S t M a r y ’ s C o l l e g e Sent to Proclaim the Gospel

Issue 9, Monday 8 August 2016

From the Principal Term 3 began with a very winter blast of wild weather and icy

temperatures. While the students huddled inside for warmth, the campus

was not left without the more destructive effects of wind blasts that

damaged much in Adelaide in late July. We were lucky to have only lost

a signage panel and a metre of fencing.

College Connections

St Mary’s College and its global connections: American friends, Irish

visitors and European language students.

Our campus is awash with overseas visitors this term.

In Weeks 2 and 3, two staff members and four students from St

Dominic’s College, Cabra in Dublin joined St Mary’s for an immersion

experience as part of our 800 Year Dominican Order celebrations.

Hosted by Music student billet families, many of whom travelled to

Ireland last December as part of the Music Tour, the visitors have

engaged with classes, St Dominic’s Day Mass and activities, SA tourist

spots, seen the Crows beat Brisbane (!!) and interacted with staff and

students alike right across the campus. This visit is an important

reminder of our College’s history and heritage as we join international

celebrations of the charism that St Dominic brought to the world with his

Order of Preachers.

Our campus is always able to hear international conversations among

our multicultural student body but this has been enhanced by the

beautiful accents of our Term 3 student guests from Spain (Barcelona),

France (Grenoble) and Italy (Venice). They are most welcome and bring

home to our Adelaide students in a very personal way that learning a

language is a door to travel and global understanding and relationships.

A whirlwind trip for Marie Khoury (Year 11) and myself to the Dominican

High Schools Preaching Conference reaped the rewards of new

Dominican friends and learnings about how American Dominican

schools engage with student leadership through their Preaching model.

With new friends as wide spread as San Francisco to New York and

Chicago to Puerto Rico, we truly came to appreciate the connection of a

shared charism but the differences of cultural context and national

identity. In Prayer Services and workshops we spoke the shared

language of Dominic but at meal times it was Vegemite versus waffles!!

We thank our American fellow Dominicans for a wonderful welcome and

experience. To be able to travel more than half way across the world and

find people of like minds and faith ready to answer the Dominican call to

Justice, Peace and Care for Creation was a spiritual experience of

understanding how Dominican values unites us.

Finals Hopes - St Mary’s College not the footy.

STEM (Science Technology Engineering Mathematics)

At a time when much attention and funding is being sent the education

sector’s way for support of the development of STEM (Science

Technology Engineering Mathematics) in schools, it is a pleasure to be

able to highlight St Mary’s students’ recent success in this arena.

………...Continued page 2

S t M a r y ’s C o l l e g e 253 Franklin Street

ADELAIDE SA 5000

T:8216 5700 F:8216 5730

W: www.stmaryscollege.catholic.edu.au E: enquiries@stmaryscollege.catholic.edu.au

Rita (Spain), Arianna (Italy), Elodie (France) and Elena (Italy)

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St Mary’s College, Issue 9, Monday 8 August 2016

From the Principal: Continued

Congratulations to the Year 10 Science and Engineering team for winning their heat of the 2016 Inter-school Science & Engineering Challenge.

The Science and Engineering Challenge is a nationwide STEM outreach program presented by the University of Newcastle in partnership with communities, Rotary clubs, universities and sponsors.

Through the Challenge, students experience aspects of Science and Engineering which they would not usually see in their school environment. Activities included designing fingers for a bionic hand, building an earthquake proof apartment and building a hovercraft.

The girls have now advanced to the State Final to be held in late August. Good luck girls!

Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning and Accomplishment (PERMA) Positive Education has been an important component of curriculum and Care Education programs at St Mary’s College for a few years now. Last term in Care Education, Year 9 students learnt all about PERMA, with the goal of then presenting what they had learnt to their parents. They worked in groups within their Care Groups, each planning activities around Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning and Accomplishment (PERMA). The culmination of this learning took place when the students became the teachers to deliver their information to a parent audience. They took great delight in asking parents to be involved in class discussion, games and interactive role plays.

Parent feedback affirmed the value of the program and the interactive evening:

“It was nice to see the girls' confidence in presenting their topics and it is great they are being taught these valuable life lessons. It was a fantastic presentation, the girls did a wonderful job and presented in such a mature and engaging way. Well done all. The role plays were fun, however would have been more beneficial for parents to rehearse separately beforehand therefore making the role play more realistic. Well done to all the girls, it was a brilliant effort and if they take anything out of their school years they will remember Year 9 and adopt positive education in their everyday lives.”

“What a wonderful life tool PERMA is for the girls and now for me. I'm very grateful for being able to share this with my daughter and I also believe it was a wonderful and positive way for the girls to present to an audience. They were all amazing. Well done and thank you.”

“I wanted to congratulate the teachers on embracing this. Obviously in my role at another school I see how valuable addressing positive mental health in a proactive way is essential for engagement and learning. The Carol Dweck growth mindset is something I talk to my family about and we use extensively at my own school, great to see it as a significant part of learning at St Marys. This just confirms why I choose St. Marys for all of my daughters, you have the balance right with academics and wellbeing. Good leadership to see it is not only a class project but across the year levels.”

I leave you with a photo symbolising this year’s significance and the unity of the students and staff of St Mary’s College.

Eileen Young

Principal

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St Mary’s College, Issue 9, Monday 8 August 2016

From the Deputy Principal: Student Wellbeing

Life Education Van Last week, the Life Education Van visited our College and delivered the Cyber safety program bCyberwise to Years 3 to 6 over two days. Students explored issues associated with Cyber Safety.

Life Education is a not for profit organisation which provides wellbeing education for primary and secondary schools in South Australia.

Life Education employs specially trained teachers who work with staff, students and parents and provides curriculum material and training to support classroom based learning.

The program helps to build positive relationships with online and offline friends, explore safe and respectful behaviour online, strategies for keeping personal information safe and strategies on how to deal with cyberbullying.

The visit of the Life Education Van last week, accompanies the Cybersafety curriculum (which forms part of the Child Protection Curriculum) taught across and throughout St Mary’s College very ably by our Technology Coordinator, Giovanna Iannicelli.

Year 9 Positive Education Program As you have read in the Principal’s article, in the last week of last term, each Year 9 class prepared a presentation and delivered it to their parents on Positive Education, and in particular the acronym PERMA: Positive Emotion, Relationships, Meaning & Accomplishment. Positive Education is embedded throughout and across our curriculum and is a proactive approach on the College’s behalf to improve student wellbeing and thus reduce the rate of anxiety & depression amongst young people. What follows are student reflections on how both the process in preparing for the night and the actual night itself went:

On Wednesday, Week 10, Term 2 the whole Year 9 cohort presented PERMA presentations to their parents. This was a great experience as, in groups we had to independently research about PERMA. From this research we had to create a presentation to present to our parents. We had to use many skills such as teamwork skills, research skills and performing skills. We had never done this type of presentation before. However, it was good for us to put these skills into practice, as they will be needed in the

future. Everybody enjoyed the presentation, and we all learnt something about Positive Education. Annie & Hillary (9Y) Last term the Year 9s participated in a PERMA presentation for their parents. This presentation focused on positive psychology. Each class created a different presentation, which our parents were invited to come and watch. Throughout the time of creating this presentation, we ourselves learnt how to have positive emotions, be engaged, have positive relationships, include meaning in our lives and to recognise our own achievements. We thoroughly enjoyed creating and presenting PERMA, and we would highly recommend this new way of learning to future Year 9s. Megan & Tierney (9Y)

PERMA was a superb opportunity for students to showcase their recent learning about positive welfare. It was an inclusive event that all teachers, parents and students were able to participate in. The students were able to demonstrate their immense knowledge, responsibility and leadership throughout the planning sessions which was apparent in the presentations. Overall, PERMA was a success and received positive feedback. Brinit and Lauren (9B)

On Wednesday of Week 10, all the Year 9 classes conducted a Positive Education presentation to their families. We were given the task to educate our parents on the acronym phrase PERMA. 9 Red wanted to make it really enjoyable so everyone could be engaged and incorporate the information into their own lives. Our class initially became involved in a discussion about how everything would take place and then we broke down into small groups to commence the task of planning the outline of events for the night. We created games, role plays and showed relevant videos to present the information in a way that would capture our audience. The key to our success was the involvement of the parents through small exercises we gave them to complete. Every activity was very successful and the message we wanted to portray was clear. Overall it was a great evening. All the parents participated well and responded to the information. We were given amazing feedback and we all agreed that it was a very valuable experience for everyone involved. Lucy (9R)

Reminders A couple of reminders as we begin a new term:

1. The school scarf can be worn in winter, but not alternate blue or black scarves that don't have the school crest on them, as outlined in the Uniform Policy. 2. Blazers are to be worn to and from school, including when travelling in the car.....and this includes all Junior School students as well as Middle and Senior School students. 3. Last term, a number of members of the public contacted the school as students from our school had been asked to stand up and give their seats to members of the public, and refused to do so. Therefore, we have reinforced with students here at school the following expectations, and would greatly appreciate your support in reinforcing these with the students in your care, especially if they catch public transport regularly:

Students are required by TransAdelaide (and St Mary's College), to

stand for anyone who is pregnant, disabled or elderly;

Students are asked to please take their bag off their back when on

public transport so they don't knock anyone in the face with it;

If members of the public ask students to stand up from their seats

so they can sit down, students are asked to please do so and not to refuse. Students are wearing St Mary's College uniform and thus representing the school, but are also being asked to stand up as a

member of the public needs the seat due to ill health or age, etc, something which they may not be aware of.

Perhaps instead of waiting to be asked to give up

their seat, students could offer to give up their seat first!! Lorna Starrs Deputy Principal: Student Wellbeing

St Mary’s College, Issue 9, Monday 8 August 2016

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From the Deputy Principal: Curriculum

You may be aware (some of you more directly than others) of the recent explosion on popularity of Pokémon GO. The following short reflection from educational leader and creative design process advocate John Spencer provides a useful reflection on this:

We are wandering around our new neighbourhood, exploring the lush

Oregon terrain. An older man waves at us.

“You playing Pokémon?”

“Yeah,” my older son shouts back.

“There’s a Jigglepuff –” the man begins.

“Jigglypuff,” he corrects him.

“Yeah, there’s one of those about twenty yards that way.”

“We just found an Eevee,” my younger son says. He then explains what

happens if you rename it before evolving it.

It’s a short interaction, but it’s the kind of conversation that didn’t happen

a few weeks ago. For all the talk of Pokémon GO taking us away from

our natural world and destroying relationships, I’m seeing the opposite.

People are talking. They are waving at each other. They are getting

together in teams to figure out how to find things. In a divisive social and

political climate, I can’t help but think that a little Pokémon GO might just

be what we need.

©2016 Spencer Ideas | John Spencer // @spencerideas //

spencerideas.org

John’s assertion is that Pokémon GO is ‘epic’, not because of the scope of challenges it presents, but rather in the way it is bringing people together. We can all recall trends and popular activities throughout our own childhood and education, and while this is one is different from what we may have seen, its newness should not belay its potential positive application. John Spencer provides a different perspective that may be useful when considering the relative worth and value of young (and older!) people partaking in this latest craze. Often new approaches in education can be approached with a similar mindset.

Perspective and mindsets are very important elements in education. At St. Mary’s we have been talking about growth mindsets through a variety of applications, from both learning and wellbeing perspectives. The sense that, as we approach something new, we do so with an open mind, willingness to accept what may be different and an appreciation of any learning that may come out of it, contributes to a growth mindset towards learning.

Along with proving a useful template for approaching any sense of change and new opportunity, a growth mindset and sense of perspective are important as our learning community approaches two important aspects in the coming weeks. Year 12 and 11 Subject Selection (2017) The Subject Selection process is well and truly underway for Year 11s. We have met twice to have discussions about the process of subject selection and specific SACE aspects. Year 11s have also experienced the Subject Selection Expo, where they had a chance to hear from Learning Area Coordinators and key teachers about prospective options for next year. The next step in this process occurs at Learning Reviews where students and families can speak to teachers of Semester 2 subjects about the prospect of studying the equivalent or similar subjects at Stage 2. Students will also have individual conversations with other teachers over the next three weeks, who will advise on their prospective subjects, to finalise their provisional subject selection form which is due back by Friday 26 August.

A similar process will occur for Year 11 subject selections commencing in Week 5 for Year 10 students. Families of Year 10 students can also use the Learning Reviews for the same process as above. The subject selection process is detail-oriented and heavily focussed on individual students forming a pathway to help them achieve their personal

best. In this context this means that we ask students to carefully consider their strengths, interests and any possible connection to future pathways. We find working in this close way leads to very successful academic results and leads students to their chosen pathways (where, in 2016, 90% of students first round of SATAC offers were for a first or second preference).

NAPLAN Online Trial - Year 3, 5, 7 & 9 As you may be aware from newsletter articles earlier this year, the Australian government has decided on a phased implementation process in preparation for all schools to do NAPLAN tests online by 2019. In South Australia, schools can opt in to undertake online NAPLAN testing from 2017. St Mary’s is one of 32 Catholic Schools who have expressed interested in doing so next year.

ACARA suggests that some of the main benefits on taking part on NAPLAN online include:

Assessments will use a tailored test design. Students will answer an

initial set of questions and then be directed to subsequent sets of questions based on the accuracy of their responses. Students with a high number of questions correct will be directed to more challenging questions. Students who have a lower level of accuracy in the initial set of questions will be directed to questions that are less challenging.

Tailored testing will provide teachers and schools with more targeted

and detailed information on their students’ performance on the tests.

Delivery of assessments online will significantly reduce the time it

takes to provide feedback to schools, students and parents.

ACARA research into online assessment has shown that students

have engaged well with computer-based tests. http://www.nap.edu.au/online-assessment/naplan-online

Given these proposed benefits, we naturally want the best learning opportunities for our students at St. Mary’s, hence our proposed move to online testing in 2017. Students from schools taking part in the 2017 initiative will be involved in the NAPLAN Online Platform Trial and Readiness Test (PTRT) this term. The aims of this trial are to asses both the technical readiness of the school and our students’ readiness in working with in an online testing environment. All students across Years 3, 5 and 7, and in three Year 9 classes, will sit two trial tests: Writing and an ‘Omnibus test’ (mixture of Spelling, Grammar, Conventions of Language and Numeracy).

Along with discussion of Stage 2 Examinations moving to an online platform in the near future, this will hopefully put our students at an advantage with these types of assessment tasks in the future.

All the best for the weeks ahead (which may or may not include searching for Pokémon).

Corey Tavella

Deputy Principal- Curriculum

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St Mary’s College, Issue 9, Monday 8 August 2016

From the Music Department Junior School Music Morning

On the last day of Term 2, all students in the Junior School had the

opportunity to perform to their families and peers at the Junior School

Music Morning, held in the St Mary’s CPA. This concert is now a long

standing tradition, and is an opportunity for each of the Junior School

classes to share what they have been working on in their Music classes.

From the flamboyant Year 3s competing for the spotlight in I’m The

Greatest Star, to the Year 1 and Year 2s French masterpiece Gymnopédie

by composer Erik Satie, the audience were treated to a very diverse and

fun show. The performance also featured junior ensembles, including the

Junior School Choir and Junior Orchestra. The students had a wonderful

time, and it was a very fitting finish to a busy Term 2.

Alexandra Bollard Music Teacher

Primary Schools Music Concert and Catholic Schools Music Festival Preparations The St Mary’s Music Department was very busy in the lead up to the end of Term 2. On Thursday 30 June, our Middle and Senior School Ensembles performed their repertoire at an in house primary schools concert in the CPA. We welcomed students from St Joseph’s School Hindmarsh, as well as classes from the St Mary’s Junior School. The concert featured many of our bands, orchestras and choirs, presenting a very diverse range of repertoire. It was an invaluable opportunity for younger year levels to hear the standard of our older ensembles in the Music Department, as well as have a lot of fun dancing to bands towards the end of the concert!

On Thursday 7 July, Year 6 and 7 students involved in the Catholic Schools Music Festival choir had their annual assessment determining where they would place in the combined ensemble at the Festival Theatre in Term 3. The choir performed extremely well, and were excellent hosts to visiting schools who were also participating in the assessment. St Mary’s were fortunate enough to be placed in Rows 10 and 11 in the choir, with the objective to send their strong sound down to the rest of the schools. Congratulations to all of these students on their hard efforts.

On the same day, our senior ensembles also auditioned for positions as support acts in the Festival. The Concert Choir, Vocal Jazz, and Stage Band were successful in gaining a place on varying nights of the Festival.

Again, congratulations to our senior ensembles who have worked tirelessly in the first half of the year. Your efforts have certainly paid off! We are proud that St Mary’s has a strong presence at the Catholic Schools Music Festival. Ben Chambers Head of Music

Young Adelaide Voices Overseas Success Year 9 student Jasmine Vandenbrink, recently returned from an international tour with the Young Adelaide Voices First Concert Choir. The ensemble won three gold and one silver medal at the 6th International Youth Music Festival in Slovakia. Artistic director Christie Anderson was also awarded the Special Conductor Prize at a ceremony in Hviezdoslav Square in the Slovakian capital of Bratislava. Young Adelaide Voices won the gold medals for Youth Choirs (up to 21 years, soprano and alto), Contemporary Music and Sacred Music with Accompaniment, as well as the silver for a cappella Folksong.

Jasmine is to be commended on her involvement in this award winning ensemble. These extra-curricular opportunities are paramount in shaping her into a competent and experienced musician. We are very proud of Jasmine’s achievements.

Alexandra Bollard Music Teacher

St Mary’s College, Issue 9, Monday 8 August 2016

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Pokémon Go is the latest craze in online gaming. Pokémon Go uses a smartphone’s internet connection, GPS and camera to overlay the ‘Pokémon world’ on to the ‘real world’ seen through a smartphone’s camera. (augmented reality) Players use a real-time map based on their smartphone’s current location to identify wild Pokémon (Pocket Monsters) and find other landmarks such as interactive PokéStops and PokéGyms. Players hunt and catch Pokémon, then use them to battle against other players at one of the PokéGyms—real-life locations nearby the player. Why has it hit the news recently? While Pokémon Go has the advantages of getting gamers (and their parents) outside, there are certain risks associated with this game:

locations that could be unsuitable for young players and also adults

child players being too young to play the game unsupervised

the real risk of interacting with others who are not suitable for the child

safety risks of walking while looking at a phone while playing. Tips for parents 1. Talk to your daughter about the games they’re playing and

understand what’s involved. Playing it with your daughter is fun, and will give you a better understanding about what’s involved and any risks.

2. Set boundaries based on your child’s age and family values. Work out how you want to approach the game, and make sure your daughter has clear guidelines they understand.

3. Remind your daughter to pay attention to safety while playing—if they are walking with a phone at any time, they need to be aware of their surroundings. Look up, look around and always walk safely.

*Based on an article from the Office of the Children’s eSafety Commissioner G Iannicelli Technology Coordinator

(Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths) Sew a Circuit Workshops

Create your own wearable technology. Come and combine new technology with the ancient craft of sewing and learn how to Sew a Circuit. Using felt, Lily Pad Arduino, LEDs and conductive thread you can make a bracelet, a brooch, or small toy.

No previous experience of sewing or electronics necessary. All materials and support will be provided.

Both workshops will be at Fab Lab Adelaide, which is at the St Pauls Creative Centre, Pulteney Street, Adelaide.

Workshop 1: Children & Young people When: Saturday 13 August 2016. 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Who: late primary and high school aged students accompanied by an

adult

Parents/care giver are required to stay with children under 14

years for duration of the workshop (you will get to make something

too!).

Cost: Each $15 registration is for one child and one adult, extra child

registrations are $10 each.

Register: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/sew-a-circuit-school-aged-

students-tickets-26439361843

Workshop 2: All Ages When: Sunday 21 August 2016. 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Who: All ages (children must be accompanied by an adult)

Cost: $10 per person

Register: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/sew-a-circuit-tickets-

26439386918

Please bring or you can buy your lunch.

Giovanna Iannicelli Technology Coordinator

Latest Federation e-News!

The Federation of Catholic School Parent Communities produces a range of resources to support parents who choose Catholic education for their children.

We’d like to share with you one of our most recent publications: Parent Teacher Communication: The Essential Conversation

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St Mary’s College, Issue 9, Monday 8 August 2016

Congratulations to the Year 10 Science and Engineering team for winning their heat of the 2016 Inter-school Science & Engineering Challenge. The Science and Engineering Challenge is a nationwide STEM outreach program presented by the University of Newcastle in partnership with communities, Rotary clubs, universities and sponsors.

Through the Challenge, students experience aspects of Science and Engineering which they would not usually see in their school environment. Activities included designing fingers for a bionic hand, building an

earthquake proof apartment and building a hovercraft.

The girls have now advanced to the state final to be held in late August. Good luck girls!

Jo Surman Science Coordinator

Stage 2 English Studies students literally held the mirror up to nature in a master class presented by the Bell Shakespeare Company on Monday 1 August.

This master class was specially designed for the class to help them engage with Shakespeare’s most famous revenge tragedy. The students study this play as part of their coursework and the master class allowed them to get up and actively take on various character roles, discuss themes and have a look at the language used by the great bard. There were many award winning and humorous performances by the students as they assembled in quick tableaus, switched roles or re - enacted key impromptu scenes.

Students were able to appreciate the complexity in the plot, and by the end of the master class they were able to speak confidently about the universal significance of the play, as well as recognise the timeless relevance of

Shakespeare in dealing with human nature and the big questions in life. Their essays and exam preparation will no doubt be strengthened by the experience of the master class.

Tracey Thursby - Year 12 English Studies Teacher

St Mary’s College, Issue 9, Monday 8 August 2016

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2016 Cambodia Pilgrimage

On 27 June, 14 Year 11 students and teachers, Peter Batty, Tracey Thursby, Suzanne Megaw and Terry Cooper ventured to Cambodia on the third annual Cambodia Immersion journey.

On our arrival in the capital, Phnom Penh, we visited the Killing Fields and Tosleng Prison to gain an understanding and appreciation of the tragic era under Pol Pot. We also visited the Central Market and indulged ourselves in some retail therapy.

Our main focus for the journey was, of course, based around teaching English to students and teachers in Cambodia’s second largest city, Battambamg. On day three, we travelled to Battambang and started our 10 days of teaching at the Matkaruna Centre and the Preompor Boarding House.

The students we taught are accommodated and educated by the Friends For All Children Foundation and the Providence Sisters.

We developed strong relationships with the students. Every day we learnt something new as we helped them learn English. They taught us how to cook their traditional dishes, and even how to speak a little bit of Khmer. Over the 10 days we bonded with the children and young adults who lived and worked in the centres. Their optimism, love of education, and need for a better future, not only for themselves but for their families and for their country as a whole was overwhelming. It really made us all reflect on our perspective of our lives.

We spent our last leg of the trip in Siem Reap, home to some of the most magnificent temples in all of Cambodia. We visited Angkor Wat, which is the larg-est religious monument in the world. It so so moving to walk beside the intricate walls that had stood for over 900 years. It was an amazing way to finish the pilgrimage and to affirm St Mary’s College growing relationship with Cambodia and the students in Battambang. Hannah and Eloise

St Mary’s College, Issue 9, Monday 8 August 2016

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St Mary’s College, Issue 9, Monday 8 August 2016

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St Mary’s College, Issue 9, Monday 8 August 2016

Junior School Art Exhibition Congratulations to the Junior School on a brilliant exhibition of art. The work on display highlighted not only the students understanding of an artist’s style but also a range of materials and techniques. A big thank you to the very important people who generously donated money towards purchasing the art. We raised $800 towards a scholarship for a Cambodian student. Lisa Coultas Visual Art Coordinator

St Mary’s College, Issue 9, Monday 8 August 2016

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St Mary’s College is constantly seeking ways to improve its operations and the services we offer to our families. We are introducing a new mobile phone application called Qkr! (pronounced Quicker).

This application allows you to pay for various items using the convenience of your smart phone and at a time to suit you.

While the service is offered by Mastercard via the Commonwealth Bank, you do not need to be a Commonwealth Bank or MasterCard Customer to use the product, they are merely the conduit.

What is Qkr!? Qkr! Is an application which allows you to pay for items such as Tuition Fees, Camps, Excursions, and other College events using your smart phone or tablet.

What can be paid for via Qkr! at St Mary’s College? The product has been set up for:

1. College Tuition Fees – you can pay your school fees via the application if you are not on a payment plan, or make additional payments as required.

2. Extracurricular activity payments required by the College, such as Sport Fees, Camps, Music Levies and Instrument Hire.

3. Interstate and Overseas trips as they occur.

In the future the College will have the ability to add other events, activities and services for payment.

As these are made available on line, the College will communicate this to our families.

How do I use the application? Enclosed with this newsletter is a fact sheet outlining how to download and register the application. Due to privacy concerns, the College has not pre-loaded any student or family information.

You will need to add each child and your banking details.

If you have any queries regarding the use of this app, please contact Nuala O’Donovan or Pam Page in the Finance Office for assistance.

Richard Watson Business Manager

25 students from Years 3 to 10 participated in the 2016 Mathematics Challenge for Young Australians. This is a problem-solving activity organised by the Australian Mathematics Trust.

The MCYA Challenge took place over three weeks in Term 2, and was comprised of four problems for students in the primary levels and six problems for students in the Junior and Intermediate levels.

Students were required to present written solutions to as many of these problems as they could. The problems are challenging and required a systematic approach and lots of perseverance, but I’m sure it fostered a greater awareness of the power of mathematics and the joy of solving interesting mathematical problems!

Well done to Amelia Princi, Kiara Didyk, Emily Jackson, Mikayla Rechichi, Layla McGinty, Madison Selby, Emily Dell, Jordyn Fleetwood, Ivy Au, and Emily Dennis who were awarded Participation and to Nathara Perera who was awarded Proficiency. Great effort, too, to the following students who were awarded Credits and Distinctions:

Congratulations to all who entered!

Julianne Price & Anna Fontanelli Mathematics Coordinators

Middle Primary

Miesha Perera Year 3 Credit

Petra Tziavrangos Year 3 Credit

Alex Breden Year 4 Credit

Deanne Zampoga Year 4 Credit

Upper Primary

Taylor Burrows Year 5 Credit

Junior

Laura Hisgrove Year 7 Credit

Hanna Le Year 7 Credit

Victoria Severin Year 7 Credit

Batol Jawad Year 8 High Distinction

Gursim Hundal Year 8 Distinction

Brinda Murlikrishna Year 8 Distinction

Chelsea Innes Year 8 Distinction

Intermediate

Jasmine Kha Year 9 Credit

Maxine Tsoukatos Year 9 Credit

child & adolescent sleep clinic

Does your teenager have a sleep problem?

Does your teenager:

have trouble falling asleep?

not fall asleep until late at night?

have trouble waking up or getting out of bed in the morning?

miss school or feel fatigued throughout the school day?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, your teenager

could benefit from a new treatment program being run at the Child

& Adolescent Sleep Clinic, within the School of Psychology, at

Flinders University.

For more information please call 8201 7587

or email casc.enquiries@flinders.edu.au

www.facebook.com/cascsleep

St Mary’s College Absentee Phone Line

8216 5716

Please telephone before 9.30 am if your

daughter is absent

St Mary’s College Uniform Shop

8216 5719

Opening times - Monday 8.00 am - 11.00 am

Wednesday 1.00 pm - 4.00 pm

Thursday 8.00 am - 11.00 am

St Mary’s College OSHC : 8216 5743

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St Mary’s College, Issue 9, Monday 8 August 2016

From the Drama Coordinator

Recently the Drama Department produced three successful productions to large and appreciative audiences. Bringing a script to the stage takes much effort, and all staff and students involved must be commended on the high standards achieved.

First came “Memories of Lizzie” directed by Mrs Mandy Hancock and presented by the Year 10 Drama class. This show was engaging, finely tuned and imaginative. Then came the Year 11 Production, “Crossing the Threshold”, which was a powerful, moving and strong ensemble performance directed by Mrs Lucina Loro-Parham. And last was “Lost and Foundling, directed by yours truly. The Year 12 students were a joy to work with and we were all thrilled with the end result. It was an entertaining, poignant and exceptionally well performed show.

This semester we have three more productions coming up including the Junior School’s, “The Aristocats”. The children involved are very excited! Lead by the Drama Department, the Music, Art and Junior School Staff are all heavily involved. This show will be performed over two days and nights on the 24 and 25 November this year. Tickets will go on sale soon, so don’t miss out as its likely to sell out!

I am very proud of the staff and students in the Drama Department and so impressed with the huge amount of support we receive from the St Mary’s College community; especially demonstrated through the large amount of

tickets purchased for our performances. Thank you all! We hope you keep on attending our shows and giving your positive energy to the casts and crews that work so hard to bring these stories to life.

Hannah McCarthy-Oliver

Coordinator of Arts (Drama)

Big Sister Farewell In the last week of Term 2, the Big Sister Program for 2016 came to a close. Year 8 students farewelled their Big Sisters with thank you cards and shared one last Care Education session together. The program has been supervised this year by Ms Fiona Turner who has done a wonderful job in assisting the Year 11 students to prepare a range of sessions for the Year 8 classes. The Big Sister program is a valuable support to our new students. It provides each Year 8 student with an older girl to talk to, to seek advice from and to learn from. The Year 11 students have been an inspirational group this year. They have taken their roles seriously and

been kind, caring and responsible role models to their ‘little sisters’. On behalf of all the Year 8 students, I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to all the Big Sister and Ms Turner for all they have done this year. Renee Irvine Coordinator of the Middle School

Student Reflections “When I started here at St Mary’s College I was really nervous. I didn’t know anyone and I struggled to make new friends, but when the Big Sisters came they helped me to make friends and to become more confident in what I do.” – Chloe 8W

The Big Sister program was really good for me in Semester 1. Having a Big Sister gave me someone to talk to and someone I could trust. It really made me feel supported and doing the Big Sister sessions helped me a lot with starting high school. – Eliska 8W

St Mary’s College, Issue 9, Monday 8 August 2016

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On Thursday 30 June, the Junior School community joined with family and friends to celebrate our R-6 Grandparents and Special Persons Morning.

We commenced with a joy-filled Eucharistic Celebration in St Patrick’s Church celebrated by Father Paul Mullins with the most angelic of singing.

Classroom visits, an Art exhibition and Morning Tea completed a most en-joyable morning and provided a wonderful opportunity to gather together and celebrate the wonderful gift that are our Grandparents and Special Friends. It was a special time where new memories were made and old ones relived grateful for these special people in our lives.

A morning like this only comes about through the care and commitment of a number of amazing people. I would like to thank all the staff involved in the invaluable preparation with the students, the behind the scenes staff and of course our beautiful students for their joyful and enthusiastic participation.

It is a morning that will hold special memories for a long time to come.

Here are some reflections from our community:

“Having Babcia here is good because I love her.” Eloise, Rec

“I liked it when Father asked a Grandma to help bring up the gifts with

Chloe. And I liked all the pictures – it was really creative.” Abbie, Year 6

“It’s been beautiful, I really enjoyed everything – the singing was

gorgeous and amazing.” Megan Hewitt & Linda (Imogen & Georgie, Year 1)

“I liked it when all the grandparents were watching us & joining in.” “My

poem has – ‘My Grand-dad is radioactive because he is so much fun.’ He’s very crafty and made a snake out of a branch – it was cool”. Caitlin, Year 6

“We played ‘‘Roll a Grandma’ where we rolled the dice and whatever

number it lands on we draw that bit of my Nonna’s face.” Lia, Year 3

While conducting my survey “I found out that when my Grandma went to

school if a boy got into trouble he got hit with a cane or ruler. If a girl got in trouble she had to write what they did wrong lots and lots of times.” Ava D, Year 4

“Seeing our photo from the Medieval Fair was special. It reminded us of

Nanna’s holiday with us when we all went there. And we remember her now because she is no longer with us.” Merisa & Amber, Year 5

“My Nonno came and we made a picture of my hand onto Nonno’s

hand. I love my Nonno.” Phoebe, Year 2

“Sometimes I don’t get to see one of my Special Friends who lives far

away. Today they came. I was sooo happy!” Izabella, Year 2

“Dominique has made me a Grandparent Coupon Book

full of wonderful promises that she will do with me.” Glenise (Dominique, Year 3)

Anne Soldan

Junior School Prayer and Liturgy Coordinator

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St Mary’s College, Issue 9, Monday 8 August 2016

In the middle weekend of the July school holidays, we had the opportunity to travel to Brisbane and Noosa, Queensland for the Bi-annual Common Ground Student Conference. The conference was hosted by San Sisto College and was attended by Cabra Dominican College (SA), St Dominic's Priory (SA), Santa Sabina College (NSW), San Clemente High School (NSW), Siena College (VIC) and St Dominic’s College (Auckland, NZ). This year the theme of the conference was: ‘Go Out and Preach the Gospel’. Preaching was the main focus as it was the most significant aspect of Dominic’s legacy. We learnt how preaching isn’t just telling people what God wants us to do, but is more about spreading the word through our actions and seeking social justice. The conference gave us the opportunity to interact with other students, teachers and sisters from across Australia and New Zealand. We also gained some insight into just how far the Dominican community reaches and how many are willing to preach, teach and make change on a global scale.

“One of the highlights for me was hearing Sister Sheila Flynn talk, her way with words was utterly mesmerising. She spoke a lot about preaching through art, and as I have a strong passion for art, it made me acknowledge the various possibilities. Overall, I enjoyed connecting with new people and learning how other schools incorporate Dominic in their lives.” - Neive Jones

“One highlight for me was recognising the similarities and differences between Dominican schools throughout Eastern Australia and NZ. I enjoyed being able to learn more about Dominican charism and listening to inspiring presenters. Overall, the connections we made with all the other students was incredible and they are memories that will last a lifetime.” - Marie Blefari

“Hearing about the Indigenous views on nature and the Earth changed my perspective on how I view the world; not only did I recognise their attachment to the land on which they live but also how much they care and treasure what they possess. Sister Sheila was particularly inspiring, especially when she spoke about “lighting the flame of beauty within us”. I was able to understand that the desire for change is only the first step to making things happen, when many individuals join together the weaknesses may be eliminated and the strength becomes power. The willingness to accept a challenge, just as Dominic did, is a challenge itself and the journey in which it is achieved is just as rewarding especially when you create a path for others to follow.” - Breeze Mathew

“Listening to all the guest speakers express what being Dominican means to them and how it has impacted their lives was very motivating. Sr Sheila’s inspiring presentation will resonate with me for a very long time and learning about the Art for Justice Exhibition that is taking place in the year of the Jubilee is something that we as a group would like to take part in. The experience has allowed me to continue to grow in my understanding of what it means to be a Dominican.” - Marie Khoury

“Hearing the wisdom of the guest speakers helped me understand the role of being a Dominican. I was able to grow a deeper understanding of the four Dominican pillars which has shown me how we can actively seek this throughout our school. Sr Sheila really inspired me to express our Dominican spirit, through our connection that has been 800 years.” – Sophie Dignan Christina Kilishiri, Nieve Jones, Marie Blefari, Breeze Mathew, Marie Khoury and Sophie Dignan - SMC Conference Delegates

TERM 3, 2016

Fri 12 Aug Pupil Free Day—Staff Retreat

Mon 15 Aug Year 10 SAPOL Road Safety Parent Evening - 6.00 pm

Wed 17 Aug Learning Reviews 1.30pm - 8.00pm (12.50pm dismissal)

22 - 26 Aug Book Week

Mon 22 Aug Year 11, 2017 Parent Information Evening

Fri 26 Aug Junior School Book Week Parade

Wed 31 Aug Year 12, 2017 Subject Counselling

Thurs 1 Sept Year 4 RELAT

Mon 5 Sept Year 7/8/9, 2017 Mobile Device Parent Evening

Thurs 8 Sept Year 4 RELAT

11 - 20 Sept Year 11 Oak Valley Immersion Trip

Sun 11 Sept Music Department Soiree

Mon 12 Sept Year 10, 2017 Subject Selection

Tues 13 Sept Year 8 Vaccinations

Wed 14 Sept Year 11, 2017 Subject Counselling

19 - 23 Sept Year 10 Work Experience Week Year 11 Service Learning Week

Wed 21 Sept Celebration of Confirmation - 7.00 pm St Patrick’s

Sun 25 Sept Celebration of First Communion - 2.00 pm St Patrick’s

27 - 29 Sept Catholic Schools Music Festival

Fri 30 Sept Social Justice Day Last day of Term 3 - 3.15 pm dismissal

St Mary’s College, Issue 9, Monday 8 August 2016

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Maths & English Help

Maths & English Help is now up and running. This is a fantastic opportunity that students have to receive assistance with their literacy and numeracy. Students are invited to bring friends as a form of peer support and gain help with homework and classwork. For those students who are struggling, or having difficulties completing homework, this can be an excellent way to get ahead.

At lunchtimes on Mondays and Tuesdays, there are at least 5 teaching staff available to help one-on-one. On Wednesday afternoons, the Library is staffed with teachers to help students who wish to stay after school. Students can get help with all Maths topics up to Year 12. The English staff assist students in developing self-drafting techniques, empowering them to edit their own work as well as essay structure, spelling and grammar.

Does your daughter need additional help? Ask her if she knows about Maths & English Help. Taking a proactive approach to seeking assistance develops academic responsibility and remind her that she can always bring her friends!

Maths & English Help is in K11 during lunchtime on Monday and Tuesday and in the library after school on Wednesday.

You are invited to a road safety information evening conducted by the SA Police. On Monday 15 August a presentation will be given by Senior Constable First Class Robert Grinter at St Mary’s. This presentation is aimed at parents and guardians of children who are about to, or have recently, obtained their learner driver’s licence. Much of the initial education of novice drivers is provided by parents. To assist with this, the following information will be covered:

The preparedness of parents to undertake the task of supervising a

novice driver.

Recent changes to the road rules.

The incidents and severity of novice driver crashes.

What to look for in a driving instructor.

ANCAP safety ratings and the issues surrounding vehicle selection,

price, safety ratings, consumer rights and roadworthiness.

This presentation will begin at 6:30pm in the Centre for Performing Arts (CPA) and take approximately one hour. If you would like to attend please confirm by emailing sbartram@stmaryscollege.catholic.edu.au

I hope this presentation will be of interest to you and I look forward to seeing you there.

Sam Bartram

Year 10 Coordinator

Congratulations Jayda Addleton

Jayda Addleton 10R recently won the St John, Metro North Regional Cadet of the year 2016. Jayda is now in the final four for State Cadet of the year.

Jayda is very involved with the St John’s Cadets and has celebrated many achievements including:

At the end of 2015 Jayda was

promoted to Corporal.

Her squad won the State Drill

competition for 2015

Jayda was also Cadet of the Year

for Prospect no. 2

At the South Australian State

award ceremonies, Jayda was the Flag bearer for the state cadet flag party, during the State awards day held at the Governors House, North Terrace.

Jayda also received the “Gloria

Curtis Leadership Award” for 2015, the highest award for St John for effort above and beyond.

Jayda is taking her exams for Sergeant.

Jayda has also completed the following 4 Badges and Certificates with

St John: Cooking Nutrition, Sports, Child Care, Fire Safety

Jayda has only been involved with St John for two years, and considering this, her achievements and dedication is something she should be extremely proud.

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St Mary’s College, Issue 9, Monday 8 August 2016

St Mary’s College Uniform Shop : 8216 5719

Opening times - Monday 8.00 am - 11.00 am Wednesday 1.00 pm - 4.00 pm Thursday 8.00 am - 11.00 am

2017 Enrolment Confirmation

In order to assist our planning for 2017 if your daughter(s) will not be returning in 2017, we ask that you please complete the table below and return to the College no later than Friday 26 August 2016.

Parents and Guardians are reminded that one term’s notice is required when intending to withdraw their daughter from the College.

Please only complete this slip if your daughter (s) WILL NOT be returning to the College in 2017.

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Please return this slip to the Student Services Office no later than Friday 26 August 2016.

Parent/Guardian (Name): ……………………………………………………………………………....

Parent/Guardian (Signature): ………………………………………………….. Date:….………………….

Daughter(s) Name Current Class School Transferring to in 2017