Dear Parents and students, This term is now coming to an end but there is so much more to be done in preparing the Year 12 girls for their final exams. I feel that there is more to be prepared for life beyond the confines of the College. I am saddened that the world we live in now is so filled with hatred in areas of the world which were the birth place of civilisation. The images of killing and assaults on the people of the region are covering the news reports on television and online. What would have been considered images of barbarism and not fit to be seen in our homes are now part of internet images and shown in the evening news. That there is any tolerance for acts of such violence is surprising and unbelievable. There should be voices raised from countries and communities who have values and beliefs which dictate love, compassion, hope and justice as that which is worth fighting for rather than fighting for power and suppression. In our country and in many others we are trying to teach our

children to accept religious difference and in this understanding there can be the possibility of peace. How does this relate to how our Year 12 girls graduate from our College in Potts Point? The girls are entering an adult world which can be harsh and judgemental. Their journey through university and work can be difficult when there is disappointment in a result or a course which isn't what it seemed before commencing. These are important issues and they relate to how girls have been prepared for the challenges of an adult life. Also, a good school will prepare young women to be world citizens and to be prepared to speak up for the oppressed and serve the poor. When our girls leave the College they have had an excellent education. They will face exams with dignity and confidence to meet the world with heads held high to begin the next phase of their lives. They should also be prepared to be well informed of the religious and political world into which they will live and so to make good choices and to be vocal champions of peace and of justice.

Important Dates:

11 September - Yr 12 Boarders Dinner and Concert

15 September - Year 12 Last Day

15 September - Yr 12 boarders Parent and Daughter dinner 6pm

17 September - Year 12 Formal

Monday 06 October - Labour Day Public Holiday

Tuesday 07 October - Classes Resume

Principal’s Message

Inside this issue:

Principal’s Message 1-2

Social Justice News 3-4

Director of Faith & Mission 4-5

Dir Teaching & Learning 5

Director of Welfare 6

Uniform Shop - Book Now 7

From the English Dept 8

From the HSIE Dept 9

From the Science Dept 10

US College Admissions 11

Careers News 11-14

From the Languages Dept 14

Performing Arts News 15

Gifted Education News 16-17

Recommended Reading 17

From the LRC 18-19

PDHPE/Sports Report 20-21

P&F Association News 22

P&F THANK YOU 23

REMINDER:

16 September - Year 12

Graduation

18 September - Last day

of classes

Date: 05 September 2014 Issue: 13

It is not enough to be well educated if that education doesn't make a difference to the those who are living with fear.

Women are the victims of conflict and war in a way that is demeaning and doesn't allow for them to determine their own future. There have been recent reports of women being used as the spoils of war and being 'sold' to pay debt or to be a trophy for the conquerors. This is not a recent phenomenon but a practice that has been seen in many decades of warfare. What is of concern is that today in this century it is still happening and it seems few voices are raised in outrage. This College has a proud history of ex-students who are vocal, intelligent and courageous women who raise the consciousness of others.

In the Catholic faith it is the model of Mary who inspires us to be courageous and faith-filled. She showed the greatest of love in accepting the responsibility to bear the Son of God and to be his loving mother. She was courageous in walking with Jesus in his youth and into his adult ministry encouraging him to do what he was destined to do. She knew that his life would be given to others and was there at the end of his days. Her devotion and strength has been an inspiration for millions of Christians and Catholics. She is heroic in following her beliefs and being strong for others.

For our girls as they graduate I pray that they will understand bravery takes on many forms and not always shouting the loudest or raising a fist in anger. It is sometimes quiet and persuasive with inspiration coming from the heart. This prayer of Mary comes from the small but powerful book called Evangelii Gaudium - The Joy of the Gospel written by Pope Francis. I hope that all of the girls but especially our Year 12's, take these words to their hearts to reach out to other young women who need this prayer of hope and love.

Mary, Virgin and Mother,

you who, moved by the Holy Spirit, welcomed the word of life in the depths of your humble faith:

as you gave yourself completely to the Eternal One,

help us to say our own “yes” to the urgent call, as pressing as ever, to proclaim the good news of Jesus.

Filled with Christ’s presence, you brought joy to John the Baptist, making him exult in the womb of his mother. Brimming over with joy, you sang of the great things done by God.

Standing at the foot of the cross with unyielding faith,

you received the joyful comfort of the resurrection,

and joined the disciples in awaiting the Spirit so that the evangelising Church might be born.

Obtain for us now a new ardour born of the resurrection, that we may bring to all the Gospel of life which triumphs over death.

Give us a holy courage to seek new paths, that the gift of unfading beauty may reach every man and woman.

Virgin of listening and contemplation,

Mother of love, Bride of the eternal wedding feast,

pray for the Church, whose pure icon you are,

that she may never be closed in on herself or lose her passion for establishing God’s kingdom.

Star of the new evangelisation, help us to bear radiant witness to communion, service,

ardent and generous faith, justice and love of the poor,

that the joy of the Gospel may reach to the ends of the earth,

illuminating even the fringes of our world.

Mother of the living Gospel,

wellspring of happiness for God’s little ones,

pray for us.

Amen. Alleluia!

Farewell to Mrs Evelyn Waygood - friend of our College

This week Mrs Waygood after more than twenty years here has resigned and will begin her retirement from the end of this term. Mrs Waygood was employed firstly as a Science teacher and then quickly was recognised as an intelligent leader who lived the motto of the College - Scientia cum Religione.

Mrs Waygood was a member of the leadership team for most of her time here where she brought humour and grace to heated discussions and philosophical debates. She has a sharp intellect which has many broad interests and she is still very enthusiastic about her own learning and that of others.

Mrs Waygood has a great sense of humour and can keep any group in peals of laughter with her stories of her own experiences and of life in general. She is generous with warmth and friendship.

Her legacy will be a strong commitment of the College to academic excellence; a deep and abiding faith which gives her strength in times of trial; a model of an intelligent and enquiring mind which doesn't accept any boundary of gender and the gift of laughter and love which will live on for this College for many years. We wish her well in the next part of her life and that she always knows that she is never far from the hearts and thoughts of this College.

In closing I would like to thank warmly all of the parents and the more than fifty staff who helped and attended the Spring Fair of the P&F. It was a beautiful day and the sense of community was visible. I know how much work went into this event and I would like to thank those who managed to create a fantastic fair for us all.

Regards,

Ms Fay Gurr

Principal

Principal’s Message (cont)

Page: 2 Issue: 13

The issue of refugees and asylum seekers in Australia consistently graces the headlines. Unfortunately there is a lot of misinformation and the real problems are often behind the headlines and are not commonly known to the general public.

As of 30 April 2014 there were 2,373 children in Australia’s immigration detention facilities or community detention. There are unaccompanied minors and children who witnessed the outbreak of violence on Manus Island in February. Many children are unable to contact families and therefore feel isolated.

1

Children who are released into the community after being in detention for a prolonged period are often delayed in their development, fall behind in school and suffer from mental and physical health issues. Those who are still in detention face a very real possibility of developing mental illnesses in the detention centre or exacerbating existing traumas as a result of their journey to Australia.

1 This is one of the real problems Australia is

facing and simply turning boats away is not the solution.

As a school community we need to be aware of the real issues and not simply take the glossed over version of what we hear or read. Most importantly, we need to raise awareness and do something about what we know. It is only with the empowerment of truthful knowledge can we gain any change in the way our society thinks as a whole.

It is a privilege to work with girls who are passionate about social justice issues and strive to learn more about these topics. Most importantly it is good opportunity for them to effect change in their community through fundraising and awareness campaigns.

1http://www.asrc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/Children-in-detention-May-2014.pdf

Ms Jessica Lee

Social Justice Coordinator

Daffodil Day

Our students were once again out in force at Martin Place, St James/Hyde Park and Kings Cross station on 22

August

to raise funds for the Cancer Council. We had a total of 120 students and this was one of the biggest group of volunteers I have had to organise in all the years we have participated. It was a wonderful morning as the rain stopped to allow the students to play their part. Our girls always represent the College proudly and their genuine excitement and enthusiasm as they sell the merchandise bodes well for the purpose of the day. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Ms Cheryl McArthur, Mr Ben Doyle, Ms Jenny McCarthy, Dr Chris Reynolds and Mr Niall Gilhooly in their willingness to give up their morning to supervise the students.

Student Volunteers at Martin Place

It was a very early start for some of us travelling far and wide to help aid a very worthy cause. Girls came from Cronulla to the Eastern Suburbs to help raise funds for curing cancer.

We collected our merchandise and set out to inform the public. Girls were spread out from Martin Place, to St James and to Kings Cross spreading awareness for this very worthy cause. We had many trips back to HQ to restock merchandise; many, many trips back. The public were overall extremely generous, with many giving large donations. Overall this was a great experience to raise money for a very important cause. All the girls had heaps of fun!!! And we even got to see the Channel 7 Sunrise crew do the ALS ice bucket challenge.

Grace Welsh and Trinity Sakr - Year 9 students

Eastern Area Outreach Luncheon

This term it was our turn once again to host the second lunch for our visitors from the Sisters of Charity Eastern Outreach program. A group of Year 10 students prepared a wonderful lunch for all to enjoy. Amongst the conversation, Bronte McIntyre and India Wyvill performed a beautiful duet accompanied by Liv Petersen on guitar, and Tess Stevens who ended up hosting rounds of rather intense games of bingo. Thank you to Year 10 for your involvement in this event, and especially to Brigid McManus who did a wonderful job of being MC for the day. I would also like to thank Sr Anne for always helping the students behind the scenes in preparing for the lunch, and Tmne Blair, the coordinator of the Eastern Outreach program, in preparing the students and organising the clients to visit our College.

On Wednesday 27 August some girls from Year 10 were lucky enough to host elderly guests for lunch. The girls set up chairs and tables in the College dining room and were able to cook all the food that was provided for the guests. We were able to talk with the guests and get to know them. We hosted three rounds of Bingo which everyone enjoyed, the winners all going home with large Toblerone chocolate bars. The Eastern Outreach Program also had a lucky door prize so even more guests went home with prizes. Overall I think that all the girls enjoyed the day and were able to do something that they normally wouldn't think of doing.

Brigid McManus , Year 10

Social Justice News

Page: 3 Issue: 13

175 Celebration of the Sisters of Charity

On 14 August in St Mary’s Cathedral the Sisters of Charity concluded their celebrations of the 175 year celebration of the pioneer sisters who travelled from Cork before arriving as the first female religious in Australia. Forty nine students helped celebrate the 175 year celebration of the Sisters of Charity in St Mary’s Cathedral on 14 August. The following students were involved (see some photos next page):

Acknowledgment of land - Alice Sheather and Taneeka Simon

Welcoming guests - Kodie Mason

Playing instruments - Olivia Petersen, Rebecca Raeside, Alana Thorne, Georgia Plantzos

Singing in a combined choir (with other students from Bethany and Bethlehem Colleges) - Molly Spalding, Grace Harding, Abbey Byrne, Kaelani Cowley, Phoebe Haylen, Sophie Burton-Clark, Annalise Hodge, Hannah Beiber, Bronte McIntyre, Charlotte Robertson,. Elisabeth Cary, Jacinta Mitchell, Caitlin Ryan, Georgie Bannister

Welcoming the gospel with indigenous dance: Mindy Hardy, Caitlin Loveridge, Kirsty Porter, Jasmine Holten- Woods, Kalarnna Hardy, Tyra Watts, Kaitlyn Leak, Paula Bassett, Sharna Morales, Raquel McGrath, Clarissa Arnold, Jess Tedim.

Mr James Paul (our Choir Master) excelled as co-musical Director for the Mass and I thank him for the many hours he spent working with the choir, musicians and teachers from other schools. A special thank you to Rodney Smith (co-musical Director) from St Vincent’s Hospital and Sr Linda Ferrington who invited us to be a part of the Mass.

The richness the students brought to the Mass was evident on the day and has been captured by the votes of thanks from people who attended on the day…

Thank you to all involved from the College yesterday. The participation of staff and students was much appreciated. The indigenous students were just wonderful and the choir and musicians superb. The solo student voices were so strong and I delighted in the gifts that those girls showed us they have. I was thrilled to see girls on the sanctuary as well...The Mass and celebration was a very fitting end to our 175.

Sr Elizabeth Dodds rsc - Director of College Board

There were numerous comments about your students and in particular the spirit communicated by the dance to accompany the Gospel. I received a phone call from a group of sisters who were watching the webcast and they especially wanted you to know that they thought your girls were magnificent.

Linda Ferrington rsc

Archbishop’s Award

Today I accompanied Miranda Phillips and Charlotte May to celebrate the presentation of the Archbishop Award for Excellence to Stephanie Roydhouse. We were thrilled to

be witness to Stephanie’s success. Her achievements were beautifully articulated by Charlotte:

Stephanie is an exemplary role model for her peers engaging in social justice, liturgical, co curricular and academic activities with verve and enthusiasm. She has been an altar server for her College and Parish community for five years and is a valued member of Caritas Christi, the College's social justice advocacy group. Stephanie encourages community involvement at many levels: from leadership of Tutor group and House activities to SRC tutoring and SVC Language Ambassador events. Stephanie continues her engagement with the Universal Church as an Extraordinary Minister and advocate of justice. Congratulations to Stephanie, we look forward to witnessing the great work she does for the universal church in the years to come.

Ms Rachel McLean

Director Faith Formation and Mission

From the Director of Faith & Mission

Page: 4 Issue: 13

As the Year 12 students near completion of their secondary schooling I would like to take this opportunity to reinforce some of the expectations that all students should continue to adhere to. While being a member of the College community it is important to stay true to the values that St Vincent’s holds so dearly. It can sometimes be the case that the focus turn to events and parties other than the gains that are still to be made in the remaining time. I spoke with Year 12 students after their Trial examinations and reminded them of the way that the HSC marks and ATARs are calculated. Simply put the HSC raw mark is the single biggest effect on the HSC result and as such means students that have not performed well in any internal assessment task to date can still perform well at the HSC; and my own daughter is testament to that. The key to fine results is not a secret, it is a combination of hard work and collaboration. Up to the Trials students are often seen as competing for ranks. Now that the internal ranking process is over, it is to everyone’s advantage if all students do well. I often say that there must be a student at selective schools ranked last but this does not prevent them from achieving a Band 6 result. I know that the St Vincent’s Year 12 candidates will perform well. I encourage them to use the talents within their cohort along with the assistance and good will of the staff still working hard to get that extra edge in preparation for the HSC.

Graduation

The Year 12 Graduation takes place on Tuesday 16 September at Randwick Racecourse. This is an opportunity to highlight the achievements of students in many areas of College life. In particular the Academic Prizes are recognition of excellence in the student’s studies. I have previously indicated that there is only one First in Course prize as long as students can be separated even if it is by a decimal place. Unfortunately, our reports and the Board of Studies will indicate ranks based on whole numbers and as such there may be more than one student appear as equal first but only one prize awarded.

Preliminary study into HSC

Year 11 students are now completing their final Preliminary examinations and I published a letter outlining the move into the HSC courses. All courses will commence their HSC work at the start of Term four including extension subjects. The letter outlines that students need to make an application to study an extension course. These applications will be looked only after the results of the preliminary examinations are finalised.

Year 10 Term 4

Year 10 students will have examinations early in Term four. This allows the College to implement a program called Parati which allows students to have experiences that will assist in their transition from Stage 5 thinking and working, into a more rigorous, mature and thoughtful approach that best suits the skills and expectations for Stage 6 success. More details will be made available closer to the time.

Mr Robert Graham

Director of Teaching & Learning

Director of Faith & Mission (cont) From the Director of Teaching & Learning

Page: 5 Issue: 13

At St Mary’s Cathedral

at the Sisters of Charity

175 year celebrations

Dear Parents and Students,

This week I emailed parents about changes to access to classrooms and hallways during the period of the building program. In that communication I outlined that for a week this term and a short time in term four students will not have access to lockers but rather will need to carry their belongings with them in their school bags.

The College has a short and long term plan to meet this need for locker storage. A delivery of new lockers is expected to arrive in the first half of Term four. In doing so, we will be disposing of all metal lockers. The new lockers will be installed in classrooms in Tarmons and A13/14, and in the long term, once the building program is completed, the lockers will be redistributed across the College. Where possible, lockers will be allocated relatively close to Tutor Group rooms. In the interim and while we are awaiting delivery and installation of new lockers, all students are required to bring what is needed for their school day in a St Vincent’s College school bag. The metal lockers in Garcia will be replaced for Term Four. I have asked students to ensure their lockers are emptied by key dates as outlined below:

Lockers in Canteen Undercroft and PDH area - by Friday September 5

Lockers in A Block and B Block - by Thursday September 11

Lockers in Garcia - by Thursday September 18

I outlined to the girls the following protocols which will be enforced in an effort to ensure the safe movement of students and staff, as well as the wellbeing of students and the security of their belongings. I am asking for your cooperation in assisting your daughters to pack wisely and lightly each day.

PROTOCOLS for BAGS

1. Pack lightly. Only bring what you need.

2. Bag is with you at ALL times including BREAKS.

3. In classrooms, bags are to be placed in the

designated area

4. In an evacuation, leave your bag in the designated

area.

Musical Instruments

Any girls with musical instruments which don’t fit into their bag have the option of storing it in the lockable store room which many students already use for their instruments. This room is in the Garcia building, opposite Practice Room 5.

PE Gear

I explained to students that on days when they need to bring their PE uniform, they may use their sports bag for the day rather than the school bag.

Textbooks

In packing lightly students have been advised to rethink how they organise themselves for this short time and to

access texts and other resources online where possible. Textbooks should rarely be expected at school. Teaching staff have all been briefed on these arrangements and know that electronic resources are to be used where available.

Exams

During Term Four, there will be junior exams (weeks three and four), the first HSC assessment block for Year 11 students (week 8) and the HSC exams for year 12 (from October 13 to November 5).

The builders will not be doing any demolition work until later in the year.

Since the Hall is unavailable, all examinations will be held in classrooms. The HSC exams will be in Tarmons classrooms and in the Rockwall Terrace, as was the case with the Trial HSC exams. These rooms are away from the building site. As was the case in 2013, the builders will be provided with copies of all exam timetables and they will adjust their work accordingly. We don’t expect there will be issues around noise during the period of the exams. The Tarmons rooms are air conditioned so windows can be closed to exclude noise.

Term Four Calendar

The restricted access during the time of the building program has meant that amendments have had to be made to College events in Term four, with some being cancelled, organised differently or merged with other events. Below I have outlined some initial information. Specific details for events will be provided as dates near.

Week 1: Leadership Commissioning Assembly. The commissioning of House Officers and the Student Leadership team occur in the Closing Mass (December 3)

Week 3: Year 10 exams – to be held in classrooms

Week 5: Years 7-9 exams – to be held in classrooms

Week 6: Dance Night – venue to be confirmed. This event may be cancelled

Week 7: Gifted Education Graduation – cancelled. Presentations will be made in Speech Night

Week 7: Performing Arts Awards Assembly – cancelled. Major awards will be presented at Speech Night

Week 7: Snippets Film Festival – held in MCR with tickets capped for capacity.

Week 8: Sports Awards Assembly – cancelled. Major awards will be presented at Speech Night

Week 8: Carols by Candlelight – held in Paved Area

Week 9: Closing Mass – to be held at St Mary’s North Sydney.

Ms Marina Ugonotti

Director of Welfare

From the Director of Welfare

Page: 5 Issue: 13

From the Uniform Shop

Page: 6 Issue: 13

Oratory

Following the annual St Vincent’s College Oratory competition held in week 3, class finalists then delivered their speeches in front of the whole form. I am delighted to announce the Year Group Oratory winners.

Congratulations to the Year Group Oratory winners:

Year 7:

Pippi Cullinan – Winner

Ciara Snelling - Runner Up

Year 8:

Juliette Harms - Winner

Ashley Abalajon - Runner Up

Year 9:

Conor Leslie-Keefe - Winner

Lili Braidner - Joint Runner Up

Stephanie Mano - Joint Runner Up

Year 10:

Isabel Holborow - Winner

Samantha Jones - Runner Up

The Oratory final will be held later in the term to determine the College Oratory Champion for 2014.

Ms Deborah Quigley

Head of English

From the English Department

Page: 8 Issue: 13

Year 7 Oratory

Finalists

Year 8 Oratory

Finalists

Year 9 Oratory Finalists

Year 10 Oratory Finalists

As part of our occasional Living History talks, a variety of students from Years 10 and 12 gathered in Tarmons to hear the story of Lena Goldstein. Now 95, Lena and her brother promised each other in the Warsaw Ghetto that one must of them must survive so that their story could be told after the war. Her parents, one other brother and his family and Lena’s boyfriend, had already been either sent to Treblinka death camp or had been killed attempting to escape. The brother with whom she made the pledge the night she left the Ghetto was later killed.

After

escaping the ghetto with the assistance of sympathetic guards, Lena, along with three others, was hidden in a bathroom for 18 months by a cooperative Pole who was also risking his life. When the war over-ran that hideout, Lena’s group of four along with five other Jews hid in a tidy underground bunker for six months while the war between the Nazis, Polish partisans and the advancing Russians raged above them.

After the war, Lena worked with a Jewish committee attempting to reconnect families after The Holocaust. In the process of this - and with an extraordinary stroke of luck - she managed to find her sister who was living in Russia. In 1949, Lena and her sister managed to emigrate to Australia. For her tireless work Lena was awarded recently an Order of Australia.

It was a privilege to share time with Lena Goldstein as she continues to keep the pledge she made with her brother.

Mr Jeff Lowndes

HSIE History Teacher

From the HSIE Department

Page: 13 Issue: 13

Lena with Modern History students School Co-Captains

Jody McPhee and Lucy Kenehan and Isabella Noon.

Science and the City!

Phoebe Armstrong (Year 11) successfully qualified for the Oxbridge ‘New York Experience’ program from June 29 to July 26 2014.

The New York College Experience is an academic program for students in grades 9-12 held at Barnard College in New York, NY. There are over twenty courses available, ranging from Contemporary American Culture, American Literature, and Economics and World History to Human Rights, Medical Science, Urban Planning, and Musical Theatre. Phoebe applied successfully for the Psychology (and Fine Arts) program.

The International faculty includes academics from top American institutions, and has guest speakers to represent the greatest minds of New York,

from the worlds of business, journalism, science, and beyond. Students enjoy a daily schedule that combines intellectual and cultural enrichment, activities and sports. In addition, students have the opportunity to learn about American colleges.

Phoebe reports her experiences:

Over my time at the College I have participated in various academic competitions, often with varying results. Despite much groaning and lamentation in previous years, I can now appreciate the value of these opportunities. These have included ICAS Science competitions in Years 7 to 10, Science IQ (a very loud group competition) and the USYD Gifted and Talented qualification test. Most significantly, I entered the 2013 Australian Brain Bee competition on Neuroscience, which led me to apply for a scholarship to New York for one month, to study Psychology and Fine Arts.

Although all of those extra exams, tests and quizzes were daunting, they opened me up to an astounding realm of knowledge and interest. The most important thing is not to worry about the Credits, Distinctions and High Distinctions, or even getting into the international round - but simply to absorb the experiences that you can. New York was a truly exceptional experience; each day a mist of colour, sound and constant activity.

The psychology course provided us with many amazing insights, both in and out of the lecture room. Besides conducting many classic psychology experiments, which investigated topics such as emotional lateralization, absolute thresholds for perceiving changes in a stimulus and hardiness of character, we were lucky enough to have guest lectures from experts in the area. These included Dr Rachel Annunziato, from Fordham University Department of Psychology and Jon Aaron, a mindfulness expert. We also had collaborative lectures with the Crime and Punishment class on criminal psychology, and analysed the technique of New Jersey’s infamous psychic Teresa Caputo in her reality TV show, Long Island Medium. The

most unique of these experiences was visiting The Living Museum in Queens, a part of the Creedmoor Psychiatric Centre. This space is dedicated to both presenting the art of the centre’s patients and providing them a safe space to produce this art. Not only did we see their incredible works but were taken on tours by the artists and witnessed their practice. This was incredibly insightful, and a rare opportunity to listen to the artists’ perspectives on their works. Several of the works featured the old straight jackets deserted by the hospital transformed into assertions of the patients’ rights and humanity.

Some prominent memories include the 4 July Mets

baseball game, the break-dancers using the subway as gymnastic equipment, rushing madly from museum to museum, and finding the old Ukrainian café Veselka (Rainbow) that my mum visited 30 years ago. Others include the mad whipping of the Subway turnstiles at rush hour, the peaceful Palestinian protest outside the UN headquarters against the Israeli siege on Gaza, and Insomnia Cookies; the local cookie delivery service (transported by roller-skates) utilised most heavily at 2am by the 500 program students occupying Barnard College. Most importantly, I met the most incredible, miscellaneous group of people, and now have friends in Palestine, Mexico, China, Belgium, Brazil, South Africa and the Dominican Republic, to name just a few countries.

Watching the World Cup Grand Final certainly had a fervent atmosphere. There is no way I could summarise such a delirious summer in one paragraph - it barely fit into one whole month. All I can do is rave excitedly until I run out of words about this most miraculous, once in a life-time experience for which I am truly grateful.

Students interested in participating in Science immersion programs both in Australia and overseas, should contact Dr Reynolds in the Science Department.

Dr Chris Reynolds

Head of Science

From the Science Department

Page: 14 Issue: 13

Group photo at final dinner

Students interested in US college admission

St Vincent’s has taken a leading role in preparing students for university study in the United States by becoming an official test site for all US standardized testing. This year, we will host the PSAT (practice SAT) for students citywide. We are the only school in Sydney to be providing this valuable opportunity; an important step for students who are considering pursuing their tertiary education in America.

The PSAT is the important initial test for interested students who intend to study abroad. The results are not reported to the schools where students apply in the United States unless their score identifies them as a “National Merit Scholar.” The PSAT gives students the chance to receive feedback about their strengths and weaknesses in order to prepare for the “real” SAT for college admissions.

The test will be administered on Saturday 18 October at 8.00am. The PSAT will last approximately three hours. It consists of three areas, Critical Reading (two 25 minute sections), Maths (two 25 minute sections, and Writing (30 minutes).

To register for the PSAT, please log on to http://www.trybooking.com/EHNE. Registration will close on 14 October or when the test seating is full. The demand for the PSAT has exceeded the capacity in the last several years, so early registration is encouraged.

Our College has also been approved to administer the SAT, ACT and Advanced Placement (AP) tests. Students can sit the ACT this year on 13 September, 25 October or 13 December, and sit the SAT exam on 11 October, 8 November or 6 December. To register for the ACT go to http://www.act.org and to register for the SAT go to http://www.collegeboard. The Advanced Placement tests will be administered in May 2015.

We recognize that advanced education is changing and that high school graduates are exploring many options. St Vincent’s is providing these opportunities to our students and to those from all over Sydney as we prepare Australian students for the opportunities in global education.

Ms Alanna Flint Learning Support Co-ordinator

A reminder to Year 12 that on time UAC preferences- for University courses commencing in 2015 - must be lodged by 30 September. Go to www.uac.edu.au/

undergraduate to lodge your preferences.

UNSW New degrees just added!: Nine new degrees have just been added to UNSW’s suite for 2015, including

two new law combinations. Check them out here: http://www.unsw.edu.au/future-students/domestic-undergraduate/getting-you-into-unsw/new-2015

UNSW New Bachelor of Life Sciences: This new degree will satisfy your students’ innate curiosity about life from the way things work at the molecular level, to the study of entire ecosystems. Find more information at www.science.unsw.edu.au/life-sciences

Applications are now open for entry to NIDA’s full-time

courses in 2015

A range of study options are on offer, including undergraduate Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees in Acting, Costume, Design for Performance, Properties and Objects, Staging, and Technical Theatre and Stage Management, Master of Fine Arts degrees in Directing and Writing for Performance, and a Vocation Education and Training (VET) Diploma of Musical Theatre. Applications close Tuesday 30 September. For more information and to apply visit www.nida.edu.au.

Bachelor of Dance (Performance) now offered at the

Academy of Music and Performing Arts.

From 2015 AMPA will be offering tertiary courses in Dance Performance alongside its music programs. Designed to equip and produce elite performers, choreographers and dance practitioners, these unique courses will focus on students achieving technical, creative and academic excellence in the practice of dance. Entry is by application and audition. All AMPA courses are Fee-Help accredited. Please visit the AMPA website for more: http://www.ampa.edu.au/index.php/current-students/dance-performance

Whitehouse Institute of Design Australia has opened

applications for 2015 courses.

Go to the website at http://whitehouse-design.edu.au/courses/bachelor-of-design/applicant-information.html for online application information for the Bachelor of Design - Fashion Design / Interior Design / Creative Direction and Styling; and to http://whitehouse-design.edu.au/courses/vet.html for downloadable enrolment information for Vocational courses. Applicant interviews will commence from Monday 22 September 2014. Contact Whitehouse on 1300 551 433 if you would like further information on these courses or the 2015 VET in School’s for Years 11 and 12 students.

AFTRS is now offering the following new courses: Intro to Film, which is 100% online; Core Radio Skills, also 100% online; Diploma on Digital Content (Radio); Diploma in Design for the Screen; Diploma in Factual Television Fundamentals; Diploma in Editing Fundamentals; Diploma in Camera Fundamentals; Advanced Diploma in Screenwriting: Feature Film; Advanced Diploma in Producing: Story, Audience, Finance; Advanced Diploma in Radio; Advanced Diploma in Music Scoring for the Screen; Advanced Diploma in Screenwriting: Series TV. For more information, phone 9805 6622 marketing@aftrs.edu.au

Careers News

US College Admission

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TAFEnow - TAFEnow’s Certificate II in Community Pharmacy and Certificate II in Animal Studies are great career starters that can be done online, together with a day a week work experience. Full details on pharmacy course at http://tafenow.com.au/sir20112#units or animal care course at http://tafenow.com.au/acm20110#units. Currently $267 a semester with Government subsidies. Talk to TAFEnow staff on 1300 823 669 for more information

HSC Study Preparation Opportunities HSC Stay and Study in the September Holidays at Macquarie University. Year 12 students, both regional and metropolitan, have the opportunity to stay on campus at Macquarie University in the upcoming September holidays to attend HSC Workshops. Accommodation is just $50/night with all meals included. For further details, please visit http://hscintheholidays.com.au/stay_and_study/ call 1300 677 336 or emailinfo@hscintheholidays.com.au

Free HSC tutoring and exam tips: ICMS and Aspire Institute will run free HSC tutoring sessions over five days from 22-26 September at our campus in Manly. The sessions will focus on Mathematics General and will be systematically structured to cover key subject outcomes. Designed specifically for Year 12 students, students will learn HSC exams tips and strategies to achieve their potential. Bookings are essential. RSVP to info@icms.edu.au or info@aspire.edu.au

OPEN DAYS

UNSW Open Day - Connect. Win, Experience UNSW: Come interact with the Live Video Wall during Open Day! Saturday 6 September. Plan your day at openday.unsw.edu.au .

Macquarie University’s Open Day Saturday 13 September 2014, 10am-4pm If you’re considering studying at university, visit Macquarie’s North Ryde campus on Open Day on Saturday 13 September 2014. At Macquarie you will not only acquire crucial skills for establishing a successful career, you will also have the opportunity to develop a global outlook, self-confidence and leadership skills to set you up for life. University life isn’t only about study. On Open Day you can meet current students and find out what life on campus is really like. Find out more at openday.mq.edu.au

Dunmore Lang College, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Sydney: Open Day Saturday 13 September from 10am to 4pm. Visit the College, tour the campus, meet the staff and students. Dunmore Lang College is an independent residential college affiliated with Macquarie University. The College provides a supportive living environment for both undergraduate and postgraduate Macquarie University students in a variety of accommodation styles. For further information contact admissions@dlc.nsw.edu.au or call 9856 1000.

Career's Day for future architects: Friday 12 September 10:00am-4:00pm. Years 10-12 school students are invited to come along and meet the four schools of

architecture - University of Newcastle, UNSW, University of Sydney and UTS and Sydney TAFE to hear all about the opportunities available to you in studying architecture. Venue: Tusculum, 3 Manning Street, Potts Point. This is a free event but participants must register online. Numbers are strictly limited.

The International Film School Sydney (IFSS) Open Day Saturday, 27 September 2014, 41 Holt Street, Surry Hills 10:00am-3:00pm. Learn about IFSS’ fully funded student productions, visit film and audio production studios with in-house RED ONE® and RED EPIC® digital cinema cameras, view a live scene in production, and speak to current students, lecturers and recruitment advisors! Learn all about gaining your Advanced Diploma or Diploma qualification in screen and media, cinematography, screen writing, directing and producing or even technical production. Register Now! http://ifss.edu.au/whats-happening/open-days-events Contact phone: 9281 2400 Email: info@ifss.edu.au

Actors College of Theatre and Television Open Day on Saturday 27 September 2014, 10am-3pm, 41 Holt Street, Surry Hills. See their brand new Surry Hills campus and learn more about what makes their acting, music theatre and stage management courses unique! During the Open Day you'll be able to join a drop-in acting workshop, find out about preparing for an audition, see actors on set in a production environment, participate in a Q&A with the Head of Acting on Eric Morris Methodology and speak to scholarship winners, current students, recruitment advisers and lecturers! Register NOW at http://actt.edu.au/events/open-days/ Phone 9213 4500 info@actt.edu.au

Australian Catholic University’s 2014 Open Days. With entertainment, food, campus tours, information sessions and a chance to chat to staff and students, they’re a great way to see what university life at ACU has to offer. North Sydney campus: Saturday 6 September, 8.30am-2.30pm Strathfield campus: Saturday 13 September, 8.30am-4pm For more information visit: life-less-ordinary.acu.edu.au

International Screen Academy Open Day - For students wanting to study film, screen acting or animation and finish a masters of their art. Get up close with students and teachers, discover how ISA will provide the training for your students to be innovative storytellers, find out all the information you need on courses, selection and applications. RSVP today! www.isasydney.com.au ISA Open Day, 20 September, 10am-2pm, 242 Young Street, Waterloo, phone 8399 3380.

Come along to the Australian Careers Business College Open Days, Liverpool - 22 September; Parramatta - 24 September; Wollongong - 26 September; where you can meet students, graduates, host employers and trainers. Discover how you can graduate in one year in Accounting, Business Admin, Child care, Information Technology, Marketing, Legal Services or Tourism with: A nationally recognised qualification, work experience in your

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chosen field, up to one year of Subject Credits at Uni. For more information, or to register your interest in attending, call 1300 COLLEGE or visit www.acbc.nsw.edu.au/openday

more information and how to apply, visit: http://www.sydney.edu.au/scholarships/prospective/hsc_ib.shtml

AFTRS OPEN DAY - Saturday 6 September, 10am-4pm. AFTRS annual Open Day is a chance for students to find out about the brand new BA in Screen, one of the new tertiary courses on offer for 2015, or the broad range of short courses which run throughout the year. Students can check out AFTRS state-of-the-art facilities, talk to AFTRS staff about study options and find out how to prepare their application. September 6, 10am-4pm, AFTRS, the EQ, Moore Park, Sydney. For details visit the AFTRS website http://www.aftrs.edu.au/events/aftrs-open-day .

SCHOLARSHIPS The University of Sydney is excited to launch a new holistic and comprehensive undergraduate scholarship for high achieving students: The Sydney Scholars program. Sydney Scholars will receive more than just financial support; the program is designed to provide talented undergraduate students with access to leadership programs, mentoring, internships, priority accommodation, alumni and employer engagement and many more individually tailored opportunities. A full suite of Sydney Scholar benefits will be implemented over the next two years. For more information and how to apply please visit: http://www.sydney.edu.au/scholarships/prospective/hsc_ib.shtml

RAS FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS for 2015 ACADEMIC YEAR NOW OPEN CALLING FOR APPLICANTS - Since 2011 the RAS Foundation has provided over 180 scholarships in NSW students to fulfill their educational goals helping them achieve their potential, providing regional and rural NSW with a more vibrant and sustainable future. The RAS Foundation are looking for students who require financial support, love to give back to their community and want to make rural and regional NSW more resilient and dynamic! Rural Scholarships are targeted at a tertiary level - TAFE, VET courses and university. For more information visit: http://www.rasnsw.com.au/rural-scholarships-.htm Applications close 30 September 2014.

Full Tuition Scholarships for Bachelor of Business - S P Jain is offering Full Tuition Scholarships to students joining its unique tri-city Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program. The scholarships cover the tuition costs (valued at $92,150 each), and are available to students with an ATAR score of 85 or higher. The admissions team also considers other academic achievements as well extracurricular accomplishments. For more information or expressions of interest, please email admissions.syd@spjain.org . Applications close on 24 September, 2014.

Advertising Scholarship for Creative Thinkers:

Macleay College is now accepting entries for its Advertising Scholarship worth $26,000. Students who can demonstrate exceptional creative thinking and/or organisational skills should apply as soon as possible. Potential advertising students can also sit in on classes during school holidays. https://www.macleay.edu.au/future-students/scholarships-financial-assistance

Early Entry Schemes

School Recommendation Schemes ( SRS)

SRS is one way institutions make early offers to Year 12 students. The following nine institutions will be participating in SRS in 2014-15: ANU, Charles Sturt University, La Trobe University, Macquarie University, Southern Cross University, University of Canberra, University of New England, University of Technology, Sydney, University of Western Sydney.

Students who wish to apply for Early Entry need to visit www.uac.edu/srs. Applications close on

TUESDAY 30 SEPTEMBER at midnight.

Please contact Ms Marshall at the College if you have

any queries about SRS.

ACU’s Early Achievers Program (EAP) is open to all future undergraduate students. Designed to attract candidates with strong community values and leadership potential demonstrated through volunteer work, successful applicants have a reduced ATAR requirement and receive an offer well ahead of usual tertiary admission notifications. Application is online and open now. Applications close: 20 October. For more info or to apply visit: acu.edu.au/eap.

Educational Access Scheme

EAS is a scheme administered by UAC to acknowledge students who have been disadvantaged by circumstances such as: personal illness; illness of a family member; financial hardship; family breakdown; distance education and home environment and responsibilities. Students need to check the EAS booklet on the UAC website and complete an EAS application form if they are eligible. Applications normally require documents of support to substantiate any disadvantage suffered. Students who are successful with their EAS application may receive up to 5 Bonus Points. On time EAS applications close on 30 September 2014.

Visiting Academics

Students and parents interested in finding out more about studying in the UK AND the USA should avail themselves

of the following opportunities:

Professor Milgate from University of Cambridge will be speaking at Cranbrook School about the entrance procedure to Cambridge, and to answer questions about Oxbridge applications. The details are:

Date: Monday, 8 September

Time: 4pm register for a 4.30pm start. It should not take longer than half an hour and then Professor Milgate will take questions. Professor Milgate will talk about the secrets of applying to Oxbridge - Cambridge specifically -

Careers News (cont)

Page: 7 Issue: 13

and what is needed from a candidate.

New York University will be also be at

Cranbrook. Date: Tuesday 16 September

Time: 4pm register for a 4.30pm start. It should take approximately half an hour and then the visiting academic will take questions. The focus on the talk will be about how to apply to NYU, as well as topics like higher education in the United States and the application process, how admissions committees in the US select applicants and financial aid for international students. Registrations are essential and should be done as soon as possible. Register by contacting:

David Berridge | Careers Counsellor, 5 Victoria Road, Bellevue Hill NSW 2023 Office: 9327 9439 | Fax: 9327 9537 Email: DBerridge@cranbrook.nsw.edu.au

Web: www.cranbrook.nsw.edu.au

2014 / September Information Sessions

US Consulate General Sydney, Level 10, MLC Centre, 19-29 Martin Place, Sydney. sydney@educationusa.info Telephone 9373-9230

EducationUSA will be holding information sessions during the September school holidays. RSVP is essential at www.trybooking.com/89936 (copy and paste to your browser). Details are as follows:

1. US Undergraduate Information Session + Sport

Scholarship Information Session

Date: Monday, September 22, 2014

Time: 1:30pm for 2:00pm-4:00pm

Location: EducationUSA, US Consulate General, Level 10, MLC Center, 19-29 Martin Place, Sydney

Intended Audience: High school students aiming to compete in NCAA college sport + parents.

RSVP: www.trybooking.com/89936

Other Information: A free general information session on the US undergraduate application process and NCAA eligibility process. RSVP is essential by Wednesday 17 September (Note: Places may be filled before the RSVP deadline). NCAA sponsored sports are listed under the sports tab at: http://www.ncaa.com/.

Note: Men’s rowing is not an NCAA designated sport.

- Photo ID is required for entry to the Consulate.

Ms Helen Marshall

Careers Adviser

The articles for this bulletin largely focus on the achievements of the Year 8 Language classes.

Gold winner of the Language Perfect World

Championships

In May all Language students took part in the Language Perfect World Championships and Kaila Famiglietti was the

only St Vincent’s College student who attained a gold level certificate as well as winning an iPod shuffle. Kaila, we are all very proud of your achievement.

As a school we received; Silver, Bronze and Credits. Students will have received these certificates in their Languages classes.

Spelling for St Jude’s!

Term 3 has been very busy for Year 8 with our annual Spelling Bee to raise funds for not only for Dainess Abel, but also Manti Kombo and Kadada Laizer, who are students at St Jude’s in Tanzania.

For the competition students had a choice of learning 80, 50 or 35 words in either French, German or Italian. They then sought sponsorship for each word spelt correctly. Stay tuned to find out which students spelled most words correctly and who collected the most funds. Special thanks goes to Language Perfect who sponsored this event by donating $200. All payments are due by 5 September and all girls will be issued with a receipt with the amount of money they raised. Thank you for sponsoring our Year 8 students.

Family Assessment tasks

Look at how creative our St Vincent’s girls are - Year 8 students completed a speaking and writing assessment task based on vocabulary relating to family members, hobbies and past times. Girls, your work has been impressive and your teachers can’t wait to read your works of art.

Language Ambassadors:

Thank you to all students who applied for this exciting leadership opportunity. We had many worthy candidates and the decision was difficult. The Languages Department is proud to announce our new Language ambassadors:

For French is Chloe Malmoux-Setz and Isabel Nacson; Italian is Kaila Famiglietti and Rachel Iorfino; and German is Marie Sfinas and Domenica Crosby. The important role of a Language ambassador is to promote Languages and we thank out-going Year 12 students Stephanie Roydhouse, Alexandra Ochigavia, and Sarah Blencowe (currently on exchange in Berlin) for their contribution throughout 2014.

Ms Charmaine Forbes

Languages Teacher

Careers News (cont)

From the Languages Department

Page: 7 Issue: 13

Kaila Famiglietti

Sally Gerrard with her

sponsorship money

German family album

Spring Fair This year’s Spring Fair performers were really fantastic. They sang and played music representing a variety of styles and eras that appealed to the audience which included everyone from toddlers to teachers.

The programme started with the Choir followed closely by Glee and Ukulele ensemble. Then we had solos, duets and small ensembles followed by the Rock band, Wind ensemble and Jazz Ensemble to entertain us. Wind ensemble also performed for the customers of the chicken and champagne stall in front of the Garcia building.

Congratulations to all the students for their wonderful performances and a big thank you to the P&F and all the volunteers who organized our stage with the marquee; the students really loved the 'stage' feel and it improved the sound quality immensely not having any wind effecting the microphones. I would also like to thank the ensemble tutors and our Music teachers Mr James Paul - choir and Glee, Mr Evan Guy - wind ensemble and jazz ensemble, Mr Simon Figliuzzi, Rock Band, Miss Julianna Wick - ukulele ensemble and Year 9 Music teacher, and Ms Coates Year 10 Music teacher, for their efforts in selecting music, rehearsing and teaching skills that supported the students skills and confidence on stage on Sunday. Also, for attending and helping set up, conducting and even performing with our students. Their generosity, enthusiasm and amazing musical talent helped make the day a big success.

Ms Catherine Johnson

Head of Performing Arts

From the Performing Arts Department

Page: 9 Issue: 13

Next week will see the end of an era for our Year 12 students as they complete their 13 years of schooling and begin earnest preparation for their final examinations. It has been a pleasure to work with a number of these girls for their final two years and I wish them all the very best as they go off to pursue their life beyond the classroom.

Life continues at a pace at the College. Three students competed at the Sydney Philosothon earlier this week and a report on their experience will feature in the final Bulletin for this term. Next week there will be a lunchtime presentation for Years 9, 10 and 11 students from Phoebe Armstrong and Isobel Manion, two Year 11 students who will speak to interested girls about their experiences this year of tertiary study in Sydney and New York. I will be in attendance providing information sheets on the various tertiary study options available in Sydney for students who have completed Year 10 and also information about how to apply to complete the testing required for enrollment in overseas study options (the PSAT, SAT and ACT). This presentation coincides with the need to complete applications or register for these opportunities and will be a very good opportunity for students to hear from their peers about the experiences, the challenges and the benefits of early tertiary study and overseas learning opportunities. Students are urged to listen to the morning administration notices or contact me on the email address below for details of when and where the presentation will be.

Next term there are several events for gifted students in the first few weeks. As mentioned previously, in the first week of the term nineteen Year 8 students will meet with students from Christian Brothers’ School at Lewisham to participate in a half day of lively philosophical discussion. The following week selected Year 9 students will attend the King’s School for a day of discussion and debate about various ‘Confronting Concepts’. To be selected by the college to attend, students have been asked to submit a speech to me by Wednesday September 3, on one of the many topics available. The content and presentation of these speeches will be judged over lunchtime on Monday and Tuesday, September 8 and 9. Participating students will be involved in selecting the best speaker to represent the college at the event and the next best seven speakers of the group will attend as audience members, adjudicators and discussion participants. Confronting Concepts Day is based on the annual Festival of Dangerous Ideas and it is an electrifying experience, with students speaking eloquently and powerfully on topics of genuine concern to themselves and their peers. Teachers facilitate and supervise the day but the entire content of the day is student driven.

During week 3 of Term 4 eight students from Years 7-10, with specific talents in the areas of Mathematical Problem Solving, Debating, Chess, Engineering, Music Composition, Poetry, Film Making and Philosophical Thinking, will have the opportunity to work with like-minded students from seven other schools at the annual Belles and Beaux Creative Collaboration Day to be held at Moriah College this year. Ms Julianna Wick from the College will accompany the students and will be responsible for

facilitating the work of the students involved in musical composition, with various teachers with specialized knowledge from other schools, taking responsibility for the other student groups. On the same day I will be accompanying a group of Years 7 and 8 students to State Parliament to be part of the Young Justice Program (previously the Justice Leadership Conference) which is hosted by the NSW Young Lawyers.

As you may recall, earlier this term a team of Years 7 and 8 students attended the GATEway 8 Academic Gala Day at Macarthur Anglican School. To follow is a brief report on the day completed by participating students:

The GATEway8 day was a very memorable and enjoyable experience, and we had the opportunity to mingle with other schools from all around Sydney, the Southern Highlands and the South Coast area competing and working on creative solutions to complex tasks. Each session we were presented with two challenging and fun activities involving musical composition, English, Science, Languages, Mathematics and Design and Technology. It was our very first time attending the day and we didn’t really know what to expect. We won the final round but finished in last place overall. Despite that, we had a lot of fun completing the challenges and we learned more about how to work well as a team and how to manage our time effectively.

The whole day was a very challenging, interesting and beneficial experience and we were very appreciative that we were able to participate. We all thought that it was wonderful to have such easy access to technology through the apps and software on the Apple Macs and iPads that were supplied by the College to complete all the challenges. Unfortunately all the solutions that we created were uploaded electronically and we were not able to keep copies. As well as being challenging in specific subject areas, the tasks helped us build on our ability to manage time in a pressurised situation. During the day we participated in many different activities, the language one was interesting and very challenging as we had to plan and teach a lesson on an indigenous language. One school completed the lesson in the form of a rap song, while another team made up a game for a class to play. A favourite activity was the Design and Technology task where we had to make an iPad stand out of an A3 sheet of paper, using nothing but folding techniques; St Vincent’s College came first in that challenge. Other tasks were very intriguing such as trying to understand the Babylonian

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counting system. We had the opportunity to display and share our skills and talents and it was a great opportunity to work closely with like-minded people on a range of difficult but fun activities. Overall it was great bonding experience for all the team members.

Contribution from; Bronte Funnell, Georgia O’Dea, Madison Durham, Sally Gerrard, Tilda Njoo, Sophia Fitzgerald, Charlotte Burton-Clark and Sidney-Morgan Mulholland.

Ms Cheryl McArthur

Gifted Education Coordinator

mcarthurc@stvincents.nsw.edu.au

Reading Anne Fine’s novel, Blood Family, reminded me not to judge a book by its title. I made the foolish mistake of assuming it would be about dreary vampires and kept passing it by. However, I suddenly remembered that Anne Fine was the author of the splendid, gloomy The Road of Bones.

Chastened, I borrowed it and could not put it down. Eddie and his traumatised mother live as prisoners of a monstrous, violent man. When a neighbour can no longer endure what is going on, she complains to the police and social services again and again until action is taken. Lucy disappears into a hospital and Eddie is first fostered by a lovely older couple and then adopted by another couple who have one adopted child and want one more to complete their family. Happy ending? Not really. Eddie is counselled and advised but he wants to forget his past. He seems to be doing very well academically but then in the final year of school, there is an awful incident on a school outing to a university. He has had to already accept that the brutal man was his natural father but now he finds that he is beginning to look like him. He becomes self-destructive and addicted to alcohol, finally running away and living rough. This is an excellent book about the long term effects of abuse and the horror of drug addiction.

In an earlier review I was snarky about Rainbow Rowell’s name, and then repented my snarkiness because the book, Eleanor and Park was so very good. Another of her novels, Fangirl was not quite so appealing although I did learn a great deal about this genre. One of twins, Cath, writes a hugely popular fanfiction blog based on an incredibly popular series of

books about young magicians not called Harry Potter. Cath and her sister, Wren, have just started university and Wren is determined to experience of much as Life as possible. Cath is much more timid and prefers to hide in her room reworking the stories

of Simon Snow. She imagines other adventures for her hero and posts them in her blog. However, her Professor of English regards this as plagiarism and fails her work. Cath accepts this blow because she is so lacking in confidence, she feels she cannot argue her point of view. A series of crises: the reappearance of a mother who left the family when the girls were eight, their father’s lapse

when he stops taking his medication for his bi-polarity and Wren being rushed to Emergency with alcohol poisoning, force Cath to emerge from her comfortable cocoon and begin to deal with the real world. This reality includes real boys and real friendships. I did like parts of this book very much but the Simon Snow parts were somewhat tedious. Obviously, I am too old for Harry Potter imitations.

It is 2014 in Berlin. Adolf Hitler comes to consciousness in a piece of wasteland. He struggles to his feet and tries to find his bearings. He is concerned about the rather dishevelled state of his uniform and troubled by severe head pain but courageously struggles on. So begins Timur Vermes’ satirical novel Look Who’s Back. In Germany where it is a criminal offence to give the Nazi salute, the publication of the book was greeted with shock and discussion. Some reviews have criticised the novel for being dull. Partly because it is translated, there are slow moments but, just as my attention would begin to waver, some appallingly hilarious comment would be made and I was once more enthralled. Hitler is taken in by a kind newspaper seller and then discovered by a television production company who assume he is a fanatical method actor rather than a mere fanatic. He plans to re-take Germany through his celebrity status and sets about reforming the country he sees as needing rescuing from “the old trout”, Angela Merkel, over-casually dressed people and the permanently ear-budded young. Some of the satire is predictable; however, it is unsettling to read some of Hitler’s monologues where his premises are insane but his arguments logical. And you stop giggling on the last page when he announces his new slogan which will once more give him total power: “It wasn’t all bad.”

In the Afterword of Dandelion Clocks, Rebecca Westcott lists some of her favourite authors. It is no surprise that John Green is one on the list. Her novel is about death, but the death of a parent of young children. The book begin with the narrator’s deep embarrassment at being discovered by her mother when she is waiting to have her ears pierced in a trendy shop. Outraged, her mother has hauled her out of the boutique but not before making a loud and public scene. Olivia comes from a noisy family of four, including her older brother who has Asperger’s Syndrome. The noise suddenly stops when a family conference is called. Excruciatingly, Olivia assumes that a trip to Disneyland is to be announced. Instead, Isaac and Olivia are told that their mother has cancer. How the family adapts - and does not - at times makes up the rest of the book. The author controls the emotions beautifully so that the story does not dip into mere sloppiness. She shows how people can react well and badly to such reality, how the people on whom you assume you can rely sometimes are not there, and that support can come from surprising places. This is an excellent book on the topic of death, one of the topics we like to pretend we do not need to consider.

Ms Suzanne O’Connor

English Teacher

Recommended Reading

Gifted Education (cont)

Page: 11 Issue: 13

During the Book Week the LRC hosted two events, one for students and another for parents and staff, both on 20 August. Our guests were Justine Larbalestier who talked with students about her new book Razorhurst and four panellists who participated in the discussion on the topic Connect to Reading. At the end of the week, we announced winners of the Talent for Reading challenge.

Justine Larbalestier’s visit

Members of the Literature Club and Wordly, avid readers and budding writers, had a wonderful opportunity to hear about the writing process from a well established author. Justine Larbalerstier is the author of the Magic or Madness trilogy, How to Ditch Your Fairy and Liar, which won the YA Western Australian

Premier's book award, the YA Sisters in Crime Davitt Award and was shortlisted for the CBCA Older Readers award, among many other honours. Justine also holds a doctorate in English literature. She edited a scholarly

collection of science fiction in the twentieth century, Daughters of Earth.

Justine’s most recent novel, Razorhurst, is set in the underworld of Darlinghurst in the 1930s. Justine explained to students how characters of her book, humans and ghosts, evolved from her research. Ghosts were there first, Justine said. It was very interesting to hear that usual writing advice to start from personal experience and short stories doesn’t work for this author. Justine encouraged students to explore what’s the best approach for them. “How writing is taught and done are totally different things,” she said. A very engaging talk was followed up by students’ questions and signing of her books.

Panel Discussion Connect to Reading

This is the third year that the LRC has organised a panel

discussion during the Book Week. This year we decided to

keep the theme of the Book Week, Connect to Reading, as

the topic of our panel discussion. This topic invites

reflection on how we connect with reading in our busy daily

lives and how reading connects with our life experiences.

Four guest speakers considered the topic from different

perspectives covering a wide range of issues from brain

science, reading dance as a language and the process of

creative writing - to promoting literacy and love of reading

among teenagers and adults. The panellists participated in

a lively discussion with the audience.

Karen Pearlman, lecturer from Macquarie University, presented a talk entitled Multi-Modal Reading - seeing, hearing, feeling and understanding the world. Karen discussed points from the brain science and her experience as an academic, dancer and mother to bring together concepts of reading and connections.

From the Learning Resource Centre

Page: 16 Issue: 13

Justine Larbalestier

explains the origin

of characters in her

book

MANY THANKS TO OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES:

POTTS POINT BOOKSHOP FOR ORGANISING

JUSTINE LARBALESTIER’S VISIT

GYPSY ESPRESSO FOR GIFT DONATIONS

Cheryl Akle, Karen Pearlman and Andy Kissane

Andy Kissane, a poet and fiction writer, started by reading his poem It begins with darkness from his latest book of poetry, the Radiance. Andy talked about his work as a writer and read an excerpt from the story Good rubbish about children workers.

Suzanne O’Connor, English teacher from the College, discussed nurturing of the next generation of readers, and a selection of books to expand minds and souls of young women.

Cheryl Akle, the director of a national collaborative project love2read and the Get Reading campaign, Australia's largest annual literacy program, discussed initiatives to reach adult readers from publishing and marketing perspectives.

Recordings of the four talks are available from the LRC website http://www.stvincents.nsw.edu.au/learning/learning-resource-centre/for-the-community/evenings-with-writers/

Talent for Reading Winners

Congratulations to Charlotte Burton-Clark (Year 8) and Hannah Lawrence (Year 7) for winning the reading challenge. Hannah read the most - 49 hours or almost 3 hours a day during the challenge! Charlotte won by adding a couple of reviews on Destiny in addition to her most impressive reading time.

Congratulations to Williams House for earning the most House points!

New issue of Wordly

The College literary magazine was published in the last week of August. The magazine, full of poems, stories, reviews and even a bookish zodiac, is written and edited by students. Editor-in-chiefs of this issue, Isabel Holborow and Maisie Watkins, both in Year 10, have done an excellent job with ample help of other

students in the Wordly club. Editors of the next issue, India Wyvill (Year 10), and Tilda Njoo and Elysse Choy from Year 7, are already planning the next issue. Wordly is always welcoming new members. “Sometimes you choose the Wordly magazine and other times the Wordly magazine chooses you”, say Bel and Maisie.

Families who received the Bulletin by mail recently have found the latest issue of Wordly in the package. Students can take a print copy from the library and electronic copies are available from http://www.stvincents.nsw.edu.au/learning/learning-resource-centre/clubs-and-celebrations/wordly/

The girls in Wordly and I all hope you’ll enjoy reading.

Dr Suzana Sukovic

Head of the LRC

From the LRC (cont)

Page: 16 Issue: 13

Ms Suzanne O’Connor

Hannah Lawrence

Charlotte Burton-Clark

Wordly editors India, Bel and Maisie with Dr Richard James Allen

Year 10 Excursion: bstreetsmart - Youth Road Safety

Forum

On Tuesday 19 August all Year 10 of St Vincent’s College went to the B-Smart function on car safety. It was at Acer Arena with a lot of other schools, but I’m sure all of us were deeply affected by the entire day.

First of all we were met with an entire live action re-enactment of the after effects of a car crash related to drink driving. Thanks to the actors were covered in fake blood, trapped in cars or lying still on the pavement, I’m sure it struck with everyone watching. Real police cars, ambulances and fire trucks were driven onto the scene and dealt with every issue presented to them. It was pretty strange to watch. After that we listened to many victims of car accidents that are now suffering with paralysis, loss of limb, brain damage or trauma. This also included a speech from a mother, whose dying 9 year old daughter received a liver transplant from an organ donor hours before her life was predicted to end. I’m pretty sure everyone lost it when we saw that daughter, now aged 22, walk on stage with her own baby girl.

Overall a lot of the information and advice of that day I’m still taking into account three whole days after the excursion took place. I’m really glad I was able to be part of such an amazing convention.

Maisie Watkins, Year 10

Sports Co-ordinator: Ms Jacinta Jacobs 0418 416 663

Sport details: www.stvincents.nsw.edu.au

Click on Beyond the Classroom/Sport/ then choose Sport of choice. For all draw and venue information please visit this website.

IGSSA ATHLETICS

The 91st Annual IGSSA Athletics Carnival was held at SOPA, Homebush on August 22 and our small team placed 17

th overall out of the 27 Independent Girls Schools.

Even better, we won Division 3 - for the second year in a row!

Our girls made twelve finals. The following girls in particular should be congratulated for making the finals:

Shea Donohoe - 12 years 800m

Riby Fifield - 13 years, 200m and Hurdles - 3rd

Isabel di Paolantonio – 14 years, 100m - 3rd, and 200m - 2nd

Stephanie Augoustis – 12 years, 100m

Jaylyn Tighe-Davison – 17 years Shot Putt

Samantha Kiss – Junior High Jump

Gabby Fagan – Intermediate 400m

Bianca Wallace – 12 years Shot Putt

Winnie Gruzman – 17 years Long Jump

Junior Relay – Isabel Di Paolantonoio, Mia Gastelaars, Stephanie Augoustis, Ruby Fifield

The whole team showed great St Vincent’s spirit on the day, and were well supported by the Year 9 PASS classes with Ms Fletcher and Mr Bradley leading the cheers. Thank you for your support.

From the PD/H/PE Department

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The above scene is a dramatization of a road accident

Sport Report

NETBALL

SEMI FINALS and FINALS: Semis will be held at various venues on Saturday 6 September. Finals follow on Saturday 13 September.

St Vincent’s has fifteen teams in

the semi-finals which is a great accomplishment. Well done girls, coaches (and parents for travelling all over Sydney!). The semi finals and finals draw is now available on the College website and on the Sports noticeboard. Good luck to all teams. Play hard, play fair, have fun.

General Semis and Finals Rules: Semis will be based on results at the end of the rounds and will be played as follows; first vs fourth; second vs third.

A player must have signed on for three games to take part in a semi-final or final in that team.

A player who has signed on for three games in that team, but not played in the semi final, is still eligible for the final.

A player may only play for one team in the semi-finals and finals.

SPRING FAIR: After three games of netball all players were still smiling and enjoying the fun in the sun. Netball at the Fair included Dads vs Daughters game, Joey’s vs junior girls and Scots vs senior girls. Thanks to Kelsey Tobin, Year 12 netball captain, who assisted with great umpiring; to the seniors who were so helpful in motivating the young Year 7 boys plus playing many games.

Hockey: The hockey season for Term 3 wrapped up last weekend with all teams unfortunately being washed out for the last two weeks. Even though no teams made it into the finals all the girls should hold their heads up high as they have all shown great commitment to both trainings and games and have improved immensely throughout the weeks. With great teamwork all teams were able to play some beautiful hockey on the field that made watching the games extremely enjoyable.

Hannah (SVC 2 coach), Steph (SVC 3 coach) and I would like to thank and congratulate the girls on this season. We would also like to thank the parents for all of their support, encouragement and help throughout the two terms, particularly Term 3.

We hope that all of the girls had fun this season and we

hope to see everyone again next year.

Corinne Rochester - Head Hockey Coach

TENNIS LESSONS AND CARDIO TENNIS

Tildesley Tennis Trials - Any tennis players interested in trialing for the prestigious three day tournament held in March next year who missed the trials on Monday 1 September, are to come to a second trial on Monday 8 September at the College tennis courts 3.30pm-5.30pm. A squad of singles and doubles players will be chosen.

Term 4 Sports Trials: Term 4 Sports trials have been held for Basketball, Volleyball, Water Polo, Futsal and Touch. Over 320 students are playing sport in Term 4. Team lists have been displayed on the SPORTS NOTICEBOARDS. Please check to see your name has been included as many girls did not attend trials. See Ms Jacobs as soon as possible with any problems.

Sports Photos Day

Sports photos for Term 3 teams plus Term 4 teams are to be held TUESDAY 9 September. Please wear your full College uniform, including blazer. The roster will be up on the sports notice board as soon as finalised and also in admin announcements. Students are responsible for making sure they get to their photo on time.

Sports Stars: Is to make the College community aware of some of the exceptional athletes in the College. If your daughter has represented her state or country recently in her chosen sport, please send us any results, photos or blurbs on their performance. Please send to jacobsj@stvincents.nsw.edu.au

CONGRATULATIONS to Stephanie Augoustis, Year 7, Isabel Di Paolantonio, Ruby Fifield, Year 8, and Samantha Kiss, Year 9, who have all been selected in the IGSSA athletics team to compete at the NSWCIS Championships at Homebush on Wednesday 17 September. Isabel placed second in the 14 years 200m and third in the 100m. The whole athletics squad is to be congratulated on their recent win at of Division 3 at the IGSSA Carnival.

Ms Jacinta Jacobs

Sports Co-ordinator

Sport Report (cont)

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“ONE PERFECT DAY” St Vincent’s College Spring Fair

Sunday 24 August 2014

Thank you to everyone who participated in the 2014 Spring Fair! All bakers, makers, money counters; all packers and wrappers, prize donors, coordinators and stall volunteers; all photographers, netballers and performers; all college staff, families, friends and neighbours who helped in some way or just came along to see and take part.

On the day of the fair we had flawless fine, springtime weather - which was most welcome but curious, given the week of rain that preceded it and the non-stop rain that followed it! Thanks to all involved, this year’s Spring Fair made $21,000 profit, which will go towards future College projects.

Thank you to all the parents who came to our fair committee meetings throughout the year to work on all the planning aspects, from gathering prizes, design and distribution of promotional materials, decision on stall types, planning and logistics, to collecting donations, coordinating volunteers and liaising with our external stallholders.

On the College side, the P&F is very grateful to Lyn O’Neill not only for her coordination role but also for her insight, ideas and energy. Also, special thanks to Ken Devlin who was tireless on both Saturday and Sunday, helping in so many ways.

Weather concerns in the lead-up meant a lot of additional contingency measures, which were very efficiently and discreetly managed by Rob Goldrick, so that if it had rained, we were ready! I would also like to thank Connie Vlassis, Leeann Gardner, Annette Cullinan and Dearna Mazzola for their great work in sourcing prizes, selling tickets and distributing flyers; Ann Cahill for coordinating prizes and volunteers; Rebecca Hugonnet for her fantastic design work and constant support and good spirits. All of this happens behind the scenes but it really contributes to the success of the day. Congratulations to each stall and Year group, and each House activity for a job well done.

Do you have any comments or suggestions about the Fair? It is a good time to gather your thoughts and send through a quick email. Maybe you have a brilliant new stall idea, or you have suggestions on how something can be improved. Perhaps you would like to be involved in the planning for next time. We definitely want your feedback! - please email me at svcpandfpresident@gmail.com

Regards

Elizabeth Roydhouse

2014 P&F President

Next P&F Meeting AGM Tuesday 28 October: The next meeting of the St Vincent’s College P&F Association is in Term 4 on Tuesday 28 October at 7.15pm. The Term 4 meeting is the Annual General Meeting of the P&F. All parents and carers are welcome and indeed encouraged to attend. At this meeting will be an election for the Executive

committee positions for 2015. This is your chance to be part of the P&F Executive. There are many roles and everyone who has served in the P&F Executive would agree that it is an opportunity which is both interesting, diverse and leads to new friendships. Please think about getting involved by putting your name forward at the AGM.

Year 10 Social Saturday 8 November 2014: Parents, please remind your daughter to RSVP for herself and her partner before the close date of 10 October. In particular those requiring vegetarian or other special diets need to RSVP as soon as possible to guarantee catering arrangements. The event needs 8 to 10 parents in attendance in a discreet supervisory role. Please contact Annette Moran, Year 10 Parent Year Group Coordinator (svc.class2016@gmail.com) if you are able to help out.

Beautiful Minds - Saturday 6 September: Beautiful Minds in partnership with the popular “Girlfriend” magazine is presenting a one day workshop for teenage girls 11-17 years, on Saturday 6 September in Paddington Town Hall. This is a new event featuring many talented and diverse speakers, to engage and inspire girls in particular as regards self-esteem and leadership. For information and booking visit www.beautifulminds.com.au

Canteen Duty - Volunteers Always Welcome: If you would like to help out in the College canteen please call the College on 9368 1611, choose the ’reception’ option and ask for Vicky in the Canteen. Canteen volunteers who use Kings Cross Parking Station are eligible for a special rate - call into reception on the day of your canteen duty to have your ticket validated.

Year Group Parent Coordinators: Each Year group has one or more designated volunteers to keep parents informed. Please contact: Felicity Ratcliffe

felicity_ratcliffe@iprimus.com.au

Sally Ayto sallyhux@tpg.com.au, or your Year group coordinator - see below.

Year 7 (Therese Powell & Despa Fitzgerald) svc.class2019@gmail.com

Year 8 (Trish Pryke, Carin Gerrard, Gina Turco & Ann Cahill) svc.class2018pf@gmail.com

Year 9 (Geraldine King, Adrienne Ruz & Katherine Aitken) svc.class2017pf@gmail.com

Year 10 (Annette Moran) svc.class2016pf@gmail.com Year 11 (Rebecca Hugonnet & Lynne Carr) svc.class2015pf@gmail.com

Year 12 (Mary O’Sullivan, Sally Doyle & Abigail Gruzman) svc.class2014pf@gmail.com

2014 P&F Executive:

President: Elizabeth Roydhouse svcpandfpresident@gmail.com 0416 107 029

Vice President: Robert Goldrick 0422 259 364

Treasurer: Chris Dunn

Secretary: Sally Ayto svcpandfsecretary@gmail.com or sallyhux@tpg.com.au

Assistant Secretary: Felicity Ratcliffe felicity_ratcliffe@iprimus.com.au

From the P&F Association

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From the P&F Association

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