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 1 No 2 Friday 23 February 2018

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School-Parent Partnership Early this term, I attended the Ensemble Theatre’s Production, Sorting Out Rachel (David Williamson) and later reflected with students on the themes of the Play, offering the following summary:

Rachel is a Year 12 student completing her Higher School Certificate... She is extremely rude to her parents, about everything... - she ignores their simple requests for tidiness or assistance around the house - she is slow to be organised in the mornings and insists on being driven to school, so she often makes her mother late

for work - she is boastful to her parents about her efforts as a blogger (something she knows they do not really understand) and

we later learn she has only a handful of followers, but she prefers to blog than study Rachel tells her parents that if they want her to get outstanding HSC results, they should leave her alone, expect nothing of her in terms of responsibility at home, bring her meals to her room, ‘leave her alone’... - When the boy Rachel likes a lot, decides to take Rachel’s friend to the Formal (the event she hoped he would ask her

to attend), she posts appalling social media stories about the other girl’s behaviour - anonymously... The audience cringes a lot, in the early stages of the Play, when Rachel is on stage. However, the transformation (sorting out) of Rachel, largely inspired by new expectations set by her grandfather and mother, is heart-warming to behold. By the end of the Play, Rachel’s change in values and priorities, her newfound kindness and mindfulness and her openness as a learner come to the fore; her strength is redirected. [Of course, unlike real life, this happens all within just a couple of hours...] Parents should be reassured to note that students also cringed at my description of Rachel’s ‘early-in-the-Play’ behaviour. As we start the year, at Gib Gate and Frensham, our sense of excitement about new possibilities for every student, is heightened. In relation to their approach to studies, to peer relations and to community living, every student has the opportunity to re-start or re-build, and to set new goals and pursue them, with support or independently. We also know that transformation (if required) is rarely instant, and that our patience, with students and each other is essential to the establishment of a culture where all can contribute, thrive and excel. In a recent study, Angel L Harris and Keith Robinson, (reported in EL, September 2017) examined 63 measures of parental involvement, to answer the question: ‘What Kind of Parent Involvement Matters Most? ... to maximise student success at school. They concluded that the most powerful means of parental support is ‘stage-setting’, defined as ‘the degree to which parents convey the importance of education to their children and create and maintain an environment in which children can flourish.’ A high priority for whole-School improvement in 2018 is to work with parents to apply the enduring values that shape our character as a School – a shared approach to ‘stage-setting’. We look forward to embracing this work with you, underpinned by our commitment to student growth and excellence of achievement. Acknowledgement to: Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award recipients: Bronze - Alexandra Cunningham, Annabella Damiani, Daisy

Latimer, Clementine Paradice (Year 10). Silver – Isabella Allen, Chelsea Pernice (Year 11); Frensham’s Show Cattle Team for their success at the recent shows: Berry Show - Grace Halliday (Year 12) The Schools

Encouragement Award; Nowra Show - Olivia Salkeld (Year 11) Best Prepared/Groomed Steer or Heifer for the overall presentation of her steer Milton (Limousin); Kangaroo Valley - Frensham as a team won the Best Maintained Exhibit and Miriam Hopkins (Year 10) qualified in the Zone Beef Cattle Paraders Final event for the State Beef Cattle Paraders Final at the Sydney Royal Easter Show; Sheep Young Judges Zone Final participants on their success in progressing to the NSW State Finals: Miranda McGufficke (Merino Fleece and Meat Breeds - Sheep) and Olivia Salkeld (Merino Fleece);

Berrima District Sports Awards, 2017 recipients: Luca de Manincor (Year 6) and Sebastian Atra (Year 3), Snowsports at State and National level; Alexandra Inglis and Elizabeth Taylor (Year 6), Sophie Baldwin (Year 5), State and National Equestrian; Dominic O’Shannessy (2014), State and National Cricket; Arabella McKenzie (2017), International Rugby 7s.

Julie A Gillick Head of Frensham Head of Winifred West Schools

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Frensham Advisory Committee 2018 Gib Gate Advisory Committee 2018

Mrs Caroline Begg Mr David Cullen Ms Ruby Curtis Mrs Penny Hanan Mrs Kiki Hill Mrs Erica Holcombe Mr John Hopkins Mr Simon Logan Mrs Angela Macken (Sec) Mrs miChelle McGufficke Mrs Nicola Robertson Ms Jo Thomson (Chair)

r-cbegg@bigpond.net.au david@oakstand.com.au 44ruby@gmail.com pennyhanan@mac.com kikihill64@gmail.com erica@dc-it.com.au hopkinspastoral@bigpond.com simez@bigpond.com themackenfamily@gmail.com milliefarming@activ8.net.au nicola@nicolarobertsonots.com.au j.thomson@tpg.com.au

Mrs Sara Moylan Mrs Rowena Bendror (FOGG) Mrs Chelsea Doyle Mr David Griffin (Chair) Mrs Kate Iori Mr Trent Johns Mrs Tanya Gregory Mrs Denise Telford Mrs Lucy Wilson

saralmoylan@gmail.com sales@littlestepsonline.com.au chelseakdoyle@gmail.com david.griffin291@gmail.com kateiori@hotmail.com trent@theimperial.com.au tanyajgregory@gmail.com denise.telford@gmail.com luluwilson@live.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

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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2018 is gearing up to be an outstanding time to reconnect with former school friends at one of the following reunions or events. Please save the dates: 70 Year Reunion 3-4 March at Frensham Central NSW Lunch 14 March at Wellington 50 Year Reunion 17-18 March at Frensham 40 Year Reunion 19-20 May at Frensham 5 Year Reunion 2-3 June at Frensham Fellowship AGM 13 June, Sydney. Please Note – change of location, full details will be available shortly. 10 Year Reunion 23-24 June at Frensham 30 Year Reunion 1-2 September at Frensham Updated information: 20 Year Reunion 22-23 September at Frensham We always like to keep you informed of what’s happening, but please remember to update your details with us when you move or change email and telephone numbers. Dr Catherine Hamlin, AC (Nicholson, 1940) turned 94 in January and is still the driving force behind her work in Africa. For over 60 years she has been an advocate and active participant in the fight to eliminate fistula in Ethiopia. Although she says that she is ‘just an ordinary woman’ she has been called the Saint of Addis Ababa by so many, including former Governor General Dame Quentin Bryce AD, CVO. Catherine’s success in Ethiopia has encouraged the Hamlin team and its partners to help women in other countries to assist in eradicating obstetric fistula and is now set to open a new treatment facility in Soroti, Uganda.

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

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 in Term 2, 2018.

For more information on WWS Foundation, please contact: Michele Scamps, +61 2 4860 2000 foundation@frensham.nsw.edu.au

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We hope that parents who were able to attend last week’s Parent Information Evenings found the sessions and discussions useful. As always, we encourage parents to let us know if these evenings were of help as your feedback is of great value in assisting us in planning future sessions. Any comments or suggestions regarding those sessions can be sent to srobson@gibgate.nsw.edu.au Thank you to all the parents who supported their children and the School at the recent Year 3-6 Swimming Carnival. The day ran smoothly and we would like to thank the enthusiastic parent helpers who assisted Gib Gate staff. We are now looking forward to next week’s Southern Highlands Independent Schools’ (SHIPS) Carnival and the IPSHA Swimming Carnival at the Homebush Aquatic Centre. The Families of Gib Gate (FOGG) Class Representatives for 2018 will hold their first meeting on Monday 26 February and I am looking forward to working alongside those parents and Chair of FOGG, Mrs Rowena Bendror, over the year (please see list of 2018 Class Representatives below). FOGG Class representatives will be contacting parents after the meeting to ask for your support for upcoming school events as well as notifying you of class social events. 2018 Families of Gib Gate (FOGG) Class Representatives: Preschool - Mrs Danielle Pierce, Mrs Sonia Divall, Mrs Zoe Cook Kindergarten - Mrs Melinda Hartwright Year 1 - Mrs Caroline Atra, Mrs Hayley Sneddon Year 2 - Mrs Karen Shadbolt Year 3 - Mrs Shannon McAndrew, Mrs Vivienne Krassoi Year 4 - Mrs Georgina Spong Year 5 - Mrs Karen Shadbolt Year 6 - Mrs Charlotte Inglis, Mrs Kristy Johns, Mrs Jen Nicholl, Mrs Holly de Manincor Ms Sally Robson, Head of Gib Gate Curriculum Highlights 2018 Science and Technology K-6: Science ALIVE! Students develop a sense of wonder and expand their natural curiosity about the world around them through their understanding of, interest in and enthusiasm for Science and Technology. They develop competence and creativity using the processes of Working Scientifically and Working Technologically in a range of hands-on scientific investigations. None are more exciting for Gib Gate students than those involving ‘living things’ – both vertebrates and invertebrates. In the Kindergarten unit, Staying Alive!, a highlight of the term is the arrival of baby chicks and eggs in a purpose built incubator. Through this ‘hands-on’ investigation, students learn about the basic needs of animals, including humans. They also learn how their senses help them stay alive, and to record data about the class pets. Year 1, in the unit, Schoolyard Safari, investigate the variety of small animals in the schoolyard environment. By observing the features and behaviour of small animals, students glimpse the diversity of animal life and the physical features that help them to survive in their habitat. Growth and Change is investigated in the Year 2 classroom. This involves the arrival of some more class pets that enables children to understand the life cycle of an invertebrate. Feathers, Fur, Skin or Scales? is the question posed by Year 3 students this term. Students explore how living things can be grouped on the basis of observable features and how they can be distinguished from non-living things. They learn to conduct experiments using a ‘Fair Test’ scaffold, to write a hypothesis, and to follow specific task procedure. The Year 4 Plants in Action unit creates the opportunity for students to learn to describe the life cycles of the plant world. To develop understanding of germination and pollination, students dissect seeds and flowers and perform an investigation over several weeks to observe and document how bean plants grow and change. As students develop their understanding of plants as living things, they pose new questions which they will have an opportunity to inquire into and share their findings with classmates. During Terms 1-3, Year 5 students engage in a unit of work called, What is a Scientist? This inquiry project teaches students the skills of managing a scientific inquiry which is a significant part of their learning as a Stage Three student. Students work through the process of conducting investigations in preparation for a Gib Gate Science Fair in August and as part of National Science Week 2018, during which students from K-6 visit Year 5 to view and learn about their projects. In preparation for

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Science Week, students engage in a whole class investigation. Following this, they begin to pose their own inquiry questions about an area of individual interest, to provide the basis for further scientific investigation. Year 6 scientists are studying a Chemical Science unit, Change Detectives. They learn that the whole world is made up of particles that are constantly moving and reacting with one another in fascinating ways. Through examples taken from everyday life they investigate what makes things change, what affects the speed of change and the difference between physical change and chemical change. One of the most exciting elements of all the hands-on scientific investigations is that all the children, from our very youngest 3-year-olds to our student leaders in Year 6, share in each other’s learning with passion and enthusiasm, thereby developing the skills they will need to solve problems, scientifically, throughout their time at school and beyond. University of Wollongong Academic Enrichment Programmes. The University of Wollongong continues to offer our students exciting opportunities in each vacation period to work in a challenging and exciting academic enrichment programme. All workshops are held over one or two days and cover a range of disciplines, presented by teachers with specialist training or a specific interest in gifted education. In January this year a number of our students took up this opportunity to extend their learning and work with other children from the South Coast and Southern Highlands region in rigorous and challenging workshops. Year 6 students Laura Barnsley Adams, Solveig Clarkson and Kyle George enjoyed their specific passion projects over two intensive days, including ‘May the Force be with you’, ‘Momentum Mathematics’ and ‘How Computers Think.’ Year 5 students, Sophie Alexander and Georgina Lewis, enjoyed two intensive days thinking creatively and working collaboratively to ‘Solve the mystery of the Missing Mars Bar’ and ‘From Idea to Stage’! These workshops are available between 16-20 April with selections available for students from Years 1 to 6 on different days. All workshops are held on the Wollongong Campus. Applications close on 7 March, 2018 and please note that workshops fill very quickly. Further information about workshops and the application process can be found at: https://www.uow.edu.au/in2uni-myway/learninglabs/, or if you have any other questions, please feel free to contact me at any time. Ms Kate Chauncy, Director of Teaching and Learning, P-12 and Coordinator of Gifted and Talented Programmes Enrichment/Activities Extra-Curricular Activities Extra-Curricular activities commenced last week and there are places available in a limited number of classes. Please contact Mrs Graham if you would like your child enrolled. We are excited to offer a Film Making Club on Thursdays for students in Years 3-6, taught by Ms Ginny Macpherson, in which students will write their own scripts and perform on camera or create a stop-motion animation. Hokuriku Gakuin Elementary School This week Year 1 students recommence Skype sessions with our sister school, Hokuriku Gakuin in Kanazawa, Japan. Mrs Gemell has been preparing the students to say hello and introduce themselves in Japanese. Other classes will have the opportunity to communicate later in the term. Years 3 and 4 Outdoor Adventure Day On Monday 26 February, students in Years 3 and 4 will participate in their Outdoor Education Adventure day. Year 3 will abseil and bushwalk at Mount Alexander and Year 4 will mountain bike and engage in bush skills in Welby. Parents are reminded to refer to the information on Schoolbox regarding the start time and items to bring for this excursion. Mrs Anne Graham, Gib Gate Coordinator (Administration) Sport Basketball The following students attended trial days for IPSHA Basketball representation last week: Matteo Perrotta, Salvatore Perrotta, Luca de Manincor (Year 6); Tempe Arnott, Oliver Linde and Arabella Whitehead (Year 5). We congratulate Oliver on his selection in the Moss Vale and District Under 12 representative team. Luca and Arabella were chosen in the IPSHA Girls team and will trial for a spot in the CIS Girls team on Friday 24 February. 2018 Annual Equestrian Awards, Tuesday 20 February

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The Gib Gate Equestrian team of Ava Berkelouw (Year 6), Georgia Greig, Alexandra Inglis, Elizabeth Taylor (Year 5), Sophie Baldwin (Year 4) and Piper Berkelouw (Year 3) competed at the NSW Interschools Equestrian event in 2017 and Gib Gate was awarded Champion Primary School 2017.

Pictured right: Alexandra Inglis, Year 6, who accepted the Award on behalf of the team. Berrima District Sports Awards The Berrima District Sports Awards presentation was held on Friday 16 February and we congratulate the following students on their nomination for awards: Luca de Manincor (Year 6) and Sebastian Atra (Year 3): Snowsports at State and National level; Alexandra Inglis and Elizabeth Taylor (Year 6) and Sophie Baldwin (Year 5): State and National Equestrian. All the above nominees were awarded either Achievement or Merit awards at the awards ceremony held at the Mittagong RSL Club. We would also like to congratulate Mrs Lisa Gemell, (Gib Gate staff member) who has been nominated for her achievements in State, National and International Fencing. Winter Sports Winter Sports selection paperwork is available on SchoolBox and we are asking Gib Gate families and students to nominate their winter sports team preferences. Hockey, Netball and Soccer are offered as our winter team sports. Selections need to be finalised over the next two weeks, with trainings and games in some of these sports to begin before the end of Term 1. Mr Michael Standen, Co-ordinator of PDHPE and Sport Preschool (Pre-Kindergarten) Gib Gate Preschoolers are amazing problem-solvers! Students noticed that the shade-creating potato plant had died and the leaves were brown and crunchy. Abigail Brodie suggested that it be watered, but that did not appear to help. Last year the vine had grown two metres up the Cubby and it was hoped it would continue to grow right over the top to create shade and an area to sit under. Upon further investigation, it was noticed that the plant had been accidentally cut at the base. This prompted the idea that writing is a tool that can be used to help share information, which inspired the children to use writing as a form of communication regarding the care of the vine. The students made polite notices to be placed by the vine and other plants, kindly asking all to be careful around the plants. Clipboards and pens were gathered by the children. Camille Muir and Bonnie Iredale started dictating to their teacher. The students carefully copied the words onto paper, prompting and encouraging each other as they worked. The Preschool environment promotes caring and considerate interactions, so it was not long before children reminded each other how to write the letter ‘s’. Abigail Brodie, Sahara Sorensen and April Sneddon told their teacher what to write on their drawings. As this was done they watched carefully, announcing “That ‘a’ is in my name!” The children decided the plant needed more barricades to protect it, so with great enthusiasm, wagons were used to place logs and stones around the plant. Mrs Tinna Loker, Preschool Coordinator

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Welcome to Sturt School for Wood class of 2018 We warmly welcome our new cohort of students in the Sturt School for Wood. Students are undertaking Sturt’s full-time one-year course in fine furniture design and technology. 2018 Sturt School for Wood students: Gerry Davis, Michael Venter, Shane Rossetto, Catherine Capan, Thomas Birkmyre, Lachlan Tubb, Gene Alexander, Aldo Dezani, Warwick Jones, Luke McLennan, Lou Harriss, Ian Bromley. Tools & Techniques Weekend Success Sturt’s big weekend of woodwork and fine furniture on 17 and 18 February was a huge success with a large attendance for the opening of the Chatoyance exhibition of fine furniture by members of Studio Woodworkers Australia. This exhibition was opened by special guest Richard Munao, Founder & Managing Director Cult Design. A wide range of stallholders filled the School for Wood and the Lower Wood Workshop and a programme of demonstrations by fine furniture makers filled the big tent. Current students in the School for Wood ran a superb BBQ over the weekend with all funds raised going towards the costs of their end of year exhibition. Residencies in 2018 An exciting programme of residencies in 2018 will include a visit in February by three male artists from Ernabella to work in Sturt Pottery. We will also welcome two graduate residents from ANU School of Art – Nikki Chopra (ceramics) and Rose Keightley (furniture) and a professional artist residency later in the year by fine furniture maker Chance Coulter from the US. Winter School 2018 Winter School will take place from 9 to 13 July this year. We have 16 courses on offer for adults plus daily classes for children. The full programme is on the website now and the brochure will be out in March. Please note that we offer competitive accommodation and meals packages, making the Winter School a unique cultural experience. Events Chatoyance – New work by members of Studio Woodworkers Australia, until 8 April This new exhibition of fine furniture at Sturt shines a light on some of the masters of the craft. Chatoyance is an exhibition of collaborations and mentorships - with emerging makers paired with Accredited Members of SWA to design and make a new piece of furniture. Studio Woodworkers Australia (SWA) is a national organisation dedicated to promoting and supporting professional designer makers working in wood. Founded in 2011, it comprises both Accredited Members and General Members. The SWA website provides a portal through which prospective clients can find professional designer/makers and artists whose work in wood is characterised by a high level of individuality and quality. The title of the exhibition, Chatoyance, means reflected light. It is a term used by furniture makers to describe the way in which the appearance of polished wood can change depending on the light source. 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), JoanDinning, Bill Dinning, Anne Thomson, Julie Musgrave, Michael Harris, Libby Hobbs, Jill Dyson, VickieCiddor.

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Deputy Head Preparations for Outdoor Education Week and Senior Studies Seminars have now been finalised. Information and departure times for each year group are included in the table below. It is anticipated that Day Boarders who are off campus on Thursday will be back at school by 4.30pm and can be picked up from their Boarding House. Normal classes will commence on Friday 9 March.

Tuesday 6 March Approximate return times for 8 March Year Breakfast Meeting area Meeting time Departure

7 7:00am Pavilion 8:00am NA 3:30pm

8 6:30am Gym 6:50am 7:00am 3:30pm

9 7:15am Gym 7:45am 8:30am 3:30pm

10 7:30am Cooper Hall 8:15am 9:00am 3:30pm

11 7:30am Drama Studio 8:30am NA Programme finishes at 5.00pm

12 6.45am Stanley Street 7.15am 7.30am 4.30pm

- Parents of girls in Years 7-10 should have already completed the Medical Form and an outline of each programme will be posted on Schoolbox during the coming week. OEG has briefed students about each camp and girls should be in the process of collecting the equipment and clothing they need for the week.

- Parents of girls in Year 12 should have completed the permission slip for their overnight trip to Canberra. - Staff have been briefed and are preparing for their camps or seminar programmes. - Students on the Years 9 and 10 camps are required to make their own meal plan and purchase their food for the trip. This

is part of the requirements for the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. These girls have now been briefed on this process and shopping for their camps will take place over the Open Day weekend.

Mr Geoff Marsh, Deputy Head Boarding News The girls are now established in their weekly routines, with a clear understanding of House expectations and procedures. The weekly programme is full for every girl and it is wonderful to see the girls engage in a range of co-curricular opportunities that are offered each day. It has also been pleasing to see many of the Day Boarders engaging in the afternoon programme, sharing the evening meal with their friends, staying for Prep and coming in to participate in the weekend’s activities. Last Friday’s Valentine’s Day Crack Dinner was a highlight, with a vibrant display of creativity as the Cracks arrived in cleverly thought out costumes. The dance party in Cooper Hall was a fabulous way for the girls to come together and have fun. Highlights from the most recent Open Weekend Programmes included a trip to Berrima River Swimming Hole and another to the Ice Skating Rink at Liverpool with the girls in Years 7-9. These are important opportunities for the girls as they make memories together with their peers. We are looking forward to taking the girls to Jamberoo this Sunday 25 February. The bus will depart from Stanley Street at 8.30am and will arrive back at 5.30pm. Morning tea and lunch will be provided. Girls will need to bring towel, hats, drink bottles and a small amount of spending money. Leave Procedures - Reminders: Exeats for full boarders are to be sent to boarding@frensham.nsw.edu.au by Friday 12.00pm prior to an Open Weekend.

Please access the Exeat Form via School Box (Parent forms - Frensham parents – Exeat form) o Day Leave is permitted for Full Boarders on open weekends at the following times: o Saturday 10.30am-8.30pm [after sporting commitments] o Sunday after Services, to 8.30pm

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Driza-Bone – Orders close Monday 5 March All girls have the opportunity to order a Driza-Bone raincoat. Delivery is approximately five weeks with a cost of $195.00 per coat. Orders are to be made at The Clothing Pool, where there is a range of sizes for girls to try on. Mrs Tanya Vaughan, Director of Boarding; Mrs Amanda Wansey, Deputy Head of Boarding Director of Teaching and Learning Pen & Ink 2018 The first meeting of Pen & Ink 2018 was held this Thursday evening, led by Katchmirr Russell (Head) and Isabella Letherbarrow-Verran (Vice Head). Pen & Ink is a group of students from Years 9-12 who enjoy spending time together writing, talking about writing, sharing their latest compositions and sharing their latest great reads from across a wide range of literature. A feature of the time spent together is working collaboratively in the many and varied activities that are thoughtfully designed by the Year 12 leaders to inspire thinking, which in turn inspires short pieces of creative writing that often then lead to a more lengthy pieces of work. Students in Pen & Ink enter a variety of prestigious competitions throughout the year. This term students work towards writing and editing entries for the Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Competition, a unique national project, giving Australia’s youth a voice and an opportunity to strive for excellence in literature, and The Whitlam Institute What Matters? 2018 Competition for which they must write a 400-600 word opinion piece on what matters to them as young global citizens and why. Students will display their work on Open Day on Saturday 3 March and remaining copies of the 2017 Edition of Pen & Ink (and there are only a few!) will be on sale at the stand for $15.00 each. All profit made by our budding writers from the sale of the 2017 edition will be given to the charity of their choice: The Sydney Story Factory – a not-for-profit organisation that runs free creative writing and storytelling workshops for young people aged 7 to 17 from marginalised backgrounds. Vacation Programmes for Gifted and Talented Students During the January vacation a number of students participated in a variety of programmes run by NSW tertiary institutions aimed at challenging their thinking, developing their skills and talent and giving them the opportunity to work with like minds from a wide range of areas. Jessica Latimer (Year 12) was selected to attend, through her independent application, the UNSW Women in Engineering Camp for four days (in residence) at the UNSW Kensington campus. This camp is aimed at young women in Years 10 or 11 who have an aptitude for Mathematics and Science and enjoy exploring the diverse fields of engineering. It involves lateral thinking, creativity and design, problem solving, and working in teams.

LEFT: Weekend activities at Berrima River Swimming Hole ABOVE: Ice Skating

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India Shead (Year 11) was selected to attend, through her independent application, the three-day University of Sydney Science Experience where she learned about the science behind forensic investigation techniques. She enjoyed workshops in Biology, Physics, Chemistry and Forensics. India reports:

‘We had to solve the murder of a Professor at the University and at the end of the camp had to accuse and do a mock trial of one of the 6 suspects. We tested blood samples, fingerprints, pollen, fabric samples and testing for cyanide poison. There were also lectures from a wildlife forensic scientist, a forensic psychologist, a police crime investigator and other experts in this field.’

During the January 2018 school vacation, Frensham students from Years 8 to 11 attended the Learning Labs Programme at The University of Wollongong. Learning Labs is an academic enrichment programme held at the University of Wollongong campus. Students came from all over the Illawarra and surrounding regions to attend workshops that cater to their particular interests. Frensham participants included: Lucille Schmidt (Year 11), in Painting, Collage and Scultpture, Mia Horsfall (Year 10) in 3D Printing and CAD Modelling; Ella Haydock and Isobel Huggins (Year 10) in Creative Writing for Beginners and Beyond; Natasha Long (Year 9) and Holly Horsfall (Year 8) in Soft Tissue Depths and the Human Skull and Natasha also completed the Industrial Robotics course; and Lily Huggins (Year 8) completed the Convince Me! public speaking programme. Feedback from our students about this programme is always extremely positive. The students were independent, motivated and eager to learn and had great fun making new friends on the university campus. The University of Wollongong has invited our students to apply for the April vacation programme of LEARNING LABS. Dates are 16-17 April with applications closing on 7 March. These will be held at the Wollongong campus. Please visit the site for the full programme on offer: https://www.uow.edu.au/in2uni-myway/learninglabs/. I am happy to answer any questions you may have. Ms Kate Chauncy, Director of Teaching and Learning, P-12 and Coordinator of Gifted & Talented Programmes Director of Studies Last week, students in Year 11 were given an overview of the requirements for Preliminary Course Assessment, based on NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) guidelines. This includes information about completing and submitting assessments, illness/misadventure procedures and ethical behaviour in Assessment Tasks. All information can be found in the Senior Studies Handbook provided to students in hard copy in 2017 and which is also available on Schoolbox. Preliminary Course Assessment calendars available last week will allow students to plan and prepare for formal assessments. For Year 11 students entering Stage 6, the final stage of secondary schooling, undertaking Preliminary courses for the HSC presents a new and different challenge. Having chosen the programme of study which best suits their learning profiles and tertiary aspirations, they now need to become more independent learners. For the first time, they will have scheduled study periods during the school day and it is essential that they use these wisely. Success in study depends not only on aptitude and hard work, but also on effective study techniques. Teachers, form tutors and mentors will guide and support students in developing efficient study plans and timetables. Junior Assessment calendars have been posted on Schoolbox. The purpose of the school-based assessment is to provide an indication of achievement in a wider range of syllabus objectives than cannot be measured by an examination alone. Course assessment programmes allow due weight to be given during a course to student achievement which, although evident to the class teacher, may not be adequately assessed in external examinations alone. Therefore, assessment covers both examination and non-examination objectives. Assessment is used to provide diagnostic information for teachers, to provide feedback to students and to report to parents. Ms Janene van Gogh, Director of Studies – in Residence English and Drama Drama The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde has been announced as the Birthday Play for 2018. Ms Shannon has commenced auditions for Years 11 and 12 and roles will be assigned by Week 6 of this term. The rehearsal schedule will be posted on Schoolbox and girls who are interested in participating should contact Ms Shannon for further details. The Importance of Being Earnest is the most renowned of Oscar Wilde’s comedies. It is the story of two bachelors, John ‘Jack’ Worthing and Algernon ‘Algy’ Moncrieff, who create alter egos named Ernest to escape their tiresome lives. They attempt to win the hearts of two women who, conveniently, claim to only love men called Ernest. The pair struggle to keep up with their own stories and become tangled in a tale of deception, disguise and misadventure. The elaborate plot ridicules Victorian sensibilities with some of the best loved, and indeed bizarre, characters to be found on the modern stage. On Friday 9 February, Year 9 and 10 students were fortunate to attend Treehouse Theatre’s latest show, Suitcase Stories: Tug of War. Through group storytelling to a live performance, young refugees share their personal stories. Girls experienced

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first-hand stories direct from the young people who lived them. Coming from countries such as Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan and Iran, each Suitcase cast member is a survivor of the world events we witness daily on the evening news. Each performed their own story of escape, survival and eventual triumph through a powerful fusion of spoken word, movement, sound and light. The organiser, Sarah Clutton from the Southern Highlands branch of Rural Australians for Refugees, commented on how warmly the refugee students’ stories from Treehouse Theatre were received by the Frensham students, who demonstrated their interest and appreciation with insightful questions during the Q & A session and a standing ovation. Mrs Sally Hannah, Head of Drama English What is important is to keep learning, to enjoy challenge, and to tolerate ambiguity. In the end there are no certain answers. – Martina Horner, President of Radcliffe College English classrooms have begun the year with gusto, engaging in their study of texts, which are explored through a variety of creative and analytical learning activities. Year 7 students are investigating the topic, Silent Voices, through a study of drama, Honeyspot by Jack Davis, the picturebook, The Rabbits, by John Marsden, and their choice from a range of novels. Through their study, they learn that characters may be a medium through which ideas and societal attitudes and values are conveyed, and that representation and interpretation of character depends on personal and cultural values. This discernment is a skill that continues to be developed over a lifetime of personal experience, and is highly valuable in navigating a rapidly changing global society. Year 8 students are currently engrossed in a unit titled The Truth of War. They are enjoying the book A Rose for the Anzac Boys by Australian author Jackie French. Details of the novel’s setting and framing action have been exhaustively researched, and convey themes that include not only war and loss, but also resilience, duty, comradeship and the capacity to rise above adversity. Visual literacy is being developed in discussion of World War 1 recruitment posters as a background for the study of war poetry. The unit provides a window into one of western culture’s significant historical periods from the perspective of young teenagers, and emphasises the relevance of the past in shaping present attitudes and beliefs. Year 9 students are also investigating texts in relation to context in a unit titled Who Are We? Through a selection of short stories, the novel Looking for Alibrandi by Melina Marchetta, and choices of non-fiction wide reading including Mao’s Last Dancer by Li Cunxin and The Happiest Refugee by Anh Do, they are exploring representations of Australia over time and how our identity has shaped and been shaped by contextual influences such as migration. This is a highly topical issue in our current society, and the girls’ study of their texts and related activities provides them with a wide range of perspectives and notions of Australian society, which can inform their own perceptions. Year 10 students are engaged in a film study of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic thriller, Rear Window. In their viewing, discussion and activities, students extend their understanding of film theory and consider the difference between a film director and an auteur. The unit’s inclusion of the history of cinema, and stylistic qualities of pure cinema and suspense, enrich the students’ understanding and appreciation of this powerful medium of communication. This is a valuable learning experience when so much of our understanding in contemporary society is gained through visual literacy. Year 11 Standard and Advanced English students are immersed in the opening module of the new Stage 6 English Syllabus: Reading to Write, an Introduction to Senior English. Details of this new course will be the focus of an article in the next Newsletter. Year 12 students are committed to understanding, analysing and evaluating their prescribed texts as they progress towards the HSC examination. Year 12 English Extension 1 completed their first assessment task this week: an imaginative composition, written in the style of the nineteenth century, demonstrating their understanding of Romanticism. Year 12 English Extension 2 students have also completed their first assessment task, a Viva Voce in which they discuss their progress in creating their Major Works. Each stage of the Frensham English curriculum encourages students to develop a love of literature and learning that is challenging and enjoyable. To promote a culture of active, independent and lifelong learners, texts and activities are chosen to foster students’ skill and confidence in experimenting with ideas and expression, as they continue to develop their capacity to discern meaning and their fluency in the use of language. Ms Jennie Mickle, Director of English French In anticipation of the Year 7 Parent Teacher interviews and Frensham’s Open Day, opportunities abound for a review of girls’ progress to date, and the French students are no exception. The displays to be prepared for public interest will be many and

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varied, ranging from examples of girls’ current work through to posters, grammar games, culture puzzles, revision of French numbers and the alphabet, Lotto games, and little books that are devised, written and produced by students past and present. In addition to these home-grown stimuli, there will be the chance to see firsthand the range of online ICT interactive tasks available to students, designed to encourage and correct all aspects of their language learning. The ‘entertainment factor’ in French lessons today is quite different from that of some years ago. Arguably, however, in the world of Anglophone monopoly, it has never been a more worthwhile time to seek to discover and understand another culture through knowledge of its language, idioms and customs. Fulfilling this objective remains the highest priority within the French faculty. Mesdemoiselles Victoria Akins, Chelsea Wallis and Madame Rosie Chuvand, French Teachers Latin Students in Years 9 and 10 are enjoying using Kahoot in the classroom as one means of learning. This learning platform both fosters social learning and deepens pedagogical impact, while at the same time making learning Latin (everything from Grammar and vocabulary to Civilization and Roman History) more interactive and engaging for students. Kahoot is a learning game constructed using a series of multiple choice questions. There is the facility to add videos, images and diagrams to the questions to amplify engagement. Kahoot is played in a group setting and girls answer on their own devices, while games are displayed on the IWB screen. Ms Liz Stephenson and Miss Victoria Akins, Latin Teachers Human Society and Its Environment (HSIE) A recent article outlined the cause of the Black Death, also known as the Bubonic Plague, caused by the bacteria yrsinia pestis. Gone is the notion that it was spread by fleas on rats that came on the trading ships from China and the Middle East – the most recent computer modelling has indicated that the spread of the Black Death can be attributed to human factors. It has been shown that the spread of the Black Death through fleas on rats would have taken far too long; for the disease to spread so widely and so quickly, it can only have been spread through human agency (ie. from one person to another through coughing or touch). While the conclusion is definitely interesting, it is how it was reached that is more significant. Mathematical modelling through the use of computers is a significant research tool, and future historians need to be adept at using technology to further their studies. It is an exciting time to study history. Studies Highlights Students in HSIE have been studying a breadth of topics. Year 7 students are completing their introductory unit to the study of History, focusing on issues of human development and sources for investigating early human history. Year 8 World Studies have commenced their unit on Medieval Europe and have been given their first assessment task on the Tower of London as a study of medieval architecture and crime and punishment. Year 9 Australian Studies are continuing their investigation of the Industrial Revolution and have received their first assessment task on life in the factories. Year 10 students have started their examination of Civil Rights in both Australia and the United States of America after an examination of the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights. In the Senior years, Year 11 Ancient History girls are finishing their study of ancient human remains while Year 12 students are continuing their study of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Year 11 Modern History is investigating the rise to power of Donald Trump as a study of the construction of Modern History while Year 12 Modern History is examining the early years of what became the USSR. Year 11 Economics students have begun to examine the role of business and consumers in the Australian economy, while Year 12 Economics students are examining Australian balance of payments and how this impacts the economy. Year 11 Business Studies students are examining influences on the business environment while students in Year 12 Business Studies are continuing the study of human resources management. Year 12 Extension History students are continuing to investigate early notions of what constituted ‘History’ in preparation for the detailed analysis of historiography in their case study, which will begin later in the term. Year 11 Geography students are examining the spatial distribution of natural resources and its impact while Year 12 Geography students are continuing the study of ecosystems, with an emphasis on the Wetlands of Homebush Bay in Sydney. Dr Stephen Clarke, Head of HSIE Jamieson Programme The Jamieson Programme began with Jamieson Weekends in 1986 when some of the bequest of Hilda Jamieson was used to buy camping equipment for Frensham. It has expanded since then to become an integral programme in the School, built on the

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belief that ‘… Exposure to challenges, in a secure environment, can awaken in young people a belief in themselves which will stay with them throughout their lives…’ Today this concept is applied to the planning for Closed Weekends, to Jamieson Week (the final week of the school year) and to a core curriculum area across Years 7–10. The essential topics in the programme fall under the focus areas of: Global Citizenship, Responsibility, Service and Leadership, Health, Fitness and Physical Challenge, and Critical, Ethical and Flexible Thinking. Frensham students, across Years 7-10, have embraced the activities and challenges set by the Jamieson Programme this past fortnight. Year 7: In Frensham Studies, girls are continuing to learn about the history and philosophy of the School, especially relating to changes which have occurred over the past 100 years. Year 8: Riding for the Disabled began last week at Sutton Forest, where girls continue to enjoy helping other young people of their own age to experience the joy and freedom of horse riding. Throughout Terms 2-4, girls will have the opportunity to be involved in farm management, which includes assisting in the general management of the School farm. Ms Fennell will contact the girls with a roster. Year 9: The Cambridge IGCSE Global Perspectives course has commenced, with a focus on building the students’ research skills. Students are being asked to choose a topic they would like to study as part of their first individual project. They are being supported to create an open-ended question which will enable them to investigate the differing perspectives on a global issue. Next week, students are preparing for the visit to the Sydney Jewish Museum and the Auburn Gallipoli Mosque as part of a unit on World Religions. In Week 1, students experienced a rigorous introduction to their fitness regime as well as debriefing on the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, the discussion underpinning the three main areas that they would be focusing on:

1 - Aerobic fitness 2 - Strength- or resistance training 3 - Flexibility

This week’s focus will be on Aerobic Endurance Fitness. Each student’s results will be recorded with a view to encouraging and supporting individual fitness programmes throughout the year. Year 10: Visits to Nursing Homes commenced this week, with many students continuing to visit the nursing-home residents with whom they built relationships last year. Senior Holting students are working on Tuesday afternoons in the Lower Holt to remove introduced plants from the area around the Open-Air Theatre and the Centenary Trail. Several Year 10 students are involved as coaches for junior sporting teams, also on Tuesday afternoons. All of these activities may be used by students to fulfil their commitments for community service for the Silver or Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. Ms Merrilee Harris, Head of Jamieson Programme Mathematics Mathematics Club is scheduled twice a term and is for all those students from Years 7 to 12 who love (or would love to love) Mathematics. Students who attend can choose to revise and consolidate their learning from class, or they can be involved with activities aimed at developing their problem-solving skills. This past week, the student leaders of Mathematics, Jessica Latimer and Gabrielle Steiner, supported by Miss Wong, led and coached the girls through a variety of logic puzzles, ranging from easy to very challenging. The girls may choose to work individually or in pairs or small groups, exploring and connecting mathematical concepts, applying mathematical techniques and improving their communication and reasoning. It is our goal that the girls develop and demonstrate perseverance in undertaking a variety of mathematical challenges and grow to appreciate mathematics as an essential and relevant part of life. In class at present, Year 7 girls are investigating computations with integers (positive and negative whole numbers) and Year 8 students have been working hard on revising and extending their solving of algebraic equations. During Term 1, all of the Year 9 courses (5.1, 5.2, 5.3) will have studied similar topics: Numbers of Any Magnitude, Indices, Equations and Financial Mathematics. Year 10 girls are revising and consolidating their skills, keeping in mind the pathways to courses offered in Year 11. The senior girls in both Years 11 and 12 are undertaking their studies with vigour and intent. With the support of their teachers, girls are working hard on their mathematics during study periods or after school to improve their skills.

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Coaching is available throughout the week, either during the Maths Help drop-in sessions on Wednesday and Thursday afternoons, 3.45pm-5.30pm in Rooms 13, 14 and 15 or by appointment with Mr Evans, on Wednesday or Thursday evenings in the Library. As always, the Mathematics Faculty work as a team to support the needs of every student on an individual basis and we understand that mathematical success is about “running your fastest” not winning the race. Ms Joanne Allison, Head of Mathematics Music Senior Music students (Years 11 and 12) travelled to the Opera House on Monday for the annual Encore Concert where they watched and heard a selection of the best performances from the 2017 HSC Music candidature. It is important for Frensham musicians to be able to see and critique these exemplars and to understand that the playing and singing of the right notes at the right time is merely the foundation upon which the magic of performance is built. Preparations are underway for Open Day and the Years 7 and 10 Parent Weekends. Frensham Ensembles, such as the Kennedy Strings, Senior Choir and Madrigals, always present workshop performances at Open Day. Individual musicians are involved by means of ‘Open Door Practice Sessions’ on their instruments in the Music Centre as well as Café performances from the Schavemaker Centre for Science and Technology balcony. Parents of Madrigals should note that the girls will be required to sing Grace at the Welcome Dinner for Parents of New Students on the night of Open Day. Madrigals should arrive at 7.30pm for performance at approximately 7.45pm. Frensham musicians are also preparing for the Highlands Schools’ Music Festival being hosted by Frensham on Wednesday 21 March. The Senior Choir, Kennedy Strings and Concert Band will be forming massed ensembles with musicians from local schools to rehearse across the day and produce a concert in Clubbe Hall for parents in the evening. Mr Michael Spencer, Head of Music Science It was Walt Disney who said “Times and conditions change so rapidly that we must keep our aim constantly focused on the future.” This is particularly true in Science where new discoveries are being made on a daily basis and we need to think about the future world our students will be living in. The old HSC syllabus was current in 2000 when it was introduced but as knowledge about Science has changed over the last 17 years it was time for an update. This year the new Preliminary Biology, Chemistry and Physics courses were introduced in all schools in NSW and in 2019 this cohort will sit the new HSC examination. Staff and students are embracing the new courses. The Year 11 Chemistry course is developing students’ knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of chemistry. Chemistry students are exploring the properties and trends in the physical, structural and chemical aspects of matter. They have been conducting investigations to collect data and information. They are also developing critical thinking skills and correct scientific process. Practical lessons have been looking at separating substances based on their physical properties. In Preliminary Biology students have been learning about Cell structure and Technologies used to determine cell structure. As well as using light microscopes in the classroom, the girls have been fortunate to have the expertise of Professor Kumar who has introduced them to the world of Virtual Microscopy. This week they have modelled the structure of the cell membrane using craft supplies and lollies.

ABOVE LEFT: Amelia Hickson and Emily Gubbins separating substances; ABOVE RIGHT: Noni Brittain and Imogen Senior

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The Year 11 Physics class has begun their first unit of the new syllabus. The unit, titled Dynamics, focuses on the relationship between the motion of objects and the forces that act on them. The interaction can be quite complex and the mathematical analysis is designed to challenge the students’ thinking and their problem solving skills. Year 12 Physics classes are studying the topic Motor and Generators and have been working in groups to build a generator. In Year 12 Biology students are looking at Homeostasis and the activity of enzymes in the body. Experiments to test the effect of temperature, pH and substrate concentration on the activity

of the enzyme catalase have been carried out. Catalase is found in all living things and is used to break down toxic hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. Sources of catalase used in class have been chicken liver and potato.

Year 12 Chemistry students are learning about acids and bases and Le Chatelier’s Principal. They will be studying weak and strong acids and bases before starting to carry out titrations. LEFT: Year 12 Physics students, Sophia Parker and Jessica Latimer, building a motor.

Mrs Alison Andrew, Head of Science Agriculture & Show Cattle Team Show Cattle Team The 2018 Show Cattle season has begun with girls already competing in three local Shows. The first show, Berry, was on Saturday 3 February, and the Team had three days to prepare after returning from the Christmas vacation. On a hot and humid day, the Team of ten students and ten steers, performed well. The results were: Elders Cleary McDowall Moss Vale Junior steer competition: 1st - Grace Halliday (Year 12) leading Jerry (Angus), 2nd - Isabella Ross (Year 11) leading Nicco (Simmental), 3rd - Miriam Hopkins (Year 10) leading Neville (Simmental), 4th - Daisy Latimer (Year 10) leading Marco (Angus). Lightweight steers <350kg: 4th - Tex (Highland) led by Brigitte Watkin (Year 9). Heavyweight steers 351-450kg: 3rd - Nicco (Simmental) led by Isabella Ross. Openweight steers >451kg: 1st - Jerry (Angus) led by Grace Halliday, 2nd - Marco (Angus) led by Daisy Latimer, 3rd - Milton (Limousin) led by Olivia Salkeld (Year 11), 4th - Tommy (Angus) led by Dimity Crowe (Year 10). Junior Paraders 13 Years and under: 1st - Brigitte Watkin leading Tommy (Angus). Intermediate Paraders 14-15 Years: 1st - Dimity Crowe leading Tommy (Angus), 2nd - Daisy Latimer leading Marco (Angus), 3rd - Miriam Hopkins leading Nicco (Simmental), 5th - Alice Hayes (Year 10) leading Douglas (Angus). Senior Paraders 16-18 Years: 5th - Olivia Salkeld leading Milton (Limousin). The Schools Encouragement Award was awarded to Grace Halliday. On the following Saturday, thirteen students and eight steers travelled to the Nowra Show. It was another very hot and humid day but the whole Team showed plenty of grit and again performed very well. The results were: ECM Moss Vale Junior steer competition: 1st - Isabella Ross leading Nicco (Simmental), 2nd - Grace Halliday leading Jerry (Angus), 3rd - Daisy Latimer leading Marco (Angus). Middle weight steers 340-440kg: 1st - Nicco (Simmental) led by Isabella Ross, 3rd - Neville

LEFT: Lucille Schmidt and Sophie Robertson building their model of the cell membrane; RIGHT: Professor Kumar and Savanah Gillies discussing the parts of the model

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(Simmental) led by Miriam Hopkins, 5th - Dougal (Angus) led by Alice Hayes. Heavyweight steers > 440kg: 1st - Jerry (Angus) led by Grace Halliday, 3rd - Marco (Angus) led by Daisy Latimer, 4th - Tommy (Angus) led by Dimity Crowe. Champion steer Nicco (Simmental) led by Isabella Ross. 14-16 Years Paraders: 1st - Olivia Salkeld leading Milton (Limousin), 2nd - Daisy Latimer leading Marco (Angus), 4th - Dimity Crowe leading Tommy (Angus). 17 Years + Paraders: 2nd - Isabella Ross leading Nicco (Simmental), 4th - Grace Halliday leading Jerry (Angus). In a new event for this year, Olivia Salkeld won the Best Prepared/Groomed Steer or Heifer for the overall presentation of her steer Milton (Limousin). On the Friday of Week 3, the whole Team and the ten steers attended the Kangaroo Valley Show. The day began with all students competing in the Beef Young Judges Competition. This was a Zone Final and the qualifier for the State Final at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. The students were broken into age groups and had to judge four Angus heifers, four Red Angus heifers and four Angus bulls in the first, non-oral round. The top students, whose results were the closest to the Overjudges results, were selected to speak in the second oral round. Year 9 students, Ivy McGufficke and Alexandra Barton, were both selected in the Intermediate age group and spoke very well in front of the large crowd. Judith Hopkins (Year 8) was placed 2nd in the junior age group, for which a speech was not required. The rest of the day’s results were: ECM Moss Vale Junior steer competition: 1st - Miriam Hopkins leading Neville (Simmental), 2nd - Daisy Latimer leading Marco (Angus), 4th - Alice Hayes leading Douglas (Angus). Heavyweight Steers over 400kg: 2nd - Neville (Simmental) led by Miriam Hopkins, 3rd - Jerry (Angus) led by Grace Halliday, 5th - Nicco (Simmental) led by Isabella Ross. Junior Paraders 14 Years and under: 5th - Brigitte Watkin leading Tommy (Angus). Intermediate Paraders 15-16 Years: 5th - Miriam Hopkins leading Neville (Simmental). The day finished with the Zone Beef Cattle Paraders Final (the qualifying event for the State Beef Cattle Paraders Final at the Sydney Royal Easter Show). Miriam Hopkins was selected and Daisy Latimer was selected as the 1st Reserve. During the day, all exhibitor cattle stall areas and the exhibitors were judged on their performance, tidiness and teamwork for another competition. The Frensham Team won the Best Maintained Exhibit. This was a fine result for all of the students involved. There is a two-week break now until the next Show which is at Robertson, followed by the final local show at Moss Vale, the week after. Thank you to the parents who have attended the local Shows and provided support to the Team. The Sheep Young Judges Zone Final was held at Holt Farm on Monday 19 February and over 80 students from Frensham, St Gregory’s College, Campbelltown and MacArthur Anglican School, Narellan competed. The winners qualified for the State Final which will be held at the Royal Easter Show.

Frensham results: Merino Fleece: 1st Miranda McGufficke (Year 11), 2nd Olivia Salkeld, 3rd Dimity Crowe. Miranda and Olivia qualified for the State Final with Dimity as the Reserve. Meat Breeds sheep: 2nd Miranda McGufficke and qualified for the State Final. 3rd Emily Williams (Year 11) who is the Reserve for the State Final. Merino Sheep: 2nd Mabel Gowland (Year 10) and qualified as the Reserve for the State Final. Ms Leonie Mutch, Co-ordinator of Agriculture

Frensham competitors, with sheep handlers

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PDHPE As part of their Fit for the Future unit of work Year 10 PDHPE students are investigating the Australian Physical Activity Guidelines and assessing these in relation to their own activity levels. The importance of physical activity and its relationship to well-being and health is well documented and students will complete this unit by designing a personal fitness programme. Additionally, they will participate in a choice of activities from gym/circuit, swimming activities and yoga. Girls in Years 7 and 8 are beginning with a practical programme of fundamental skills and Athletics respectively, while Year 9 PDHPE students are participating in a net/court unit of work. Year 11 PDHPE students have commenced the core unit The Body in Motion. This addresses the topic areas of the skeletal system, muscular system and cardiorespiratory system. Following knowledge and understanding of these areas, the principles of fitness and movement efficiency, including biomechanics are studied. Year 12 girls have recently completed curriculum content related to training and physiological adaptations and are currently exploring Sport Psychology. They will examine topics of motivation, anxiety and stress in relation to sports performance, as well as strategies to manage anxiety and provide motivation. Ms Janene van Gogh, Acting Head of PDHPE Sport Wet Weather arrangements for Saturday Sport, full details can be found on Schoolbox Cancellations of Saturday Sport are rarely made before Saturday morning, unless a venue notifies IGSSA that the facilities will not be playable prior to this. AMEND ALL Means of gaining information concerning play: IGSSA WEBSITE: http://ahigs.nsw.edu.au/IGSSA.aspx Softball and Tennis The Tennis and Softball season is under way. Frensham has entered 18 Tennis teams and 15 Softball teams in this year’s IGSSA Competition. All teams are training hard and it is exciting to see improvement to girls’ individual and team skills so early in the season. IGSSA Tennis – Celebrating 100 Years of Tildesley Tennis All are welcome to join the celebration on Thursday 22 March, 10.00am at Pennant Hills Park, Brittania Street, Pennant Hills. Swimming Girls have nominated for which events that they would like to trial. These time trials are taking place during morning swimming Squad sessions and Friday night Mittagong Swimming Club meets, held at Bowral Pool. The Southern Highlands Twilight Carnival (28 February) will be the last of these trials to select this year’s IGSSA team. Miss Erin Gray, Head of Sport Equestrian Over the last few weeks, riders in the Equestrian team have reported the following results in both local shows and State competitions: Bowral Show (14 January) – April Stokman (Year 12) - 4th in

the Open EA 1.20m and 5th in the Open EA 1.05m Show Jumping. Poppy Jensen (Year 8) placed 4th in the 80cm and 3rd in the 90cm Show Jumping and Ella Cullen (Year 10) placed 5th in the 80cm Show Jumping.

Berry Show (2-3 February) – Sophie Hatch (Year 10) placed 1st in the Junior 1.15 Show Jumping. Emily Baldwin (Year 10) placed 4th in the 90cm-1m and 3rd and 4th in the 1.05-1.10m (on two different horses).

Emily Baldwin (Year 10) also competed at Heights in the Highlands on 16 December and placed 1st in the 1.05m Open and 3rd in the 1.05-1.10 Open.

Wallaby Hills (11 February) – Sophie Hatch (Year 10) (pictured above right) and Emily Baldwin (Year 10) placed 3rd and 4th respectively in the 1.15m Open Show Jumping. It is worth noting that these girls were the only juniors in their class. Sophie also placed 4th in the Eventers vs Showjumpers which was a dress up speed class at 1.30m, and was on the winning team overall (Show Jumpers).

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Nowra Show (9 February) – Sophie Hatch (Year 10) placed 1st in the Junior 1.15 Show Jumping. Olivia Salkeld (Year 11) won Reserve Champion led Thoroughbred and placed 2nd in Ridden Thoroughbred. Olivia also competed at the Albion Park Show on 19 January and placed 9th in the Open 95cm and 11th in the Open 105cm.

Emily Gubbins (Year 11) rode at the Dressage NSW event on 11 February and placed 3rd in the Young Rider Elementary 3:1 and 3rd in the Young Rider Novice 2:2.

Phoebe O’Connell (Year 11) attended Equestrian Australia NSW Horse of the Year 2018 on February 3 and won Champion Rider 15-17 years, Reserve Champion Child’s Show Hunter Hack and placed 3rd in the Open Hunter Hack. At the Pacific Coast Hack Championships on 11 February, she won Reserve Champion Hunter Hack.

Sophie Hatch (Year 10) has qualified for the Sydney Royal Easter Show for the second year in a row. This is a huge achievement as in order to compete in this event, riders need to place first at a number of qualifying shows within the year leading up to it. Sophie will be competing in the Junior (12-18 years) competition (1.20-1.30m). 2018 Annual Equestrian Awards On 20 February, Ms Gillick, Miss Akins and the Head and Vice Head of Equestrian attended the 2018 Annual Equestrian Awards night. Captain of Equestrian, April Stokman (Year 12) and Vice Captain, Ruby Kennett (Year 12) accepted the award for Equestrian NSW Interschool Champion School. The following girls attended the evening to collect individual awards: Alexandra Inglis (Gib Gate Year 6) – Reserve Champion Primary Rider, Antoinette Inglis (Year 12) – Combined Training Team Captain, Thea Horsley (Year 12 2017) – Eventing Junior Athlete of the Year and Olivia Barton (Year 12 2017) - Eventing Junior Development Rider of the Year.

ABOVE: Antoinette Inglis (Year 12) Combined Training Team Captain – Australia Interschool Championships; Frensham Equestrian Captain April Stokman (Year 12) and Vice Captain Ruby Kennett (Year 12) with the award for

Champion Secondary School – NSW Interschool Championships 2017

Miss Victoria Akins, Equestrian Coordinator

Representing Frensham and Gib Gate at the Equestrian NSW 2017 Awards night, left to right Olivia Barton and Thea Horsley (Year 12 2017), Antoinette Inglis (Year 12), Alexandra Inglis (Year 6), April Stokman (Year 12) and Ruby Kennett (Year 12) with Ms Julie Gillick and Equestrian Coordinator, Miss Victoria Akins

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Visual Arts/Design & Technology The Head On Photo Awards for 2018 are open for submission of photographs by students across Australia. In recent years, several Frensham students have been selected as finalists in this competition, and last week I sent information to all students outlining specific details of the award, encouraging them to enter if they have an interest in photography. If they are keen to participate, each student must submit photographs independently; the School does not have a role to play in submission of photographs. Students have been advised that if they need assistance with choosing images or resizing and formatting correctly, they can see Mr Alldis or the Heads of Art Studios (Alice Battcock, Darcey Gwynn-Jones, Tiger Lily Herrington or Phoebe Hill). Students can enter up to five photographs (submitted online). The cost of submission of a photograph for students is $1.00. The Head On Photo Awards represent a global selection of the best work from emerging and established photographers across four categories; Portrait, Landscape, Mobile and Student. The Head On Photo Festival, one of the world's most prestigious photo festivals, is calling for photographers to submit work to the Head On Photo Awards 2018. The Head On Portrait, Landscape and Mobile prizes are open internationally to professional, emerging and enthusiastic photographers from classical to contemporary styles and the Head On Student Prize is open to Australia's young photographers (school Years K-12). DEADLINE for entries: Sunday 25 February 2018, 11.00pm For further information, please go to: Head On Photo Awards 2018 – (website): http://www.headon.com.au/awards Student Term and Conditions: https://www.headon.com.au/student-prize-terms-conditions Information regarding National Art School Intensive Studio Practice courses for 2018 will be distributed this week to students studying Visual Arts in Year 11. The courses provide opportunities for students to develop skills in specific media in a stimulating creative environment. Last year, four students were offered and accepted places in these highly sought-after courses. Mrs Spencer and Mr Alldis will assist students in preparing applications, which will include examples of work (in most cases photographic images of work). Application Forms, signed by the student, parents/guardians, Ms Gillick and Mr Alldis/Mrs Spencer, together with specific examples of a student's artmaking practice, must be handed in to the School no later than Thursday 12 April (Week 11). Applications will be forwarded to the NAS to meet the due date of Monday 16 April (week 1 of the vacation). Offers of places will be made by the NAS to students in Term 2. To be eligible for entry applicants must: be in Year 11, be nominated by their Visual Arts teacher, and be achieving at a high level in their Visual Arts studies.

During the NAS HSC Intensive Studio Practice the student will: work within a specialised discipline using a broad range of media and art making processes refine their ability to interpret and evaluate their own and others’ artworks engage in sustained critical reflection and evaluation gain practical skills in preparing for, mounting and curating an exhibition

Course Overview The NAS HSC Intensive Studio Practice is designed to enhance and extend students’ technical, conceptual and intellectual skills under the direction of experienced, practising artists, through intensive practical study in one of the following disciplines: black and white photography, ceramics, digital photography, life drawing*, painting, printmaking and sculpture*. *In keeping with post-school degree course practice, drawing and sculpture classes will include undraped life models. Course Modules and Dates (you must be available to complete all modules) Module 1 (4 days): 17 Tuesday to 20 Friday July 2018 Module 2/3 (5 days): 8 Monday to 12 Friday October 2018

The fee for courses in 2018 is $350. Students requiring boarding accommodation are asked to pay an additional $350 ($700 total). Note about Boarding: Boarding is strictly limited and will be offered only to regional students who have no other accommodation alternatives. Boarding students will be offered share accommodation at a nearby hotel and will be supervised at all times by two teachers. Students living within the Sydney Metropolitan and Blue Mountains area, the Central Coast and Wollongong will not be offered boarding facilities and will need to commute. For more detailed information, follow the link below to the HSC Intensive Studio Practice Brochure and Application Forms. HSC Intensive Studio Practice: https://www.nas.edu.au/study/educational-outreach/hsc-intensive-program/ Mr Phil Alldis, Head of Visual Arts and Design