Gigi Thiele - Communicare Academy

Term Two - 2016
From the Principal
Term Two has been difficult at times and at other times, quite exciting. You all know that on May 12th, one of our
students, Tayla Gardiner, passed away. We are so very sorry at her passing and have fond memories of her
liveliness, generous spirit and warmth for her friends and family. She is missed. Thank you to our families for
your support of our students. I encourage you to regularly ‘check in’ with your child to see how he or she is
‘tracking’. There are some excellent support materials on the Headspace website: http://headspace.org.au
As you read through this newsletter, you will see a snapshot of the life at Communicare Academy. Our school is
healthy and growing. At the end of 2015, we submitted an expression of interest to the Association of
Independent Schools of Western Australia (AISWA) to be part of a pilot research program in conjunction with the
Innovation Unit. We were successful and Matt, Moira and I have been attending professional learning sessions
and working on designing innovation at Communicare Academy. We are currently developing our case for
change and prototyping improved future directions for our school, which will be presented to staff and students
for their comments. We would like to showcase it to you and invite comments and input from you. To this end,
we will be sending you an invitation to join us for light refreshments on Wednesday 3 August from 5.00 pm– 6.30
pm at the Academy. An invitation will be sent soon – in the meantime, please ‘save the date’.
During the Term, we had issues with students filming or recording other students or staff during class, using their
mobile phones. We have informed students at several assemblies that this is unacceptable behaviour and
breaches their code of conduct. In addition, I’d like to offer some information regarding ‘sexting’. Again, we have
spoken about this at several assemblies. The information on the following page is taken directly from the
teenager section on the kids’ helpline website. Please talk about this at home.
With the cold weather now upon us, and sickness taking its toll, could I please remind students (and staff!!) that
if you are sick, please don’t attend school. It will usually be quicker to recover if you rest, and you’ll be protecting
others at school by not passing on the illness. Of course, when you are well again, please come back to school. If
you are away, please phone the school on 6350 1872 or send a text to our Attendance Officer on 0457 008 382.
We are looking forward to a well-earned break and I wish students a staff a refreshing break. Stay safe and we
will welcome students back on Wednesday, 20 July. Breakfast is from 8.30 am – classes start at 9.00 am sharp.
Gigi Thiele
Bed
Principal
Communicare Academy
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www.communicare.wa.ed.au
What is sexting?
The word is a mix of ‘sex and ‘texting’. ‘Sexting’ is sending ‘sexy’ texts. The texts may be words or images.
Sexting with pictures has probably been around as long as mobile phones have had the ability to take
photos and send and receive images. Sexting occurs not only on mobile phones, but on Skype and social
media sites, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Flickr, Tumblr and Snapchat etc
What are the consequences of sexting?
Taking, sending or receiving sexual images of a minor is illegal. If you’re found to have a naked or seminaked photo of someone under 18 on your phone or your computer, you can be charged with a criminal
offence. If you forward the photo to someone else you can be charged with a criminal offence even if you
delete it from your own phone. You can be charged even if it is a photo of yourself and you agree to the
photo being sent.
https://kidshelpline.com.au/teens/tips/sexting-and-the-consequences/
Create
Report by Matt Borgward
It is hard to believe that we are already half way through the school year. I guess it’s true that time flies when
you are having fun!
The Create class has had a very
productive Term. We had an excursion to
the zoo, several park trips and celebrated
students’ birthdays.
Students have
identified areas that they really wanted to
improve on and it is encouraging to see
the students taking such ownership of
their own learning.
In Literacy students have been writing
persuasive texts. This has been an
excellent opportunity for the students to
express their opinions on current issues
affecting society. In Geography students
have been learning about water and the
importance water plays in our everyday
lives and its significance to the global
economy.
Overall the students in the Create class have tried hard throughout the Semester. However as the year
progresses, so will our expectations of the students. A challenge which I believe all the students will be keen to
step up to.
Image: Create Learning Group engaging in persuasive text activity.
Communicare Academy
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Charity Events
Report by Laura Hannah and Moira Fitzpatrick
On Friday 10th June, students and staff participated in a Pirate-themed event. Staff dressed up as pirates while
students sported white eye patches. The purpose of this event was to raise awareness and money for children
with brain cancer. The event included a short assembly, discussions and a sausage sizzle raising $115.
Purple Bra Day is an initiative by Breast Cancer Care to raise money to support people affected by breast cancer.
Our school participated on Friday 17th June by students and staff wearing purple clothing and by participating in a
sausage sizzle. We raised $100 toward this very good cause and would like to thanks students for their
generosity for both causes.
Images: Staff and students raising awareness and funds for children with brain cancer by participating in a sausage sizzle
and wearing pirate costumes.
Physical Education
Report by Bek Jenner
This Term for Physical Education, each
class group have participated in different
Physical Education programs. Students
were given the selection of many sporting
activities, and in their individual classes,
were able to vote on which sport they
would like to play this Term.
Students have been participating in
Basketball, Netball, AFL, Badminton, Indoor
Soccer, and other Mini-Games.
In each lesson, basic skills, game
strategies, tactics and key concepts have
been demonstrated and displayed by
students during these sports.
On occasion, students have ventured off to a park for a change of scenery and to enjoy the outdoors as a class.
It has been great to see students partaking in Physical Education with an abundance of enthusiasm and
willingness, as research has shown the copious benefits of how keeping active is vital for health and wellbeing.
Image: Create class participating in a game of “Capture the Flag”.
Communicare Academy
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Meet Teacher Laura Hannah
Interviewed by Emma Jolley, Journalism Student, and Sean Burke, Teacher.
Laura is the Academy’s Art teacher and Staff and Student Wellbeing Coordinator, and part of the school
Leadership Team.
Where did you grow up?
I was born in 1984 in Liverpool in the UK, where I spent my childhood. I
lived with my mum and dad and my sister, Clare, who is 1 year younger
than me. We still have family in Liverpool; our extended family, who I
miss very much. I was last there in 2013.
Liverpool is the best city in the world. Like most English people living in
Australia, I like the UK, except for the weather. The culture is unique, in
particular that in Liverpool.
My sister Clare is the complete opposite of me. We don’t like much of
the same things and growing up we didn’t always see eye to eye. She is
very patient, caring and selfless. Clare is a hairdresser and has travelled
with her work on cruise ships and seen the world.
Where did you go to school?
I attended Calderstones School in Allerton, Liverpool. (John Lennon also went there, a few years earlier.) I liked
art but I wasn’t sure what area I wanted to focus on, so after school I enrolled in Art College and did a one year
Foundation Art course. I found from this that I wanted to specialise in graphic art.
Art was always my favourite subject at school. I didn’t like Science or German and I think the teachers were
aware of this.
How did you get into teaching?
I then went to University and studied Multimedia Arts. During that course I
was approached by teachers to do an afternoon a week at a local school. I did
that and enjoyed it; that was when I started thinking about teaching as a
career. I liked the relationships with the students and the classes; I was
teaching illustration.
I got a job as a teacher in an autistic school and as the outreach for all the
schools in Liverpool. They were looking for a creative teacher and a friend
recommended me. I was there for 4 years and it was intense. The hardest part
of the job was the occasional physical abuse, which happens when dealing
with autistic students sometimes. I have also worked as a barmaid, a waitress
and a library assistant.
Why did you come to Australia?
Originally, my family had decided to come here but I was thinking of staying in the UK. My mum has relatives
here; she is originally from Hull, in the UK but her mother, my grandmother, was originally from Armadale, WA.
However life brought its challenges and I found myself needing a fresh start and so I came here too, on 31 Dec
2011.
We are all happy with the move but we do miss elements of life back in Liverpool. I miss my friends, Liverpool
culture, and the way everything is so close by and busy and there is so much to do all the time. My favourite
place in Liverpool is around Allerton Road and city centre. Each has a nice community feel and great shopping
and entertainment areas.
Communicare Academy
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Where did you work before coming to Communicare?
I didn’t have anything arranged before migrating, so I just settled in and looked around. My visa conditions
prevented me from getting a long term job at first, so I worked for six months as an Education Support Teacher
at Comet Bay College, then as a Special Needs Relief Teacher in Rockingham, followed finally as a teacher at
Hamilton SHS.
Why did you apply to Communicare Academy and why are you still here?
The week I was told, by the migration office, that I could officially live and work in Australia I saw an advert for a
teaching position at Communicare Academy. I felt that the job would be a challenge but I believed I related to
the students and that this job was meant for me. Being at Communicare Academy has its ups and downs,
especially when trying to balance between two very different roles and teaching. I have to be the most
supportive and compassionate person I can be to all my students, and staff, whilst still implementing the rules
and managing the behaviours of the students for the safety and wellbeing of everyone, which is often
misunderstood. However, I love my job and I love all the individuals I work with.
The highlights of my career have been becoming wellbeing leader, which is a job I’ve always wanted, and seeing
former students finish and go on to do great things. The hardest part of being a teacher is having to say goodbye
to students, especially when you haven’t been able to help them as much as you wanted to.
What are some of your hobbies and interests?
Adding to my shoe collection, hanging out with friends, shopping, yoga,
gardening, going to dinner. My favourite food is probably pizza but that
changes daily. I already have a cool car but my dream car is a red Ferrari soft
top.
I have a cute little dog called Chloe, who is a Chihuahua/
Pomeranian/Silky Terrier cross. I also have a fish called Salt. Unfortunately
her partner in crime, Pepper, died.
Chloe is mischievous, cheeky and a little bit spoilt. She has a beautiful
personality and loves everybody.
My favourite parts of Perth are the quirky little markets that seem to be
everywhere.
I like all sorts of music, depending on what mood I’m in. I like most chart music and a new love for worship music
and especially love the artists Adele and Ed Sheeran.
What are some places you would like to visit one day?
New York City (although I might not come back!). I love big, bright, busy cities and this is biggest of them all. The
arts, entertainment, shopping and architecture look incredible.
Who do you admire?
I admire my sister Clare. She works so hard for everything she has achieved and
even when times get really tough she keeps going. She has created so many
opportunities for herself and is very independent. She puts so many other
people before herself and has very little awareness of how her kindness affects
people on a daily basis. Even with our differences, I know she is always there
for me.
Who is your favourite staff member/ student?
I hate picking favourites but I love Bek Jenner, she is an amazing friend. I have a
great appreciation for all my art students.
Where do you see yourself in ten years’ time?
I hope to one day be a principal of a school, although I still have a lot to learn
Communicare Academy
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Department of Fisheries Excursion
Report by Matt Borgward
Our Certificate CGEA III students have been covering the learning
area of marine science as part of their Science component. This is
a learning area that many of our students are interested in as they
love the ocean, lakes, rivers, fishing and seafood!
The students have been learning about fish anatomy and how fish
organs differ to that of land animals and human beings. This
presented a perfect reason to take the students on an excursion
to the Department of Fisheries in Hillarys. The Department of
Fisheries is a State Government organisation which is responsible
for conserving and sustainably developing Western Australia’s
aquatic resources for present and future generations.
The students learnt about how the Department has established processes and procedures to ensure sustainable
fishing for Western Australians into the future. Then our budding scientists had the opportunity to dissect a fish
to determine if it was male or female and how old the fish was. All students must be commended for their
excellent behaviour and the enthusiasm in which they participated in each and every task. The students behaved
impeccably and set a perfect example of how we want students to conduct themselves when on an excursion.
Ironically the day was finished off with some fish and chips for the students at Hillary’s Boat Harbour as a reward
for their hard work.
Image: Students working within the Department of Fisheries
Duke of Edinburgh
Report by Bec Morse
This Term the students have been busy completing the hours required for each of their activity sections; Physical,
Skill, and Service. We are also looking forward to our Adventurous Journey scheduled to take place in Term Three
2016.
The Duke of Edinburgh Award as an internationally recognised youth achievement award. The Award is split into
three levels, Bronze, Silver and Gold. Our students are currently working on the Bronze level which is designed to
be completed over a 6 month period. The Award comprises of 4 components; Service, Physical Recreation, Skill,
and Adventurous Journey. Students are to design a goal and program in each of these areas which they then
work towards during their subjects at school. The final part of the Award, being the Adventurous Journey, is a
camp experience which is designed to challenge students to work outside of their comfort zone while
participating in a fantastic experience.
Earlier this year the school was successful in securing Grant Funding from the Duke of Edinburgh Award Office to
help pay for our Adventurous Journey Camp. This will allow us to provide a valuable experience for our students
which will come at no cost to families or the Academy. We are looking forward to staying on Rottnest for two
nights at the end of Term Three where we will work on leadership, initiative, and teamwork skills while learning
about the life and history of the island.
Successful completion of the Award is an excellent addition to students’ resumes, applications for further study
and can also count as one unit towards a WACE qualification. There is still room for students to participate in the
Duke of Edinburgh Award, so if you are interested please come and talk to Bec and select Duke of Edinburgh as
one of your Term Three Fixed Focus subjects.
Communicare Academy
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www.communicare.wa.ed.au
Outdoor Education
Report by Bek Jenner
In the final week of Term 1 this year, students
in the Outdoor Education Program partook in a
2-day Mini hiking Expedition spending one
night at a Bibbulmun Track campsite near
Kalamunda. There were 11 students and 4 staff
members who joined in on the journey where
the group hiked 25km with 16kg packs on their
backs! There were many blisters, aching feet,
sore backs and glad hearts as we reached the
campsite for the night. Students cooked their
own meals of Chicken Burrito’s, slept in tents
and huts, and had a close encounter with the
local wildlife! The second day brought along
moments of walking through what seemed to
be deserted fire-stricken land in efforts of
taking a short cut, but upon reflection may
have extended the journey by a few kilometres. Then there was the moment of huge relief at finally finishing the
hike and falling in a tired heap once the group reached school. Students conducted themselves extremely well,
having achieved many group goals that were set out prior to the expedition, and also learned a number of things
in preparation for the expedition to come.
This Term for Outdoor Education, students have been working towards the Expedition taking place later on this
year. Activities they have participated in have included basic First Aid, Leave No Trace principles, leadership
styles, roping and knots, risk management, navigation skills, self-awareness and personalities, and two different
types of Trangia cooking lessons.
Students are on track for the expedition to come later on in the year, and there is much anticipation towards.
This program continues to be an extremely effective and practical way of encouraging positive role models in our
school community.
Image: Outdoor Education group during Bibbulum Track hike.
Trades
Report by Gigi Thiele
Trades has been undergoing a facelift this year. We have enlarged the area
for trades, installed electrical fittings and increased capacity. Students have
made some outstanding pieces including baby high chairs, dog kennels,
wardrobes, tables, chairs, benches and bookshelves just to name a few. In
addition, they have made storage racks and workbenches which have
enhanced trades and other areas of the school. They have also been making
furniture for the cafeteria which will have booths and couches and small
tables. This has been possible due to generous donations of wood and
pallets, and exceptional creativity from Ivan and Marty. The students have
made excellent progress in their craftsmanship and are to be commended.
Image: Student made coffee table
Communicare Academy
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The Rite Journey – Girls Group
Report by Laura Hannah
The success of The Rite Journey program from Term One has continued
through into Term Two. The girls program continues to identify the
challenges girls go through in life whilst bringing opportunity for selfdiscovery. This Term in particular saw students discovering their
personality traits, strengths and weaknesses in addition to knowing
and growing friendships around them. Students have participated in
Myer Briggs personality tests, identified what makes a “great friend”
and discussed how to build friendships and healthy boundaries. With
this topic in mind the TRJ girls were given the opportunity to
participate in a school sleepover. The sleepover brought about
opportunities to get to know other girls in the group, participate in
friendship activities and share part of themselves in a safe and
reassuring environment. The event was very successful with students
having lots of fun and really getting to know each other better. It also gave them the chance to see the school
and its staff in a different setting and help build relationships with supportive role models.
The Rite Journey staff team would like to say a big thank you to all the girls for working so well this Term. You
are growing into remarkable young women and showing true maturity and understanding of the challenges that
face you and the world that surrounds you.
Image: Photo booth at the TRJ Girls Sleepover
Perth Zoo Excursion
Report by Matt Borgward
On Friday of Week Three the Create and Dream classes headed to the Perth Zoo for an excursion. We learnt
about the important role Zoos play in conservation of species. The groups had a fantastic time looking around
the African Savannah focusing on some of the more endangered species and how Zoos can assist in conservation
through breeding programs and research. We saw Rhinos, Lions, Elephants, and Giraffes but of course the nonendangered Meerkats were the highlight!
After a morning of touring the exhibits we had a fantastic learning experience in the Zoo’s Education Centre.
Here we had a look at Australian animals and what threats are present in our environment which was really
interesting. The students have been working on further researching these issues in class this Term. At the
Education Centre we finished the day by petting a Bob Tail Lizard, a Snake, and a Quokka!
Image: Create and Dream boys enjoying Perth Zoo
Communicare Academy
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