Newsletter - Chevalier College
Transcription
Newsletter - Chevalier College
WHAT’S INSIDE... March 2014 1 Chaplain’s Corner 4 Students in Focus Newsletter FROM THE PRINCIPAL • Year 7 Religious Education • 2013 Mock Trial State Champions! • Ember’s Glowing Performance in Gymnastics • UOW Learning Labs • James Gabor - BHP Billiton Science Award Finalist Co-curricular News Dear Parents, Caregivers, Friends of the College and Students... The 2014 school year is well underway and for so many reasons I could not be more proud of the staff and young people who make up this special place called Chevalier College. Almost half way through Term 1 and we have seen terrific spirit at our swimming carnivals, energetic running in the cross country, great school pride and commitment to our ISA summer sport season, outstanding leadership by all our year 12s at their final retreat, good fun at the junior social, amazing learning across all year groups of the College and exciting new pedagogies being experienced with the introduction of BYO iPads for our Year 7s. And this is just the tip of the iceberg. We have started our year as full as we can possibly be with the resources we have at the moment and that is 1200 students, 90 teaching staff and 40 support staff. Sadly, a couple of our staff have had very sad and/or unfortunate circumstances befall them including the loss of loved ones, extremely ill loved ones and illness themselves. We appreciate the understanding of our students and families whose classes have been affected by these circumstances and we are extremely thankful for the generosity and commitment of temporary and casual staff who have been able to ‘jump in to fill the breach’, often at very short notice. Continues next page... Chevalier College Newsletter © From the Principal MARCH 2014 • Show Cattle Team at Kangaroo Valley Show 6 9 Chevalier Past Students (CPS) News • VALE - Brigadier Damien Roche by 10 Cadet Sergeant James Tomlinson • The Tyson Doneley Scholarship Careers News with Gavin Bull • UOW Open Day • Defence Force Information Sessions 12 Library News with Anne Howe • Year 7 Library Orientation • ‘Overdrive’ Digital Library 13 Sports News with Andrew Bell • Swimming Carnival • ISA Trials 12 Softball/Cricket/Tennis • ISA Basketball Trials Report by Gavin Bull FROM THE Administration Team • Changing Schools? ...what you need to do • • • • • The Chev Shop Lost Property College SMS Reminders 2014 Vaccinations Student Drop-offs / Pick-ups 15 Community Noticeboard • • • • See Change Women on Wheels Retune HSC Essay Writing Seminar - Bowral Library • Chev Trivia Night Friday 11 April 19 • BPS Paving the Past • Mt Carmel Retreat Centre Events • CHEV Open Day Saturday 5 April www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 1 FROM THE PRINCIPAL FROM THE PRINCIPAL continued from page 1... TRADE SKILLS CENTRE CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAM REVIEW The College finally signed the contracts with the Federal Government for the grant funds to commence construction of our new Trade Skills Centre which will deliver courses in Construction and Primary Industries. We are currently preparing to review tender applications for this 2.5 million dollar project. While it progresses we will also be gutting and refurbishing our TAS and Visual Arts buildings. This is around a 1.3 million dollar project. The construction work is going to require us to re-room classes for at least two, maybe three terms. This will not be ideal, but we think the inconvenience will be worth it once the construction and refurbishment are completed. Plans are in place to ensure minimal disruption to the Year 12 study program during this time. STUDENT DROP-OFFS AND PICK-UPS For some time now we have been exploring alternate models for picking up students in the afternoon after school. For anyone who has ever done this you would know that we can end up in a form of grid lock in Charlotte Street. We have become increasingly concerned that someone may be injured in this mix of buses, cars and pedestrians. The current proposal being considered to address these issues involves shifting the pick-up location from Charlotte Street to two places along The Avenue through the centre of the College. Our Business Manager, Carmen Majetic, is managing this process and has attached a map to the newsletter (see page 18) with an outline of the proposal. We would be interested in your thoughts and feedback and ask you to please email your thoughts/questions/variations to majeticc@chevalier. nsw.edu.au by the end of this school term. A very significant strategic agenda will be undertaken this year - a total research, review and reformation project focussing on the co-curricular program of the College. So important is this agenda that we will be seeking the assistance of an outside consultancy company that specialises in such work. We will also be seeking input from as many families as wish to contribute to it during this process. As details of the project and the company engaging in the process come together, I will write to each family with more specifics of the terms of reference and process that the external consultants will follow in determining their recommendations for the College Board to consider. TYSON DONELEY SCHOLARSHIP This year the College will offer its first ever scholarship for a Year 7, 2015 student. This scholarship will exist for the entire time the successful student is at the College and has been made possible by the generosity of past students in the name of a former Rector of the College – Fr Tyson Doneley. More details about this scholarship can be found later in this newsletter. TRIVIA NIGHT For the first time in a number of years the Chevalier College Trivia Night is back on the Calendar and will take place on April 11th. We realise that this is the last day of the school term, but the night promises to be filled with good fun, a few prizes and some great laughs – along with a number of brainteaser questions. If trivia and a night of good fun are your thing, we would love you to come and join us. All the information about the event is contained later in this newsletter and will soon be posted on the website if it has not been already. At the Opening Liturgy, the Student Leaders’ theme for 2014, ‘Kick Start Your Sacred Heart’ was launched. The theme is based on the notion that, as individuals, we can make a positive difference to our world, both on a local and global level. We invite the community to take up the challenge that Jules Chevalier put to us: “To be on Earth the Heart of God”. Chevalier College Newsletter © MARCH 2014 continued from page 2... THE CHEVALIER COLLEGE FETE AND MOTORFEST NEEDS YOU!... For many years we have had core groups of outstanding parents who have organised and run this event. There is no doubt it is a BIG JOB and each year there are discussions around whether or not it should be annual or biannual or… In reality, this event is very dependent on whether or not a group of passionate people are keen to take on the challenge. The work of previous teams has been immense and, indeed, funds raised through the Fete/Motorfest over some years have made it possible for us to install the new block of classrooms and meeting spaces on the front ovals. This new building will eventually be converted to canteen and toilet facilities along with classroom space to serve the front ovals, especially during the sport season. So here comes the big question – WOULD YOU BE PREPARED TO WORK ON A TEAM TO MAKE THIS YEAR’S FETE/MOTORFEST HAPPEN? If yes, could you ring Samantha Aebi 48611488 and leave your name and contact details OR email info@chevalier.nsw.edu.au with your name and contact details and we will get in touch with you in the coming weeks to arrange a gathering of those interested. We will need to meet before the end of this term to get things underway. This year’s Fete and Motorfest is calendared for October 26. Thank you in advance for considering what you may be able to do for this very valuable and important event in our school year. WELCOME DINNERS / BREAKFASTS It has been an absolute joy to welcome our new students and families into our community and to catch up with current families. Our welcome dinner and breakfast programs have been well attended and the stories from families regarding their children and their journey with us are quite inspirational and heart warming. Whilst our welcome dinners have concluded for this year, our breakfast meetings will continue. If you would like to attend one of these, please contact our Community Development and Liaison Office for more details on 4861 1488. STUDENT ATTENDANCE/ABSENCES There is some confusion with some parents regarding the issue of taking your children out of school during school hours. It is a little complicated, but let me try to explain: Because attendance at school is covered by legislation – an Act of Parliament - there are a number of rules that must be followed. REQUEST FOR EXTENDED LEAVE Firstly, if a parent/caregiver wishes to take their children out of school for an extended period of www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 2 Chevalier College Newsletter © time – greater than three days – for a trip or pressing family matter, permission needs to be sought in advance from the school by writing to the principal. The school will then issue the family with a letter of approval and a document to show authorities in the event that a challenge is made as to why the young person is not in school. REQUEST FOR EXTENDED LEAVE A slightly different scenario is the parent/caregiver who wishes to take their children out of school on a regular basis on the same day each week for an appointment or attendance at another activity such as a specialist sport coaching session. In these cases the parents must request leave by writing to the principal and supplying supporting documentation as to why this event is necessary and only accessible at this time. A letter will then be sent to the family advising whether this arrangement has been approved. It is also important to note that, without the approval of the school for such absences, the student may be breaching the requirements – which commence in Year 7 - for the award of the ROSA and/or Higher School Certificate. As always, if in doubt, give us a call and we will be able to advise you. ENOUGH OF THE HERO WORSHIP Finally, as I write this newsletter, I am reminded that it is almost one year since Pope Francis commenced his papacy. I decided to see what is being written about this man whom I, like many, have come to admire and who spreads great hope. On reading an article in which Pope Francis commented on the perceptions of him by others I was struck by the influence of this man through his humility and genuine love. The following are passages from the interview that give us a deeper look into this man of God: …Pope Francis has told a newspaper he has had enough of the hero worship that has accompanied his year-long papacy, describing it as offensive and insisting he is just “a normal person”. Francis said he objected to the image of him that has been widely propagated. The Pope is a man who laughs, cries, sleeps calmly and has friends like everyone else. A normal person. God Bless, Chris McDermott Principal MARCH 2014 www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 3 STUDENTS IN FOCUS CHAPLAIN’S CORNER YEAR 7 RELIGIOUS EDUCATION During these first five school weeks of 2014 much has happened at Chevalier College. Here is an attempt to present an overview of a few of these happenings and relate them to the Christian Season just begun... T he Year 12 Retreat is completed; the whole of Year 7 have been introduced to what we call the Eucharist or Mass, as the central prayer of the Christian Community. This latter involved five groups of Year 7 students meeting in Prentice Chapel and experiencing an explanatory Eucharist, inviting the whole group around the large table - the better to re-present the Last Supper. They heard the words of Jesus: “This is My Body, given for you” and “This is My Blood (my life) poured-out for you”, and having this related to their parents and teachers who all ‘give their lives’ for their own or the children entrusted to them. Some of the students offer their own reflections on this experience in the article featured on the next page. The Year 12 Retreat is like the ‘icing on the cake’ in a journey of six years at Chevalier, and their previous seven years of primary school. Hopefully, by now, our senior students have a good appreciation that they are valued and loved beyond words by God; that they are soon to leave the ‘scaffolding’ of school and freely embark on life and we hope they make the best, most loving and just choices. God? ....the indigenous people refer to the “Great Creator Spirit”; other cultures and religions use other words. As Catholic Christians we embrace God as Jesus revealed in the humanness of his life. Reflections on his life reveal immense compassion, non-judgement, exceptional hospitality and forgiveness... in a word, a Heart totally worth immersing one’s own heart into becoming the Heart of Jesus to all people, oneself. O ur weather is changing (at last)... from very dry summer heat to milder autumn days and, thankfully, more regular rainfalls. The seasons of nature are also adopted within the Christian Community worldwide. We experienced the Season of Advent that gentle reflective time of expectancy preceding Christmas when we celebrated the Birth of Jesus. Unlike the commercial world, that wasn’t a one day wonder! The Christmas Season lasted until January 12 which celebrated Jesus‘ Baptism. Now, on 5th March, Ash Wednesday begins the Season of Lent. Chevalier College Newsletter © L ent runs approximately 40 days, culminating in the Feast of Easter, when we celebrate Jesus Risen from death, and promising to be with us/ united-in-Spirit with us until the end of our lives, when our faith allows us to believe / know beyond doubt, that we’re in for a wonderful welcome, transformed beyond imagining. Lent is primarily about conversion of life, repenting or making gentle but decisive choices to ‘turn our lives around’ to whatever extent each of us knows we need to, towards reflecting a Christ-like heart. No wonder this Season is called the Springtime of the Christian Community (or Church). This invitation is for all people. Paul the writer wrote about this - salvation is for all peoples... meaning that everyone, not just the Baptised, is invited to open their heart to a new way of Christ-like living and allow themselves to be freed from whatever blocks their heart, such as prejudice, guilt, fear and all kinds of selfish pursuits which are not life-giving. The Crucifixion of Jesus epitomises the fear and jealousy of those unwilling and unfree towards the universal outreach of this amazing person that Christians recognise as truly God-with-us. I experience glimpses of that God-likeness daily, in my life at Chevalier and, indeed, wherever people are living generously, reflecting one or many “faces” of Jesus in their relationships. Part of Lent’s conversion is allowing any deviant attitudes of heart to likewise be ‘crucified’ as one embarks on the life-giving springtime of conversion during Lent. T hat’s a mini-overview of what cannot be ‘captured’ in a few words. Lent in practice? For me, it’s primarily about trying to live with the greatest patience and courtesy towards others; never taking offence at different viewpoints, especially when I may not agree; making a daily, gentle effort to ‘reflect on my experiences’, particularly my relational ones; creating regular moments of still-time to ‘listen’ to my own heart (call it, prayer)... and more besides. I especially like Jesus’ own words: “I have come that you (all people) may have life in full measure”. Lent seeking this Life is definitely not a sad time. To live fully is a daily challenge for us all. It’s what we try to offer in myriad (mostly subtle) ways at Chevalier. MARCH 2014 Fr Terry Herbert msc Chevalier College Chaplain www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 4 As a part of the Year 7 Religious Education introductory unit, each Year 7 RE class took part in a Mass celebrated by Father Terry in the Prentice Chapel. Each of the five Masses celebrated provided an opportunity for all students to learn about the parts of the Mass, the Catholic church and the physical structure and symbols within the church itself. The students then had the opportunity to ask questions. This was a very valuable experience for Fr Terry welcomes Year 7.3 RE Class into Prentice Chapel all of the students and I would like to congratulate them on the reverent and respectful way in which they took part in the Eucharistic celebration. I would also like to thank Father Terry for his time, knowledge and wonderful stories that always engage the students. He really exemplifies MSC heart spirituality. These are some of the responses from the students’ experiences: “I would really like to thank Father Terry for our Mass at Prentice Chapel. I believe that the Mass this morning was very engaging and interesting. I was very excited to stand at the Altar and be so near it during the Liturgy of the Eucharist. I attend Mass often, although I had never had that particular experience. Thank you very much for putting time aside to talk us through this Mass”. Maya Chance Jane Lowe Leader of Learning - Religious Education “I found the class Mass with Father Terry (TH) very interesting and exciting. I learnt a lot from the Mass and I knew that Father Terry had an amazing life at Chev. He took us through the amazing adventures of his life and he started telling us all about the life of Jesus, then Father Terry, Lizzy and Zac read prayers of intercession. Father Terry taught us about the chapel and its process being built, then he brought everyone up to the table. We talked about Jesus and Mary, then we prayed and took a piece of bread or we were blessed if you were not Baptised. We sat down again and Father Terry answered questions about Jesus and the chapel. I am very interested in the life of Jesus and I want to learn more about his adventure to heaven. My overall experience of my second Mass with Father Terry was very interesting and fun”. Sage Herrod “I really like the way Fr Terry presents and does the mass, his explanations were very informative and, even though I knew most of the facts and items in the church, I still learned some new things like the stations of the cross candles and the altar stone. I really like the Prentice Chapel, how it’s built and named after Fr Tony Prentice. Also many other headmasters’ last names are the names of the buildings (e.g. McGrath Hall, Reid House and Bosco Carroll Cottage.) Fr Terry is a great priest and is very helpful with many things including part of the mass and other church related things. I hope he continues to celebrate mass at Chevalier. He also was in the class above my grandfather at Chevalier”. Benoe Efira Chevalier College Newsletter © MARCH 2014 www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 5 2013 mock trial Throughout 2013 we followed the exciting story of our Mock Trial Team and their indomitable bid to be the first Chevalier College Team ever to win the State Championship. With bold determination, buoyed by their undefeated season of nine trials, they entered the courtroom on Friday the 13th ready to make it ten. They didn’t disappoint the large crowd of past and present Chev students and staff members who travelled to Sydney to support them on this big occasion - two weeks into their school holidays! - proving once and for all that Friday the 13th was not unlucky! Congratulations Ember! What a fantastic achievement... Left to Right: Henry Blumentals, Mitchell Rowett, Supreme Court Judge Julie Ward, Lachlan Norton, Jack Reid, Natalie Murnane (holding trophy), Mr Stephen Holmes, Emma King, Jack Preddey, Erica Longhurst, Mr Geoff Beveridge “From February to December last year, over 200 schools throughout New South Wales entered the judicial arena to do battle. It was a mighty achievement for the College’s dedicated legal team, who are now eligible to compete in the International Mock Trial to be held in New York or San Francisco later this year. Switching from plaintiff to defendant, prosecution to accused, the team had to prepare its cases from scripts prepared by the Law Society of NSW, based upon actual criminal and civil law matters heard in either the Local or District Courts. The cases involved law surrounding a wide range of legal principles including fraud, animal cruelty, unfair dismissal, challenge to a will, drug related crime, arson, occupier’s negligence, stalking and intimidation, customs law and eventually – before a panel of three judges at the Grand Final – murder. Each school’s legal team is made up of six students consisting of two barristers, an instructing solicitor, two witnesses and a court officer. The case is then presided Ember’s Glowing Performance for State Championship... Ember Lund, in Year 9 this year at Chev, competed in the NSW State Championships in Gymnastics in November 2013. Competing in all four disciplines, she placed second on beam, fourth on bars, fourth on vault and eighth on floor, with her overall scores winning her the Level 5 State Championship for NSW 2013. The excitment of their win has not diminished in the several weeks that have passed and Friday 13 December 2013 will go down in Chevalier College history as a great day and a wonderful testament to these talented students and their coaches, Stephen Holmes and barrister Geoffery Beveridge, who maintained their faith that “this could be their year”... In a full page article in the Law Society Journal (December 2013) the Hon. Justice Julie Ward was quoted as saying that, on the cases presented, the murder trial would have resulted in a hung jury; so it was a hard decision for the Mock Trial judges to make, with the team from Warners Bay High worthy apponents and runners-up in the year-long competition. Geoffrey’s article published by Highlife Magazine explains more of the details of the competition and what happens next... Chevalier College Newsletter © STUDENTS IN FOCUS over by a magistrate (a solicitor or barrister allocated by the Law Society), who awards marks to each team based on a range of criteria such as opening addresses, closing submissions and cross examinations. The team with the highest mark wins the case and moves on to the next round. The first four rounds of the competition are run on a regional round-robin basis, and the rounds are held in each of ten regions state-wide from February to late June. The top 64 scoring teams across NSW and the ACT then compete on a knockout basis until two schools are left to meet for the Grand Final in early December. The Competition is open to students in Years 10 and 11 up to the age of 21. Conducted by the Law Society, it has proven to be extremely popular with both students and their teachers; providing both a broad overview of our legal system, and a valuable addition to the legal studies curriculum.” Justly proud of the impressive team, Stephen Holmes, who is still smiling, acknowledges each member of the team for their contributions to a united team effort, “they have been a pleasure to work with because of their diligence, their sense of humour and their seemingly limitless energy” and, “this achievement speaks volumes of the dedication and brilliance of our team at Chevalier – as the only school in NSW that was undefeated in the 2013 competition and the 26th school to take out the title since it began in 1981.” Steve also gratefully acknowledges Geoff Beveridge for his valuable assistance and generosity of spirit and hopes he may even coax him into returning this year to help take our new Mock Trial Team to - do we dare to dream?... the 2014 State Grand Finals. Debby Cloran Editor MARCH 2014 www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 6 We all at Chev are very proud of you and wish you well for your future endeavours in this challenging and demanding sport. Chris McDermott Principal Learning & Teaching – Gifted Education || University of Wollongong Learning Labs During the January school holidays the School of Education at The University of Wollongong held the LEARNING LABS program. LEARNING LABS is a gifted and talented program for students in Years 7 to 10. Students who attend the program must be academically performing within the top 10% of their area of interest. Workshops are led by University academics who are leaders in their field. The workshops are innovative and challenging with curriculum pitched at a flexible Year 11/12 level. Chev students attended these Learning Labs: Mia Watson: Crimes Against People and Property: What's involved in proving someone is guilty Megan Delaney and Samuel Harrison: DIY GMO's - Exploring Genetic Engineering (Genetically Modified Organisms) Ellanor Clark: Eyes, Hands and Minds Hannah Rewais and Rhiannon Feely: Getting Your Head Around Your Brain: An Exploration of the Nervous System Chevalier College Newsletter © Lewis McIntyre and Dylan Graham: Industrial Robotics Tara Schultz: Intellect and Wisdom over Brute Force and Cynicism: Nerds and Fandom Joseph Worne and Tyla Venish: Mental Skills for Winners Andrew McKinnon: Secure Communication Mariette Lewis: UOWTV – Taste Life as a Video Reporter Congratulations to these students on their successful participation in the program. From all reports, the Learning Labs were a fantastic experience. The next round of Learning Labs will be held in the July school holidays. Information will be in the Daily Notices in due course. For more information or to view some of the projects completed in the January holiday program go to http://socialsciences.uow.edu.au/education/ workshops/learninglabs/index.html Sarah Cahill Gifted Education Coordinator MARCH 2014 www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 7 J STUDENTS IN FOCUS CO-CURRICULAR NEWS ames Gabor, now in Year 11 at Chev, had an exciting start to the new school year, having earned himself a trip to Melbourne University to attend the BHP Billiton Science and Engineering Awards Camp in early February. As one of 26 national finalists to participate in the camp, James could contend for the major cash prizes on offer, as well as the chance to take part in the International Science and Engineering Fair in the USA in May. For his project ‘The Effect of Nerve Regeneration on Nerve Function and Structure’, James joined three other outstanding NSW students at the event. KANGAROO VALLEY SHOW The Show Cattle Team participated at the Kangaroo Valley Show held over the weekend of February 15th, and our two heifers (girls) Luna and Lorna came 1st and 2nd in their class ('Murray Grey under 21 months), though they were outperformed in the interbreed final. Show Cattle Team members Morgan Dick, Jessica Capps, Audrey Gripper and Cameron Lang performed well in the written part of the Junior Cattle Judging Competition and were then asked to compete in the oral competition where they placed 2nd, 7th, 8th and 10th, respectively, out of a field of 120 competitors. Students were required to prepare an additional science fair exhibit during the camp as a further component of the judging process. Major prize winners were finally announced at the Awards Presentation lunch held at ZINC in Federation Square at the conclusion of the four day camp. As Morgan placed 2nd she will go on to represent the South Coast and Southern Tablelands group at the Sydney Show. The BHP Billiton Science and Engineering Awards are Australia's most prestigious school science awards and reward young people like James who undertake practical research projects that demonstrate innovative approaches and thorough scientific procedures. James' investigation into the effect of nerve regeneration on nerve function and structure utilised the scientific process of establishing and testing a hypothesis. It is an exemplar piece of work for which he is to be fully commended and James' peers and his teachers are very proud of his achievements. We are very proud of the team for their commitment and hard work and the outstanding way they respresent the College. Megan Reeves Show Cattle Team Teacher - Agriculture Jonathan Napthali Leader of Learning - Science 2 1. 2. 3. 1 4. 5. Conor Nolan Morgan Dick Morgan placed 2nd - pictured here with the first place winner from another team. Cameron Lang Samantha Woodcock 3 BHP Billiton Science and Engingeering Awards finalists from left to right are: Dylan Sury, Redeemer Baptist School; Ethan Butson, The Illawarra Grammar School (First Place winner in the Engineering section); James Gabor, Chevalier College; Macinley Butson, The Illawarra Grammar School, with Carole Stanford (Coordinator, STANSW Young Scientist Awards) and the NSW Teacher Representative, Asmaa Badawi Abdelfattah of the Australian International Academy, South Strathfield. NOTE: The STANSW Young Scientist Awards are coordinated by the Science Teachers’ Association of New South Wales who sent James’ investigation for consideration at the national level. The Association urges students from local schools to get involved in open-ended scientific investigations for the state competition... 4 For more information visit: http://www.stansw.asn.au/ys/ Chevalier College Newsletter © MARCH 2014 www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 8 Chevalier College Newsletter © 5 MARCH 2014 www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 9 CHEVALIER PAST STUDENTS Vale THE TYSON DONELEY SCHOLARSHIP Inaugural $50,000 Chevalier College Scholarship Now Open for Applications... Brigadier Damian Roche... A reflection from College Sergeant Major Cadet Sargeant James Tomlinson On Friday 10th January, I was given the honour of representing the Chevalier College Cadet Unit at the funeral of Brigadier Damian Stanley Maliphant Roche. Damian Roche was a student at Chevalier College, finishing in the Class of 1973. Damian loved his time at Chevalier and it remained an important part of him throughout his life. He was a well-respected member of the College Community and an integral part of the Chevalier College Cadet Unit. Appointed to be the Commander of 6th Platoon, Cadet Under Officer Damian Roche served the cadets with great skill and distinction. A six-year scholarship valued at approximately $50,000 for a Year 7 student commencing at Chevalier College is being offered for the first time. Cdt Sgt James Tomlinson proudly represented Chevalier College at the funeral of past student Brigadier Damian Roche. James is pictured here with General David Hurley. by everyone in attendance and was extremely moved by the kindness extended to me. However, none more so than the reactions of Damian’s family, Chevalier Damian went on to serve in the Australian Army past students and his Duntroon classmates. They each with the same fortitude and dedication that he impressed upon me how proud Damian was of his exhibited when he was at school. He graduated time at Chevalier College and that they were truly from the Royal Military College in 1977 into the grateful to see Damian’s old school represented. As Royal Australian Infantry Corps and was appointed a I listened to the eulogies I grew increasingly proud Platoon Commander in the 1st Battalion of the Royal as I heard more about this inspiring man. Damian had Australian Regiment (1RAR). He further served with such a tremendous impact on so many people that the Regiment as Adjutant and Company Commander as well as being the of 8/9 RAR from 1985-1987 heart of his family, and became the Commanding Damian’s life to me represented everything in many ways he Officer in 1993. Damian held that the Chevalier College Cadet Unit and the was the heart of the postings in the Directorate of Australian Army. It wider College community stands for. Damian Infantry, the Directorate of was to my immense truly exemplified our core values of Courage, Officer Career Management surprise that I was and the Office of National Initiative, Respect and Teamwork. surrounded by the Assessments. He instructed at most highly regarded the Royal Military College and serving members of the Australian Defence Force. The at the Army Command and Staff College. Chief of the Defence Force General David Hurley, The Brigadier Roche was the last full-time Director Chief of the Army Lieutenant General David Morrison of Infantry and the founding Commandant of the and numerous ex-Chiefs of the Army and ex-Chiefs of Combat Arms Training Centre. On promotion to the Defence Force. This, to me, reinforced just how Brigadier he commanded 1st Brigade from 2001-2002 important he was to the people in his life. before being appointed as the Chief of the Defence Damian’s life to me represented everything that the Force Liaison Officer to the US Chairman of the Chevalier College Cadet Unit and the wider College Joint Chiefs of Staff in Washington DC in 2005. From community stands for. Damian truly exemplified 2006-2007 he served as the Military Attache to the our core values of Courage, Initiative, Respect and US Army. In 1995 Damian served as the Commanding Teamwork. Officer of the Australian Medical Support Force to Rwanda where he was awarded the Conspicuous Brigadier Damian Roche is a role model that we can Service Cross. all aspire to and be incredibly proud of. At the funeral I was absolutely astounded by the Cdt Sgt James Tomlinson reception that I was given. I was warmly welcomed CSM, Chevalier College Cadet Unit Chevalier College Newsletter © CHEVALIER PAST STUDENTS MARCH 2014 www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 10 The scholarship has been created to honour the service of Fr Tyson Doneley msc OAM, who was the Rector of Chevalier College from 19601965. It is a perpetual scholarship created by an endowment that has been donated mainly by past students of Chevalier College of that era and also from members of Fr Tyson’s own family. The Hon John Fahey AC, a past student of Chevalier College in the period 1958-1962, convened a group of past students to help raise the endowment. The Premier of NSW Hon Barry O’Farrell MP, who was taught by Fr Doneley when he was at St Johns College in Darwin during the late 1970s, launched the successful fundraising campaign at the College in October 2012. Fr Tyson has the unique distinction of having taught three state Premiers, with the addition of Hon Mike Ahern AO of Queensland (1987-89) who was a student at Downlands College in Toowoomba. The Tyson Doneley Scholarship is now open for applications for a student commencing in Year 7 in 2015. The deadline for applications is 4pm Friday 11th April 2014. Fr Doneley signs a “Letter to Future Scholars” that will be awarded to each new recipient of the perpetual scholarship. The letter was witnessed by the current NSW Premier Hon Barry O’Farrell MP (left) and former NSW Premier Hon John Fahey AC, both of whom were once students of Fr Doneley. Families wishing to be considered for the scholarship need to complete a special application and these can be obtained from the College Enrolments Office: phone (02) 4861 1488 or email enrolments@chevalier.nsw.edu.au Fr Tyson Doneley msc was awarded the Order of Australia Medal in 2013 by the Governor of New South Wales Her Excellency Professor Marie Bashir AC CVO The scholarship is intended for a student from a family whose financial circumstances would otherwise make it challenging to enroll their child at Chevalier College. In addition there are other attributes being sought in the young person fortunate enough to be offered the scholarship, such as academic aptitude and involvement in volunteer and co-curricular activities such as sport, music, drama and the like. Chevalier College Newsletter © MARCH 2014 “This Scholarship represents an example of how the philanthropic support of Chev’s past students – in this instance harking back half a century – is still helping the College today. At present we also have a young person in Year 11 who is only able to attend Chev due to the assistance from the Bruce McDiarmid Bursary, a two-year senior bursary donated by the 1955 College Captain. If you know of a student who might be eligible to be considered for the Tyson Doneley Scholarship, please encourage the family to apply.” Chris McDermott Principal, Chevalier College Paul McShane Manager – Community Liaison & Development www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 11 CAREERS NEWS... WITH GAVIN BULL YEAR 12 STUDENTS ATTEND UOW DISCOVERY DAY We enjoyed meeting our new Year 7 students and welcoming them to the Library. Our annual trip to the Uni of Wollongong took place on Friday 7 February when 48 Year 12 students travelled by Kennedy's coach to the main campus to be part of Discovery Day. During February, all Year 7 English classes completed a Library orientation lesson. Lectures, seminars, workshops and tours were the order of the day and each student received a personal timetable for the event. The program included input from current and past students as well as academic and other staff. Lunch on the duck pond lawn with live music and access to the various uni food outlets was another highlight. Our students were able to find out about accommodation, options, scholarships, exchange programs and early entry methods, as well as taking part in faculty activities. A highlight for me was being shown around the campus by past Chev student Kimberley Murdoch to see the Engineering faculty and the new accommodation wing. I'd like to commend all of those Chev students who attended the day for their enthusiasm and being positive ambassadors for the College. An important part of this process involved demonstrating Overdrive (our Digital/Ebook Library.) Overdrive allows our students and staff to "borrow" from a wide collection of digital/ E books and audiobooks for a two-week loan period. After this period the resource automatically disappears from their device. Our Year 7 iPad students have been quick to understand and utilise Overdrive. DEFENCE FORCE INFORMATION SESSIONS A number of different information sessions will be run throughout the year focusing on particular aspects of the ADF such as Army Careers, Navy Careers, RAAF Careers, ADFA, Officer Entry, Trades, Women in the ADF and many more. The following information is for the upcoming sessions for students to attend with their families. (Several sessions have already been held in February.) • Health Careers – Wednesday 12 March • Army Reserves – Thursday 13 March • Royal Military College Duntroon Thursday 20 March These sessions are held at Defence Force Recruiting, 25 Atchison Street, Wollongong from 6:00pm. Bookings are essential - please contact Isla on 02 42203303 or cptwollongong@dfr.com.au Past Chev student Kimberley Murdoch showed Gavin Bull the new facilities at UOW. Chevalier College Newsletter © LIBRARY NEWS Gavin Bull Careers Adviser For information or advice phone: 02 4861 0538 MARCH 2014 www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 12 Library Borrowing Here is a screenshot of what you would expect to see when you log on to our Digital Library. Just a reminder: Students are able to borrow up to six (6) print books and one (1) digital (Overdrive) book for a twoweek loan period. They may renew print books if no one has reserved the item. Towards the end of each term a list of overdue items are sent to Home Rooms as a reminder to students. If overdue items are still not returned the replacement cost of the book is charged to the student’s account. Students are permitted to borrow over holiday periods if they have no outstanding books. Library Hours 8.30-4.00 Monday 8.30-5.00* Tuesday (Afternoon Study from 3.45-5pm) 8.30-5.00* Wednesday(Literacy Support, Pi Shop and Afternoon study 3.45-5pm) 8.30-5.00* Thursday (Literacy Support, Pi Shop and Afternoon Study 3.45-5pm) 8.30-4.00 Friday Afternoon Study (Tues, Wed, Thur), Literacy Support (Wed, Thur) and Pi Shop (Wed, Thur) are great opportunities for students across Years 7-12 to access Library resources or Maths or Literacy support outside of normal school hours. Please Note: Students need a signed permission note from their parents to attend Literacy Support, Afternoon Study or Pi Shop. Anne Howe Teacher Librarian Chevalier College Newsletter © MARCH 2014 www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 13 l a v i n r a C g n i m m i w S 4 1 20 SPORTS NEWS SPORTS NEWS WITH ANDREW BELL SWIMMING CERTIFICATES 2014: AGE GROUP AGE CHAMPION RUNNER-UP HOUSE CHAMPIONS AND AGE CHAMPIONS HOUSE SHIELD - PLACINGS: 1.GILES 2.RIVERSDALE 3.BURFORD 4.OSBORNE 5.CLANCY 6.REID AGE GROUP PERPETUALS 2014: AGE GROUP AGE CHAMPION 12 yrs Girls 12 yrs Boys 13 yrs Girls 13 yrs Boys 14 yrs Girls 14 yrs Boys 15 yrs Girls 15 yrs Boys 16 yrs Girls 16 yrs Boys Opens Girls Opens Boys FLOYD, Lily HIRCOCK, Dylan BALLA, Lauren PINCZI , Charles / CLUNN Liam BASEGGIO, Rowena BLAIK, Higginson BASEGGIO, Rachel WARCABA, Robert WANCZURA, Natalie PATTERSON, Cameron MERLINO, Caitlin CASTLE Mitchell / CLARK Bryce 12 yrs Girls FLOYD, Lily (Giles) HAMPSHIRE, Georgia (Riversdale) 12 yrs Boys HIRCOCK, Dylan (Osborne) GABOR, Charles (Burford) 13 yrs Girls BALLA, Lauren (Riversdale) KEAT, Ruby (Riversdale) 13 yrs Boys PINCZI, Charles (Reid) / CLUNN, Liam (Giles) 14 yrs Girls BASEGGIO, Rowena (Giles) BREGONJE, Amy (Giles) 14 yrs Boys BLAIK, Higginson (Giles) JAMIESON, William (Giles) 15 yrs Girls BASEGGIO, Rachel (Giles) MELINO, Aimee (Riversdale) 15 yrs Boys WARCABA, Robert (Giles) WILLIAMS Jovi (Riversdale) 16 yrs Girls WANCZURA, Natalie (Reid) BUTCHER, Gabrielle (Giles) 16 yrs Boys PATTERSON, Cameron (Osborne) KELLY, James (Giles) Opens Girls MERLINO, Caitlin (Riversdale) CAPPS, Jessica GI Opens Boys CASTLE, Mitchell (Burford) / CLARK, Bryce (Osborne) There were 6 Age Champions and 5 Runners-Up from GILES House and 2 Age Champions and 4 Runners-Up from RIVERSDALE House! Well done to all particpants and congratulations to GILES!! 2014 Swimming House Champions... Chevalier College Newsletter © MARCH 2014 Burford and Osborne Houses both improved their results from 2013 but it was our BLUE House Giles who won again for the 4th consecutive year. As well as the swimming carnivals there were a few representative sports trials in February. At the ISA softball trials we had five girls trialling (possibly a record!). We had three boys trying out in the ISA cricket trials. Tom Mooney batted well and has made the team. They had planned to play a rep match at Bradman Oval in February but were disappointingly washed out - for the third year in a row! At the ISA Tennis trials we had four players (all girls) trialling. Gabrielle Murphy was named as a shadow player for the ISA mixed team and will be hoping for a call up into the CIS Girls team. On Friday 14 February, Lauren Cheatle trialled and was again selected for the CIS Girls Cricket Team. Lauren captained the CIS Girls U16 team last year and will continue her captaincy this year. They play in Maitland on March 17-20. All of these students have done themselves and the College proud. I am pleased to announce that Bridget Shirlow and Nadya Van Kruyssen were selected in the team. It's been a while since we have had two girls make the ISA team (dominated by Barker College). Both Bridget and Nadya are in Year 10, so they could be in this team for a couple of years! As this Newsletter goes to print the ISA Summer Season winds up, with the finals being played over the coming weekend. A full report will appear in the next edition, along with info about the coming Winter Season of ISA sport. Andrew Bell Administrator - Co-curricular CHEV STUDENTS ATTEND ISA BASKETBALL TRIALS On Monday 17 February five Chev basketballers travelled to Penrith Stadium for the annual ISA selection trials. Both the boys and the girls were put through their paces and had to work hard for the ISA selectors. At the end of the day, Chloe Genner and Alex Davenport were named as reserves for their respective teams. BLUE water BLUE hats BLUE house BLUE champions! for their 4th year in a row! The 2014 Swimming Carnival was another great day. Lots of participation, colour and special perfomances both in and out of the pool. www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 14 Photo: Back row: Alex Davenport; Isaac Martin; Marko Laus Front row: Drew McGladdery; Chloe Genner Gavin Bull Basketball Co-ordinator Chevalier College Newsletter © MARCH 2014 www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 15 from the ADMINISTRATION All enrolment enquiries to Caitlin Wood T: 02 4861 0524 E: enrolments@chevalier.nsw.edu.au Have you moved or changed your contact details recently? Please inform the Office so we have current and accurate records for you: Email: office@chevalier.nsw.edu.au or phone Caitlin: 4861 1488 8:00am - 4:30pm | Monday to Friday except public holidays... Office and Accounts Queries: 4861 1488 Enrolment Enquiries to Caitlin Wood: 4861 0524 The Chev Shop Located at the McMahon Administration Complex, follow the sign from the Charlotte Street car park and enter via the middle doorway along the path. REGULAR SHOP HOURS Mondays - 8:30am to 2:30pm (Closed from 12:30pm to 1:00pm for lunch) Wednesdays - 8:30am to 8:45am and during Breaks 1 and 2 (Open for students only at these times on Wednesdays) Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays 12:30pm to 4:00pm Download the latest edition of the Chev Shop Price List HERE: http://tinyurl.com/md7udd2 or visit: http://www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au/Home/Chev Shop LOST property What’s the collective noun for towels? ‘A riot of towels’ ? Well that’s what we have at Lost Property - a riot of towels... left over from the swimming carnivals. So if your child came home towel-less, chances are we’ve got it here, and there’s heaps of other uncollected items just waiting for their owners too. Please remind your child to come and do a thorough search of the items in Lost Property at Student Services. We catalogue everything to make it easy for students to find things. And with the coming change of season/ uniform we also remind parents and caregivers to label and name ALL your child’s belongings to ensure lost items find their way home. Many thanks, MARCH 2014 • An SMS is automatically generated to inform parents and caregivers of their child’s unexplained absence from school. If your child is absent and a reason has been provided beforehand (via SMS or in writing) you will not receive an SMS. • SMSs arrive on parents’ mobile phones displaying the number ‘0419 829 442’. Please store this number on your mobile under ‘Chevalier College' for easy recognition. • You can return an SMS to this number but you cannot make a call to it. www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 16 TEAM CHEV SATURDAY 5 APRIL 10AM TO 1PM 2014 VACCINATION PROGRAM • When sending an SMS reply, please include: o o o o The 2014 Vaccination Program is underway. These are the dates for the remainder of the year: your child’s full name your child’s Student ID Number the date of the absence the reason for the absence. • The SMS system must only be used for whole day absences (not for students arriving late and leaving early). All Year 7 students require four visits and will be offered three vaccines: Human Papillomavirus Vaccine (HPV), Varicella Zoster Vaccine (chickenpox) and Diptheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (dTpa) Vaccine. Year 9 boys require three visits for the HPV. • If you send an SMS you do not need to provide an absence note. Visit 1: 6/3/14 HPV Yr 7 boys and girls Yr 9 boys • If you telephone through an absence, an absence note or SMS is still required. Visit 2: 27/5/14 HPV Yr 7 boys and girls Yr 9 boys • The SMS system cannot be used to communicate with Chevalier College regarding any matters other than absences. For all other matters please telephone 4861 1488 or email to: office@chevalier.nsw.edu.au Visit 3: 7/8/14 HPV Yr 7 boys and girls Yr 9 boys Visit 4: 12/11/14 HPV Yr 7 boys and girls • From time-to-time you may receive notifications and other important reminders concerning the College. These SMS messages do not require a reply. Your assistance with these matters is greatly appreciated. Please Note: Hep B is not being offered in 2014. Parents are advised to remind their child to drink plenty of fluids and eat a nutritious breakfast on vaccination days. If you have any queries concerning the program, please contact Steve Murchie (Deputy Principal) or Carol Virtue (Sick Bay Attendant) at the College. Steve Murchie Deputy Principal Gabby Lenarduzzi Student Services Gabby Lenarduzzi and Michelle Carlon - Student Services Chevalier College Newsletter © REMINDERS REGARDING THE COLLEGE SMS SYSTEM CHEV OFFICE HOURS CHANGING SCHOOLS?? A reminder for parents that, in the event that you should need to withdraw your child/children from enrolment at Chev, the College needs four (4) ‘term time’ weeks’ notice in writing to the Principal, otherwise penalties may apply. from the ADMINISTRATION TEAM Chevalier College Newsletter © MARCH 2014 www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 17 from the ADMINISTRATION TEAM PROPOSED CHANGES TO STUDENT DROP-OFFS / PICK-UPS COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD Notices are from members of the wider school and Southern Highlands communities. The College does not endorse the products, activities or services listed. Any reference to program information or material published in the newsletter from an outside contributor reflects the spelling and grammar provided for the item by the contributor. - The Editor See Change A Change, Be Change, See Change... See Change is a six week, facilitated, small group program for families whose lives have been impacted by Drug See Change covers the following…. and Alcohol and/or Mental Health Issues. Information on mental health issues, drug dependency and recovery The impact of these issues on families Understanding the process of change Strategies for reclaiming your life Tools for enhancing personal and family wellbeing The Salvation Army First Floor Program have been working with families impacted by AOD/MH issues for 15 years and run a number of monthly support groups and education programs. New program starting soon! When: Mondays, Feb 24th—Mar 31st, 2014 Where: Level 3,11-13 Burelli St, Wollongong Time: 6pm-8pm Ongoing support is also available... Spaces limited, bookings essential to reserve your place please phone (02) 42291079. The Proposal: 1. The car park on Charlotte Street in front of the PAC and Main Office becomes BUSES and STAFF CARS ONLY from 8.15am to 8.45am and 3pm to 3.45pm. Students must not be picked up or dropped off from this area during those times. 2. A new car park would be built just under the Cricket nets next to the Ched, as: • a pick-up and drop-off zone in the mornings/afternoons • a car park for the Trade Skills Centre being built on the other side of the road next to Ag. • a car park for weekend activities on the ovals e.g. Rugby • access to wet weather shelter under the Ched for students awaiting pick-up • another parking area for McGrath Hall events, with a path connecting it to the path that leads from Prentice Chapel. 3. The existing car park next to Meadow One that has an exit and entry would also become a drop-off and pick-up zone. 4. Entrance #1 would only turn left onto Moss Vale Road and Entrance #2 would only turn left onto Eridge Park Road. 5. Barriers (see orange marks) would prevent through traffic between Entrances 1 and 2 inside the College ONLY during peak times. We would be interested in your thoughts and feedback and ask you to please email your thoughts/ questions/variations to majeticc@chevalier.nsw.edu.au by the end of this school term. See Change A Change, Be Change, See Change... Australia is retuning After channels have changed, you’ll need to retune your digital TV, and Alcohol and/or Mental Health Issues. set-top box or digital TV recorder See Change covers the following…. 18 MARCH to find the on Information on mental health issues, drug dependency and recovery channels that have moved. The impact of these issues on families See Change is a six week, facilitated, small group program for families whose lives have been impacted by Drug Understanding the process of change Strategies for reclaiming your life Tools for enhancing personal and family wellbeing If you are missing channels, you The Salvation Army First Floor Program have been working with1 families impacted by AOD/MH issues for 15 can start by pressing the “MENU” remote then lookprograms. years and run a number of monthly support groupsbutton andon your education for your “set-up” options. When: Mondays, Feb 24th—Mar 31st, 2014 Where: Level 3,11-13 Burelli St, Wollongong Time: 6pm-8pm MARCH 2014 www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 18 2 Next, try to find words like: “channels” or “auto-tuning”. 3 Wait for the retune to finish. You should now receive all the digital TV channels. Spaces limited, bookings essential to reserve your place please phone (02) 42291079. Want more information? Carmen Majetic Business Manager Chevalier College Newsletter © Follow the steps below for basic instruction on how to retune. www.digitalready.gov.au/retune 1800 20 10 13 *Different areas will need to retune on different dates. Visit www.digitalready.gov.au/retune for more information. Authorised by the Australian Government, Capital Hill, Canberra. Chevalier College Newsletter © MARCH 2014 www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 19 COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD SA VE TH ED AT E CHEV Trivia Night Friday 11 April http://ap.ptly.com/nsw/chevalier/ocd.aspx http://tinyurl.com/ChevTriviaNight News & Events Events 2014 woodsj@chevalier.nsw.edu.au Please find and complete the order form (see page 2 of PDF) at: http://tinyurl.com/m53csou or go to Local Community and Parish News on the Chevalier College website. Chevalier College Newsletter © MARCH 2014 www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 20 Chevalier College Newsletter © MARCH 2014 www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 21 COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD ‘Wellspring of Hope’ Taize Retreat for Youth with Trish Watts Cost: $250.00 April 11-13 Weekend Retreat Mt Carmel Retreat Centre 247 St Andrews Road Varroville (near Sydney) Come and experience the joy, peace and simplicity of the prayer and music of the Taize Community. Young people from all around the world make pilgrimages to Burgundy France. Check this youtube on Taize: http://youtu.be/QN5mXIGFTnA or visit: The Taizé Community www.taize.fr Preparing for Easter with prayer and the music of Taize. 'O living God, in our darkness you kindle a fire that never dies away' Mrs Carla Walker (02) 8795 3400 or Email: retreats@carmelite.com www.carmelite.com A Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend is a Marriage Enrichment experience for married couples – set in peaceful, picturesque surroundings, away from the distractions of everyday life. During the weekend, couples have a unique opportunity to reconnect, rekindle and refresh their relationship. Take time out of your busy schedule, to invest in your most precious asset... your Marriage! Chevalier College Newsletter © Weekend Date: 21 – 23 March 2014 at Mt Carmel Retreat Centre, Varroville, NSW Bookings: Ardell & Bill Sharpe T: 02 4283 3435 E: wsharpe@bigpond.net.au MARCH 2014 www.wwme.org.au www.facebook.com/WWMEasternUnit www.chevalier.nsw.edu.au Page 22