dhanara 3 june 2009web
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DHANARADhanara is an Aboriginal word for message stick
Issue # 16.2009 one
3 June 2009 (Week 7, Term Two)
REMEMBER:Thursday 4th June - Year 9 2010 Elective Subject Information
Evening, 6:30pm
Friday 5th June - Early Childhood Assembly (P-2), 11:10am,
host Year 1; Year 8 Pool Party, 6:30pm
Tuesday 9th June - Careers Information Night, 4:30-7:30pm
Wednesday 10th June - Primary Science Competition(except
Stage 2); Waratah House Charity Mufti Day
Thursday 11th June - Primary Stage 2 and Secondary Science
Competition; AISHK Parent Association Forum - Pastoral Care
at AISHK - Home and School Collaboration, 2/F rehearsal room,
7:30pm
Dear Members of the AISHK Community
Since last week I have been on family leave from
AISHK, attending to some urgent matters relating
to my family in Melbourne. The tyranny of
distance has made it problematic for me tomanage such matters, and this has been a topic
of concern in my discussions with Board Chair Dr
Dan Hooley, over recent months.
It is with great regret therefore that I announce my resignation
from the position of Head of School. In doing this I acknowledge the
kind understanding of the Board and in particular Dr Hooley inaccepting my resignation, and releasing me from my current position.
In expressing my sadness at leaving the school, I look back on many
happy memories and successes in recent years. I thank the dedicated
and hard-working staff of AISHK for their support, particularly the
School Executive members, and most importantly my PA, Ms Pinky
Yau.
The Parent Association has also offered a most impressive
contribution of energy and support for the school in my time as
Head of School, keenly supporting many of the significant innovationsof recent years, such as the funding of the roll-out of the Interactive
Whiteboards throughout the school. The Parent Association has also
achieved great advances in the enhancement of communication
channels between and within the staff and parent groups.
I have been continually impressed by the happy, diligent and co-operative students at AISHK. These young people have my admiration
for the way that they participate in the full life of the school, and
offer such a meaningful contribution to the needs of others via
community service.
It is nearly three years since my selection for the Head of School
position took place, and since taking up the position of Head of
School I have enjoyed working with Dr Hooley and the Board inorder to move the school forward in so many ways.
One of my lasting memories will be the process in 2007 that producedthe School Development Plan 2007-2012. This process brought staff,
students and parents together to develop a vision for the future of
AISHK. It has been most pleasing to see the many achievements
that have flowed and will continue to flow from this School
Development Plan.
Two further areas that have given me great satisfaction to have
been involved in are: the steps that are being taken to relieve the
space issues at AISHK, including the current building program, and
plans for expansion within Hong Kong; and, the recently announced
plans for expansion in Shanghai. The latter initiative has the potential
to bring significant monetary resources into the school. This is amost visionary step by the Board and it will be even more so
recognised in the years to come.
In conclusion, I wish to thank the Board, and in particular Dr Dan
Hooley, for the opportunity to have had a leadership position in
such a fine school.Thank you: staff, parents, students and Board
members. I wish the school every best wish for the wonderful futurethat I am sure lies ahead of it.
Dr Gregory F. Clarke
Head of School
Head of School
Dear Members of the AISHK Community
It is with some sadness that I write to you regarding Dr
Clarkes resignation. As Dr Clarke mentioned in his letter
to you, he and I have had discussions relating to family
concerns for some time now, and this has not come as atotal surprise to me.
I would like to take this opportunity to commend and to
thank Dr Clarke for his commitment and his determination
to make the Australian International School Hong Kong one
of the finest International Schools in Hong Kong.
It is unfortunate that Dr Clarke will not be able to share in
the exciting times ahead, but he will be leaving behind a
legacy which is testament to his professionalism, hisrigorous approach to the pursuit of excellence at all levels
and his commitment to education above all.
Dr Clarkes strategic vision has also been of great value,
and his endeavors over the past two-and-a-half years leavethe school in excellent shape. We will all be sorry to see
him leave, and we wish him every success in the future.
I would also like to take this opportunity to announce that
Mrs Leonie Drew and Mr Phil Waugh will take joint
responsibility for management of the school. They both
did a wonderful job in the same role prior to Dr Clarkes
appointment and the Board has absolute confidence thatthe school will continue firmly on course in their very
capable hands.I will keep you informed regarding the appointment of a
new Head of School.
Yours sincerely,Dr Dan Hooley
Board Chairman
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Issue # 16.2009 two
Primary Division NewsLife at AISHK is very busy. Teachers and
children are working steadily on the
terms inquiry units and great progress is
being made in all areas. Our students
have terrific evidence to show of theirlearning and this is currently being
compiled in comprehensive portfolios. We
are looking forward to sharing these with
you later in the term.One thing we do try hard to develop is the childrens resiliency.
This is hard to measure and it is certainly difficult for us to
demonstrate to you the development that has occurred, buthopefully you will continue to assist with this important element
of growing up.
At AISHK we try to build resilient children and young people
Michael Grose who publishes in the area ofGood Parenting says
that a resiliency-promoting childhood has the following features:-
1. Kids dont always get what they want. The Rolling Stoneswere right when they sang, You cant always get what you
want, but you can try all those years ago.
2. They have plenty of opportunities to solve their own problemswithout adults trying to fix everything for them. Children will
only develop their inner resources when given the opportunity
to develop their resourcefulness.3. Children are expected to help at home from a young age
without being paid. That is how they learn to be useful.
4. Parental expectations for success are positive, realistic and
based on childs interests and aptitudes rather than on adult
wishes.5. Children receive liberal amounts of encouragement but
moderate amounts of praise. They need something a little
more substantial than quick fix, feel-good praise. They needsomething substantial like encouragement to help them grow
and develop.
6. Children have plenty of free time to do three essential things play outside, have fun and to daydream. But they need to
have the opportunity to initiate all three, rather than have
them initiated by someone. These three essentials helpinsulate human beings when life gets out of control.
7. Children are involved in family decision-making so that they
learn to impact positively on their environment.
8. Children have the opportunity to identify their strengths and
then build on these to develop their unique identities throughadolescence.
9. Children grow up in families that have their own rituals, rights
of passage and celebrations. These rituals provide important
anchors to children as they develop and grow away.
10.Resilient children need to be surrounded by resilient adults
rather than adults who are continually stressed and have noreal life outside from children and work.
Next week (Thursday 11th June at 7:30pm) the Assistant Principals
and the Heads of Stage will be presenting at an evening forum to
inform parents about our Pastoral Care and BehaviouralManagement procedures at the school. I hope that you will make
the time to join them. In this way we can continue to work
together to provide a nurturing and safe environment for the
children, as well as an opportunity for them to build resiliency
for the things that life will throw their way.
Treat everyone with politeness, even those who are rude to you
- not because they are nice, but because you are.Author unknown
Mrs Leonie Drew
Principal Primary
This Wednesday 3rd June, we will have storyteller Janet Mann
visiting our Stage One students to share stories from the
Animalympics series written by local Hong Kong authors Mio
Debnam, Louise Renwick, Karmel Schreyer, Susan Sprengeler and
Judith Simanovszky.
The stories are based on Asian animals who have athletic
adventures.
Books from the series will be able to be ordered through the
library.
Ms Megan Lindsay
Teacher-Librarian P-6
Library Visit
We are very excited to present the inaugural AISHK Performing
Arts Festival. This festival will be held over three days in June,
and will celebrate the talents of over 160 students from both
Primary and Secondary Divisions from Year 3 through to Year 12.
We invite all families, students, parents and friends, to come
and enjoy the array of music, drama, and dance performances
that will be presented in three separate events. All are welcome
and every concert is free seating with no admission charge.
Each concert will be held in the auditorium from 7:00pm.
The AISHK Performing Arts Festival presents:
Monday 15th June, 2009An Evening of Instrumental MusicThis concert will feature the AISHK Orchestra, Primary Strings,instrumental soloists from the secondary elective music classes,
and a special chamber music ensemble featuring three
instrumental music teachers.
Tuesday 16th June, 2009An Evening of Drama, Dance and Magic
This concert will feature a primary dance ensemble, secondaryelective drama classes, and the captivating magic of Anson Chen.
Wednesday 17th June, 2009An Evening of SongThis concert will feature the Primary Choir, Vocal Ensemble,
secondary elective choral classes, two school rock bands, the
2009 winner of the AISHK Idol competition, along with a few
surprises from our classroom music and office staff.
Mr Graeme TylerHead of Performing Arts
Performing Arts Festival
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Australian International School Hong Kong 3A Norfolk Road, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong KongT: +852 2304 6078 / F: +852 2304 6077E: [email protected] / www.aishk.edu.hk
Issue # 16.2009 three
DATES TO REMEMBER
Term Two, 2009
JuneTerm Two, Week Seven
Thursday 4th June Facilities Committee meeting, 3:30pm
Year 10 Drug Awareness 1:45-3:30pm at AISHKYear 9 2010 Elective Subject Info Evening, 6:30pm
Friday 5th June Early Childhood Assembly (P-2),11:10am, host Year 1
Year 8 Pool Party 6:30pm
Term Two, Week EightMonday 8th June Year 9 History Excursion HK sites (8:40-3:30)
Division meetings, 3:30pm
Tuesday 9th June Year 9 History Excursions HK sites(8:40-3:30)AISHK General Committee meeting, 8:30am
Curriculum Committee meeting, 3:30pm
Careers Information Night, 4:30-7:30pm
Wednesday 10th June Primary Science Competition (Stage 2 11th June)
Secondary Assembly, 12:00noonPastoral Care & Welfare Committee meet, 3:30pm
Waratah House Charity Mufti Day
Thursday 11th June Primary Science Competition - Stage 2 studentsBoard Facilities Committee meeting, 8:00am
Year 10 DIC visit 2-3:30pm
Secondary Science CompetitionAISHK Parent Association Forum - Pastoral Care at
AISHK - Home and School Collaboration, 7:30pm
school rehearsal room 2/F
Friday 12th June Primary Assembly (3-6), 11:20am host Year 3
AISHK Parent Association Trivia Night, 7:00pmTerm Two, Week Nine
Monday 15th June Stage/KLA meetings, 3:30pm
Performing Arts Festival - An Evening ofInstrumental Music, school auditorium, 7:00pm
Tuesday 16th June Board Governance Committee meeting, 7;45am
Performing Arts Festival -An Evening of Dance,
Drama and Magic, school auditorium, 7:00pmWednesday 17th June Performing Arts Festival -An Evening of Song,
school auditorium, 7:00pm
Thursday 18th June Professional Development Committee meet, 3:35pm
Year 12 Performance Review Parent Meeting, 811Friday 19th June Early Childhood Assembly (P-2), 11:10am, host Prep
30 Hour Famine overnight to Saturday 20th June
Term Two, Week Ten
Monday 22nd June Board meeting, 6:30pmDivision meetings, 3:30pm
Tuesday 23rd June Secondary Swimming Carnival, Kowloon Tsai Park
Primary Writing and Spelling CompetitionWednesday 24th June Primary Student-Led Conferences all day
Friday 26th June Whole School Mufti DayPrimary Assembly (P-6), 11:10am
Classes end for Term Two(Primary 12noon; Secondary 12:50pm)
Whats On in Sport
Netball NewsExtra-Curricular ActivitiesOn Tuesday the 29th June, the AISHK Under 10 Netball girls
played against Kowloon Junior School. Match play is always agreat opportunity for us put our skills into practice and our
girls did us proud. After the first half they had a comfortable
lead and they were able to maintain the lead until the end,
despite the continued perseverance of the opposing team. Welldone to all the girls who played.
The U13 Kookaburras and U13 Emus and the U14 Kangaroos
travelled to West Island School to play against their top netball
teams. The U13s teams played extremely well and had a number
of wins and 1 loss. The U14 Kangaroos ran away with the game.AISHK (15) defeated WIS (1). The Shanghai Netball competition
has given all our players the opportunity to develop on court
tactics and set plays which have been extremely valuable when
playing against other local schools. It was a wonderful effortfrom all of our players. Thank you to Mrs Chan and Mrs Davies
who both do an exceptional job coaching our U 13 Netball Teams.
Coaching CourseNext term there will be an Introduction to Netball Coaching
Course. The aims of this course will be to refresh us with the
rules, ensure we are teaching correct passing, attacking anddefence in a safe way and to learn some new netball drills.
There will be an information flyer sent out next week outlining
the dates and specific details. I urge all mums who would like
to be involved with the training, managing or coaching of ourplayers here at AISHK to come along. All levels of expertise are
very welcome. The Coaching Course is based on the Australian
Netball Associations 2009 Coaching Modules. I can guarantee
that it will be enjoyable, there will be laughter and our players
will benefit.
I encourage any parents who would like to offer their support
to come along on a Tuesday afternoon. We would appreciate
parental assistance for the first 40 minutes for the passing and
catching component of the program. For any additionalinformation please do not hesitate to contact me on my email
[email protected] or visit me in room 509 after school.
Mrs Joanne Reed
Netball Manager
Matilda and Jennifer Our supporters!
Jane and Michelle Coachand Manager of our U13s
Emus Netball Team
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Issue # 16.2009 four
Two very important aspects of the AISHK secondary
curriculum are community service projects and
participation in decision making forums, such as the
Student Representative Council and the Model United
Nations. In choosing to participate in either or both ofthese types of activities, at sometime during their time
at AISHK, students are better able to acquire the skills
and personal motivation which will enhance their
personal capacity to become active and engagedcitizens later in their adult lives.
Recognising that community service and student leadership are two key
characteristics of a quality school curriculum is essential, because togetherthey enhance individual students character development and their academic
skills, the latter in terms of expanding their understanding of social problems
and the role of civic action in providing solutions to such problems.
Some of these activities undertaken at AISHK are closely connected to the
formal curriculumfor example, measuring levels of pollutants in a local stream
in a science class or analysing waste management techniques in Hong Kong as
part of a geography course. While some other activities may have only a
tangential connection to schoolworkfor example, planting trees during ActivityWeek or cooking for the destitute as part of the CAS program. Irrespective of
the model employed, all activities must be viewed as worthwhile in themselves,primarily for the intrinsic value they bring to others e.g. tutoring local students
in English language skills.
Several studies in the US over last decade have identified the key role thatservice learning such as this can play in increasing students commitment to
community participation.
Evidence suggests school-based projects improved students civic attitudes
and school performance. Students reported increased interest in schoolwork,
greater understanding of the curriculum, and a greater sense of civic
responsibility.
Researchers concluded that when students had classroom learning opportunitiesspecifically designed to engage them in identifying and discussing social
problems, including controversies surrounding potential solutions, their
commitment to civic participation increased. Most studies emphasise theimportance of giving students a voice in defining or selecting projects and in
subsequent reflection and discussion.
Reading about democracy, decision making, negotiation, social issues and how
one may respond, are in reality poor substitutes for active participation in
real decision making and community service.
Any parent or community member interested in finding out more about these
types of learning programs on offer at AISHK are most welcome to contact theSecondary Division Office at the school for further details.
A reminder to parents of students in Year 8, this Thursday 4th June students
and parents are invited to attend an information session on elective options
for Year 9 2010. This session will be held in the School Auditorium from 6:30pm.
As always if you have any questions or concerns regarding these or any other
matters relating to the Secondary Division, please do not hesitate to contactme directly at the school.
Mr Phillip Waugh
Principal Secondary
Secondary Division News
Expressions of InterestAs part of our schools preparations for Year 10 and Year 12 external
examinations each year, we are required to appoint Test Supervisor(s) to oversee
the School Certificate, Higher School Certificate and IB Diploma
examinations.These examinations take place from approximately mid Octoberto the end of November.
For further details and registration of an Expression of Interest please contactthe Secondary Office of the school at your earliest convenience.
Thank you to those community members who have already indicated an interest
in offering their services for some of these positions, we will be in contactwith you shortly.
Presenters needed
Thank you to those
people who have kindly
volunteered to comeand talk to our students
about their careers.
We are still looking for a Doctor and/orNurse, Performing Artist and a Pilot.
If you know someone who could help, please
ask them to contact me at:
To the parents of Years 10, 11 and 12 students we encourage you to come along to our
Careers Night, if you are able to. It will
certainly generate some interesting
discussions with your son or daughter.
Mrs Penny Horton-Stephens
Careers Advisor
Careers NightTuesday 9th June
New-Look Electronic
DhanaraOur weekly newsletter, Dhanara, will come toyou in Term Three in electronic copy only. From
29th July, you will receive Dhanara every
Wednesday during term time, either via emailor by viewing it directly from the Schools
website.
Hard copies will no longer be distributed.
In order to receive Dhanara and otherinformation via email, parents who do notcurrently receive email notifications fromthe School need to send an email [email protected] with the followinginformation:
Subject: Communications
Your Name:
Your Child(rens) Name(s) and Grade(s):
Your Email Address:
From Term Three 2009, the Dhanara will be
published through the Development Office.
Any submissions for the school newslettershould be sent to Mr Alex Gibbs, Director of
Development and Community Relations at
[email protected], by Tuesday
midday.
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AISHK Parent AssociationWhats On in Term 2
Friday5thJune
YEAR9PARENTSHIKEUPTHEPEAK9:00
am
sharp
meeting
at
the
intersection
of
OldPeakRoadandTregunterPath
(wherefootpathstarts)Hikeends10:15amatPacificCoffee, PeakTower.ContactAngelaKatzfordirections:62593365
Friday5thJune
1KPARENTSLUNCHLetsgettogetherforlunch!
When:12:15pmafterYear1assemblyWhere:SimplyLifeBakery,FestivalWalk
thJune
AISHKPACOMMITTEEMEETING
8:30amLibrary,Level5All
Welcome!
Thursday11
thJuneAISHKPARENTFORUM
PastoralCareatAISHK:TheHomeandSchoolCollaboration7:30pmintheRehearsalRoom,2/FAISHKSpeakers:[email protected].
Friday12
thJune
AISHKTRIVIANIGHTFrom7:00pmatHebeHavenYachtClub
HiramsHighway,PakShaWan$500perpersonincludesdinnerandunlimiteddrinksTeamsof46tobesubmittedbyMonday8thJuneContactKeirThubronwithanyfurtherquestions
Friday19
thJune
YEAR7PARENTSURVIVALDINNERFrom7:30pmatWildfire
WorldTradeCentre,CausewayBayCost:$200perperson
Includes:4coursedinnerandservicetaxRSVP:DebbieChambersby13thJune
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