Principal`s Message - Girraween High School

Principal’s Message
Mrs Julie Kennedy
Principal
Upcoming Events
Term 2 is traditionally a busy term with assessing and reporting periods on the agenda. Alongside these important
events are also parent information evenings and our annual Music, Art, Dance and Drama showcase.
We recently held a very successful Year 7 night where our School Counsellor Mr Troy Toshack, talked to parents
about how best to support teenagers during their secondary education. The next evening will be a Year 10 Parent
Information Evening where valuable information about Higher School Certificate (HSC) subject selection will be
presented along with general information about the 2017 HSC.
Following on from these meetings we will commence parent/teacher interviews based on the Semester One reports
and I encourage all parents to make an appointment online with the relevant teachers to discuss the progress of
your child. If you are unable to attend, I encourage you to contact your child’s teacher by telephone to discuss their
progress.
Anzac Day 2015
Girraween High School acknowledged the 100th anniversary of
ANZAC Day with a moving tribute to our fallen soldiers. Our special
guest was Ms Kristen Hardiman, a regular casual teacher at our
school and talented artist.
Ms Hardiman displayed her most recent artworks depicting young
soldiers and she also explained the layers of imagery in her artwork.
Her speech was captivating for the enthralled audience and we
sincerely appreciated her contribution to this important occasion.
National Disability Data Collection (NDDC)
From 2015, all Australian schools are required to participate each year in the annual collection of nationally
consistent data on school students with disability. Our school also participated in this data collection in 2014 so that
we could learn about the process and be well prepared for full implementation in 2015.
The nationally consistent collection of data on school students with disability (NCCD) uses a model that draws on
teachers' professional judgement and practices throughout the year supporting students with disability to access
and participate in education. Principals will verify data about students in their school receiving adjustments because
of disability in August each year, based on evidences in the school.
The model for the NCCD is based on obligations to students under the national Disability Discrimination Act 1992
(the DDA) and Disability Standards for Education 2005. Understanding these obligations and the NCCD model is
essential knowledge for principals and teachers.
Student Success
Anandita Soundappan, one of our Year 12 students, recently won a short story writing
competition called the Rosie Creators Award. This is a short story writing competition
based around the concept of respect. Anandita told me that she enjoys writing and she
was thrilled to achieve this success.
I encourage you to read this brilliant piece of writing: http://rosierespect.org.au/therosie-creators-award-writing-award-winner-2015/
Jadon Sugunarajan of Year 11 has received the news that he has been accepted into a UK
Football Experience program for two weeks toward the end of term 4 this year.
Jadon is a passionate and talented soccer player and he will certainly benefit from playing a
variety of games and coaching sessions from highly respected English Soccer League coaches.
Review of Special Religious Education and Special Education in Ethics in NSW Government Schools
In 2012 the NSW Legislative Council General Purpose Standing Committee No 2, chaired by the Hon Marie Ficarra
MLC released a report on the Education Amendment (Ethics Classes Repeal) Bill 2011. This report recommended that
Special Education in Ethics classes should continue in NSW government primary schools. The report made a number
of recommendations aimed at improving the implementation and delivery of Special Religious Education and Special
Education in Ethics.
Recommendation 14 of the report requires that ‘a future independent review of both ethics classes and SRE be
conducted by appropriately qualified early childhood educational reviewers in 2014-2015’.
Additional information about the review can be found at http://www.dec.nsw.gov.au/about-us/statistics-andresearch/public-reviews-and-enquiries/special-religious-education-review.
You can have your say using the contribution forms provided at the following link: http://artd.com.au/sre-seereview. There are separate forms for parents/carers, SRE teachers, SEE teachers and other interested parties.
Road Safety Reminder
I regularly remind students about the importance of personal safety when travelling to and from school. This
includes looking out for others and being aware of their personal surroundings and taking care when crossing roads.
I’d also like to remind parents to not park or temporarily stop in a bus zone in the school area. This creates
confusion, congestion and significant safety concerns for everyone. Thank you.
Co-ordinator’s Message
Editor: C. Blaschke, Co-Editor: T. Pelle
Closing date for the next Newsletter is Tuesday, 16th June.
Welcome to the May edition of etcetera, 2015. We hope that over the year, you will enjoy the contributions of our very talented
Newsletter Team.
The 2015 Team Members are:
Casey LIEU (7M)
Pritpal DHILLON (7C)
Marina JIN (8N)
Akansha CHAUHAN (8M)
Nityam BANSAL (8C)
Kriti JAIN (9F)
Rachitha SINGHABAHU (9C)
Sumedh SURAPARAJU (9C)
Nandhini KUMAR (10C)
Neel Mishra (11F)
Phoebe LIANG (11N)
Chiraag BHALLA (11N)
Nicola LAU (12C)
Smaranika PATEL (12C)
etcetera is always happy to include advertisements and articles. Please see one of the Newsletter Team if you are interested in
contributing to etcetera or contact the editor at: carolyn.blaschke@det.nsw.edu.au
Social Justice Conference
By Rachitha Singhabahu
Nine Year 9 students were invited to participate in the
prestigious Social Justice and Leadership Conference held at
North Sydney Girls High School on Friday 27th of March. The
leaders involved were Cherry, Rachitha, Hasith, Nikshep,
Umar, Lilian, Sinchana, Mansi and Lareina and accompanying
teacher Ms Ayer.
On arrival we were escorted to the hall where we were seated
to listen to guest speakers. The main theme throughout the
conference was courage and the boldness to get up and say
what you think.
Our 1st guest speaker was Wenee Yap who founded Survive
Law, the highest trafficked law website for university students
involving strategic planning, business development, social media management, online marketing, advertising and
more. She talked about the courage needed to change things in the world and she elaborated by saying that if you
do have the courage, you can change the world. It all starts with a single person and after a period of time, you’ll
have a nation of followers.
We were then separated from our school peers into different
groups with different schools. Soon becoming discerning of the
students around us, we quickly realised that everyone from the
other schools were from Years 11 or 12 but that didn’t stop us from
expressing our passion for social justice. It was a bonus to have
older students around so we could learn more about the concept of
social justice. The workshops included things like communicating in
a variety of ways, learning about the UN organisation and different
things in the world that restrict justice like wars etc. There was so
much to learn that at times it was overwhelming yet we tried to
absorb as much information as possible.
Following the workshops there were two more guest speakers,
Dylan Barber from 40K who told us that this organisation sends tertiary students to developing countries to build a
social business that improves the lives of the social community. This means that students go to certain countries like
Africa to help people who are struggling on farms and with housework etc. He gave an example of where he had
helped a person in India’s remote communities and that this person was so grateful for his work that he cried when
Dylan was leaving. Dylan’s message was that if you were going to do something, you do it properly, not half the job.
Our last guest speaker was the revered Bill Crews, founder of the Exodus Foundation, an organisation that helps the
poor, the oppressed and the marginalised of society. He said the greatest gift you can ever give is by helping those in
need. It’s worth noting here that Girraween High School has a proud history of supporting the work of the Exodus
Foundation with our annual food drives.
This conference represented a wonderful opportunity for students like us to learn more about social justice
initiatives and how we might contribute our time and energies. It also gave us the opportunity to participate in
leadership activities and to network with students from schools around NSW.
Hisai High – Girraween Exchange Program
By Phoebe Liang
Girraween High School has maintained a 20 year sister school exchange program with Hisai High School situated in
Mie, Japan and in March, twelve host families gathered at the Arrivals terminal, Sydney Airport buzzing with
anticipation at the expected arrivals of the Hisai students.
Their two week stay in Australia passed by very quickly with schedules filled brimming to the top with excursions to
the Blue Mountains, Featherdale Wildlife Park, a visit to the
Mayor at Holroyd City Council, Manly Beach and the
Harbour Bridge.
The Hisai students were also able to take part in the cross
country carnival. Being a school that specialises in sport, the
Japanese students easily brushed off the long-distance run
with exceptional placings, with Azumi surprising everyone
by running two races!
The host students were especially happy to hear that the
farewell party would be taking place during the last two periods of a Friday afternoon, but the mood slowly changed
into one of imminent sadness as we all realised we would soon be saying goodbye to our visitors.. Tears were shed
at the farewell party where the Hisai students shared a prepared performance of a Japanese folk song.
The sombre mood continued overnight and final farewells were exchanged at the airport, filled with expectant
promises of we’ll see each other again!
The exchange program proved to be once again successful and beneficial for all concerned as a means of extending
and supplementing the Japanese learned through textbooks and classrooms, as well as learning to overcome and
communicate through cultural barriers and differences.
Reciprocally, in the September-October school holidays, a group of Girraween High School students will embark on
their two-week stay in Japan.
Thank you to the hard work of the Girraween-Hisai Exchange Program coordinators, the Language Faculty, Mr Aylett
and Mrs Kennedy and the host families for the organisation, sacrifice and dedication to ensure the pleasant stay of
the Hisai High School students.
Interviews with two of the Hisai exchange students:
Shunsuke Wada
Q. What type of city is Hisai Shunsuke?
A. There is a lot of nature.
Q. Please share a little bit about your family.
A. Including me, there is my mother, father and my younger
brother. My brother is in third year of middle school, my
mother is a nurse and my father is a carpenter.
Q. At school, what subjects do you study?
A. I study mathematics, Japanese, English, Japanese history,
world history, biology, physics and physical education.
Q. What are your hobbies?
A. My hobbies include playing musical instruments and
singing. My favourite band is One OK Rock.
Kurumi Kato
Q. What are your hobbies Kurumi?
A. I like to do a lot of things: dancing, listening to music,
singing karaoke, surfing, snowboarding and penny
boarding.
Q. What songs do you like to dance to? How often do
you dance?
A. I like to dance to Chris Brown. I’ve always enjoyed
dancing hip hop, but recently I’ve started trying out R&B
style.
Q. What was your favourite memory that you made in
Australia?
A. Being at Girraween High School every day and
spending time with the students was my favourite
memory. All of the students were just so friendly and
welcoming, which is different to what the experience is
in Japan.
World’s Greatest Shave
By Casey Lieu & Pritpal Dhillon
Everyday too many people are given the tragic news that they have leukemia, lymphoma or myeloma. Picture the
young and old lives lost and the families suffering the trauma of losing their loved ones to these deadly cancers.
Back in March, many brave Girraween High students participated in an immensely popular
fundraising event called the World’s Greatest Shave. Splashes of bright colours ranging
from pinks to greens to blues were spotted throughout the school leading up to this event.
It was an extraordinary sight to watch students shave the heads of these brave individuals
to raise funds for research to help beat blood cancers. As a result of the kindness of
multiple students and teachers, the event raised over $3000. This money will help provide
emotional and practical support to families free of charge, whose loved ones are
undergoing treatment as well as going towards the millions of dollars needed for research
to find cures for these diseases.
The event could not have been possible without the wonderful help of Mrs. McMillan and
the generosity of the staff and students who participated.
Sonya from Year 10 shows that
hair really does grow back.
Field of Mars: a Yr 11 Biology Excursion
By Neel Mishra
Thursday, 7th of May, was judgement day. Preliminary biology students woke up, bleary eyed, and headed out into
the yonder of the wider world in order to study the phenomena of organisms, both plant and animal. However, the
students did not exactly get the adventure they had anticipated.
On the 7th of May, an 8am start was required for some 60 students to board busses; destination, the Field of Mars
Reserve. As portrayed by the collective opinion of the grade, the rather exotically named park did not really live up to
their hyped-up expectations. Rather it was a section of the Ryde City Council’s Buffalo Creek Reserve. Student’s attire
was mufti, contributing to some of the enthusiasm of the cohort. We were accompanied by Mr. Iverach, Mrs.
Vummadi and Mrs. Shah.
Our time at the centre whizzed by like the sounds of the dry sclerophyll forests as we continued to hike past the
marshlands, climbing some steep grades till we got to Sugarloaf Point. Our day was divided into 3 seminars with 3
corresponding qualified instructors directing our involvement. The 3 groups were sent to study the abundance of
mud crabs in the marshland swamps; the variety of plant species in a section of the forest hills and the types of living
organisms that construct the cycle of the local ecosystem’s food web.
As our group investigated the relationship of mangrove tree and crab holes, another was being taught the effects of
how changes to soil ph., air speed, salinity and aspect may challenge plant species variety. The use of iPads allowed
us to record the data and take home measurements for reference in our assignments.
A different environment with a variety of resources allowed a unique angle of insight into the new concepts. Moving
through the shrubbery was a very tactile experience. The ferns in our faces with the smell of moss and moisture in
the air really helped in cementing the information into memories.
This excursion covered a significant portion of Section 2: Local ecosystem, part of the
Preliminary Biology course, saving class time while making a very different day out from the
stress and tension of mid-year exams.
Girraween’s Mock Trial Team
By Chiraag Bhalla
Some of Girraween’s students aim to become lawyers one day, practicing law as their daily profession. Seven
students took one extra step towards this goal, and to see what it really means to be a lawyer, by forming a mock
trial team to represent Girraween in competing against other schools in the prestigious Mock Trial Competition
hosted by the NSW Law Society.
The team comprises of Chiraag Bhalla, Harrish Sathanesan, Isaac Kwong, Inderpreet Singh, Muskaan Chouhan,
Adarsh Kanyadi, and Jadon Sugunarajan. Through meticulous planning and organisation, they apply their legal
knowledge to a case provided by the Law Society, presenting their information in front of a skilled legal professional,
acting as a magistrate.
Girraween has not participated in this competition for 15 years, so the revival of the program has been long awaited.
As a team, we need to participate in the competition both to further our understanding of the law, and to get a
tangible feel of what it means to practice the law, something we all aspire to.
To date we have thoroughly enjoyed the competition, learning many valuable skills, including public speaking and
team work. We hope that our school continues to participate in the competition over the coming years and that all
students who aspire to practice law become involved.
Special thanks must be given to Mr. Aylett who is the team’s supervising teacher, providing support and managing
the logistics of the team. It took great effort on his behalf to undertake the risk assessment of restarting the program
and supporting the team throughout.
For any student thinking of entering the legal world, this is a must to do if you want a practical experience of the
courts system. If you have any queries about the program, please do not hesitate to ask either myself or Harrish.
Terrigal: a Year 10 Excursion
By Nandhini Kumar
On Thursday, the 14th of May, Year 10 students went on a geography excursion
to Terrigal Beach, a lovely beach on NSW’s Central Coast. Terrigal is a
cosmopolitan seaside town which lays claim to this beautiful beach along with
local commercial areas and a great landmark known as The Skillion, all of which
we had the pleasure to visit.
In our first session we observed the rock structures on the face of The Skillion, a
famous cliff which provides views of all of Terrigal. We took photos of the cliff
face and recorded the information we observed. During our second session we
walked to the top of The Skillion where we used binoculars to examine the
wonderful view and draw a map of Terrigal using our observations.
Finally in our third session we walked down to the beach where we measured the depth of the sand, observed the
natural flora and examined the tide of the ocean. We were given the opportunity to use geographical instruments to
take these measurements.
During the day we also visited the local cafes and restaurants to purchase lunch, fish and chips being the most
popular choice.
Our trip to Terrigal was terrific, both fun and informative and we look forward to similar excursions in the future.
Drama Camp
By Kriti Jain
The Arts Alive Drama Camp is an annual three-day camp that involves bringing students from many schools together
to learn collectively more about the professional craft of acting. After hearing about the camp in drama classes, I
applied out of curiosity and was subsequently selected to represent Girraween High School. I feel both happy and
fortunate to have been able to take part in such an amazing experience.
On the 4th of May following a long school day, I lugged my heavy suitcase into the hall, at first nervous at my being
the only person from my school that was there, but later realising that there were many more students from other
schools, who were exactly like me, shy and nervous. Yet I was immediately accepted and pretty soon found myself
laughing at jokes and making a lot of close friends.
We were introduced to the camp instructors, who welcomed us and told us the basic outline of our three day stay.
From this, the rules to be followed were the usual camp rules: no wandering at night, no feeding the animals, along
with the classic lights out at 10:30pm (none of us ever followed
that rule!)
Booklets containing our schedules along with name tags were
also issued to us. After the brief introductory session, we played
some team-building games and exercises which helped familiarise
us with the rest of the group. We then had supper and hurried off
to our dormitories.
Over the next few days, we participated in a series of two-hour
workshops that taught us a lot about improvisation, scriptinterpretation, children’s theatre, acrobatics in physical theatre,
commedia dell arte, mindfulness in terms of characterisation,
Camp instructors (not as strict as they look)
along with the use of masks in mime theatre. The importance of
teamwork and effective communication with the targeted
audience was also stressed. From this, I gained valuable insights that will serve me well for many years to come as I
practice and perfect my skills in drama. We were also required to
perform several times in front of an audience over the three days,
which really helped conquer stage fright!
The three days felt like three seconds; that was how much fun I was
having. All throughout I had forged wonderful bonds with my peers,
stepped outside of my comfort zone in performance, and learnt many
things that I would never have been able to learn by myself.
It was with a heavy heart that I packed my suitcase on the last day of
camp, knowing that all the friends I had made and all the amazing,
supportive people
I had met, I may
never see again.
Selfie with Andre: gangster style !
On parting, many hugs were given, phone numbers and social
media usernames exchanged, anything we could do to keep in
touch. After our end-of-camp performances were completed and
our goodbyes said, I carried my suitcase out of the hall, laden
with my sleeping bag and phone with 20% battery left (thanks to
the amount of selfies I had been taking) filled with memories
that will last for a lifetime.
Camp demountable- where we had our workshops
I especially would like to credit the camp organisers and the
other students for my amazing time there, as they truly made
me feel welcome and lucky to part of this eye-opening
experience. I hope that other drama students like myself, will be inclined to apply for this drama camp in the future
as I can assure you that it will be one of the best camps and best experiences you will ever have.
Dining Hall
Friends
The Number 1 event on the GHS
Calendar, 2015 is here!!!
You are all welcome to enjoy the
extraordinary talents of the Creative
and Performing Art Students at
Girraween High School.
Please, join us for MADD on
Thursday 11th of June
or
Friday 12th of June
At 7pm till 9pm in the MPC
Tickets on Sale
$5 per head
GHS Athletics Carnival: 2015
By Marina Jin and Akansha Chauhan
May 6th, under a clear blue Autumn sky, students and staff
of Girraween High School set off for the Blacktown
International Park, the venue for our annual Athletics
Carnival. It was perfect weather for a much anticipated, funfilled day.
With the 1500 metre race, the day was on its way. The field
events were conducted simultaneously with the races and
attracted a huge number of participants. The results were
amazing but the track events were even better.
The age events started with the 12 year boys’ 100 metres
race. Though the Year 7s had never participated in a Girraween Athletics Carnival before, they did exceptionally well
both in enthusiasm and results. The Year 12 races were particularly entertaining, as students carried each other to
the finish line or by running together as a whole team, which very much mirrored how our Year 12s support each
other. Some of them ran in very funny outfits such as a lion onesie.
The day continued and there were many highlights: Mrs Kwiet gave us one of her famous quizzes and Mr Fogarty
participated in the 800 metre race with the Year 12 boys. Mr Fogarty led the way during most of the race only to be
caught by Reuben of Year 12 in the last 100 metres!
The 2015 Athletics Carnival was an amazing day.
Records were broken and everyone had lots of
fun. However, the day would not have been
possible without the support of the teachers, and
the organisation skills of the PDHPE Faculty. On
behalf of the school, we thank everyone who
helped in organising this wonderful day.
But which house won the Carnival at the end of
the day? After much calculation, the winner of the 2015 Athletics Carnival was…NEWCOMBE.
For complete results, please see page later in the Newsletter
CLLA Chinese Language School
千里中文学校
We invite you to join our weekend Chinese class on the Baulkham Hills High School campus. As a DET guided and
supported community language school, CLLA hosts language focused teaching, learning activities.
As part of our promotion, in Term 1 2015, you will only need to pay half fee from the week you are starting.
Our main class is on Saturday afternoons between 2 - 4pm while additional classes can be scheduled for Saturday
mornings and Sundays. We are also organizing family groups to enable parents/grandparents and children to learn and
have fun together.
Our Contact: Ms. Sun cllaau9@gmail.com; 0403816959;
Free self-learning content offered by us can be found at www.eatmandarin.net
我们是中文社区语言学校。虽然我们收费很低, 但在2015 年第一学期，仍旧会提供半费的优惠,目的是为新生
提供一个培养学习中文兴趣的机会。请家长们不要错过。我们的老师有中文和教育学的学历, 亦有教中学,大
学和小学的经验。
GHS
Exodus Foundation
P
Food Drive
2015
Collection Point: Library
Leave your food donations with library staff and have it tallied for HOUSE
points.
Please help this wonderful cause!
Most useful food types:







Tinned and packaged foods
Soups, pasta, tinned food, rice, cereals
Long-life milk
Breakfast spreads and sauces
Tea and coffee
Cordial or soft drink or bottled water
Disposable cutlery and plates.
Current use-by dates only please!
Please ensure all food donations are in by Friday,
June 12th (Week 8)
Science Report
Mr Iverach (H/T Science)
2014 Higher School Certificate Results Zoe Barcelon 1st in the state!
Numerous Girraween High students attained outstanding results in the 2014 HSC science subjects of Biology,
Chemistry, Physics and Senior Science. These students and their science teachers should be congratulated for these
exemplary achievements and significant improvements over the previous year’s results. Notable highlights were 1st
place in HSC Senior Science by Zoe Barcelon and 3rd place achieved by Sean Yu. Andrew Siu achieved 4th place in HSC
Biology. Mrs Thomas and Mrs Vummadi deserve special mention as the teachers of these students. Several
Girraween students attained marks in the mid to high 90s in the HSC science subjects. Many revised regularly and
thoroughly throughout their HSC year and were rewarded with improved results overall.
2014 ESSA Results
The Essential Secondary Science Assessment (ESSA) is a statewide Science assessment of Year 8 students based on
the NSW Science Years 7-10 Syllabus. Students are asked questions about science knowledge and understanding,
skills in planning and conducting investigations, critical thinking and problem solving. In 2014, ESSA was an
interactive multimedia assessment and students completed the assessment using computers at school. The results
of ESSA are recorded on a scale from Level 1 to Level 6, the highest level of achievement.
The results obtained by Girraween High Year 8 students in the 2014 ESSA were outstanding. 100% of students were
in the top 3 levels (Levels 4-6), with 98.3% of students in Levels 5 and 6. These results are well above the state
average with 23.4% of students in the state achieving in Levels 5 and 6. 47.0% of Girraween High students achieved a
Level 6 compared to only 3.0% in the state. The mean of the Girraween High students’ ESSA results was 102.4 which
is higher than the mean for the state (85.5).
Competitions 2015
There are several science competitions Girraween High students are involved in during 2015. All students in Years 7
to 10 are expected to participate in the annual International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS)
Science competition. This competition also counts towards junior students’ Science assessment and occurs on
Wednesday, June 3 (Week 7, Term 2).
Students from Girraween High once again achieved excellent results in the 2014 ICAS with 21 High Distinctions (4.4%
of Girraween High students), 191 Distinctions (40%), 223 Credits (46.7%) and 43 Participation Certificates (9%).
Tanson Wang (Year 9) was an ICAS High Achiever due to his outstanding result in the Year 9 competition.
NSW Schools Titration Competition
Thanks to the efforts of Mrs Kaur, Mrs Bhave and our laboratory managers, Girraween High will enter several teams
of senior Chemistry students in the NSW Schools Titration Competition in 2015. This analytical chemistry competition
requires Chemistry knowledge, skill and teamwork. Because there is a limit to the number of teams that can enter, a
selection process occurred during March to determine the teams to represent the school. To make it to the national
contest, school teams have to successfully participate in regional rounds which are held on a Saturday in June, (Term
2). School teams that reach the nationals are awarded either a silver or gold medal based on results obtained in the
regional round.
Last year, 21 students from Year 12 and Year 11 Accelerants (Chemistry) were selected and trained by three science
teachers (Mrs Bhave, Mrs Vummadi and Mrs Makkar) and competed in the NSW Schools Titration Competition,
2014. The Girraween High teams finished 1, 2, 4, 7, 9, 13 and 14 in their venue and two teams qualified to compete
at the National level; these teams finished 8 and 17 at the Nationals out of 368 teams that competed at the state
level. The students who made it to the National Titration Competition were Cindy Luu (Year 12), Christie Lau (Year
12), Arun Sathyan (Year 11), Nancy Hua (Year 11), Anubhav Katyal (Year 11) and Kristy Ng (Year 11 students are
displayed
(Team 1) Arun Sathyan (Yr 11), Christie Lau (Yr 12) and
Cindy Luu (Yr 12) competing in the National Titration
Competition at the University of New South Wales in 2014.
(Team 2) Kristy Ng (Yr 11), Nancy Hua (Yr 11) and
Anubhav Katyal (Yr 11) competing in the National Titration
Competition at the University of New South Wales in 2014.
Science and Engineering Challenge 2014
A team of 32 Year 10 students represented the school in the Sydney Challenge round of the Science and Engineering
Challenge at the University of Western Sydney Kingswood on July 25, 2014. The Challenge is a set of fun and
competitive events which involve principles of science, engineering and technology. Teams of students from schools
compete in a range of projects such as building model bridges to designing a power network and an eco-friendly
home. The aim of the event is to inspire young people to consider a career in the sciences, engineering and
technology-related areas. Depending on the scores obtained, the top two teams in the Challenge round go on to
compete in the Australian Championships.
Led by Mr Phull, the Girraween High team finished 4th overall at their centre. The students worked well in their
teams and performed well considering this was only the third time that the school had taken part.
Students had to build a hovercraft and race it over a
course (Science and Engineering Challenge 2014)
Students had to build a bridge from wooden stirrers and
test how much load force the bridge could take before
collapsing (Science and Engineering Challenge 2014)
Australian Science Olympiads
The Australian Science Olympiads is one of the most prestigious high school science competitions in the world and
endeavours to cater for profoundly gifted and talented science students. The top 20 students in the nation qualify
for summer school training in their respective science discipline (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) and then sit for final
exams to determine who represents Australia in the International Science Olympiad of their science discipline.
In 2014, Saravanan Sivakumar (Year 12), following on his gold medal in the Chemistry Olympiad Qualifying
examination in 2013, sat for the final examination, which leads to selection for the Australian team to compete in
the international competition. Although he didn’t make the Australian team, Saravanan is to be congratulated for his
efforts in achieving these outstanding results.
This year students are encouraged to work their way through the Olympiad training programs on Moodle if they
wish to sit for the qualifying exams in August. Mr Iverach will call for nominations for students who wish to register
for the qualifying exams.
Accelerated Science Class Formation
For the past 15 years Girraween High has formed a year 9 Accelerated Science Class as one strategy to meet the
needs of outstanding gifted and talented students in science. The Accelerated class completes the year 9 and year 10
Science programs at an accelerated pace and then commences the Preliminary Chemistry Course when in year 10.
The class continues through to complete the High School Certificate Chemistry Course when the students are in year
11. The program has been very successful with many Accelerated students achieving outstanding results in the HSC
Chemistry course and continuing to achieve in their other HSC subjects when in year 12.
An outline of the criteria used to identify students for the Accelerated Science Class is as follows. The main criteria
used for qualification are the results year 8 students obtain in the major science exams and external science
competitions such as the ICAS (see above). These exams and competitions employ reliable and accurate marking
procedures. Although not weighted as much as the exams, classwork and assignments are also considered since they
reflect the student’s work ethic, aptitude and diligence for the subject. Teachers’ comments and observations about
the capability of students for the Accelerated Program are also taken into account especially with respect to
students’ performances in their other subjects. The selection process takes considerable time with much input from
teachers about the ability and capability of nominated students for the Accelerated Program. Finally, invited
students need to be committed to pursuing the Preliminary Chemistry and HSC Chemistry courses.
National Youth Science Forum 2015
The NYSF program consists of a mix of scientific, formal, personal development, and social activities. These range
from laboratory visits to sports evenings and from a bush dance to group dynamics. Students visit scientific
laboratories, attend mini lectures by scientists, learn about job interviews and communicating and attend seminars
with a focus on science. The program is designed specifically for bright young Australians who will be tomorrow’s
leaders in the sciences.
Students who are interested in the National Youth Science Forum 2015 are referred to the following website:
www.nysf.edu.au. Students who are presently in Year 11, a permanent resident of Australia and are considering
tertiary studies in science, engineering or related areas at an Australian university are eligible to apply for the NYSF
2015.
ANSTO Excursion
Year 12 Chemistry and Physics students visited the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO)
at Lucas Heights earlier this year. Students and teachers attended a lecture on nuclear chemistry and then toured
the facility with group leaders providing information about science careers and answering questions. ANSTO is home
to Australia’s only nuclear reactor, which is used for research and radioisotope production.
Science Textbooks: Late in Late Out
Many students at Girraween High had not returned their science textbook by the time textbooks were due to be
issued earlier this year for the start of the science courses. A science textbook is a valuable resource for any science
course and the textbook needs to be looked after and returned by the due date so that other students can use it.
Students must print their name on the inside cover of their allocated textbook and are responsible for returning it in
good condition. Students are to return the textbook they have been issued at the beginning of the year. No student
is allowed to mark the textbook and this includes using highlighting pens and pencils.
Parents should be aware that students are expected to read their textbook at home on a regular basis to consolidate
and compliment the material covered in class. Teachers set homework based on textbook reading and questions.
Year 8 Bell Shakespeare Incursion
By Nityam Bansal
Earlier this term, students from Year 8 attended an incursion which featured the Bell
Shakespeare Company, to help them explore the wonderful world of Shakespeare.
We were split into class groups each having one instructor from the company. The play
that was being studied was the Taming of the Shrew. The two hour long session consisted
of some warm-up games and activities relating to the play plus a chance to perform some
of the major scenes in our groups. In one such activity we assembled into smaller groups
and each group performed a frozen moment from the play. The end results were quite amusing.
The Bell Shakespeare Company, originally founded in 1990 by the brilliant
Shakespearean actor John Bell, has put on many spectacular Shakespearean
plays and as a company, travels to many schools educating students about the
works and the world of Shakespeare. This
company is one of the best in the business and
it is easy to see why.
A special thank you goes out to the teachers in the English Faculty who organised this
event for us. I’m sure everyone enjoyed it and it has definitely provided helpful
insights into Taming of the Shrew.
National Reconciliation Week
National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is celebrated across Australia each year between 27 May and 3 June. The dates
commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey – the anniversaries of the successful 1967
referendum and the High Court Mabo decision.
Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements and
to explore how each of us can join the national reconciliation effort.
Uncle Greg Simms pictured with Ms Hopkinson and Ms Burgess and vice captains, Arun and Laksshini
To commemorate and celebrate
NRW, Girraween High School shared a
very special formal assembly with a
most welcome guest, Uncle Greg
Simms, an Aboriginal elder of the
Dharug nation and an Aboriginal
Community Liaison Officer who
conducted the Welcome to Country
ceremony. Uncle
Greg
spoke
passionately and eloquently about
reconciliation and about what it
means and he made the point that
really there is only one race, the
human race.
Following Welcome to Country the assembly was treated to a beautiful and haunting rendition of Norihiro Tsuru’s
The Last Carnival, by three talented Year 10 Music Elective students: Charis Yap (violin), Cindy Chau (Piano) and Amy
Peng (Flute). The assembly then enjoyed a very funny video clip advertising an upcoming basketball competition.
Much excitement was also initiated when Mrs Seckold announced the results of the recent Athletics Carnival with
first place going to Newcombe.
Student Competitions:
To enter, register through the link: http://www.youngatart.com.au/index.php
Closing date for entries in 2015 is 5pm on Friday 2nd October, so make sure you get your
entries in by then.
GHS Creative Writing Competition 2015
Term 2: Years 7, 8 and 9
Poetry Entries due in to Mrs Blaschke:
Friday 5th June (Week 7)
Prose Entries due in to Mrs Blaschke:
Friday 12th June (Week 8)
1st Prize for each section: $60 Dymocks voucher
Students should check the posters in their respective Year’s display cabinets for more details or
ask Mrs Blaschke in the library if still unsure!
MADD 2015…be there! Thursday 11th and Friday 12th June: 7-9pm
$5/ticket
This will be a regular feature of etcetera so that you can get to
This is a regular feature of etcetera so that you can get to know
know the newer members of our talented Newsletter Team.
the newer members of our talented Newsletter Team.
Introducing: Casey Lieu (Yr 7)
Introducing: Kriti Jain (Yr 9)
Q: Any hobbies Casey?
A: Yes, loom bands
Q: Any hobbies Kriti?
A Reading, dancing, listening to music
Q: Sporting interests?
A: Netball
Q: Favourite interests outside school?
A: Playing the flute
Q: Favourite subject at school?
A: Geography and Maths
Q: Favourite movie?
A: Big Hero 6
Q: Favourite music/band?
A: Taylor Swift
Q: Future aspirations?
A: Becoming a teacher
Q: Sporting interests?
A: Swimming, dance, netball
Q: Favourite interests outside school?
A: Adventure, sports, dance
Q: Favourite subject at school?
A: English, Drama and Dance
Q: Favourite movie?
A: Legally Blonde and the Rush Hour series
Q: Favourite music/band?
A: Rap
Q: Future aspirations?
A: Actress, dancer, journalist or entrepreneur
This is a regular feature of etcetera so that you can get to know
This is a regular feature of etcetera so that you can get to know
the newer members of our talented Newsletter Team.
the newer members of our talented Newsletter Team.
Introducing: Neel Mishra (Yr 11)
Introducing: Nandhini Kumar (Yr 10)
Q: Any hobbies Neel?
A: Loom bands, photography
Q: Any hobbies Nandhini?
A: Dancing, reading, drama
Q: Sporting interests?
A: Playing cricket and soccer
Q: Sporting interests?
A: Dance
Q: Favourite interests outside school?
A: Learning about how things work
Q: Favourite interests outside school?
A: Dance
Q: Favourite subject/s at school?
A: Mathematics and the Sciences
Q: Favourite subject at school?
A: English
Q: Favourite movie?
A: Pink Panther and Pixar films
Q: Favourite movie?
A: Too many to choose from!
Q: Favourite music/band?
A: Bollywood, Yo Yo Honey Singh
Q: Favourite music/band?
A: Taylor Swift, Gabrielle Aplin
Q: Future aspirations?
A: Influential person in society
Q: Future aspirations?
A: To get an amazing job and be happy
Coming Events
Coming Events
Week 6B
Week 7A cont’d
May 25th
- 7 – 12 Language Perfect World Competition
- Year 12: French Continuers HSC Task –
Listening
Pd1 Rm34
- Year 10: Science Term 2 Test Pd4
- Year 12: History Extension Project submitted by
COB HKA
- Year 10: Parent & Student Information Evening
MPC 7pm
June 2nd
- Year 7: English Shakespeare Performance Pd1
- Year 7: History Semester exam Pd2
- Year 12: Society and Culture In-Class Test Pd3
Rm25
- Year 10: Shakespeare Performance Assessment
Pd4
- Basketball Competition Lunch Top COLA
May 26th
- 7 – 12 Language Perfect World Competition
- Year 10: Science Data Processing Term 2 Test
Pd2
- Year 12: HSC Chemistry Research Task Exam
Pd4
- Year 12: French Continuers HSC Task –
Speaking Pd4 Rm34
- 7 – 12 National Sorry Day Formal Assembly
MPC
May 27th
- National Reconciliation Week 27/05 – 3/06
- 7 – 12 Language Perfect World Competition
- Year 9: PASS Asthma Research SALSA Peer
Leader Workshop Library Pds1-6
- Year 10: Project Able IDS Castle Hill
- Year 7: Music Sydney Sinfonia Concert
Parramatta Pd3 – Lunch
- Year 11: Mathematics Extension 1 Task 2 Pds34
- P & C Meeting – Staff Common Room 7pm
th
May 28
7 – 12 Language Perfect World Competition
- Zone Athletics Carnival Day 1 - Blacktown
International Sports Park
- Year 8: Scripture Pd4
- Year 12: Parent/Teacher Night 2;45pm MPC
May 29th
- Zone Athletics Carnival Day 2 – Blacktown
International Sports Park
- Years 10 – 12: Macquarie University Talk Lunch
Library
June 3rd
- Years 7-10: ICAS Science Competition Pds3-4
- Years 11&12: Music Excursion to Sydney Opera
House
- Year 11&12 (6 students) World Vision Student
Leadership Day – Luna Park
- Year 12: English Advanced HSC Task 3 Pds1,2
- Year 7: Shakespeare Performance Pds4,5
- Basketball Competition Lunch Top COLA
- Year 10: English Shakespeare Performance
Assessment Pd5
- Years 10&11: Parent/Teacher Night 3:15pm
MPC
June 4th
- Year 7: English Shakespeare Performance
Pds1,2,4
- Year 8: Scripture Pd4
- Year 10: English Shakespeare Performance
Assessment Pd4
- Basketball Competition Lunch Top COLA
- Year 11: Modern History Task 2 Pd5 Rm39
June 5th
-
MUFTI DAY – Year 12 Fundraising
Years 7&8: Verbal Combat Pds1,2 MPC
Basketball Competition Lunch Top COLA
Year 7: English Shakespeare Performance Pd5
Year 12: Modern History In-Class Essay Pd5
Rm39
Year 8: Asthma Research: SALSA Baseline
Survey Rm5C Pds5,6
June 6th
- Year 12: HSC Continuers Speaking Day North
Sydney Boys HS
Week 8B
Week 7A
st
June 1
- Year 7: English Shakespeare Performance
Transcript Due
- Years 7-11: Girra F1 Competition MPC
- 7 English Shakespeare Performance Pds2,6
- Basketball Competition Lunch Top COLA
- Year 12: Business Studies Task 3 Marketing Plan
Pd6
- Year 10: English Shakespeare Performance
Assessment Pd6
June 8th
- Queen’s Birthday Public Holiday
June 9th
- MADD 2015 Set Up Stage MPC
- Year 8: Shakespeare Practical Pds1-3
- Year 11: Society and Culture Task2 Research
Methods+ Oral Pd2
- Basketball Competition Lunch Top COLA
Coming Events
Coming Events
Week 8B cont’d
Week 9A cont’d
June 10th
- MADD 2015 (7-12 Students) Rehearsals Pds1-6
- Sydney West Cross Country Carnival Penrith
Regatta Centre
- Year 11” Legal Studies Task 2: Moot Pd4 Rm40
- Year 11: Economics Task2 Pds1,5
- Year 8: English Shakespeare Practical Pds3,5
- Basketball Competition Lunch Top COLA
June 11th
- MADD 2015 (7-12) Rehearse+ Matinee#1 Pds16 +7pm Evening#1 MPC
- Year 10: Commerce Task2 Pds1,5
- Year 8: English Shakespeare Practical Pd3
- Year 8: Scripture Pd4
- Year 11: Legal Studies Task 2: Moot Pd4 Rm40
- Year 12: HSC Biology research Task Exam
- Basketball Competition Lunch Top COLA
June 18th
- Years 10&12: Western Sydney Careers Expo
Sydney Showground
- Year 8: Scripture Pd4
- Basketball Competition Lunch Top COLA
June 12th
- MADD 2015 Rehearse + Matinee#2 Pds1-6 +
7pm Evening#2 MPC
- End of Semester 1 Classes
- Year 8: English Shakespeare Practical Pds1,5
- Year 12: SDD Major Project: Submit in Class
Rm38C Pd3
- Year 11: Legal Studies Task2: Moot Pd3 Rm40
- Basketball Competition Lunch Top COLA
- Year 11: Business Studies Submit Task2 By End
of Lunch
- Years 10-12: UWS Talk Lunch Library
Week 9A
June 15th
- Start of Semester 2 Classes
- Year 10: Careers A day at Sydney Uni
- Year 12: SDD Major Project Presentation Pd3
Rm38C
- Basketball Competition Lunch Top Cola
- Year 10: Subject Selection Interviews + Initial
Subject Choice Library 5pm
June 16th
- Basketball Competition Lunch Top COLA
- Year 10: Subject Selection Interviews + Initial
Subject Choice Library 5pm
June 17th
- Year 12: Mathematics (2unit) Task4 Pds3,4
- Year 12: Mathematics Extension2 Pds3,4
- Basketball Competition Lunch Top COLA
- Year 10 Subject Selection Interviews + Initial
Subject Choice Library 5pm
June 19th
- Year 9: Drama Practical 2: Shakespeare Day
MPC
- Years 7-10: English + Years 9&10 Drama
Shakespeare Day MPC Pds1-6
- Year 11: English Extension 1 Task 2
Reading/Writing Pds4,6
- Basketball Competition Grand Final Lunch Top
COLA
- Year 12: Science Research Exam Pd5 Rm7
- Year 7: Shakespeare Exposition Pd5
Week 10B
June 22nd
- Year 8: Japanese Tanken Centre Excursion
- Year 10: Shakespeare Assessment Pd2
- Years 10-12: USYD Scholarships & Pathways
Talk Lunch Library
- Years 8&9 Parent/Teacher Night 3;15pm MPC
June 23rd
- Year 10: Food Technology Sydney Tower
Excursion
- Year 8: English Shakespeare Essay Pds1,2,3
June 24th
- Year 8: Japanese Tanken Centre Excursion
- Year 12: Ancient History Task 4: Oral
Presentations Pds1,2 Rm22
- Year 11: Mathematics (2unit) Task 2 Pds3,4
- P&C Meeting Staff Common Room 7pm
June 25th
- Year 12: School Reference Forms to students
- Year 9: Drama Submit Logbook 2 Pd1
- Year 12: English Extension 1 Task4
Reading/Writing Pds1,2
- Year 10: Drama Submit Shakespeare Logbook
Pds1,5
- Year 8: Scripture Pd4
June 26th
- Years 11&12: No HSC Assessment Tasks + Np
PLM Assessment Tasks
- Years 7-12: Special + Sports Photo Day
Student Book Review
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone: by J K Rowling
Reviewed by Kriti Jain
“Mr and Mrs Dursley, of number 4 Privet Drive, were proud to say that they were perfectly
normal, thank you very much. They were the last people you’d expect to be involved in
something strange, because they just didn’t hold with such nonsense.”
These two lines will forever be imprinted in my, and every other Harry Potter fan’s
memory, such is the power of this magical tale. JK Rowling’s Harry Potter and the
Philosopher’s Stone takes us on an enchanting journey into the unknown, where creatures
like unicorns, three-headed dogs, goblins, and even a half-giant exist.
Harry Potter, a small and skinny downtrodden orphan with a small lightning scar on his
forehead has lived in a cupboard underneath the stairs with his bullying relatives for 10
long miserable years. Yet for some reason, strange things seemed to always happen to him,
things that he could neither understand nor explain. This of course is why he is regarded as an outcast in his family.
Harry dreamed constantly that an unknown relation would take him away, yet he was sure that that would never
happen, until…
On one cold and stormy night, a man (although technically a half-giant) by the name of Hagrid arrives at his
doorstep, telling him he is a wizard. It is at this point Harry begins his electrifying journey.
Harry stumbles through his wizarding life, learning more about his mysterious past and the secrets of his lightning
scar and the enemy behind it. He faces many challenges, overcomes countless obstacles, before finally confronting
his nemesis, Lord Voldemort, the most powerful Dark wizard of all time.
Who will live to tell the tale?
If you have not already been captivated by this amazing series of books, don’t just sit there wondering. Come and
grab Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone off the Girraween High School library shelves today and get started on
this journey of your life!
GIRRAWEEN HIGH SCHOOL
2015 ATHLETICS CARNIVAL
RESULTS
OVERALL
POSITION
HOUSE
POINTS
First
Second
Third
Fourth
Newcombe
Chappell
Fraser
McKay
1801.40 points
1758.55 points
1568.10 points
1365.95 points
BOYS
GIRLS
First
Chappell
1055.05
points
First
Newcombe
Second
Newcombe
885.15 points
Second
Fraser
Third
McKay
833.20 points
Third
Chappell
Fourth
Fraser
764.60 points
Fourth
McKay
916.25
points
803.50
points
703.50
points
532.75
points
AGE CHAMPIONS
BOYS
12 Yrs
Gold
Silver
Bronze
13 Yrs
Gold
Silver
Bronze
14 Yrs
Gold
Silver
Bronze
15 Yrs
Gold
Silver
Bronze
16 Yrs
Gold
Silver
Bronze
17+Yr
Gold
Silver
Bronze
GIRLS
Points
Antik Halder
Alex Lau
Pravin Gajendran
59.50
52
12 Yrs
Gold
Silver
Bronze
13 Yrs
Gold
Silver
33
Bronze
Points
14 Yrs
Gold
Silver
Bronze
15 Yrs
Gold
Silver
Bronze
16 Yrs
Gold
Silver
Bronze
17+Yr
Gold
Silver
Bronze
57
49
38.50
Points
Nikil Redipalli
Akashdeep Singh
Tristen Chen &
Siddarth Pasupati
Vignesh Thavalingam
Chang Geun Choi
Jason Wong
62
53
50
Points
Tiger Graham
Rachitha Singhabahu
Enoch Chu
28
40.50
38
Points
Mathhew Li
Alexander Vo
Suchira Epasinghe
64.50
42
30.40
Points
Eric Liu Ye
Reuben Devaseelan
Jacky Wong
40
38.5
38
Points
Joelle Tanasale
Arya Adhikari
Jamie Tan
30.50
29
28
Points
Ovia Gajendra
Lucie Oliver
40
38
Khushi Modhia
21
Points
Vijani Jayasinghe
Chloe-Jean Tilde
Marina Jin
36
31
20
Points
Ingrid Woodward
Kyli Sadadcharan
Georgia Hollens
50
40.58
38
Points
Marie Echevarria
Davini Harithupan
Janessa Liu
80
49
31
Points
Ashley Harris
Aarani Paranthaman
Brigitte Barbeau
91
66
40
News from the DEC:
Primary and High school
Food Allergy Week 17-23 May
Did you know that 1 in 10 babies born in Australia will develop a food allergy? The Food Allergy Week
website has lots of great information, ideas and resources to help you be more allergy aware.
Find out more: http://www.foodallergyaware.com.au
High school
Year 10 subject selection
In Year 10 students are asked to select subjects for Years 11 and 12. Here are some tips to help your teen
choose well.
http://www.schoolatoz.nsw.edu.au/homework-and-study/planning-for-the-future/year-10-subject-selection
Choosing a mobile phone
What should you consider when choosing a mobile phone for your child? Here are some ideas to help you
through the process:
http://www.schoolatoz.nsw.edu.au/en/technology/using-technology/choosing-a-mobile-phone
Interesting Facts
Collated be Rachitha Singabahu
Did you know:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Half a cup of apple seeds can kill a human adult
A group of pandas is called an embarrassment
In 2014, Beyonce made about $3.65 every second
The Beatles have sold more records than Bob Marley, Tupac Shakur, Nirvana, the Beach Boys and
Kanye West combined by over 30 million units
The Pixar team came up with WALL-E, A Bug’s Life and Monsters Inc. over one lunch.
There are over five hundred recipes for cooking potatoes
Stephen Hawking is 73 years old and has outlived his life expectancy due to ASL by over 50 years
The director of Cannibal Holocaust had to prove in court that the actors were still alive and didn’t
get killed during the movie
The year 2015 will be one second longer than usual because the Earth’s rotation is slowing
The doctor who discovered that hand washing prevented the spread of disease was thrown in a
mental institution for his crazy ideas
School Contact People
2015
Head Teachers: Student Progress in a Subject
English
Ms F Minty
Mathematics
Ms S Venkataya
Science
Mr M Iverach
History/Social Sciences
Ms L Trott
TAS
Mr C Albanese
Administration
School Contact People
2015
When you ring the school please tell the admin. officer the
nature of your enquiry and to whom you wish to speak.
Student Advisers: Student Conduct and General Progress
Year 7 Adviser
Assistant Adviser
Ms J Mani (TAS)
Mr D Di Ienno (TAS)
Year 8 Adviser
Co Adviser
Mr D Starrett (HSIE)
Ms K Ayer (HSIE)
Ms D Jackaman
Year 9 Adviser
Assistant Adviser
Ms K Drury (English)
Ms M Kaur (Science)
Creative Arts Co-Ord.
Mr B Chand (Acting)
Sport
Mr P Fogarty
Year 10 Adviser
Assistant Adviser
Mr J Mikhaiel (Science)
Mr C Masens (Science)
PDHPE
Mr D Wheatley
Year 11 Adviser
Assistant Adviser
Ms B Datt (HSIE)
Ms K Kwiet (HSIE)
Welfare
Mr S Henretty
Year 12 Adviser s
Assistant Adviser
Ms C McMillan (Maths)
Ms A Seckold (PDHPE)
Supervisor of Girls
Ms N Kularajendran
Careers Adviser
Ms E Youhanna
Deputy Principals: Any questions regarding school
organisation
Ms E Burgess
Mr G Murty
Years 7, 9 and 11
Years 8, 10 and 12
School Counsellors: Concerns over student adjustment,
personal issues, learning difficulties:
Mr T Toshack (Tuesdays and Thursdays)
Ms R Herkus (every 2nd Wednesday)
NSW Adolescent Vaccination Program 2015
Vaccination clinics will continue at Girraween High School on the following dates:
Wednesday
21st October 2015
9:00am
Yr 7, 3rd dose HPV
Yr 7, Varicella
Summary of the program is as follows:


Year 7 male and female students will be offered a three dose course Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
vaccine, a single dose of Diptheria, Tetanus and Pertussis (dTpa) vaccine and a single dose of Varicella
(Chickenpox) vaccine
Year 11 and 12 students will be offered a single dose of measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine
Catch-up Program:


Year 7 students who missed dose 2 or 3 human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in 2014, will be offered this
vaccine ONLY in Year 8 2015 to complete the course.
Year 9 male students who missed dose 2 or 3 human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in 2014, will be
directed to complete the course at the local doctor. This program is no longer provided in 2015.
**Please note: from 2014, Hepatitis B vaccine will no longer be offered.**
The C hildr en's Hos pital a t West mea d
Team Bandaged Bear: City2Surf 2015
Welcome to Team Bandaged Bear at the Sun-Herald City2Surf 2015
In 2015 put your hand up to be one of more than 800 runners, raising over $400,000 at the Sun-Herald City2Surf, for
seriously ill children and their families.
Team Bandaged Bear status is given to all individuals who raise a minimum of $225 from their fundraising efforts. The
benefits of being part of Team Bandaged Bear are as follows:











Exclusive access to The Children’s Hospital at Westmead and Bear Cottage’s Team Bandaged Bear marquee post-race on
Bondi Beach
An official Team Bandaged Bear singlet
An extravaganza of premium catering, refreshments, entertainment, goodie bags and pampering at the post-race celebration
Inclusion in our 10th year celebration of Team Bandaged Bear participating in City2Surf
The opportunity to win amazing prizes in the lead up to the event and on the day
Regular updates with tips and information about race day and the post-race event activities
Helpful fundraising advice and information to encourage support and donations from your family and friends
Motivational tips from our Team Bandaged Bear Race Ambassadors
Certificate of Thanks for your participation and support
The opportunity to network with like-minded individuals, hospital staff and supporters on event day
The chance to make a difference in helping us reach our goal of $400,000 for The Children’s Hospital at Westmead and
Bear Cottage
Any money raised can go to a specific area of the Hospital upon request or you can leave it up to us to allocate it where it
will have the most impact for sick kids.
Team Bandaged Bear has raised over $1.2 million in the past decade to provide medical care and much-needed support for
sick children and their families in their time of greatest need. By challenging yourself to participate in the City2Surf, you are
honouring the challenge these brave children with serious illnesses and their families face every day.
So how do I get involved?
Registering to be part of this great event is a two step process. First, you should register for the event at the main event
website. Once you have done that, you can then set yourself up a fundraising page. Apart from raising much need funds for
the Hospital, a fundraising page let you tell your friends, family, colleagues and network about the amazing thing you are
doing. You can then aim for Team Bandaged Bear status (by raising a minimum of $225) and beyond …. and don’t forget to
select ‘The Children’s Hospital at Westmead and Bear Cottage’ as your charity of choice.
What if I have questions?
If you have any questions about this event or on how to register, please phone Richard on (02) 9845 3481 or email
richard.hughes@health.nsw.gov.au