PICASSO AND FRIENDS
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// WE HAD A BALL The Year 12 Ball held at Frasers on February 28 was a fantastic night filled with glamour and fun, creating lasting memories for our girls
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// SCHOOL WORK Article by Shea Rafferty – Year 11
“I got to mow the front lawn of the School and 32
I really enjoyed it.” SHEA RAFFERTY
CHLOE HARRIS
In Year 11, I chose the Careers course as one of my subjects. As part of the course we were to choose a place to complete our work experience.
Ruby Boetcher, Lexi Fletcher and Tamara Brown all completed their work experience at the St Hilda’s Junior School.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, we couldn’t go to external workplaces, so I had to complete work experience on school campus. I chose to work in the School Development Department - a great team of people who manage the school tours, donations, community engagement, and promoting the School.
Chloe Harris worked with the Maintenance and Facilities Team during her work experience.
During my time on work experience, I completed many tasks including attending meetings, taking photos around the school campus for various events, creating certificates for students and was privileged to hear about announcements before the rest of the School. I enjoyed my time and the experience I gained within the Marketing and Communications Team and hope to pursue a career in this industry.
I asked them about their experience and this is what they said...
What did you learn from working with the Maintenance and Facilities Team?
What has been your favorite piece of equipment to use so far?
I learned about the fields and trades and what it means to have a career in this area. I got to use different machines and tools, while learning many new skills in gardening. I spoke to one of my colleagues and he told me “care about what you do and you will succeed in any job”. I now know what it is like to work in the real world.
My favourite is definitely the ride on mower, I got to mow the front lawn of the School and I really enjoyed it.
What made you chose to work in the Maintenance and Facilities Team? I have always loved working with my hands and working in Facilities you get to see your work and your progress. I couldn’t be at a desk all day and it is nice to be outside and to be able to see what I can actually do.
What is the best memory you have made so far? I have really enjoyed the nice chats in the break room and getting to know the team members better. I have also enjoyed getting to know more about what the team members do in their roles. What has challenged you so far? Apart from some mild physical challenges with using the regular push mower, there hasn’t been anything that has really challenged me too much. It is a very hands on job which I am used to, although it is very different to being in the classroom.
“I have learned that the Junior and Senior School are very cohesive. The Junior School prepares girls for Senior School.” LEXI FLETCHER What was the most enjoyable task?
What did you learn after being around the Junior School? I have learned that the Junior and Senior School are very cohesive. The Junior School prepares girls for Senior School. From being with the younger girls, I have learned that they try hard to be the best St Hilda’s girl they can be, and they uphold the School values. What was it like being an Education Assistant at the Junior School? I enjoyed being with the kids and learning from the teachers. I loved helping the girls and getting a really good feel for what it is like working in a school environment and what it is like working with children when they look up to you and listen to you. I also enjoyed looking at the other half of St Hilda’s and understanding the Junior School.
What challenged you whilst you were working at the Junior School? Some challenges I have faced are, learning the daily schedule and how the girls’ day runs. Being able to take control and get the girls to listen to me when I am teaching them, or helping them was also tricky. One challenge that has helped me a lot is going back to basics, explaining one step at a time and working with them to achieve a task.
Has the Junior School inspired you to work in the education field?
What was your favourite experience whilst working in the Junior School?
It has. I have always loved the idea of working with kids and this workplace has proven that I want to work in this field in the future. Working with kids is a very rewarding job because you get to inspire them and help them with their future from a young age.
It would have to be talking to the girls in Years 2 and 4, getting to know them and helping them with their schoolwork.
Why did you chose teaching as part of your work experience? I come from a long line of teachers. My mum is currently a teacher and I have always wanted to carry this through as it is a great career path to choose I believe. What has been your favorite task? I have loved everything, although my favourite is reading stories to the kids. I have been assisting the teacher a lot which has been a really good thing to do. What has challenged you the most while working in this field? I can’t really say anything has really challenged me, I feel like the biggest thing that has challenged me is using the guillotine cutter, getting to know all the students names is also a big task.
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Do you think you will pursue a career in education? Personally, I don’t think I’ll pursue a career in education as I don’t believe it would be the right career choice for me. Although extremely exhausting, it is a rewarding task helping the kids. As much as I like working with kids, I wouldn’t want to pursue this as a career. What was your favourite task? My favourite task was making a desert display for the Year 4 class, which included using materials such as cloth, fishing nets and pieces of burlap. What challenged you most? The biggest challenge I faced would have been the first few days as I had to get to know the girls and the teachers, and understand how the place was set up. I eventually I got the hang of it and really enjoyed my time of work experience at the Junior School.
AMMONITE 2020
RUBY BOETCHER
I loved helping the girls with their spelling, reading and writing, and to help them become better at all of their tasks. I helped with checking the girls’ sight words. They had to read from a list of about 8 words like ‘is’, and ‘were’. If they got all the words right they would move on to different words. It was the best feeling seeing them get all the words right and move onto a new set of words.
TAMARA BROWN
// OSA UPDATE “The aim was to keep 34
The coronavirus pandemic posed many challenges for our School community affecting us all, but none so much as the more elderly and vulnerable. The OSA Committee was concerned that many members of the Association may need some assistance during the challenging times and that many were being asked to stay house bound and isolated from all the activities they know and love. St Hilda’s Old Scholars’ Association introduced a new initiative, the OSA Outreach Program, to support the more elderly members of the Association. The aim was to keep these people connected through regular phone calls to ensure they had an interaction with someone who cared. More than 130 younger old scholar members volunteered to help with the program which was an amazing response. Through this program many were called to check in with them to see if they needed any help or any errands done for them.
The communication also gave them an opportunity to swap stories about the School, family connections and childhood memories. With all the regular calendar events cancelled, including the Mother’s Day Bazaar, Bridge and Mahjong Day and many reunions, the OSA Outreach Program hopefully provided our more elderly members with something to look forward to during these unprecedented times. The program will continue over the coming months and depending on the participation, may continue as a permanent event. As our lives start getting back to normal, the Old Scholars’ Association looks forward to welcoming our members back to the School and to hosting many events soon. Treffina Dowland, President of the GHS & St Hilda’s Old Scholars’ Association.
these people connected through regular phone calls to ensure they had an interaction with someone who cared.”
1942: The main street in Bencubbin. The students called it “Paris Parade”
// LAST TIME THE SCHOOL CLOSED
“As this year has been so eventful, the various activities and changes in routine are worth recording. The year began like all others with the Public Exam results in January, a most depressing month for some. February saw our arrival back at school at a time when the war news was very grave. Paper, gauze and black paint, used under the National Security regulations, dimmed the atmosphere. There was also a thinning of numbers and a daily increase in rumours concerning our future. March and April brought with them numerous changes. Miss Small began a frenzied search for places suitable for evacuation and returned to school again and again disillusioned but hopeful.
Throughout the year the staff have had a trying time, the frequent uncomfortable trips between Bencubbin and Cottesloe adding to their difficulties; but perhaps an occasional spell gave the charm of novelty to both of us by way of compensation. Recent developments in war theaters permit a more optimistic Christmas spirit than could have existed twelve months ago, and if there is more austerity in the actual festivity, there can be the more real cheerfulness because of our pride in the magnificent efforts of our fighting men overseas.” MISS V SINCLAIR, 1942
35 AMMONITE 2020
The following excerpts have been taken from the Editorial Notes of Miss V Sinclair (Editor) who was writing in the year that St Hilda’s boarders had been taken to Bencubbin for safety and the School was divided over two campuses.
In our spare time we dug trenches, and practiced walking to them or to our indoor shelter with sedate, unhurried steps. Then there was the arrival of the Americans and of Christchurch, both exciting, and for some it was difficult to decide which was more important. Soon afterwards, however, the few boarders left departed for Bencubbin. We were not quite sure whether it was the absence of some of our brighter spirits or the erection of the sand bunds which caused the ensuing gloom.
“As this year has been so eventful, the various activities and changes in routine are worth recording.”
// VALE
William Caldow
Bonnie Tollafield
Tony Manford
Bridget Magi (Jackson, 1963)
6 May 1933 – 16 January 2020
9 April 1954 - 13 May 2020
15 November 1931 – 1 June 2020
Born 1945 – 21 June 2020
William Caldow had long ties with St Hilda’s not only as a past parent and grandparent, but as a Member of the School Council from 1969-1989 and Chairman of the Council from 1990-1994. He retired from the position as Chairman, but remained on Council from 1995-1997.
Bonnie Tollafield (1971) passed away peacefully after a short but aggressive illness on the afternoon of 13 May.
Frank Anthony (Tony) Manford, was the first Old Boy to have a granddaughter at St Hilda’s School. Tony, who died at home on 1 June aged 88, is remembered by the St Hilda’s community as a brother, father, and grandfather and we send our condolences to his wife Toby, Michael, Susan and Richard. He attended St Hilda’s Kindergarten which was then situated in the newly built campus on Bay View Terrace and is recorded as having left in 1937, aged six. Tony’s mother, Marg Manford (nee Parker) also attended the Girls’ High School in 1924, making Tony and his sister, Susy Bogle’s, granddaughters 4th generation St Hilda’s students.
Bridget will be missed by the Old Scholars cohort of 1963 and by her daughters Joanna (1993) and Natasha (1997).
Bill was instrumental in guiding the School through challenging times, raising it to the very high standing in which it is regarded today, and played a major role in bringing the Chapel project to fruition. He laid the Foundation Stone thirty years ago and saw the consecration of the Chapel in 1994 upon completion. His long service on Council benefitted St Hilda’s with his experience and expertise, and on stepping down from Council, Principal June Jones expressed her appreciation of his unfailing support for the operations of the School. We remember his outstanding contributions over the many years of service to the School and send our sincere condolences to Jeanette, Janine, John, Richie and Andrew and their families.
Bonnie was a vibrant, energetic and positive student at St Hilda’s where she developed a life-long love of swimming, frequently representing both Blackwood and the School. Bonnie was an active member of the OSA to which she brought energy and organisational skills to numerous school Bazaars where she famously sold her Moss Wood Olive Oil. Bonnie also initiated the Old Scholars’ Golf Day at Mosman Park Golf Course which proved a highlight in the OS calendar. She made many lifelong friends from her school days who will remember her always. Helen Rosalie MacKinnon (nee Daniels) 16 October 1944 – 28 May 2020 Our condolences go out to the MacKinnon family on the passing of Helen MacKinnon. Helen was the mother of old scholars Libby (1988), Julia (1990) and Susan (1993) and a very active Whitby Parent, member of the P&F and a hugely successful fundraiser. Helen was a great supporter of the Chapel and was instrumental in raising over $120,000 for the Chapel Fund through convening the 1991 School Fete. She was a significant contributor to the whole School community.
Tony was enormously respected as a leader within his industry and was a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Transport WA, a Fellow of the Customs Agents Association of Australia, President of the West Australian Road Transport Association, and Councillor of the Australian Road Transport Federation. He was also a passionate sailor and involved with the Australian Olympic teams in Tokyo (1964 – Reserve Helmsman) and Mexico (1968 – Yachting Captain and Team Manager) and he won the Prince Philip Cup (Australasian Dragon Championships) five times.
Phyllis Buzza (Ex St Hilda’s Staff) 9 February 1941 - 2 June 2020 Phyllis was a member of staff at St Hilda’s from 1987 to 1988 and was well known to the Boarders as a House mother. She was also a past parent of Julie Eller (1978) and granddaughters Alexandra (2009) and Natalia (2007).
CONGRATULATIONS!
// IT’S A... Lindsey New (Marchant (1999)) and Shaun New - baby girl Charlotte Jane New born 7.01.20 Jessica Anderson (1999) and Patrick Kelly - baby girl Clover Grace Kelly born 17.4.20 Misty Wedge (Blakeman, 1999) and Thomas Wedge - baby boy Voss Thomas Ezra Wedge 9.6.2020
// ST HILDA’S DURING THE WAR During the Poliomyelitis epidemic students were not allowed off school grounds and awful tasting vaccines were given out on sugar cubes.
// EVENTS CIGS GOLF DAY
// Monday 21 September
Anyone interested in joining the team for this year should contact Anne Marie Tsaknis (Lilburne, 1977) tsaknis@iinet.net.au
OSA 70+ MORNING TEA // Tuesday 22 September
OSA ART EXHIBITION
In 1942 Singapore and Malaya were invaded by the Japanese, and Tish and her mother were rapidly evacuated by ship to Fremantle and Tish started as a day girl in the Lower 3rd. She clearly remembers the Principal, Miss Small, who would walk around in her academic black gown. Tish’s father was captured by the Japanese and held in Changi Prison for
FIRST YEAR Class of 2019 // Friday 27 November
Opening Party // Thursday 29 October Exhibition // 29 October – 31 October
10 YEARS
OSA COUNTRY LUNCH
20 YEARS
// Friday 6 October at Yeagarup
OSA SOCIAL GOLF DAY
Class of 2010 // Sunday 25 October Nicola Bailey nicolabailey@gmail.com Zoe Krisnadi zoekrisnadi@gmail.com Class of 2000 // Postponed until 2021 Libby Giroud (Hood) elizabeth.giroud@gmail.com
// Friday 13 November
// REUNIONS
After the War her mother returned to Malaya and Tish started boarding at Margaret House which was then a simple building with a tin roof, and her dormitory was partly on the veranda, with canvas awnings and no glass windows. When it rained the outside row of beds would have to be moved in, but no-one thought anything of it and she doesn’t recall feeling cold. Each week the boarders were given a clean flat sheet and a pillowcase and they would take off the bottom sheet, then move the top flat sheet to the bottom. They had to make their beds each morning but were not permitted to return until the evening. There were often power blackouts when the dormitory would be plunged into darkness and the girls would resort to lighting oil hurricane lamps. Food was basic and whilst nobody complained too loudly, they did envy the
day girls’ sandwiches. The boarders were rostered into groups known as the ‘Dining Room Gang’ to help deliver meals to the dining hall. For recess they would queue up in front of ‘orderlies’ who served out fruit from a bucket, and occasionally cake. In Junior Dorm there were five students who are still friends of Tish today; Lucy Richardson, Eleanor Gronow, Norma Duthie and Fae McNeil. There was not much for the students to do, although they were occasionally permitted to visit the ‘village’ in Mosman Park to spend their pocket money (two shillings and sixpence per week). One of her favorite outings was to a small shop called Mowdays on the Swan River (where Mosman’s Restaurant is now). The friends would order a milkshake which arrived in a big silver flask and they would have 5 straws to share it between them. The friends regularly meet to play Mahjong or Bridge together and enjoy their annual catchups with other old scholars through the OSA 70+ morning tea.
30 YEARS
Class of 1990 // Postponed until 2021 Alison Muir amuir@ausimm.com Natacha Kendrew natasha@csibon.com.au
50 YEARS
40 YEARS
60 YEARS
45 YEARS Class of 1975 // Rescheduled to Friday 19 March 2021 Barbara-Dene Jones bdjones@iinet.net.au
65 YEARS
Class of 1980 // TBA Jenny Staker stakers@bigpond.com Sally Fox-Slater tottenup@gmail.com
37 AMMONITE 2020
This year St Hilda’s is the host school for the 55th Combined Independent Girls School (CIGS) Old Girls Golf Day. It will be held at the Lake Karrinyup Country Club.
Through the recent OSA Outreach Program we heard about old scholar Tish Love (Letitia Donaldson, 1952) who recounted her early days at St Hilda’s when WWII swallowed up the only life she had known with her parents in Malaya.
3 ½ years, but for the first 2 ½ years they didn’t actually know whether he was alive or not.
Class of 1970 // Saturday 28 November Nola Banfield banfield1@gmail.com Pam Casellas pamcasellas@gmail.com Class of 1960 // Saturday 17 October Gaysie Atkinson gaysieatkinson@hotmail.com Robin Smyth rsmyth@win.com.au Lyn Meadows lynmeadowswa@yahoo.com Class of 1955 // Postponed Jill Lewis lewisjillian@outlook.com
// P&F UPDATE “We have had to adapt, adjust and adopt new procedures in 2020. This 38
year, through challenging times, we have modelled our School values. ”
The Parents’ & Friends’ Association (P&F) is a voluntary organisation consisting of parents from all year levels and members of the wider community. The school year started with the popular annual P&F Sundowner, welcoming new and returning families, which was very successful and enjoyed by many. This year the coronavirus pandemic has presented many challenges and caused the cancellation or postponement of most social events. However, our parent volunteers continued to coordinate the many talents and skills within the community to enhance our children’s educational experience. On the night of the Dusty Boots & City Suits drinks, the Year 11 Representatives invited families to take a photo of themselves and their daughters all dressed up and submitted them to make a video.
We have had to adapt, adjust and adopt new procedures in 2020. We held our first virtual AGM on the 14 May. Parent Mixers, which had been introduced this year as a way of increasing engagement with our parent body, have been replaced with an online survey format to reach out to more families. At the AGM, the P&F voted to fund the School’s special request for an iMac and iPhone PRO. This equipment will greatly enhance the School’s ability to continue to build engagement with the community. We are looking forward to holding our Cheese & Wine Parent Mixer in September and our first Christmas Carol Sundowner in November.
At the SGM in November 2019, the P&F voted on funding requests for a range of items for both the Junior and Senior Schools, valued at $41,835. Funding requests for 2020 will soon be sent out and shared with the School community. Our parent volunteers continue to contribute to school life in many ways that reflect their interests, skills, experience and capacity to do so, and to promote the School community and enhance diversity and inclusiveness at St Hilda’s. This year, through challenging times, we have modelled our School values. Nivrithi Naidoo P&F President
39 AMMONITE 2020
“The school year started with the popular annual P&F Sundowner, welcoming new and returning families, which was very successful and enjoyed by many.�
ST HILDA’S ANGLICAN SCHOOL FOR GIRLS BAY VIEW CAMPUS Bay View Terrace, Mosman Park CHIDLEY CAMPUS McCabe Street, Mosman Park YEAGARUP CAMPUS Roberts Road, Pemberton 6260 Stay up to date by following us on the following platforms Facebook www.facebook.com/sthildaswa /sthildasosa Instagram www.instagram.com/st_hildagram /sthildas_principal /st.hildasosa LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/school/st-hilda’s-anglican-school-for-girls
Contact Us POSTAL PO Box 34, Mosman Park, WA 6912 PHONE 08 9285 4100 EMAIL sthildas@sthildas.wa.edu.au WEB www.sthildas.wa.edu.au CRICOS Provider Code 00452E
COVERT ART by Kayla Ann Lim Year 4 Matisse Inspired Still life. The students completed a range of drawing exercises that explored art elements and a range of different media. They completed their own interpretation of a still life arrangement using ink brush pens and acrylic paint on paper. Students blended all colours and tones using a primary colour base and white.