Winifred West Schools Limited . ABN 14 000 025 0267

PO Box 34 Mittagong NSW 2575 . Phone: +61 2 4860 2000 . frensham@frensham.nsw.edu.au

TERM 4 NO 5 Wednesday 13 December 2017

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2017 – Final Newsletter for the year As we prepared the ‘final words for key community events’ to close the 2017 school year, our planning for 2018 was at the forefront of our thinking! This Newsletter is published just a day ahead of the release of Higher School Certificate results for Year 12, 2017, and, in the few days since students and staff left for the year, major works to upgrade or maintain facilities, have commenced on all three campuses. Sturt is preparing for the January Summer School, and our timetabling for Term 1 for teachers is in its final stages. Before the end of this week, we will send a summary of Year 12, 2017 achievements, for the information of all, and mid-January, we will provide further information to assist with preparations for Term 1, 2018. On behalf of colleagues, I thank parents and students for your support, and wish you a safe and refreshing family time, over the Christmas break!

Acknowledgement to: Girdle recipients: Harriet Alker (Sport), Ella Pratt (Academic Excellence), Kate Coupland (Academic Endeavour), Nina

Jephcott (Music Performance), Georgia Richardson (Music), Desiree Chan (French); Year 12 students, Georgina Fuller, Natasha Long and Sophie Montgomery, whose major works in HSC Visual Arts have

been selected for ARTEXPRESS Exhibition; Sarah Hassett (Year 12), whose innovation for HSC Design and Technology has been selected for SHAPE Exhibition as

one of the exemplary 14 works in NSW; Elizabeth Taylor (Year 5), for her achievements at the All States Showdown and Equestrian Australian Nationals; Year 5 students Highly Commended for their University of Wollongong Illawarra Coal Science Fair presentations; Year 11 photography, selected for the Frensham Permanent Art Collection, works by: Isabella Camilleri, Nina Jephcott,

Georgia Richardson; Cast and crew of Frensham’s Beauty and Beast; directed by Ms Fiona Shannon, with musical direction by Mr Michael

Spencer; and, thanks to the professional orchestra for the show: Emma Knott (flute), Belinda McBride and Ben Jones (clarinet), Ryley Gillen (trumpet), James McCrow (French horn), Michael Spencer (piano), Keith Mitchell (synthesiser), Ant Clarke (percussion), Kate Malone (violin), Ann Mercer (cello) – with Georgia Richardson (Year 11, keyboard);

Duke of Edinburgh's International Award recipients - Gold - Isabella Camilleri (Year 11) and Annabel Munro (Year 12); Silver - Teya Blunck, Charlotte Lalak, Phoebe O’Connell, Ella Pernice, Zoe Renowden (Year 10); Bronze - Eliza Duck, Bronte Garcia, Hannah Hartnell, Charlotte Menzies and Christina Richardson (Year 9).

WWS Foundation Staff Professional Learning Scholarship recipients: Mrs Trudi Spencer, Ms Sally Fennell and Mrs Amanda Wansey, who will attend the AHISA National Conference: Leading Learning Caring as a team, to consider our core welfare, wellbeing and leadership structures for Years 7 to 9 [with our new Director of Boarding Mrs Tanya Vaughan].

Prefects for Year Groups – announced at Final Prayers Year 7 Alice Battcock, Eliza Treloar Year 8 Lucy Barton, Nina Jephcott, Tara Penton Year 9 Lucy Brigstocke, Molly Paradice, Gabrielle Steiner Year 10 Celia Battcock, Antoinette Inglis Year 11 Isabella Camilleri, Ella Pratt Year 12 Chloe Hickson (Vice Head Girl), Caroline Gotterson (Head Girl) Staffing update: At final year presentations for Gib Gate, Frensham and Sturt we offered our warmest appreciation and wishes to permanent staff leaving WWS at the end of the year, including: Long-serving, esteemed colleagues retiring: Ms Dale Dryen (21 years - Sturt School for Wood and Frensham Library); Mrs

Joy Stewart (19 years - Senior Administration and former Personal Assistant to the Head of Frensham), Mme Mary Kidner (17 years - French teacher and Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Scheme Coordinator) and Mrs Jennifer Rowley (9 years - Gib Gate Studies Support and Administration).

Staff relocating: Dr Tristan Burg (Director of Research and Innovation, member of the Executive) to the ACT and Ms Katie Horan (Gib Gate Year 6 Teacher) to New Zealand, outstanding colleagues whose commitment to the School has been greatly valued, and Mr Tyson Rowe (17.5 years - Property and Maintenance) accepting a promotional opportunity, locally.

Julie A Gillick Head of Frensham Head of Winifred West Schools

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Frensham Advisory Committee 2017 Gib Gate Advisory Committee 2017

Mrs Caroline Begg Ms Ruby Curtis Mrs Penny Hanan Mr John Hayes (Chair) Mrs Kiki Hill Mrs Erica Holcombe Mrs miChelle McGufficke Mrs Angela Macken (Sec) Mr Gavin Martin Mr Sam Paradice Mrs Nicola Robertson Mrs Tina Scales Ms Jo Thomson

r-cbegg@bigpond.net.au 44ruby@gmail.com pennyhanan@mac.com hayes.jt@bigpond.com kikihill64@gmail.com erica@dc-it.com.au milliefarming@activ8.net.au themackenfamily@gmail.com gavin.martin@ap.jll.com sam.paradice@morgans.com.au nicola@nicolarobertsonots.com.au t.scales@bigpond.com j.thomson@tpg.com.au

Dr Guy Bashford (Chair) Mrs Rowena Bendror (FOGG Representative) Mrs Holly de Manincor Mrs Chelsea Doyle (Chair of FOGG) Mr David Griffin Mrs Kate Iori Mr Trent Johns Mrs Sara Moylan

guy.bashford@ sesiahs.health.nsw.gov.au sales@littlestepsonline.com.au hollydemanincor@hotmail.com chelseakdoyle@gmail.com david.griffin291@gmail.com kateiori@hotmail.com trent@theimperial.com.au saralmoylan@gmail.com

TERM DATES 2018 – Gib Gate and Frensham

Term 1 Gib Gate & Frensham Wednesday 31 January-Thursday 12 April, 3.00pm (Boarders always return evening before classes start) Term 2 Gib Gate & Frensham Monday 30 April -Thursday 28 June, 3.00pm (Year 10 Work Experience ends Friday 29 June) (Boarders always return evening before classes start)

Term 3 Gib Gate & Frensham Tuesday 24 July-Thursday 27 September, 3.00pm (Boarders always return evening before classes start) Term 4 Gib Gate: Monday 15 October-Friday 7 December 3.00pm Frensham: ends Sunday 9 December 12.00pm (after 11.00am Carol Service) (Boarders always return evening before classes start)

2018 PARENT WEEKENDS – Confirmed dates for attendance of all students Years 7-12

Term 1: Year 7 Saturday 3 March-Sunday 4 March Frensham Open Day – Saturday 3 March Year 10 Saturday 17 March-Sunday 18 March Term 2: Year 8 Saturday 19 May-Sunday 20 May Year 12 Saturday 2 June-Sunday 3 June WWS Birthday – Friday 1 June Frensham’s 105th Birthday – Sunday 3 June

Term 3: Year 11 *Saturday 11 August-Sunday 12 August [Year 10 Saturday 11 August – Year 10 planning for Senior Studies (with parents on Saturday)] *Saturday 11 August – Annual Dinner – WWS Foundation Year 9 Saturday 1 September-Sunday 2 September [Date aligned to HSC Visual Arts/Design Tech Exhibition]

**Saturday 1 September Father~Daughter Ball**

Reminder – all of Years 7-12

attend Open Day and attend all Parent Weekend Services

Ranier Uniform Shop ~ 2018

2018 Additional Trading Days Wednesday 24, Thursday 25, Monday 29 and Tuesday 30 January ~ 12.00pm-5.00pm - by appointment only

Regular trading will commence on Thursday 1 February 2018 (12.00pm-5.00pm)

All fittings for uniforms are by appointment, during shop hours: Mondays and Thursdays 12.00pm-5.00pm Shop Manager: Mrs Michelle Wynn. To order items, please call the Shop: (02) 4860 2136 [BH], email: frensham@ranier.com.au

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Following on from all the fun of the Iris Country Fair, we now turn our attention to the next issue of the annual Chronicle. Just a gentle reminder to send prior to Christmas in any news that you would like to be included in this important archival document. Our sincere thanks to the many Old Girls who donated items to the Silent Auction – without your support we would not have raised over $54,000 on the day! Whereas there are too many items to list, here is a showcase of the artworks we received from our talented Old Girls. Bees and Veg Panel – Heidi McGeoch (Wilson, 1981); Frost Settling – Matilda Dumas (Campbell, 1985); Seek – Amanda Paradice (Hunter, 1988); Clouds Burst 1 – Nicola Bolton (Henderson, 1980); Arvo Tea – Libby Hobbs (Elder, 1962); High in High Country – Paula Jenkins (Baillie, 1996); Birthday Girl – Zoe Young (1995); Walk to the Village – Katie Clemson (1967; dec). Save these Dates for 2018 70 Year Reunion 3-4 March at Frensham 50 Year Reunion 17-18 March at Frensham Central NSW Lunch 10 March at Wellington 40 Year Reunion 19-20 May at Frensham 5 Year Reunion 2-3 June at Frensham Fellowship AGM 13 June at Frensham 10 Year Reunion 11-12 August at Frensham

For a full list of events and Reunions, please visit: www.frensham.nsw.edu.au/community/fellowship

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Missed the Iris Country Fair? Catch-up on with the all fun of the fair with the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5j2rBqhwCuI

SAVE THE DATE for 2018 – Foundation’s major fundraiser for the year – linked to the Official Opening of the expanded, renovated Frensham Dining Room. The refurbished Dining Room is a major Foundation Project – due for completion by the end of April, 2018.

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Over the past two weeks, Year 6 students have marked the end of their time at Gib Gate in a number of different ways. On Friday evening, students and their parents joined Gib Gate staff for the Year 6 Farewell Dinner, a formal opportunity for staff, students and families to come together to celebrate the culmination of each student’s primary education at Gib Gate. The students conducted the evening’s proceedings demonstrating the leadership skills they have developed throughout their years at Gib Gate and, in particular, through their leadership role and monitors’ positions this year. Sharing memories of their personal Gib Gate experience in their own voices, the students expressed thanks to all who have played a role in their primary school education. In contrast to the formal Friday night function, the Years 5 and 6 Social on Monday evening gave Year 6 students the opportunity to relax and have fun with their peers and the Gib Gate Year 6 2018 students. Dancing, playing games and enjoying party food culminated with the infamous chocolate fountain. Finally, a game of limbo provided a wonderful way for the students to relax after such a busy and responsible final term. On Tuesday evening the whole school from Kindergarten to Year 6 joined the school community to celebrate Christmas and the end of the school year at the Gib Gate Christmas Concert. Concluding with the formal procession of Year 6 with their Kindergarten buddies, the evening’s sense of ceremony and celebration was significant. For the last day of this term, Year 6 students planned a wonderful morning of games and activities for their Kindergarten buddies, ending in a celebration lunch. Year 6 students then finished the day leading a whole school assembly for students. Gib Gate continues to provide students with a unique primary school experience. The following excerpts, taken from a selection of the Year 6 Reflections shared with parents and staff at the Year 6 Farewell Dinner, give us a sense of how our most senior students feel as they prepare to leave Gib Gate to embark on the next stage of their education: Part of my role as a Music monitor is visiting Preschool and playing different instruments for Preschool. The aim of this is to

give those children the opportunity to hear a variety of musical instruments and encourage them to want to learn. I hope I have helped them to try something different. Perhaps they won’t all learn just the piano and violin.

During my time at Gib Gate I have worked to achieve my goals and I always try to work to the best of my ability. I have also tried to not give up when I have experienced failure and instead set new goals from these experiences. I enjoy the satisfaction of setting and reaching goals.

Just being a Gib Gate student is where I feel I belong most. All the students of Gib Gate are such admirable people and everyone is so polite. I have made so many new friends coming here and it will make it so much easier heading off to high school next year.

In Year Two, it was our time to shine as leaders of the Junior Musical. We all did an excellent job, remembering lyrics, dance moves and lines. I believe that through this experience I have lived up to the Gib Gate value of excellence because at the age of seven, it is a very nerve-wracking thing to sing and dance in front of a big audience. But we did it, and that is what counts.

Being a Year Six Buddy this year has really made me experience Adventure and Challenge. I have learnt how to play and really get along with a five-year-old, and do the activities they like to do that I hadn’t done in many years. Even though I sometimes I didn’t want to play fairies, I have learnt that playing those games helped to bring back my Gib Gate memories of when I was five and I had my own big Year Six buddy.

My biggest adventure at Gib Gate was going on the Japan trip and staying with my host family. It was an adventure learning the ways Japanese people live and trying new foods that I had never even heard of before. At first I did not know if I would like it and I felt nervous about leaving my family but then everybody in Japan was so nice to me and it made me feel a sense of Adventure.

When I look back on the nine years that I have been at Gib Gate and all of the wonderful memories that I have made, I truly understand what the values really mean under the surface. Gib Gate is a place where I have always felt happy and safe. I have made great connections with my peers and teachers. I will never forget this delightful school, and it will always be a part of my heart.

I remember when we were given a fun challenge, attempting to fit everyone in the class on a’ lifeboat’ (piece of paper) and we worked so hard to achieve this goal together. I felt like I really belonged because our whole class was working together to ensure that everyone could achieve this shared goal. No one was left out or worried about things such as gender differences. At that moment it was like we were a big family and I guess, in some ways, we are.

Looking back at my memories I have found the answer to my question ‘What have the nine years at Gib Gate taught me?’ Tackle adventures head on. Allow yourself to be heart warmed by a kind comment. Set yourself challenges. Always take advantage of opportunities. Be proud of your mistakes… and lead with service.

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Year Six has probably been both one of my hardest and the best years I have had here at Gib Gate – all of classmates cooperating with, and listening to, each other to be an amazing leadership team. I have loved having an awesome, and a bit of a cheeky, buddy like myself this year. I love our school very much and I will never forget all the exciting, amazing and heart-warming memories that I have had here.

The whole world is in need of people ‘doing’. The word doing, to me is a word that usually means helping others in need. Gib Gate is full of people doing kind things, such as mufti days to raise funds for the environment, or the construction of solar buddy lights for the less fortunate students at Katuuso Primary school in Uganda. Gib Gate is always thinking of ways to do things to help others as a community.

From Kindergarten to Year 6, I have always loved the ‘feel’ of Gib Gate. The teachers who let you be independent while also treating you like one of their own kids. When I arrive at school in the mornings, I am always greeted with the sound of old, pale green trees rustling, and birds chiming. As I continue walking down to the welcoming classroom, I know I am going to have a great day with the Gib Gate community.

Ms Sally Robson, Head of Gib Gate Curriculum Highlights 2017

Gib Gate Scientists in Action - Year 5 Gib Gate Year students were recognised for their outstanding work in Science over the past months. On Wednesday 29 November they participated in the University of Wollongong Illawarra Coal Science Fair, the largest science fair in Australia, with over 900 students from primary and high schools. Over 503 projects researched animal behaviour, astronomy, engineering, geology, anatomy, and much more. Nine projects were entered by Year 5, and Gib Gate students prepared their display boards and speeches to respond to questions from the judges. All students are congratulated for their consistent dedication to their projects. Eight students achieved awards of Highly Commended including: Cassia Berry, Rocco Perrotta and Amy Wimalaratne for

their project of ‘Bursting Bubbles’ which investigated the effect of organic vs inorganic bubble bath on duration of bubbles; Chloe Cowley, Luca de Manincor and Salvatore Perrotta for ‘Perfect Polystyrene’, which investigated the effect of polystyrene on insulation of houses; and Georgia Greig and Lilly Treweeke for their project of ‘Keep it Cool’, which investigated the effect of glad wrap vs aluminium foil on insulation of school lunches. All the students enjoyed the day spent speaking with the judges, expressing their love of Science, demonstrating extensive knowledge of scientific process and in-depth knowledge of their personal investigations.

Young Scientist Awards Cate Horsfall, Kate Nicholls, Kyle George (Year 5)

Year 5 and Year 6 'Hippy' Social

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Pictured left: Salvatore Perrotta, Luca de Manicor, Chloe Cowley and their Perfect Polystyrene Investigation Pictured right: Sergio Iori, Archer Maitland and Solveig Clarkson with their investigation Boundless Bath Bombs

On Saturday 25 November, Year 2 students travelled to The University of Wollongong Innovation Campus to participate in the First Lego League Junior Expo. Focused on building an interest in Science and Engineering in children aged 6-9 years, FIRST® LEGO® League Junior is a hands-on programme designed to capture young children's curiosity and direct it toward discovering how science and technology impact the world around them. The programme features a real-world challenge, to be explored through research, critical thinking and imagination. Guided by their teacher, Mrs Berman, team members worked with LEGO® elements (LEGO WeDo 2.0 Kit) and motorised parts to build ideas and concepts and present them for review. The 2017 challenge was AQUA ADVENTURE. Year 2 worked in teams of two or three to explore how water is used at home or in the community, the water’s journey, and how to improve part of this journey. They then had to create and test a Team Model to show their ideas and share what they learned. The culmination of this hard work for Gib Gate Year 2 scientists was their participation in the Expo event where they had an enjoyable day being interviewed by the judges and being awarded Certificates. A feature was being able to watch the older students – Upper Primary and Junior High – competing in the First Lego League competition and being interviewed by the local media. Here is a link to the WIN News clip featuring Isla McVinish and Victoria Trotter: https://www.facebook.com/WINNewsIllawarra/videos/1985755841441149/?hc_ref=ARSfaiFUnnhMex4NrdL3rj-MjSu4n9nygnzFtZR3dBJwtNzKFoxAN3Mw1R-Ug3H2bjk&fref=nf

Pictured above left: Olivia Cowley and Anthony Neilson with their project - The Amazing Water Dragons Pictured right: Annika Basson, Sebastian Atra and Adele Trudeau with their project - The Amazing Dropets - and their award for their team model and presentation Ms Kate Chauncy, Director of Teaching and Learning, P-12 and Coordinator of Gifted and Talented Programmes

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Enrichment/Activities Senior Musical Production The performances of the Senior Musical Production, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe were well received. Year 6 students, in lead roles, performed with diligence and enthusiasm, Year 5 were frightening as the White Witch’s Rabble, Year 4 charmed as Narnia Creatures and Year 3’s Spring Dance was a highlight! Congratulations to all students for their performances and thank you to parents and teachers who assisted with costume and make-up for the performances. Kids on Show Gib Gate had 21 entries in the Kids on Show exhibition last week. Many of these were from Art classes with Mrs Nicole O’Connor and Mrs Gotleib’s After School class. On the Opening night, Joe Quilty (Year 6) won First place for his Portrait; Penni-Rose Collins (Year 4) and Sophia Atra (Kindergarten) were awarded Highly Commended and Amelia O’Shanassy (Year 6) and Sebastian Atra (Year 2) were awarded Commended for their works. Mrs Anne Graham, Gib Gate Coordinator (Administration) Sport Equestrian Elizabeth Taylor’s (Year 5) results at the recent SHC Horse of the Year Show qualified her to represent New South Wales at the All States Showdown in Victoria, which took place from 24 and 25 November. Elizabeth then competed at the Equestrian Australian Nationals on Thursday 30

November. Elizabeth is congratulated on her outstanding achievements at the All States Showdown and Equestrian Australian Nationals, where she was awarded the following: All States Showdown Champion Open Small Show Hunter Galloway (Broadwater Park Cartier); Champion Child’s Small Show Hunter Pony (Kenda Park Strauss); Champion Rider U12 (with three 1st placings from the three judges); Runner-up Child’s Small Show Hunter Galloway Equestrian Australian Nationals Champion Child’s Small Show Hunter Galloway; Runner-up Child’s Small Show Hunter Galloway; Runner-up Junior Rider Under 12; Third Place Open Small Show Hunter Galloway Sport At the end of another exciting year of Sport at Gib Gate, we can reflect on some wonderful achievements. Gib Gate teams in 2017 featured in Basketball and Water Polo finals. Ski teams achieved medals at Regional, State and National events. Sebastian Atra (Year 2) was a notable performer with two gold medals at the State Championships and one gold and one silver medal at the National championships. Swimming, Athletics, Gymnastics and Cross Country teams competed with distinction at the various interschool meetings including our Junior Girls relay team coming 4th at the NSW State titles. Gib Gate Equestrian riders consistently place well at local, Interschool, State and National competitions. Gib Gate finished as the top Primary School at the 2017 State Interschools Equestrian event with Sophie Baldwin (Year 4) finishing as a gold medal winner at the National Interschools Equestrian. Individually we have had many Gib Gate students achieving higher representation and honours in a variety of sports and these have all been highlighted in the Newsletters throughout the year (please see latest news regarding Elizabeth Taylor’s achievements above). While we applaud all the individual and team efforts in Sport, we value the participation and commitment displayed by the entire student body as they train and play each week in so many sports. We believe that participation in Sport makes us stronger, more resilient and tolerant people in the wider aspects of our growth and development. We also wish to extend our appreciation to parents, coaches and managers involved in all teams and Sports at Gib Gate. We are fortunate to have a dedicated group of coaches and parents who are so supportive of Gib Gate’s sporting ideals. Mr Michael Standen, Co-ordinator of PDHPE and Sport

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Preschool (Pre-Kindergarten) Excursion to the University of Wollongong, Early Start Discovery Space On Wednesday 29 November Preschool students headed off on an adventure to the University of Wollongong to attend the Early Start Discovery Space. The students met their educators and then began to explore the beautiful garden, which included a water pump, creek and giant outdoor xylophone. There was so much to see and a firm favourite with the children was the construction site where they wore hard hats and tool belts and worked on jobs such as tiling the floor, laying bricks, cranking the conveyor belt and pushing the wheelbarrow. In the shop, the children took turns at restocking the shelves, pushing the shopping trolleys, filling up their carts with delicious produce, manning the tills and calculating the final bill. The children also had the opportunity to build with Lego, go through a cave, dress up and be on stage, steer the ship and shovel coal into the train. There was even a chance to be archaeologists and rediscover Ancient Egyptian artefacts. At the end of the day, the children completed a quick recall drawing. This activity provided the perfect platform for the children to use the arts as a means of articulating the highlights of the excursion. The Early Start Discovery Space was the perfect culminating experience for our learning at preschool this year, combining STEM, dramatic play, curiosity and the natural environment. Thank you to our wonderful helpers for making the day possible!

Mrs Tinna Loker, Preschool Coordinator

Gib Gate Orchestra performing at the Gib Gate Christmas Concert

Activities from the Early Start Discovery Space excursion

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A Merry Christmas to all! We take this opportunity to offer best wishes for the festive season to all our Friends of Sturt, students, teachers, staff and supporters. It has been a terrific year with many important projects and achievements and we look forward to new challenges in 2018. Thank you to everyone for your support for Sturt. On Thursday 7 December, Sturt celebrated with the Friends of Sturt Christmas Party, the opening of In these hands – Ernabella Arts, 70 years of Indigenous art and design exhibition and the Artisans Night Market in the famous Sturt gardens. Last chance to enrol for Sturt Summer School 3-7 January 2018 More than 12 courses are already full with waiting lists and many more are nearly full so if you are planning on joining us for Summer School we suggest you do not delay to secure your place. Full details of all the courses that still have places available can be found on our website. Also on offer are accommodation and meals packages; the week includes a range of social events, talks and demonstrations. Details of courses can be found at the Gallery and on the website http://www.sturt.nsw.edu.au/education/summer-school Please note - we still have limited places available in Photography, Mosaics, Weaving, Calligraphy and Portraiture.

Exhibitions In These Hands: Mara nyangangka” – Celebrating 70 years of Ernabella Arts – continues to 11 February 2018 The fruits of a collaboration that took place 46 years ago are soon to be the subject of a special exhibition and residency between Australia's two oldest centres for craft and design – Sturt Gallery and Studios (1941) and Ernabella Arts (1948). In the late 1960s two women from different worlds struck up a friendship and artistic collaboration that would last a lifetime. Elisabeth Nagel, master weaver from Sturt in the lush green Southern Highlands of NSW travelled to the remote Pukatja Community in far north-western South Australia where she met Winifred Hilliard, then Manager of the craft industry at Ernabella Mission. Together they sparked a ground-breaking initiative between two of Australia's oldest craft centres which would lead to inspiring artistic production spanning generations. Elisabeth Nagel visited Ernabella many times and together they pioneered two separate residencies for Indigenous artists to travel to Sturt and live on site in Mittagong for five months learning new weaving techniques in Sturt's studios. Now for the first time in many years, a new generation of Indigenous artists will take that journey from Ernabella to Sturt where they will once again undertake a residency and celebrate the collaboration between the two craft centres in this 70th birthday exhibition – which will showcase the full range of contemporary art being made today in Ernabella. Ernabella Arts is now a renowned Indigenous centre for art and design, famous for its paintings and ceramics. Sturt is honoured to showcase the quality and depth of work being made by Ernabella artists today. In These Hands: Mara Nyangangk will not only tell the historical story of the link between the two famous centres, it will celebrate the long tradition of craft and design in Australia while at the same time being testament to the positive collaboration and understanding between an Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultural institution sharing the same passion for 'making'. Elisabeth Nagel will be at the celebration and opening, together with representatives of a new generation of Indigenous artists, carrying forward the stories, traditions and techniques that have gone before at what promises to be one of the most exciting new exhibitions of Indigenous art. Full details of all Sturt courses, exhibitions, residency programmes and events can be found on the website www.sturt.nsw.edu.au or to make a booking or enrolment call Sturt Shop on +61 2 4860 2083 or email shop@sturt.nsw.edu.au Mr Mark Viner, Head of Sturt

F R I E N D S O F S T U R T Denise Sumner (President), Penny Hoskins (Secretary), Ruth Wright (Roster Secretary), Joan Dinning, Bill Dinning, Anne Thomson, Julie Musgrave, Michael Harris, Libby Hobbs, Jill Dyson

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Deputy Head As the 2017 school year closed for students, preparations for 2018 are well underway. Most girls, where applicable, have now made subject choices for next year. Letters were sent to parents of Year 10, to confirm Preliminary HSC subjects, and letters will be sent to confirm Year 9 Elective choices. Ms van Gogh, Mr Marsh and Ms Chauncy are still working with some students and their parents, on their curriculum structure or personalised learning plans for 2018. Girls have nominated their IGSSA sport for Term 1, with selection trials held during Jamieson Week, and during the first week of 2018. The first weekend of Term 1, 2018 will involve team selections or training for all girls, in the Sport selected for the term. Parents are reminded that Extra-Subject forms will be available to families on Schoolbox, in January. These forms should be completed and returned by the date indicated. All students must complete a Music Lesson form if they intend to continue with, or take up an instrumental music lesson next year. Fitness, Health and Wellbeing During Term 4, Year 7 students continued to work on age-appropriate strategies linked to ongoing development of positive peer relations. In year meetings they worked both as a cohort and in smaller groups to discuss various outcomes to proposed scenarios based on real-life social situations. With maturity, the girls considered the perspectives of others and offered thoughtful suggestions. Crack meetings were also a chance for Year 7 to add insights; with the guidance of their Year 10 Cracks, they discussed issues of friendship, kindness and inclusivity. In addition to the more formal staff led activities, simply spending Thursday afternoons together has provided Year 7 with an extra opportunity to create new friendships and strengthen their cohesion as a year group. Finally, the students enjoyed the workshop on Positive Peer Relations with the company URSTRONG on Monday 27 November. This year, Year 8 girls have shown great commitment to Riding for the Disabled and loved being able to support those less able members of our local community. They have diligently met their increased school responsibilities, including bell and flag duty. We have focused on building and sustaining friendships, managing conflict, being positive and cyber safety in our meetings and Bounce Back sessions. Girls are now ready to undertake the increased responsibilities and leadership opportunities that are part of our programme. The Year 9 Jamieson Programme has provided the girls with a broad range of opportunities for academic, emotional and physical challenge. Global Forum was a significant highlight and comments from girls included ‘It taught us to become stronger, to challenge our views and to find inspiration in those around us.’ Similarly, the Duke of Edinburgh International programme has given girls the opportunity to serve others through Nursing Home visits and Holting. The care, interest and singing from the girls whilst visiting Nursing Homes has delighted residents, whilst the girls have also embraced all Holting activities, including the building of wombat shelters. Girls have had opportunities for workshops, such as Drug Forum and the Batyr Mental Health Programme to support their wellbeing. Bounce Back sessions have included discussions about technology, kindness, courage and resilience. Year 12, 2018 girls recognise that management of personal expectations (academic, sport, music, drama, leadership roles) offers significant challenge. The Beyond Blue Organisation offers helpful advice to students studying in Year 12 to prevent the ‘juggle’ from becoming too overwhelming. The website states: The media and those around us can spread a lot of hype and pressure about Year 12, but putting things into perspective can really help to avoid becoming overwhelmed. The strategies that Beyond Blue suggests to help manage the final year of school are closely aligned with Frensham guidelines. Get a good night’s sleep Stay active Connect with others Laugh, be positive Eat well. Fuel the mind and the body Have clear goals – write them down Study smart and remove distractions. Research shows

that students who use social media (even if only in the background) do not achieve as well as those who don’t

Get support. [At Frensham, we have a mentor programme for Year 12 students. Mentors offer valuable guidance and support in terms of organisation, planning and sometimes just as a sounding board to alleviate anxieties which may emerge during the journey towards the HSC.

For the vacation, it is important that Year 12 use their time effectively to cement positive routines and position themselves for success in all areas of school life from the outset of 2018.]

Mr Geoff Marsh, Deputy Head

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Boarding News The festivities of the final week of the School year were eagerly anticipated and were considered by girls to be a huge success! The last weekend, with Parent vs Daughter Softball matches on the Games Field and Final Prayers, the Carol Service and the End of Year Production - Beauty and the Beast in Clubbe Hall, provided the strongest sense of community involvement. Christmas decorations in the Dining Room for Christmas Lunch all added to the warm welcome to returning Year 12s (2017) for the few days at the end of the year.

Parents, staff and girls are acknowledged for their support of our ‘House moving’ to accommodate acceleration of the Kennedy House building project. Kennedy in Linden Turner proved to be a very positive experience for staff and girls, and allowed all to become more familiar with a House juniors will move to for Years 10-11, in the future.

Mrs Ros Buick, Director of Planning & Events; Mrs Amanda Wansey, Deputy Head of Boarding

Director of Teaching and Learning Frensham Student Awarded Highest Achievement Frensham Year 10 student, Elvira Berzins, has been awarded the University of NSW Global Assessments (ICAS) highest award as a medal winner in the annual Writing Competition. She was presented with her award at a ceremony held at the University on Thursday 23 November.

Elvira gained a High Distinction award in the 2017 ICAS Writing Competition (top 1% in the international candidature) earlier this year. From this group, students with the top score in each subject in each year level were then advised of their further achievement. Elvira’s writing earned her place in the top 0.1% of the candidature of 78,000 entries across Australia. Elvira also enjoys writing poetry and earlier this year entered her poem She, the storm, in the annual national Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards for which she received the award of Highly Commended. Both of Elvira’s compositions are published in this year’s edition of Pen & Ink.

Elvira was joined at the ceremony by her parents, Mr Aris and Mrs Melita Berzins and Ms Kate Chauncy, Director of Teaching and Learning P-12 to celebrate her achievement.

This year’s edition of Pen & Ink This year’s edition of Pen & Ink was on sale on the final weekend of the year - a showcase of exemplary writing across genres, composed by students from Years 7 to 12 throughout 2017. Designed by Indra Deigan, Creative Director, WWS Media and Publications, the ‘new look’ cover features elements of Harper Northam’s (Year 10) unique ‘Logophile’s Dictionary’ which is a continuing work as she discovers more interesting words to add to her collection. The ‘First Words’ section is dedicated to synopses written by Year 12, 2017 English Extension 2 students, who, in the past 12 months, have completed their individual writing projects for submission to NESA for marking. The ‘Last Words’ section was written by members of Pen & Ink from Years 9-12 who were each challenged to use exactly 12 Words to compose a story to mark the last page for 2017.

Contributors 2017 Edition - Year 12: Isabella Alderton, Liana Berzins, Lucinda Chambers, Skyla Harris, Madeleine Massey, Annabel Preston, Imogen Ryan, Kate Swan; Year 11: Celia Battcock, Jessica Latimer, Isabella Letherbarrow-Verran, Sophia Parker, Katchmirr Russell, Sabrina Stephenson; Year 10: Isabella Allen, Elvira Berzins, Georgia Gresham, Miranda McGufficke, Francesca Milner, Harper Northam, India Shead, Imogen Senior; Year 9: Aarthi Avvari, Annabella Damiani, Olivia Hamilton, Miriam Hopkins, Caitlin Hargraves, Mia Horsfall, Grace McKinley, Adelaide Poulos, Cate Watson; Year 8: Alexandra Barton, Amelia Byrne, Ella Clark, Eliza Friend, Jessica Greig, Ruby Halloran, Emilie Hassall, Ella Hopperton, Madeleine Mulligan, Lilith Parker, Anna Rickwood, Georgia Shakeshaft, Eleanor Swan; Year 7: Matilda Arnott, Isobel Burge, Makayla Butler, Yusra Chalak, Sophie Domazet, Lulu Duck, Brigitte Fowler, Emma Hassett, Eliza Hewson, Sophie Hill, Hannah Hiscocks, Lily Huggins, Poppy Jensen, Franklyn Magee, Lucy Pernice, Lily Seaton-Cooper, Emily Senior, Jemima Wansey.

Members of Pen & Ink agreed that all profits from the sale of their 2017 collection will be donated to The Sydney Story Factory. This foundation runs free creative writing and storytelling workshops for young people aged 7 to 17, particularly those from marginalised backgrounds. Under the guidance of the expert storytelling team, young people work with volunteer tutors to write stories of all kinds, which are published in as many ways possible including on their website: https://www.sydneystoryfactory.org.au/. The Sydney Story Factory mission is to help young people find their voice, learn skills and develop creativity, and promote the confidence essential for future success.

People born with a talent they are meant to use will find their greatest happiness in using it. ― Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Ms Kate Chauncy, Director of Teaching and Learning, P-12 and Coordinator of Gifted & Talented Programmes

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Director of Studies Year 11 Orientation, concluded in the second last week of term, and enabled Year 10 students to sample Preliminary courses, in order to gain insight into the content and skills required for each subject. Feedback from most students was positive and many were able to test more than six subjects, before determining their final selection. Their selection will shortly be forwarded to parents to sign off.

Years 7 and 8 girls have had an opportunity to reflect on and speak to their Form Tutors about their Semester 2 Report. This forms a valuable part of the reporting process, along with a similar discussion that students will have with their parents. Setting academic goals and planning for future studies are part of this reflection. For Years 10 and 11, the reflection process with Form Tutors is part of the Term 1, 2018 Form programme.

John Hattie, currently director of the Melbourne Education Research Institute, published an evaluation of school reports titled School Reports: Praising with Faint Damns. It found that, while school reports are one of the primary vehicles for relaying information about students' progress to parents, they emphasise what students can do, rather than what students cannot do.

As part of Frensham reporting, it is expected that a focus area forms part of all subject reports – “what does the student need to do to improve”? Additionally, timely teacher feedback is integral to improvement and, as such, report comments regarding improvement should not come as a surprise to students.

Year 12, 2018 have been given Vacation Work for each subject to complete over the holiday period. This work will consolidate content studied this term, provide a focus in terms of future content, and give direction to those students who will be completing Major Works as part of their HSC programme. The Vacation Work has been posted on Schoolbox for student access.

Ms Janene van Gogh, Director of Studies – in Residence

English and Drama Drama The Beauty and the Beast production in Clubbe Hall over the last week of term, saw the cast and crew ready to tell a tale as old as time. The settings included Belle’s provincial town and the magnificent castle of the Beast. The enchanted staff of the castle amazed all, with their wit and charm, just as they amazed Belle, and in the process allowed her to discover what was beyond the Beast’s hideous exterior. ‘There lies the kind heart and soul of the true prince.’

We thank all students and staff involved who worked hard to make this story come to life, and offer our appreciation to all for the overwhelmingly enthusiastic audience feedback!

[Editor’s late note: ‘spectacular’; ‘brilliant’, ‘extraordinarily well done’; ‘bravo’ were just some of the words used in notes of congratulations sent to the School by audience members.]

Mrs Sally Hannah, Head of Drama

English Exploring concepts in texts may broaden and deepen students’ understanding of themselves and their world. – adapted from NESA Stage 6 English Syllabus

The final week of lessons saw all English students completing units of work in which they honed skills that will be further developed in next year’s programmes.

You are invited to The Literary Games – Books You Hunger to Read 2017. This was the first line of the final activity in which Year 7 English engaged this term. Collaborating across all three English classes, the girls were grouped according to their choice of fantasy text. The groups were given four tasks to complete, which promoted a deeper understanding of the common elements of narrative texts: theme, character, setting, genre, context and style. Activities including a PowerPoint representation of the novel’s themes, an ‘interview’ with the author, and a character profile, culminated in a persuasive pitch to sell the book as one their peers would ‘hunger’ to read. Within an allocated five minutes, groups presented their finale to the whole year group in a variety of forms, such as a brief re-enactment, an original film trailer, a musical number, an interpretive dance or a living blurb. The unit proved popular with Year 7 students, who were engaged in their activities until the last minutes of the term. The quality and diversity of their presentations were inspiring for both the students and their teachers.

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How do we persuade someone to believe something? Year 8 students explored this question through an examination of a range of texts, including non-fiction, media, multimedia and digital texts. Examples of persuasive practices, such as photo-shopping images used in the news media, stimulated discussion about ethics and the responsibility of media organisations to represent the truth. The influence of persuasive texts on cultural thinking was also a focus. One example that provoked thought is the popular Disney Princess franchise, which inspires the fantasies of countless numbers of little girls across the western world. Disney princesses have only recently been represented as having any independence, with Merida, from the movie Brave (2012) being the first princess not to have a love interest. Wide reading for Year 8 was Trash by Andy Mulligan, a novel that complements the unit on persuasive language and extends the students’ understanding of environmental and social sustainability issues. The futuristic setting is the outskirts of a large city of an unidentified developing nation, where three “dumpsite boys” make a living picking through the mountains of garbage. The book is divided into five sections, in which each chapter is told from the point of view of different characters in the story, providing valuable insight into the importance of a variety of perspectives in representing the truth of any event or circumstance.

In both these Term 4 units, Years 7 and 8 students developed their understanding of their role as informed, thinking global citizens and the power of language to present views on people, places and the world. Similar outcomes were achieved in Term 4 by Year 9, in their documentary film study, and Year 10 in their Senior English Orientation courses, all of which were outlined in the last newsletter.

Meanwhile, Year 11 students have completed the common unit in the HSC English Standard and Advanced courses: the Area of Study, Discovery. The focus text for this unit is the work of Rosemary Dobson, a renowned Australian poet who has the added distinction of being a Frensham Old Girl. Dobson’s poetry is highly conceptual, challenging the girls to consider a number of confronting and provocative perspectives that invoke discoveries that are intensely meaningful in ways that may be emotional, creative, intellectual, physical and spiritual. Through exploring the concept of discovery, students come to understand how texts have the potential to affirm or challenge assumptions and beliefs about aspects of human experience and the world. Following their assessment task in Week 7, the girls investigated a range of texts with the aim of choosing related texts that complement and extend some of Dobson’s ideas and their personal discovery thesis.

Ms Jennie Mickle, Director of English

French At this stage of the year, as the vacation beckons, it seems appropriate to note that the French language is spoken close to home - in New Caledonia - as well as in France itself. Exposure to French language and culture in any milieu is beneficial so every student is encouraged to seek out and explore as much French culture as she can over the summer vacation.

Alors bonnes vacances, joyeuses fêtes de Noël et du Nouvel An, et retournez rafraichies en 2018, les filles!

Mme Kidner, French Teacher

Human Society and Its Environment (HSIE) Students finished their courses in Years 7 to 10 in preparation for Jamieson Week activities.

An important component of the Jamieson Week programme was undertaking Holting activities. Local resident, Tania Clancy, has had significant involvement in Holting with Year 9 students this year. Her wealth of experience in caring for animals has been invaluable for educating students in native animal care. Tania introduced to the girls a range of animals for which she has been caring, including wombats, possums and gang-gang cockatoos. Year 9 Holters have spent sessions discussing the care of these animals as well as the more traditional land management activities associated with Holting. Tania will be attending Jamieson Week activities in the Holt and we are sure that students will enjoy their sessions.

Year 12, 2017 students have been set their Vacation Work to be completed for Term 1 2018. This is particularly important as a means of continuing the learning that they have undertaken in the classroom this term. Modern History students have been directed to create summaries of the First World War and the events surrounding the Bolshevik Revolution in Russia in 1917. Ancient History students have been set work on Spartan cultural and everyday life to complete their study of Spartan Society. The Economic class is to work on developing topic summaries and past examination questions. Geography students are to commence their case study of inter-tidal wetlands. The Business Studies class will complete a study of Marketing and influences on choices and decisions in marketing. Finally, History Extension students have been provided with readings and tasks on ancient historians and the impact of their various contexts on their works.

Mr Stephen Clarke, Head of HSIE

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Jamieson Programme The Jamieson Programme is built on the belief that … The very experience of being confronted by physical, intellectual and emotional challenges in a stimulating environment is inherently exciting and immensely rewarding.

The School year finished with Jamieson Week, a well-loved and much-anticipated period in the School calendar. Activities ranged from card-making, contributing to the local Giving Trees, Police Talks, Boot Camps, Yoga, Zumba, Hip-Hop, Holting, Tree Planting and singing Christmas Carols at Nursing Homes – a wonderful way for students to give back to their Frensham community and the broader local community.

Within the wider Jamieson Programme, students have benefited from myriad learning opportunities throughout the year. At the end of each semester, each student in Years 7-10 reflects on her individual highlights and challenges within the Jamieson Programme. This then forms part of the Jamieson Report and guides her ongoing personal development.

Year 7: This term the students have been composing Shadow Books for the incoming Year 7 students and will complete them during Jamieson Week.

Year 8: Students continued their important role as Shadows to Year 7.

Year 9: In the Thursday afternoon activity in Week 7, Year 9 students participated in a fun fitness activity. Ms Farmer created a number of quite different activities that engaged the students, bringing out both their competitive nature and ability to laugh at themselves. The final activity undertaken by the students was a short presentation on a Global Issue using a Making Thinking Visible routine. The presentations were of a high calibre this year, highlighting the students’ passion for particular issues.

Ms Merrilee Harris, Jamieson Programme Coordinator

Mathematics All teachers have been encouraging their students to actively engage with the problems presented to them in a variety of ways and we value the way they approach their learning. Throughout the year girls have been working mathematically to solve thousands of problems, independently and in groups. Gabrielle Steiner and Jessica Latimer (Year 11) are commended for another successful Mathematics Club with special mention to Lillie Morrison (Year 9) and Grace Lewis (Year 8) for their fine estimation and visual skills in a guessing competition; Natasha Long (Year 12) and Grace Lewis on their 30 pointed modular origami star; and Caitlin Hargraves (Year 9) on her transforming modular rose.

We also commend Year 10 students for the way they approached the Year 11 Orientation programme, in which they trialled courses for next year. The students were given a mock test in the style of the relevant HSC course and girls noted that the mathematical language used can vary between the different courses. Students undertaking the Standard course focused on the mathematics of driving and appreciated the usefulness of relating the subject to real world phenomena. All girls are encouraged to discuss their engagement in their Orientation Mathematics courses with their parents before making their final selection for Year 11. Every course is dependent on previous mathematical skills and it is very beneficial to be doing a subject that the student is enjoying.

Mrs Yvette Semler, Head of Mathematics

Music There were some special ensemble performances in Morning Prayers over the last two weeks: the Junior Choir, conducted by Mrs McBride, sang beautifully with soloists Grace Amos and Madeleine Mulligan and last Friday, the Kennedy Strings, conducted by Mrs Lamrock-George, performed the first movement of Vivaldi’s Double Violin Concerto in A minor, featuring soloists Chanel Huang and Harper Northam. Frensham musicians have enjoyed working with Mrs Lamrock-George and Mrs McBride, during their 2017 appointments while covering for Ms Benson, who was on leave for the year.

The School rehearsed each morning of Jamieson Week, in preparation for Final Prayers and the Carol Service and members of the Frensham Fathers’ Choir sang very well their verses in Good King Wenceslas and God Rest You Merry Gentlemen!

We also enjoyed a touching student-led farewell to Mr Brian Petchell, much-loved organist for Clubbe Hall events, retiring from the role at the end of this year.

Mr Michael Spencer, Head of Music

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Science

Space has always been a fascination the human race. The idea of actually exploring space was deemed a necessity in the middle of last century and culminated in humans leaving the Earth’s orbit to land on the moon. As part of the Off the Planet unit Year 8 students have been designing water rockets. Elements of the project were designing a rocket that would fly the furthest distance and design a logo and a slogan for their rocket.

Year 9 students have been completing STEM projects in small groups for the last two weeks. Projects are based on the ones used in the Science and Engineering Challenge to encourage team work and problem-solving. The group projects included building a bionic hand, building a catapult, designing a hovercraft, designing flat pack furniture and making a device that would turn on after a 10-second delay.

Mrs Alison Andrew, Head of Science

With their rockets: Above Left: Eleanor Swan, Madeleine Mulligan and Millicent Bashford [rocket created using the 3D printer]; Middle: Coco Bradley, India Hicks, Ivy Hayes, Annabelle Ranken; Right: Sarah Glanville, Laura Harper, Ruby Halloran and Amelia Byrne

Year 9 students with their STEM projects: Above Left: (back row) Bridge Builders – Elizabeth Mitchell, Daisy Latimer, Claudia Logan, Charlotte Dulhunty, Frances Alldis, Cate Watson; (front row) Isobel Huggins, Adelaide Poulos, Grace McKinley); Middle: Sophie Lyne, Charlotte Menzies and Ella Cullen designing a bionic hand; Above Right: Sophie Hatch testing her Hovercraft, ith Chanel Huang and Pip Ireson.

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Agriculture & Show Cattle Team Preparation for the 2018 Show Cattle season is progressing well. In the last weeks of term, all steers underwent ultrasound, were fat scanned on their rib and rump, and had their eye muscle area measured. This will help determine their feed rations for the next 100 days in order to best reach their market specifications for the Sydney Royal Easter Show. Most of the steers are parading well and some have had their first wash and blow dry. The Highland steers have also had a haircut with the students clipping off their long winter coat. Jamieson Week was the last opportunity for the students to have their steer ‘show ring-ready’ as the first show of the 2018 season is Berry on Saturday 3 February, only three days after the start of Term 1. As a reminder, the dates for 2018 Show Cattle season are as follows: Berry Show Saturday 3 February Nowra Show Saturday 10 February Kangaroo Valley Show Friday 16 February Robertson Show Saturday 3 March Moss Vale Show Saturday 10 March Sydney Royal Easter Show Fri 23 March-Tuesday 3 April (Frensham required - Tues 20 March-Sun 25 March)

The Agriculture classes have been given some vacation work to complete. They have been provided with notes on Schoolbox about judging sheep and wool. If they study and learn these notes they will be well prepared for the Young Judges zone finals (and qualifier for the State Finals at the Sydney Royal Easter Show) on Wednesday 21 February. All Agriculture students from Years 10-12 will compete in the Young Judges competitions for Meat Breed sheep, Merino sheep and Merino Fleeces. The Year 9 students will be the sheep handlers on the day.

Ms Leonie Mutch, Co-ordinator of Agriculture

PDHPE With the completion of examinations, students who have selected the Year 11 senior PDHPE course for 2018 have participated in some of the key learning areas of the HSC Course. With a particular focus on the Sports Medicine Option, students explored how to identify, manage and assess common sports injuries. Additionally, types of training and designing training programmes were explored as part of a practical application.

The format of the PDHPE examinations was challenging for many students. The types of questions asked were designed to assess the skills required in the senior PDHPE course, with a strong emphasis on interpretation, structure and an opportunity for answering conceptually higher-order questions. Students were given feedback relating to both the structure and the detail required to achieve course outcomes at a high level. This will be an ongoing focus for all students.

Ms Janene van Gogh Acting Head of PDHPE

Sport Term 1 2018 Selection trials for IGSSA Tennis and Softball were held during the last few weeks of term and will continue in Week 1 of Term 1, 2018 in preparation for the commencement of IGSSA sport on the Saturday 10 February. Swimming Squad, Gymnastics and Tennis Lessons will also commence early in Term 1.

Miss Erin Gray, Acting Head of Sport

Equestrian In recent weeks, several girls have competed successfully on the Equestrian circuit. On November 11, Phoebe O’Connell (Year 10) competed at the Equestrian Australia NSW Championships and won Runner Up Show Hunter Horse over 16hh and Runner Up Rider 15 and under 17years. Phoebe placed 3rd in Child’s Hunter Hack over 16hh at the EA National Horse and Rider Championships.

Results from the Berrima Horse Trials, included: Matilda Walker (Year 7) placed 8th in the EvA 60 and Elysia Horan (Year 12 2017) placed 2nd in the Preliminary 95cm Show Jumping class.

We wish all riders and their horses a safe and happy holiday and thank all Equestrian parents for their generous contributions throughout the year. Special thanks must also go to Sandra Renowden and Victoria Salkeld for their efforts in organising what was a fabulous second-hand Equestrian stall at the Iris Country Fair which was a huge success.

Miss Victoria Akins, Equestrian Coordinator

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Visual Arts/Design & Technology Students in Year 12 (2018) studying Visual Arts and/or Design & Technology are now well underway formulating concepts for Bodies of Work and Major Design Projects respectively. At the beginning of each course (in Week 1 of Term 4), the specific number of school weeks until NESA submission dates set for these projects in mid-Term 3 / 2018 was made very clear for students. Making allowances for short weeks (ie Week 1, Term 1, 2018) and weeks spent preparing for and completing examinations, it has been calculated that students have 29 school weeks with practical time available to produce their major works. Thus, at the end of Week 8, Term 4, students have completed 8 of 29 school weeks. As teachers, we aim to be as clear as possible about available time and the importance of using it efficiently, so that progress is consistent and not significantly back-ended as NESA submission dates draw nearer. Given that vacation periods were not factored into the calculations, students certainly have significant time to produce works of quality. Taking the above into consideration, teachers have been impressed with the collective start to the production of major works in 8 weeks in both Visual Arts and Design & Technology. Generally, students have been diligent and industrious both in and out of the classroom, devising some highly creative concepts and exploring suitable material and technical means with which to convey them. During the vacation period, the students are expected to work on aspects of their Bodies of Work and Major Design Projects, acting on advice provided verbally and in written feedback. Some judicious use of time during vacation periods can help reduce compounding pressure that is sometimes felt by students during Terms 1-3 of their HSC year. Mr Phil Alldis, Head of Visual Arts and Design