the star vol 5 ed 5 2016 - st virgil's...

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Vol. 5, Ed.5, March 10 2016 PAGE 1 ST VIRGIL’S COLLEGE – THE STAR

FROM THE PRINCIPAL MR DAMIAN MESSER

“Caritas Australia’s annual Lenten fundraising and awareness-‐‑raising appeal brings thousands of Australians together in solidarity with the world'ʹs poor to help end poverty, promote justice and uphold dignity”. Lent – Caritas As we continue on our Lenten journey I encourage your support in our annual Caritas appeal raising money through Project Compassion. Caritas Australia’s annual Lenten fundraising and awareness-‐‑raising appeal brings thousands of Australians together in solidarity with the world'ʹs poor to help end poverty, promote justice and uphold dignity.

The Re-‐developed Galvin Wing. A first class learning and teaching facility!

UPCOMING EVENTS

WEEK 7A Monday March 14 – Labour Day Public Holiday

Tuesday March 15 – Junior School Parent Teacher Interviews

Wednesday March 16 – SATIS Swimming Carnival

Junior School Parent Teacher Interviews

P&F AGM, 7pm at Austins Ferry

Thursday March 17 – Senior School Open Day, 9am-‐5.30pm

WEEK 8B Monday March 21 – Complete Grade 9&10 Time and Space

Dinner, 6.30pm, JPC

Friday March 25 – Good Friday

Please visit the College website www.stvirgils.tas.edu.au to download the calendar to your PC, tablet or smartphone

2 Vol.5, Ed.5 March 10 2016 , PAGE ST VIRGIL’S COLLEGE – THE STAR

Small donations can make a great difference in the lives of those in the poorer communities of the world. It is wonderful to see the fundraising events being run by the boys. There is a collection box in each class and boys are encouraged to make a donation when they can. Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA) – Governance To end the week I will head to Melbourne to meet with the senior executive of EREA for our annual review of governance structures for the College. These meetings provide ideal opportunities to be updated on all the current events within EREA and to discuss and explore how St Virgil’s story adds to the rich tapestry of EREA and our shared heritage as Catholic schools in the Edmund Rice tradition. Galvin Wing Update We are in! It is great to see the new Galvin Wing re-‐‑development being utilised by the students. As with most projects, there are still some minor defects and final touches to be completed before we have complete possession of all parts of the building. All going well we look forward to final possession by the end of the term. The roof above the quadrangle will continue during the rest of this term and final engineering and roofing will happen during the Term One holidays. We hope that this will be the last disruption caused by building works during the 2016 academic year.

Time & Space Programme It is wonderful to see the large number of parents participating in the Time & Space programme again this year. Both the Grade 7 Mother & Son and Grade 8 Father & Son had significant numbers attend. The programme tangibly demonstrates our ongoing commitment to nurturing and strengthening the home-‐‑school partnership that forms an integral part of our processes for supporting parents in managing the transition of their boys into fine young men. I thank all those who participated and wish the Grade 9 and 10 participants well for their camp in two weeks. Combined P&F AGM-‐‑ Wednesday March 16 at the Joyce Performance Centre, Austins Ferry The Parents & Friends Committee at both campuses do a wonderful job in supporting the College through building community, enhancing the home-‐‑school educational partnership and raising valuable funds for projects that benefit all students. Next Wednesday March 16 is the AGM for our combined Parents & Friends Association. I encourage all parents if you are able to attend to meet in the JPC foyer at 7.00pm.


If you are interested in joining the Parents & Friends Committee, please complete a nomination form which is available from the website -‐‑ http://www.stvirgils.tas.edu.au/parents-‐‑friends/ Formal Photos Formal school photos are being held at both campuses this week with the Austins Ferry photos happening today and Junior School on Friday March 11. I ask all boys to please be in full formal uniform for these photos. Volunteers The College as a part of its commitment to community and integral home/school partnership welcomes parental involvement in a wide range of activities including Music, Sport, Canteen, Events, Camp, Classroom help, Tutoring and Fund Raising activities. With the current legislation for volunteering, it is essential that all parents have a Working With Vulnerable People card. These are required for all community organisations including Scouts, Sporting Clubs, Art, Craft and Music activity or any other activity that brings adults in contact with children. Information about the Working with Vulnerable People card can be obtained through the Service Tasmania website: http://www.justice.tas.gov.au/working_with_children/application Enrolments 2017 As we begin a new year we are always planning for the future and as a part of this we are holding our annual Open Day on Thursday March 17, from 9am to 5.30pm. More details of the day will be in subsequent editions of the newsletter but parents are reminded that enrolments for 2017 Grade 7 close on April 22. If you know anyone who is thinking of sending their son to St Virgil’s, please encourage them to lodge their enrolment form. Recommendations from you are our strongest advertisement! Please note that current Grade 6 SVC students are not required to submit an enrolment form. Siblings attending schools other than St Virgil’s must submit an enrolment form, copies of which are available from the website http://www.stvirgils.tas.edu.au/enrolment-‐‑online-‐‑expression-‐‑of-‐‑interest/ or the Front Office. Scholarships Included in this newsletter you will find details of two scholarships available to current and former students of St Virgil’s. Please note that applications for these scholarships close on Wednesday March 24. In the spirit of Blessed Edmund. Damian Messer


DEPUTY PRINCIPAL MR TERRY BL IZZARD “It is a good time now though to remind all boys of our expectations in regards to being a ‘hands off ’ school and more broadly to how we treat each other” It has been very pleasing to see how calm the school has been in the first six weeks, particularly when we consider the disruptions caused by the building programme. It is the work of the teaching staff combined with the cooperation of the boys that has enabled such a smooth start. I am pleased to say that to a large extent it is the Grade 10 boys who are leading the way on this front. It is a good time now though to remind all boys of our expectations in regards to being a ‘hands off’ school and more broadly to how we treat each other. At St Virgil’s we place a high priority on all students’ right to feel safe and comfortable in the College environment. To cater for the wellbeing of the students there are some important strategies that need to be implemented across the College. This is the responsibility of the entire community, staff and students. There are occasionally times for example when yard duty teachers and House Heads have to deal with situations where boys “pay each other out” with hurtful or offensive comments, and where there is unwelcome and overly rough physical contact, particularly at lunchtime while playing ball sports. This often begins innocently enough, for example, “we were just mucking around…”, but it can escalate into a situation where feelings are damaged and worse, students are actually injured. The ‘Hands Off’ rule is intended to address this. We will be reminding boys at assembly this week of their responsibilities in this regard and I look forward to the Grade 10s continuing to be role models in this area. Supporting Boys’ Learning A wise person once suggested that the primary educators of boys are their parents. There is certainly something to be said for this. With this in mind parents may want to use some of the following strategies in supporting their sons learning:

� Provide clear goals and feedback for homework; � Tap into their competitiveness -‐‑ issue a challenge; � Whenever possible relate the learning to real life situations; � Use praise and rewards – ‘7 compliments for 1 negative’ – award good effort/behaviour regularly; � Be real – Firm, Friendly and Focussed. Sometimes it is hard for parents to do but worth the effort; and � Whenever possible, help improve their literacy – National research suggests low literacy levels and

misbehaviour/low achievement are closely linked with boys. Morning Drop-‐‑Off Parents are reminded of the need to drive with extreme caution when dropping boys off in the morning. The safety of boys is our prime concern so please slow down and be watchful as you drop your son off at school.


JUNIOR SCHOOL MR ANDREW PINELLI , HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL

Inclusive Community Our community is accepting and welcoming, fostering right relationships and committed to the common good.

EREA Touchstone

As a Catholic boys school in the Edmund Rice tradition, there are many instances in our days and weeks where we do ‘Catholic’ things. Saying prayers, attending Mass and other religious celebrations and participating in hymn practice are some of the examples that our boys participate in on a regular basis that are influenced by our Catholic tradition. These are important opportunities for all of our boys to wholeheartedly participate in. Whilst we are a Catholic College we welcome all boys equally into our College family – all our boys and their families are equal no matter what their background or faith tradition. We encourage them to participate in these important facets of our College and Catholic life and to see them as opportunities for reflection and personal growth. We have a very active Mini Vinnies group made up of a great variety of our Grade 5 and 6 boys. These boys are committed to making a difference in the world for our boys and for others in the wider community. As Easter is fast approaching, the Mini Vinnies boys have started to organise an Easter Egg raffle with funds raised being donated to Caritas Australia. We will enjoy the raffle but must also keep foremost in our minds and hearts the reason we are doing this activity – to raise funds for those who are far less fortunate than ourselves. I congratulate these boys for their efforts. Formal School Photos – Tomorrow, Friday March 11 The 2016 formal photos are being taken tomorrow, Friday March 11. All boys should have brought home their school photo envelope. A big thank you to all those families who have returned it. Please don’t forget that family photos are available. We will make arrangements with St Mary’s if your son has a sibling who attends SMC. EVERY boy needs to return their photos envelope – even if your family does not wish to purchase photos. EVERY BOY MUST be wearing their full formal uniform even if they have sporting commitments on this day. Please ensure your son’s uniform looks the best that it can, including freshly polished shoes. Assembly – Tomorrow Friday March 11 Tomorrow, Grade 5 will lead our assembly which will commence at 2.30 in the Hall. I am sure there will be a presentation about their recent outdoor education experience to Port Arthur. All parents and friends are invited to join us for our assembly. Green Thumbs Mrs Graves and the Green Thumbs boys have been very busy in the vegie patch tending to our current crop. Tomorrow, after assembly, some freshly harvested produce, tomatoes and potatoes, will be available for purchase. If you attend assembly, or pick up your son, please have a look at what is available for purchase.


iPad chargers Tomorrow will be last day that your son can swap his iPad charger for a replacement from Apple. Please ensure that this is done otherwise you may need to purchase one when the iPad is returned to the College for the last time. Thank you to those boys and parents who have remembered to do so already. Grade 5 Camp Grade 5 certainly enjoyed their outdoor experience in and around Port Arthur. Blessed with magnificent weather, the boys were able to participate in all the activities on offer. There were some interesting rafts constructed and a couple of small fish caught on Wednesday afternoon. Thursday saw a big day investigating the Port Arthur Historic Site which culminated in the great race in an attempt to answer questions and solve puzzles scattered around different parts of the site. On the way back to the camp ground, the boys constructed volcanoes in readiness for when the sun went down. Friday morning everything was packed up and we headed to Crescent Bay. Once again the weather was on our side which meant an enjoyable time on the beach for all – even a quick swim in the ocean. Exhausted, the boys returned to the Junior School, ready to be collected by parents for a restful weekend.

Thanks to Miss Lack for organising the camp and to the volunteer dads who came along and helped out. Special thanks to Mrs Blizzard for doing an amazing job with catering. Parent / Teacher Interviews – Compulsory for all Families Parent / Teacher interviews have been scheduled for March 15 and 16. These initial interviews are compulsory for all parents and guardians to attend. The main purpose of these interviews is for parents and teachers to meet and discuss how our boys have settled into the new school year. For some boys, this happens very quickly as they are able to adjust


to all the things that are different from the previous year. For others though, this transition time can be quite difficult as they try to work everything out that is new. What is critical is that school and home work in partnership for the benefit of every boy. If these days or times do not suit, please ensure you discuss an alternate arrangement with your son’s teacher. Further details, including the booking procedures, will be available soon. Home Reading All boys across Grades 3 – 6 have been given a Home Reading folder. It has been great to see the enthusiasm that many of our boys have displayed in the routines of swapping and reading their books. Reading is an invaluable skill that does need regular practice and observation. Many boys, according to research, avoid reading as they either have difficulty with it or can’t find books to engage with that match their reading ability. The staff have worked very hard to ensure that this programme is a positive experience for your son. Inside the Home Reading folder is: • a book aimed at your son’s reading/comprehension level; • a page for you to log his reading; and • a question starter sheet to help devise a wider variety of questions to see if he has comprehended what he has read. If you have any questions about the Home Reading Programme, please discuss these with your son’s homeroom teacher or Mrs Messer. P & F Association This week, your son brought home a nomination form for positions on the Junior School P & F. As evidenced at the recent welcome BBQ, the P & F is an industrious group with a focus on social gatherings and some fundraising. We need to fill the vacated positions of Secretary and Treasurer. To date we have received a nomination for Treasurer but not for Secretary. I would ask all parents to consider their availability to fill this important position on the Junior School P & F. Of significance is the upcoming SVC P&F Association Annual General Meeting which will be held in the Joyce Performance Centre at the Austins Ferry Campus commencing at 7.00pm on March 17. All parents are encouraged to attend this whole of College meeting and to consider their availability for one of the Committee positions. Junior School Notices Many notes have been going backward and forward since the commencement of the new academic year – it has certainly been a very busy start to the year. We fully understand that sometimes your son may not bring home information in a timely fashion. Could I please encourage all parents to check out the “In the School Bag” link on the College website as it will contain any current, relevant notes that you may need. Grade 4 Mr Tim Birthisel It has been a brilliant start to 2016 for our 44 Grade 4 boys! With so many new boys joining the College this year we have been getting to know everyone, setting expectations for learning and understanding what it takes to be a Virgilian -‐‑ crystal clear! One way we have been doing this is through the use of ClassDojo. We have most boys and parents connected now which is superb. For those who have not joined as yet, please do so as soon as possible. If you are having difficulties joining our group, please do not hesitate to ask for help. For those who are unaware Grade 4 are in an open classroom arrangement this year. That is two rooms, a glass door (that only closes once a week), two teachers, a Teacher Assistant and 44 boys! Mr Greenhill and Mr Birthisel share the whole


group teaching of the boys. Mr Greenhill focuses primarily on mathematics and science while Mr Birthisel specialises in English and the Humanities. After the explicit teaching is complete the boys are often split into smaller groups to work either independently or with an adult. Sometimes the boys will be split into home groups, other times into five or six differentiated learning groups. Though it has been a steep change in learning for the boys they are slowing getting used to the new teaching and learning practices being implemented.

With Lent placed so early this year, a few of our new boys were exposed to their first attendance at Mass very early in the year. To the boys credit on a hot day in the Cathedral they participated exceptionally well. On the topic of Religion Grade 4 has started work on a new book. A lot of families would be familiar with Mitch’s MJR (Making Jesus Real) which is completed in Grade 6. For Grade 4 a junior version has been produced called SOJ (Spirit of Jesus). This book has some wonderful messages of how to be not only a good Christian in the Spirit of Jesus but also a fantastic son and highly respected Virgilian. This year has started off with a bang in history as we have been looking at ancient Aboriginal culture, a subject boys


have really engaged with. In Science the boys have been looking at why we use different materials for different purposes. In English, we have been looking at narratives, whilst in Mathematics multiplication has been the focus. If boys do not have homework, please feel free to test them on their multiplication. Boys need to know up to 10 x 10 by year’s end. Boys also have access to Mathletics and Reading Eggspress too if they are looking for something educational to do on their iPads in their free time. All part of a very exciting and rewarding term in Grade 4! Calendar Update Parents and guardians are reminded to subscribe to the College’s online calendar. The great advantage of this is that if there are necessary changes to dates these changes can be made immediately. Please check the calendar at: http://www.stvirgils.tas.edu.au/calendar/ Significant, upcoming events are summarised below March Week 6 B Formal photos March 11 Assembly led by Grade 5 @ 2.30pm March 11 Week 7 A 8 Hour Day Public Holiday March 14 Parent / Teacher Interviews March 15 & 16 AFL 9’s Competition – Grade 6 March 18 Week 8 B – Holy Week JSSATIS Swimming Carnival March 24 Caritas Cup March 24 March / April Week 9 A Easter Monday public holiday March 28 Easter Tuesday – staff & student free day March 29 IPSHA Leadership Day hosted by SVC March 31 Grade 6 Excursion April 1

Canteen Friday March 11 M Careless / K McMillan Wednesday March 16 C Collins / B Leary Thursday March 17 R Kertesz-‐‑Kovacic / K Mosenthal Friday March 18 K Berry / J Spangler For all enquiries please contact Olga Leon on 62342440 or [email protected]


Junior School Sport Mrs Jo Messer Students are asked to visit the College’s Sport Website and enter their Term 2 sport selections by Friday March 18 -‐‑ http://sport.stvirgils.tas.edu.au/sports-‐‑overview-‐‑junior-‐‑school/ Term 2 Sports:

• Grade 5/6 Water Polo (Friday nights) • Grades 3 – 6 Soccer (Saturdays) • Grades 3 – 4 Hockey (Saturdays)

STCPSSA Swimming Carnival Hot and sticky would be the best words to describe the inside temperature of the Hobart Aquatic Centre for the STCPSSA (Catholic Primary) Swimming Carnival on Monday March 7. The conditions didn’t really seem to affect our swimmers though with the boys posting some excellent results. The Catholic Carnival is set up as a 25m pool, so the Grade 4, 5 and 6 events all have to turn or tumble turn for their events. All Grade 3 events are 25 metres.

Our Grade 5 boys were the most consistent, with three out of the four winning their individual freestyle event then taking out the 4 x 50m freestyle relay in convincing style. Daniel Wylie was also very consistent, posting some great performances in all events. Our Grade 3 boys, representing SVC for the first time, swam very well. Luca Di Venuto, of Grade 3 had a big day, racing in all events and went home with a few ribbons.


All Grades placed in the relay events – Grade 6 placed 2nd, Grade 5 1st, Grade 4 placed 3rd and Grade 3s also 3rd. The last event of the day, the Grade 6, 50m Butterfly, was a cliffhanger! Lachlan Hutton, was behind the field but after the 25m mark, flew home to touch just in first place. Team members were: Grade 3: Lucas Dunnewijk, Luca Di Venuto, James Lyden, Oliver Stanford, Joshua Faux. Grade 4: Noah Boonstra, Tommy Direen, Patrick Harman, Dylan Scott, Daniel Wylie Grade 5: Charlie Banks, Jensen Cooke, Jack Pritchard, Riley Ferguson Grade 6: Lachlan Hutton, Dylan Graves, Hamish Menzie, Sahib Singh, Harry Williams, Kye Direen These boys will compete again in the JSSATIS Swimming Carnival on Thursday March 24.

CRICKET Grade 3-‐‑4 SVC Gold V Hutchins Fantastic fielding and bowling by the boys with Archer Tully going for a hat trick. Great game boys! PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Archer Tully for great bowling. FLIPPABALL SVC Sharks V SVC Stingrays (26/3/2016) Fantastic game by the boys. We had Darcy Berry stepping in for Mr Pinelli as coach as he had an injury and still came to support his team. Sam scored a great goal along with Dylan. Well done to the boys this week. PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Oliver Stanford SVC Hammerheads 4 defeated Dominic 3 Great win by the boys and a very close contest. PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Tadhg Morgan for a great team goal. SVC Stingrays V SVC Dolphins An exciting close and fast game. Great team work was evident with how well the boys passed the ball around. The defence was excellent and we had possession of the ball for a high percentage of the game. Well done boys! PLAYERS OF THE WEEK: Harry Manning for playing well as part of the team. Luca Di Venuto for good use of the ball. SVC Sharks 5 defeated Dominic 0 Great team work by the boys with lots of passing of the ball. Goals scorers: Dylan Scott 3, Oscar Brewer, Oliver Stanford 1. PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Dylan Scott for a great goal scored.


DIRECTOR OF IDENTITY MRS RENEE MACGREGOR

A Lenten Prayer May Lent be for us: A time of learning to see where Christ is crucified today, A time of learning to recognize the complex roots of injustice, to recognise the Gethsemanes in our global community. May we witness the suffering of God’s children, As Mary witnessed Her beloved son’s suffering.

May Lent be for us a time of learning to become An Easter people, A time of learning To recognise the deep roots of compassion, To recognise we too are called To witness the empty tomb and To announce To a world in despair the Hope of the Resurrection. Aboriginal Reconciliation Group at TMAG Ms Claire Graham Last week the College’s Reconciliation group took part in a mutton birding workshop called waranta mulaka yula: Palawa hunt mutton birds forever. The mutton birding sheds on Big Dog Island were recreated for our students to have a hands on experience of a cultural activity that Tasmanian Aboriginal people have always had at the heart of their community traditions.


World Youth Day 2016 – Registrations Closing! Don’t miss the opportunity to join with young Tasmanians as we explore the historically and spiritually rich Rome, Assisi, Milan, Czestochowa, Auschwitz, Krakow, Wadowice and Prague en route to the largest and most vibrant display of our catholic Church that will inspire you in more ways than you could ever imagine at World Youth Day 2016. Experience the energy, spirit and faith of millions of young people gathered together with Pope Francis. Discover, Learn, Explore, Pray, and make life-‐‑long friends. You need to be 16 – 35 years as at December 31 2016. Registrations are closing really soon…don’t miss out! Contact Rachelle Smith before March 12 on 0400 045 368 or [email protected]. More info at: www.wydtas.org.au

DIRECTOR OF LEARNING AND TEACHING MRS BEV PETTIT

Grade 9 Outdoor Education Programme 2016 Mr Simon Harder This week Grade 9 students brought home their Outdoor Education Programme trip information and medical consent forms. The Outdoor Education team are once again very excited to offer such a range of exciting, challenging and educationally rewarding programs across our wonderful state of Tasmania. If parents/guardians could ensure that they go through this trip information with their Grade 9 boy and complete and return the medical consent form by the end of the week this would be much appreciated and help us in providing the best possible experience for the boys. Below is the schedule for the Grade 9 Outdoor Education programme. Please note that students are heading out in their learning groups with learning groups A,B and C completing their trips prior to the holidays and learning groups D,E and F completing their trips early in Term 2. Also please be aware that the Rafting and MTB trips form learning group D,E and F will be heading out on the Sunday before ANZAC day so these students will be away for both the public holiday and the student free day on Tuesday. If you need to get another copy of your sons trip information, gear and equipment list, food list or medical consent form please go to the ‘in the school bag’ section of the College website.

Learning Groups A,B,C Week 1 MTB (Derbey)

March 20-‐‑23 Rafting (Central Tas) March 21-‐‑23

Week 2 Kayaking (Southern Tas) March 4-‐‑6

Coastal (Coles Bay) March 4-‐‑6

Learning Groups D,E,F Week 3 MTB (Derbey)

April 24-‐‑27 Rafting (Mersey River) April 24-‐‑27

Week 4 Kayaking (Southern Tas) May 2-‐‑4

Coastal (Coles Bay) May 2-‐‑4


Homework Club Homework Club has commenced and will run each Thursday this term. Teachers across different learning areas are present to help boys with their schoolwork. Students who have attended so far found it to be most beneficial – and they loved the hot chocolate and snack provided! For more information please contact Ms Claire Graham – [email protected] Drama Mrs Jennifer White The St Virgil’s Grade 9&10, Live and Celebrate Drama students are eagerly rehearsing their representational Stations of the Cross tableaux performance for our Easter Liturgy. Embodying spiritual iconography and the reverent inspiration of Jesus’ life and his compassion for others, the students are exploring ways to stylistically represent the journey and heightened emotions of the Stations of the Cross.

Through the process of improvisation, Grade 8 boys are being empowered to explore dramatic techniques and non-‐‑naturalistic theatrical conventions – for example – breaking the fourth wall (engaging directly with the audience), split focus, character and object transformation, slow motion, flashback, voiceover and alternative (non Hollywood genre) style endings. To begin the term the students are applying their drama knowledge to devise rehearsed improvisations of conflicting paired animal idioms (for example lively as a cricket with slow as a snail). The boys have also been challenging themselves physically and imaginatively in a myriad of drama activities and games to assist in developing self discipline, interpersonal skills as well as clarity and thought in conversation and performance.

In Grade 7, boys have been focussing on activities to help them find their voice in their new setting; developing kinaesthetic awareness and confidence as they explore how their body moves through space – thinking particularly about maintaining healthy posture and calm, measured breathing. Grade 7 are learning also how to articulate their creative thought processes courteously and with clarity in ensemble work. Over the next few weeks the boys will be building on their understanding of role, character and relationships and they will begin to explore the use of focus, tension, space and


time to enhance their drama performance work.

“You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation.” Plato

Please click on http://svcpics.phanfare.com/2016/ to check out some of the amazing things that have

been happening in drama in 2016!

Visual Art and Media – Mt Field National Park Excursion Ms Claire Graham and Mr Steve Aitken Art and media students travelled to Mt Field National Park last Tuesday to collect drawings, photos, images and objects towards their Term 1 projects in film, clay and etching. The boys walked around Lake Dobson and chose to collect images from this pristine natural environment and soaked in the positive ions, sun and crisp silence. They later sketched near Russell Falls and enjoyed a BBQ in the sunshine while making some environmental art using sticks, leaves and stones. Please watch this space in coming weeks for Part 2 featuring work inspired from this day out in the bush!


ASSISTANT DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – MIDDLE SCHOOL&TRANSITIONS MR CAMERON ALEXANDER

March is Middle Level Educator Month Last week I included some information on Middle Years Month. The commencement of classes in the Galvin Wing this week has been a significant step in the strategic implementation of Middle Years practices throughout Grade 7and 8. These modern learning spaces allow teachers to create a variety of learning environments, from large integrated study between Learning Groups, down to having quiet break out spaces for individual or small group work. However, despite the excitement of seeing these new rooms in action, this week whilst standing on the oval at lunchtime watching a game of AFL 9s, I had a moment of insight into what really encourages adolescent boys to learn. Watching so many boys happily engaged in some healthy activity throughout the school day reminded me that to be successful learners boys need outlets for their energy, highlighting the role physical activity plays in allowing them to engage with their learning. The following words from the AMLE website explain the link: Young adolescent years are typified by many stressors which interfere with their ability to focus on learning. Physical activity is linked to mental health and learning by reducing conditions that interfere with learning. The President'ʹs Council on Physical Fitness and Sports Research Digest reported the following connections between exercise and mental health: Physical activity can:

·∙ reduce anxiety; ·∙ reduce depression; ·∙ bolster self-‐‑esteem; ·∙ encourage restful sleep; and ·∙ increase one'ʹs ability to respond to stress.

The short-‐‑term benefits of physical activity may also include learning to form close and durable relationships, developing an increased sense of belonging, respecting others and oneself, taking responsibility, and gaining self-‐‑confidence in one'ʹs capabilities ("ʺtry, try again!"ʺ). Participation in recreational activities may also impart the personal value that physical activity is important in one'ʹs life. Consistent participation in regular physical activity does contribute a measure of prevention against developing chronic debilitating diseases as adults. Good habits generally reflect values that are established early in life.


DIRECTOR OF MUSIC MRS JODIE WILLIAMS

Grade 7 Class Music Programme 2016 This year all boys in Grade 7 will be studying a musical instrument; either the trumpet, trombone, alto or tenor saxophone, drum kit, bass guitar, flute, clarinet or euphonium. They will learn this in each music class, plus receive a weekly small group tutorial of 30 minutes with one of the specialist instrumental music staff. Music staff completed instrument aptitude testing in the first few weeks of school. This week I have assigned all boys an instrument to play for the year. The College owns a good stock of quality instruments which students play in class and which can be borrowed for nightly or weekend practice. Students simply need to sign instruments out and in each time they are borrowed. This week Grade 7 students have been asked to look at their tutorial timetable and mark lesson times into their diaries. The timetable can be found on their iPads under Foldr/Subjects/Instrumental Music/Instrument that they play. On the timetable will be each member of their group and the times during the term they are scheduled for lessons. The lesson times need to be shown to their class teacher when a lesson is on. Lessons are compulsory for all students in Grade 7 and are given on a rotating basis, so students are not missing the same class regularly. Instrumental Music staff for 2016 – Trombone/Euphonium Mr Craig Russell Bass Guitar Mr Kevin Cooney Saxophone Mr Nick Nugent Clarinet/Flute Mr Derek Grice Percussion Mr Matthew Ives Trumpet Mr Alex Bannister Clarinet/Saxophone Mr Mitch Ellis The Grade 7 Band also began this week. The band rehearses on a weekly basis. It was wonderful to have 25 boys at our first rehearsal on Tuesday morning. I hope many boys will take up this special opportunity to be involved in the Grade 7 Band as they progress on their instruments. Assessment for Grade 7 music is based upon student performance on their instrument. Please encourage your son to work hard at their instrument; they should be practising at least 3-‐‑4 times a week for 15 minutes a session. In the incoming weeks I will provide some helpful tips, to give your son the best start possible in music.

For all enquires about music @ SVC -‐‑ please contact me at:

[email protected] 6249 6555


SPORT NEWS MR JAMES DALTON

SSATIS Swimming Miss Imogen Gray The SSATIS Swimming Carnival went off with a ‘splash’ on Wednesday March 2 at the Hobart Aquatic Centre. The team assembled at 8am the morning of the carnival for some last minute relay practice before the competition began. The 50m Medley Relay was the first event of the day and both our teams placed in their heat, showing the other schools that we would be the team to watch. Many of our boys placed in their events but all put in 100% effort. One of the highlights of the day was Max Giuliani’s speedy win of the Under 13 50m Backstroke with a time of 34.6 sec. The day concluded with the 4x50m Freestyle Relay. The Under 13 team won their event with a time of 2.06 sec. The Under 14 and 15 teams also placed in their events. The Under 16 team, consisting of Lachlan Rice, Angus Reilly, Joseph McMullen and Riley Oakley, ended the day on a high by winning their heat and narrowly missed the record with an impressive time of 1.50 sec. Overall, some great results from all our boys. The Under 13 and Under 14 boys won their respective age groups and placed second in the Junior Boys Shield by just 12 points. The Under 16 Boys narrowly missed out on first place in their age group but should be pleased with their second placing. The team will compete in the SATIS carnival next week. 1st IV Tennis Mr Justin Mahoney SVC lost to GYC 6 – 0 (37 – 13) S. Plunkett-‐‑Smith lt D. Groom 2 – 6, J. Haas lt T. Youl 2 – 6, J. Plunkett-‐‑Smith lt M. Harris 6 – 7 (5-‐‑7), J. Kelly lt T. Cornish 2 – 6, S. Plunkett-‐‑Smith / J. Plunkett-‐‑Smith lt D. Groom / T. Youl 0 – 6, J. Haas / J. Kelly lt M. Harris / T. Cornish 1 – 6. 1st XI Cricket Mr Cameron Alexander SVC 5-‐‑119 (Andrew Bourke 38, Isaac Manson 28 n.o, Will Collins 21 n.o.) Defeated Friends 10-‐‑114 (Andrew Bourke 2-‐‑2, Kade Applebee 2-‐‑15) The 1st XI had another good win against the Friend School in what turned into an exciting game. After a quick start to the Friends innings, we took some quick wickets and restricted the scoring through tight bowling by Luke Swinton, Kade Applebee, Jake Roberts and Andrew Bourke. Our batting started slowly and some wickets added pressure to keep up with the required run-‐‑rate. But opener Isaac Manson batted the whole innings allowing Calvin Coles, Andrew Bourke and Will Collins to attack the bowling with some big shots, including two sixes from Will to finish the game in emphatic style!


Grade 7&8 Cricket Development Programme Mr Mark Waddington Teams for Round 4 and 5 games are posted on the College’s Sport Website -‐‑ http://sport.stvirgils.tas.edu.au/ Please note we have added two games on to the roster against Hutchins for March 21(Round 5) – the games are for boys who have played in the internal games on March 7. Programme Overview Saturday March 19 9.00am – 2pm (boys to be at ground by 8.30am) SVC 1 v Hutchins 1 @ Hutchins (Turf) SVC 2 v Hutchins 2 @ Hutchins Monday March 21 Session: Time: 3.30 pm-‐‑6.30 pm Location: Hutchins and Main Oval SVC 3 v Hutchins 3 @ Hutchins (Turf) SVC 4 v Hutchins 4 @ Hutchins

SVC Green v SVC Blue @ SVC Main Oval – 3.30-‐‑6.15pm

For all enquiries please contact Mr Waddington – [email protected] Week 3 Results SVC 1 1/106 (Tom McGann 35 ret., Joe Kelly 26 ret., Luke Kreune 18, Alec Spencer 14 ret,.) defeated Hutchins 2 5/64 (Alec Spencer 2/5, Max Lamb 1/1) SVC 2 1/82 (Lachlan Boorsboom 27 ret., Hayden Nuss 22 ret,. Angus Norton 22 ret,.) defeated Hutchins 5/81 SVC 3 2/117 (Andrew Monks 17 ret., David Monks 18 ret,. Tyrone Fyfe 25 no ) defeated Hutchins 1 6/65 SVC Blue 4/99 (Brodie Turner 10 ret., Ryan Hopkins 10 ret., Lachlan Bowerman 10 ret,. defeated SVC Green 7/54 (Connor McLeod 11 ret,. Hayden Jones 2-‐‑6) Rowing Mrs Jo Messer North West Schools Regatta Two weekends ago all boy competed in the North West School Rowing Regatta. This regatta is held at Lake Barrington over two days. The Under 15 crew is made up of Christopher McGuinness Terry, Lachlan Sice, Jack Coppleman, Sam Pritchard, Tom Messer, Zac Hills (out injured), Bib Pokhrel and Joshua Bearman. The boys competing in the Single Sculls event, needed to qualify to race in the State Singles event the following weekend, with Chris, Lachlan, Tom and Jack all making it through in the top 32. In the Coxed Quad Scull the boys posted the second fastest time, just missing out on first to Friends. Chris and Lachlan teamed up in the double scull to finish third overall with Jack and Sam placing 20th.


State School Championships This is another regatta held over two days. Some events are straight finals and some have semi -‐‑finals on the Saturday to make it through to the day of finals on Sunday. Of the four boys who made it through to a singles semi -‐‑final, two progressed through to the final, these being Christopher and Jack. Christopher McGuinness Terry ended up going on the win the State Single Scull Title for Under 15 Boys – Congratulations Chris! Jack Coppleman placed 7th in the B final.

Christopher McGuinnis-‐‑Terry – Under 15 Single Sculls Champion

The Coxed Quad Scull Final was an exciting race with all crews in contention. Our boys, Chris, Jack, Lachlan and Tom finished a respectable 4th, a result that augurs well to turn things around at the Head of the River on April 2.


Under 14 Quad Sculls

In the double scull event, Chris and Jack progressed through to the Final, eventually getting beaten on the line in the State Title, placing second, after leading for the most of the race. Sam Prichard teamed up with Sam Vascoz from Dominic and they rowed in the B final, placing 7th. Next Event: Head of the River: Saturday April 2

BUSINESS OFFICE MRS NARELLE GREEN, BUSINESS MANAGER

Tuition Fees

By now parents should have received their 2016 Tuition Fee statement. A reminder that all accounts settled by March 25 will attract a $100 discount. Families who elect not to settle their fee account by this date are reminded that they must have a payment plan in place with the Finance Office.

For all fee enquiries please contact Mrs Tracy Moschogianis – [email protected]

2016 Parent Permission and Information Forms

Parents are reminded to please return the permissions form as soon as possible. At present we have only received about 50% of forms. Failure to return the form could mean that boys are not able to participate in excursions, sporting or musical activities. Forms are available from ‘In the Schoolbag’ on the College website.


COLLEGE COMMUNITY NEWS ESTATE OF THE LATE BARRY WILLIAM AND MARY JEANETTE WOODS SCHOLARSHIP Applications are invited for the Estate of the late Barry William and Mary Jeanette Woods Scholarship. The Scholarship provides partial payment of school fees for two students selected from Years 7 and/or 8 and two students from years 5 and/or 6. It is a once only payment to assist with the costs of attending St Virgil’s College. There are four such scholarships provided each year. Written applications are invited by March 24 2016. The criteria to be applied in awarding of the Scholarships are as follows. • The endeavours applied by the student to his educational studies • The character of the student • His participation in Catholic religious studies and practices • The financial circumstances of the fee paying parents or guardian GL Curtis Scholarships for Old Virgilians Applications are invited for the GL Curtis Scholarship for first year university students. The GL Curtis Scholarship provides a sum of $1,000 to an Old Virgilian beginning university studies. It is a once only payment to assist with the costs of attending university in the first year and is to be used for the purchase of essential texts or materials, the payment of university charges or the establishment costs necessary to provide university accommodation (country or interstate students). It is normally expected that the student will be enrolled at the University of Tasmania unless there are significant reasons why this is not the case (such as the courses not being offered there). Criteria 1. Recipients must be graduates of St Virgil’s College. 2. The recipient will be enrolled for the first year of a university course. 3. In line with the terms of the endowment, priority may be given to those enrolled in medicine, law or chemistry. Applications Written applications are invited by March 24 in the year of intended university enrolment. Applications should outline:

• the intended university and course, including proof of enrolment; • the reason for this choice of course;


• the intended use of the funds; • the personal circumstances of the applicant, particularly any relevant financial difficulty.

Selection The selection panel will include the Principal and two Board members of St Virgil’s College. The panel may wish to make personal contact with applicants to gain further information about the application. As funds are held in trust by the Archdiocese the final decision will be ratified by the Archbishop.

Parents and Friends Association Mrs Susan Roberts, President Easter Raffle and Community Giving Project At its first meeting for the year the P&F decided to conduct a major Easter raffle which will benefit students at the College and some of the service groups that we support. To this end we need your help! We are asking that in the coming weeks all boys bring an Easter egg or eggs that can be used for a raffle or as a gift for residents of nursing homes or for families in need. Our P&F committee will bundle up a good number (there will be in excess of 50 prizes in the raffle), with the remainder being delivered by boys to our service partners. This will be used to reinforce to boys the true message of Easter and our commitment to serving others. So next time you’re at the shops please buy some extra eggs, bunnies or other chocky goods to support our raffle and community support initiative. All Easter eggs can be delivered to the Front Office at Austins Ferry. Boys were given raffle tickets to sell in Pastoral Care with all monies going to projects that support all our sons. If you can help by way of donation or would be available to bundle up our Easter bounty please email Mrs Susan Roberts at [email protected] Entertainment Book

“St Virgil’s Senior School are excited to announce that we will be selling Entertainment Books and Apps this year to raise funds for projects that benefit all boys at the College. These will be on sale from the middle of March this year, with fantastic early bird offers available for anyone who purchases before the books launch late April. These memberships sell out every year in Tasmania and are fantastic value – if you have any questions please contact Jackie Geale at [email protected] Please feel free to let your friends and family know they can purchase from us this year too!”


College Uniform Shop 2016 UNIFORM SHOP OPENING HOURS Tuesday and Thursday 8.00 am to 4.00 pm New uniform items including polo shirts, socks and bucket hats are now in stock. Caps will be available at the end of February. Also check out our new range of sporting apparel including SVC basketball and soccer shorts, cricket shirt and training top (to be worn to sport training sessions only in Term 1).

Please contact Manager Caitlin Butterworth on 03 6249 3610 or

Email: [email protected] for all uniform matters.

Austins Ferry Canteen Mrs Carol Hilyer A reminder that lunch orders can be organised online via the following mediums:

1. The College Website -‐‑ http://www.stvirgils.tas.edu.au/senior-‐‑school-‐‑grades-‐‑7-‐‑10/senior-‐‑canteen-‐‑food/ 2. QKR – a downloadable App for smartphones and tablets. To download the App and order lunch please go to the

following link -‐ http://www.stvirgils.tas.edu.au/download/newsletters/attachments/SVC%20Canteen%20-‐%20How%20to%20use%20QKR.pdf

Weekly Roster Friday March 11 Sally Feldmanis Jocelyn Huigsloot Elisha Berry Monday March 14 EIGHT HOUR DAY Tuesday March 15 Rachel Kyle Sharon Roach Wednesday

March 16 Kerry Richards Sharon Roach

Thursday March 17 Jo-‐‑Anne Pursell Anita Splann Friday March 18 Linda Bennett Christine Honig Angelene Arnold

For all enquiries please contact Carol Hilyer, Canteen Manager – [email protected]


Newsletter Attachments – Available from website -‐ http://www.stvirgils.tas.edu.au/news-‐publications/

-‐ Fit Kids Active Kids’ Program -‐ Clarence Junior Football Club Registration Information -‐ OHA Hockey Club Junior Registration Day Flyer -‐ AFL 9s Flyer – School Competition Details -‐ Claremont Football Club Registration Flyer -‐ Derwent Strikers Hockey Club Registration Day -‐ Hobart Junior Football Club ‘Come and Try’ Programme -‐ Richmond Youth Choir – Information Flyer -‐ Clarence United Football (Soccer) Club Registration Flyer -‐ Zebras Soccer Skill Acquisition Program Flyer -‐ Moonah Taste of the World Festival

the star vol 5 ed 5 2016 - st virgil's...

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