2021 HANDBOOK 7YEAR 7

HANDBOOK 2021 YEAR 7 HANDBOOK 2021

DISCOVERY SURF PROGRAM DISCOVERY YEAR 7

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The Parent Help Desk can be contacted via email [email protected] or alternatively Help Desk can be contacted via email [email protected] The Parent 5188. on 9591 Help Desk via reception you can call the Parent Parent Help Desk Parent enquiries - whatever you Help Desk is the first point of call for any general parent The Firbank Parent and Desk is designed to assist with requests Help all our campuses. The Parent need help with, across be they big or small. solve problems, Other methods of communication that we use are the Firbank weekly eNews, the Firbank App, the Firbank weekly that we use are Other methods of communication the Firbank App. Information to download encourage all parents emails. We Consent2Go and parent Students and found on our website under Current about downloading the Firbank App can be Need to Know or under App in the General Information in this Handbook. What Parents Parents, App if you do not access it within 30 days. This is a security will be logged out of the NB. You and you will need to log in again. measure A list of your daughter’s teachers and their email addresses can be found on the Parent Portal. on the Parent can be found teachers and their email addresses A list of your daughter’s the same format follow We [email protected] for example Firbank email addresses with teachers. frequently to communicate encourage parents The main contact for enquiries regarding your daughter on a day to day basis is her Mentor. is her Mentor. your daughter on a day to day basis regarding The main contact for enquiries be for leave should concerns wellbeing and requests her progress, Communication regarding or on 9591 Ms Mary-Ellen Johnson, [email protected] Leader, to the Wellbeing directed 5188. COMMUNICATION will be supported daughter and the School is very important. Your parents Communication between Ms Leader, Wellbeing Level journeyby many people in her by the Year at Firbank but in particular Mentor and her Subject Teachers. Mary-Ellen Johnson, her Year 7 is an important year in your daughter’s school journey to keep you informed and we work year in your daughter’s 7 is an important Year 7. information about Year useful reference This Handbook contains about her program. INTRODUCTION

7.00 p.m. St Andrew’s Church 7.00 p.m. St Andrew’s 27 April Tuesday, ANZAC Day Service 5 May Wednesday, Country Cross Inter-House 7 May Friday, 7.00 p.m., Recital Hall Music Scholars Recital, 14 May 11 - Friday, Tuesday, 7/9 NAPLAN Online Testing Year 13 May Thursday, Strings Concert - 7.00 p.m., Recital Hall 14 May Friday, 4.00 p.m., No 1 - 3 Campus, Soiree Vocal Recital Hall 18 May Tuesday, Country Carnival Cross Preliminary G.S.V. 21 May - Friday, 19 Wednesday, FGS/BGS Performance 10 - 12 Combined Year 28 May Friday, Country Carnival Cross Championship G.S.V. No 2 - 3 Campus, 4.00 p.m., Piano Soiree Recital Hall 11 June Friday, Curriculum Day 14 June Monday, Birthday Queen’s 18 June Friday, Talent Got Firbank’s 2 Ends Term TERM 3 (13 July - 17 September) 13 July Tuesday, Day 1 Students - Classes Commence 19 July Monday, Dance Like No One is Watching 22 July Thursday, a Stage Performance All the World’s Thursday, 1 April Thursday, Easter Service Ends 1 Term April - 18 June) TERM 2 (20 20 April Tuesday, Commence Day 1 Students - Classes 7/11 Anniversary Service, Year

HANDBOOK 2021 YEAR 7 HANDBOOK 2021

Tuesday, 30 March Tuesday, Jazz, 5.00 - 8.00 p.m., CCA Twilight GSV Dive/Swim Finals Evening Thursday, 25 March Thursday, Athletic Carnival Inter-House Wednesday, 24 March 24 Wednesday, 7 Immunisations Year GSV Division 1 Dive/Swim Carnival Interviews Teacher Parent Sunday, 21 March Sunday, GSV Friday, 19 March Friday, No 1 - 3 Campus, 4.00 p.m., Piano Soiree Recital Hall Friday, 12 March Friday, Day Breakfast International Women’s Wednesday, 10 March 10 Wednesday, Interviews Teacher Parent Meet the Music Teacher 4.00 - 6.30 p.m., BGS Tuesday, 9 - Friday, 12 March 9 - Friday, Tuesday, 7 - 9 Musical Auditions, Year Monday, 8 March Monday, Labour Day Day International Women’s Friday, 26 February Friday, Dive/Swim CarnivalGSV Preliminary Wednesday, 17 February Wednesday, Ash Wednesday Carnival Inter-House Monday, 15 February Monday, Carnival Inter-House Friday, 12 February Friday, School Photo Day Monday, 1 - Friday, 5 February 1 - Friday, Monday, Discovery Surf Program Friday, 29 January Friday, - Day 2 7 Special Program Year Commencement Service Thursday, 28 January Thursday, - Classes Commence Day 1 Students Day 1 - Program 7 Special Year Information Evening 7 Parent Year TERM 1 (28 January - 1 April) TERM 1 (28 COMPULSORY EVENTS & EVENTS COMPULSORY

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TERM 4 (5 October - 8 December) TERM 4 (5 5 October Tuesday, - Classes Commence Day 1 Students 12 October 7 - Tuesday, Thursday, Art Exhibition 11 October Monday, 7 Immunisations Year 15 October Friday, 4.00 p.m., Recital Hall Guitar Recital - 3 Campus, 22 October Friday, 4.00 p.m., Recital Hall Strings Recital - 3 Campus, 25 October Monday, Recital - 3 Campus, Brass and Woodwind 4.00 p.m., Recital Hall 1 November Monday, Break Mid Term 2 November Tuesday, Cup Day 5 November - Friday, 3 Wednesday, Discovery Hike Program 8 November Monday, 4.00 p.m., No 2 - 3 Campus, Soiree Vocal Recital Hall 11 November Thursday, Remembrance Day Service 19 November Friday, Evening, 7.00 p.m. Presentation Hall Melbourne Town (Compulsory - All students to attend) 3 December November - Friday, 24 Wednesday, Period (MATS) Tasks 7/8 Major Assessment Year 7 December 6 and Tuesday, Monday, Handback (MATS) Major Assessment Tasks Final Classes December 8 Wednesday, Day of School 4 Ends - Last Term Brighton Church, Service - St Andrew’s Carols

Friday, 17 September Friday, 3 Ends Term Thursday, 16 September Thursday, Student Leadership Induction Service, Brighton Church, St Andrew’s Tuesday, 14 September Tuesday, House Festival Competition and Evening Performance, and 8.30 a.m. - 1.30 p.m. 6.00 - 9.00 p.m. Tuesday, 7 September Tuesday, Finals Evening Athletics G.S.V. Wednesday, 1 September 1 Wednesday, Combined FGS/BGS Concert - 7.00 p.m., Melbourne Recital Centre Friday, 27 August Friday, and Field Carnival GSV Division 1 Track Thursday, 26 August Thursday, and Field Carnival GSV Division 2 Track Interviews Teacher Parent Wednesday, 25 - Sunday, 29 August - Sunday, 25 Wednesday, Skiing/Snowboarding VIC State Inter-Schools Thursday, 19 August Thursday, Interviews Teacher Parent Wednesday, 18 August 18 Wednesday, Choral Concert - 3 Campus, 7.00 p.m., Church St Andrew’s Monday, 16 August Monday, Break Mid Term Thursday, 12 August Thursday, and Field Track Preliminary G.S.V. 16 August 13 - Monday, Friday, (optional) 7 - 12 Downhill Snow Program Years Wednesday, 11 August Wednesday, p.m., Recital Hall Chamber Recital - 5.00 Sunday, 8 August Sunday, - 3.00 p.m., Friends of Music High Tea Recital Hall Thursday, 29 - Saturday, 31 July 29 - Saturday, Thursday, 7 - 9 Performance Years Friday, 23 July Friday, 4.00 p.m., No 3 - 3 Campus, Piano Soiree Recital Hall FOR 2021 FOR DATES KEY OPTIONAL DOWNHILL SNOW PROGRAM DOWNHILL SNOW OPTIONAL 16 August 13 - Monday, Friday, 12 have the 7 - Years Students from to participate in a four-day opportunity experience Resort. This at Falls Creek program in downhill skiing will cater for all abilities will participate Students or snowboarding. qualified lessons with in several group stay in dorminstructors. Students will style informationaccommodation. Further will be 2. published in Term HIKE PROGRAM DISCOVERY 5 November to Friday, 3 Wednesday, is an exciting 3 The Discovery Hike Program will complete Students day hiking adventure. a modified journey suitable for their age and hike different they will size. In small groups, between Ocean Walk sections of the Great Apollo Bay and Johanna Beach. Students will one campsite pack load from carry a reduced to the next. They will be camping in tents and cooking their meals on portable stoves. allows them to build on the This program skills learnt on the Discovery Surf Program students to a range of outdoor and introduce journeys skills and concepts needed for future and expeditions. Further information will be 1. published in Term is a The Outdoor Education Program 7 and each compulsory component of Year must be completed in its entirety. program AWARD LEVEL 3 COMPASS is a compulsory part of The Compass Award is modelled 7 Curriculum. The Award the Year on the framework of the International we a program Award, Duke of Edinburgh 9. The Compass Award in Year introduce encourages students to try new activities and four sections: skills across develop previous and Hobbies, Volunteering Physical Activity, Exploration. over is structured The Compass Award levels. Levels 1 and 2 are four progressive 5 and 6 at the Junior School in Years offered campuses. Levels 3 and 4 will be completed 7 and 8. Students will commence Years across 7 and may begin Level 3 at the start of Year Level 4 as soon as Level 3 is complete. It is

Information Technology Sessions and Information Technology the Firbank Connecting Devices to Network and to the Library Services Introduction Accelerated Reading program Outdoor Education Information Session for the House Swimming Swim Trials Carnival HANDBOOK 2021 YEAR 7 HANDBOOK 2021

DISCOVERY SURF PROGRAM DISCOVERY 5 February 1 to Friday, Monday, transition An integral part of your daughter’s to Senior School is her participation in the This exciting 7 Discovery Surf Program. Year will provide Outdoor Education Program your daughter with valuable opportunities to by participating meet new friends and staff in a variety of outdoor activities in a safe the In class groups, and enjoyable manner. girls will participate in a range of activities a ‘high including , body boarding, course and stand-up paddle boarding. ropes’ facilitated and supported by All activities are mentor and subject teachers. your daughter’s nights staying daughter will spend two Your in cabin accommodation at Camp Burnside experience of two as well as an introductory nights camping in tents at Camp Eumeralla. The ‘Camp Out’ will include camp cooking will and some short bushwalks. The program be conducted out of Anglesea, along the Ocean Road in . This program Great of the Exploration requirements fulfills the section for the Level 3 Compass Award. • • • Sessions include: • The special program enables us to prepare us to prepare enables The special program of their students for the commencement many of to introduce academic studies and the activities on offer. START OF YEAR PROGRAM START 29 January Friday, 28 and Thursday, 7 students is run for all Year A special program second week week of school. The in their first and Surf Program of school is the Discovery 3. in Week classes commence then regular SPECIAL PROGRAMS SPECIAL

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COMBINED FGS/BGS MORNING COMBINED FGS/BGS 7 participate in a All students in Year from 7 students combined morning with Year school. our brother Brighton Grammar School, the ice’ The aim of the morning is to ‘break participation in fun, cooperative through games and to learn about the local history Students Brighton. with a study walk around each other and feel can start to get to know as a foundation comfortable working together Firbank students activities together. for future to participate in have many opportunities activities with Brighton Grammar throughout in both schools are from their schooling. Staff attendance and run the activities. expected students have started Level 4 by the have started Level expected students prerequisites no are There 8. Year of beginning have to not required are and students completing Levels 1 and 2 before completed Level 3. MUSIC ENSEMBLES FOR YEAR 7 MUSIC ENSEMBLES STUDENTS open to are The following music ensembles students: 7 Year Concert Band is an unauditioned ensemble instrumentalists. which welcomes all young brass or percussion/ Students who play a wind, invited to the piano are rhythm instrument, or Mrs Christine Director, contact the Ensemble Smillie ([email protected]), or just rehearsal for the year! come along to the first Bayside Strings is an unauditioned ensemble which welcomes all young string players. Students who play the violin, viola, cello invited to contact the or double bass are Mr Kim Morley Ensemble Director, ([email protected]) to learn more about the ensemble. Guitar Ensemble: students learning the guitar encouraged to contact the Ensemble are Mr Clive Simpson Director, ([email protected]) for further information. Flute Ensemble: students learning the flute encouraged to contact the Ensemble are Feher Mrs Brooke Director, ([email protected]) for further information.

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MUSIC LESSONS individual in pursuing Students interested contact Mrs Sarah to are private music lessons Department Office, Saunders in the Music to collect a located in the Music Precinct, the form, can be downloaded from or one website. School’s following the The Music School offers as part of the Firbank instruments for tuition Curriculum: Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Saxophone, Euphonium, Horn, Trombone, French Trumpet, Violin, Bass Guitar, Classical Guitar, Tuba, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Piano, Singing, and Drum Kit. Percussion Music Theory, lessons, including cost Information regarding and terms and conditions, can be located on the Music Lesson Application Form. YEAR 7 MUSIC PROGRAM an opportunity very pleased to offer are We students Year 7 for specifically tailored new to Firbank. Students who who are have not had the opportunity to learn an instrument in Firbank Grammar School’s invited to are Junior Instrumental Program learn Clarinet, Saxophone, Flute, Trumpet, or Double Bass/Electric Bass, Trombone, lessons for one semester. Drum Kit in group Students must be beginners on their selected instrument. If they have prior experience, advised to apply for lessons then they are using the Music Lesson Application Form. A nominal cost applies for these lessons. Further can be this program information regarding Form. 7 Music Program found on the Year

Music at Firbank is an essential part of the education of every child and takes place in both the every child and takes of the education of is an essential part Music at Firbank and Music Precinct School is situated in the school. The Music and co-curriculum of the curriculum of for excellence a reputation The Music School enjoys of specialist teachers. a number provides performance and includes a series of concerts which an extensive performance and has program performance. through and a commitment to support the community various school functions, recitals, can be accessed via the Firbank website. Dates for the 2021 program MUSIC

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FRIDAY THURSDAY Concert Band Year 7/8 Choir Year WEDNESDAY Bayside Strings Flute Ensemble Guitar Ensemble Chamber Singers Chamber Singers 7.20 - 8.20 a.m. 7.20 - 8.20 a.m. 7.45 - 8.20 a.m. 1.25 - 2.00 p.m. 1.25 - 2.00 p.m. Please do not hesitate to contact the Music Department with any queries regarding music at Firbank Department with any queries regarding Please do not hesitate to contact the Music Saunders on [email protected]. by calling 9591 5151 or emailing Mrs Sarah Chamber Singers is an auditioned choir for students who are wanting some extra development of wanting auditioned choir for students who are Chamber Singers is an 1. held in the week after Camp early in Term are 7 students for Year their singing skills. Auditions the start from the Music Precinct will be available in information auditions and rehearsals about More Jones (pjones@ Ms Philippa Director, encouraged to contact the Ensemble Students are of the year. further information.firbank.vic.edu.au) for TIMES MUSIC ENSEMBLE REHEARSAL CHORAL GROUPS who is a choir for everyone there at Firbank, and program part of the Music is a large Choral singing wants to sing: performances towards working weekly, rehearse Choir is an open entry all comers choir who 7/8 Year is a 3. This and the Choral Concert in Term 1, including Jazz Night in Term at Music School concerts contact encouraged to love to sing! Students are for those who and great choral group relaxed for further information.Ms Philippa Jones ([email protected]) 90-100% 75-89% 55-74% 40-54% <40% Well Above Standard Well Above Standard At Standard Below Standard Below Standard Well ASSESSMENT to the is assessed according Student work the as outlined in Standards Achievement Victorian Curriculum. for each subject at required The Standards listed and provided each year level will be on the Parent report with the end of semester Portal. noted: The following should be that the Victorian - reflects At Standard met. has been Curriculum standard - Above Standard and Well Above Standard a student is of where will give an indication level on to the class/year placed in relation that standard/task. All substantive tasks will be linked to rubrics/ standards. clear information feedback will provide Written their about how students can improve their success. performance or repeat as are to each Standard The bands that relate below: HANDBOOK 2021 YEAR 7 HANDBOOK 2021

Thursday, 26 August Thursday, 2.45 - 8.30 p.m. Term 3 Term 19 August Thursday, 2.45 - 8.30 p.m. 24 March Wednesday, 2.45 - 8.30 p.m. Term 1 Term 10 March Wednesday, 2.45 - 8.30 p.m. PARENT TEACHER INTERVIEWS TEACHER PARENT will be conducted in Interviews Teacher Parent 3 - see dates. 1 and Term Term It will be possible to print the reports from the from It will be possible to print the reports Reports are copy is preferred. Portal if a hard under the Documents tab. also archived End of Semester Academic Achievement will be available at the end transcript reports of each semester. Firbank’s Progressive Online Reporting Progressive Firbank’s on each major feedback This system provides assessment task when it becomes available. All parents receive an SMS invitation to set an SMS invitation receive All parents access to the that allows up a new password information is Portal where Firbank Parent academic to their daughter’s available relating or For instructions on how to create progress. view please a new Portal password, reset www.firbank.vic.edu.au/parent-portal Access to the Parent Portal is via the Firbank Portal Access to the Parent website: www.firbank.vic.edu.au REPORTING the main avenue for Portal is The Parent about student academic communication progress. REPORTING & ASSESSMENT REPORTING

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Homework and the use of the Student and the use of the Student Homework Diary of your is an important aspect Homework learning. the gap It bridges daughter’s between learning at school and learning class. work done in at home and reinforces the habits of Homework helps to establish concentration and self-discipline. study, 7 it is an expectation that students For Year per week. complete 7 hours of homework be used to record The Student Diary should to any dates relating homework set and the assignments. be checked regularly The Student Diary will it is being used that by the Mentor to ensure correctly. will check and It is an expectation that parents diary weekly. sign their daughter’s will use the Diary to inform Subject Teachers if any set homework has not been parents to sign the required are completed. Parents of any message. Diary to acknowledge receipt Instilling in students a home study culture home study culture Instilling in students a and test preparation revision of regular and skill Developing student confidence in formal environments assessment revision skills Developing subject specific and techniques Equipping students with tips to aid the management of stress Instilling in students good habits to in the lead up to facilitate organisation exams Developing an understanding of the for specific assessment requirements types Students who do not have a valid reason for Students who do not have a valid reason a zero missing an assessment task will receive for that task. result Attendance during the Major Assessment Attendance during the Major Assessment Period If a student misses an assessment task due or Deputy to illness, or has the Principal’s permission if to be absent, then, Principal’s This possible, the task may be rescheduled. 7 Wellbeing the Year will be arranged through Leader. The purpose of conducting major assessments The purpose of conducting is to help prepare at the end of each semester students for formal assessments in the future by: • • • • • • Formal in each subject will be assessments Major Assessment completed during the Period. Major Assessment Period Major Assessment 4 Term 3 - Friday, 24 November Wednesday, December DANCE TROUPE is for trained and Dance Troupe The Firbank challenged dancers who will be experienced across to further their technique and invited various styles of dance. represent who It is an auditioned group held Firbank in dance competitions Years Students from the year. throughout can audition. 7 - 11, who love to dance, of Term held at the beginning Auditions are year. for the following 4 in preparation morning Wednesday Rehearsals occur every and Thursday lunch time. CLUB DEBATING our girls to find At Firbank, we challenge their voice and form opinions in any arena. Debating gives students the opportunity to media issues and rewards learn about current academic skills such as critical thinking, sound Year 7 and and confident speaking. argument 8 students can join the Junior Debating Team 9 to 12 can join the Years and students from and compete regularly. Senior Debating Team This state-wide competition facilitated by The Debating Association of Victoria involves debating 250 schools, making it the largest competition in the world. DRAMA CLUB 7 - 9 students who Drama Club is for Years imagination, acting, writing enjoy creativity, and performing. The Club meets at lunchtime on Fridays in the Louis Williams Hall. Senior 12 Drama Captains students and the Year the involved in leading this club where are and their passion for creativity students share games, discussion and performance through skill building. GSV Firbank is a member of Girls Sport Victoria in (GSV) which comprises the 24 Girls Schools Melbourne that have weekly competitions in with the year, throughout 12 sports rotating training every Monday 7.00 a.m. and matches every Thursday afternoon. In addition, Carnivals in Athletics, Inter-School are there Swimming, Diving and Cross-Country. HANDBOOK 2021 YEAR 7 HANDBOOK 2021

The Club members use online resources The Club members use online resources to learn coding at their own pace which is guided and coached by the Club Coordinator. in JavaScript Members learn how to program languages (e.g. and other programming HTML/CS, Python, Swift etc.). CODING CLUB The Coding Club meets each week on Monday after school for 60 - 90 minutes in Room 24 and is open to all year levels in Senior School. CHESS CLUB The Chess Club meets once a week in Room 24 and is open to all year levels in the Senior School. Students participate in external tournaments with as well as joint activities Brighton Grammar School. A qualified teacher ‘Chess Kids’ attends each session to from help the students to develop their skills and the weekly tournaments. organise Meetings are held each term either at Firbank Meetings are set novel is a where or Brighton Grammar, discussed. BOOK CLUB 7 Book Club is open to students in Years and 8 with the club members determining also This program which books will be read. the opportunity to meet with Brighton features Club. 7 and 8 Book Year Grammar School’s Various art-based projects are organised organised are art-based projects Various by our Visual Captain, such as still life Arts activities with and craft drawing, watercolour fun and providing the primary focus of having to mix with others an opportunity for students in VisualArts. their interest who share ART CLUB ART Williamsheld in Room 11 Louis Art Club is for Art Club is an opportunity Hall Building. - 12, to 7 all year levels, Years students of engage in the Visual Arts. Art Club is held will be informedfortnightly and students by what day the Visual regarding Arts Captain the session will be scheduled, and where venue will change. because sometimes the CLUBS

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To clarify skills and concepts that they are they are clarify skills and concepts that To topic current finding difficult in the the complete set homework with To security of being able to ask for help if needed of with the areas assistance request To weakness and practice examples while support is available and complete enrichment work in seek To of interest areas for assessments prepare To of girls that need additional help, guidance need additional help, of girls that with conceptual understanding and support this will continue to offer We in Mathematics. as well, hence we encourage help in 2021 at Firbank that their children to ensure parents details More make the best of this opportunity. will be made available the structure regarding at the start of 2021. sessions and will take the Mathematics staff basis or as a regular students may attend on the need arises. use the sessions: Students may wish to • • • • • PHILOSOPHY COLLOQUIUM 7 and 8, a to students in Years Available times a Philosophy Colloquium is held three Grammar in conjunction with Brighton year, School, and is an important platform for academic enrichment for selected students. is to enhance the The aim of the program development of metacognitive skills. Each a forum Philosophy Colloquium provides for students to analyse and discuss key philosophical questions. WRITERS CLUB in writing, For students who take an interest meetings and an online portal regular we offer their love to allow them to expand and explore while being challenged, of the written word encouraged and guided. inspired, MATHEMATICS ADDITIONAL SUPPORT MATHEMATICS Firbank Mathematics Department has always the best learning to provide endeavoured opportunities for all our girls. While there 7-10 to is an opportunity for girls in Years undertake and avail themselves of enriched and extended learning, besides acceleration; of the needs also mindful and aware we are IMPROV CLUB This Club is for students who enjoy collaboration and spontaneous and creative sharing performance opportunities. The Club morning from meets every second Tuesday 7.30 - 8.20 a.m. and is open to students Firbank and Brighton 7 - 12 from Years from Grammar School. Once a commitment has been made to attend Once a commitment has been made to attend Homework Club, please note that it is a notify the Wellbeing to responsibility parent’s on a if a student cannot attend Leader, particular night. The Deputy Head of Learning will send Parents The Deputy Head of Learning will send Parents a letter to invite students to attend Homework will complete the Homework Club. Parents it to the Deputy Head of Club letter and return Leader. Learning and Wellbeing The staff member present will provide support support will provide member present The staff aspects of and advice about organisational students’ work. The purpose of Homework Club is to assist The purpose of Homework skills their organisational students to improve work in a an opportunity to by providing at a regular quiet space, without distractions Club will time. Attendance at Homework good study habits help students to develop of committing to and discover the benefits time each week. focussed work at a particular Homework Club will operate from Monday to from Homework Club will operate 3.45 - 4.45 p.m. and will be located Thursday, in the Library. HOMEWORK CLUB HOMEWORK Club a supervised Homework Firbank provides 7 - 10. in Years for students Choir Room Dance Studio Dance Studio Louis Williams Hall Louis Williams Hall FRIDAY SUNDAY TUESDAY THURSDAY WEDNESDAY Drama Club Improv Club Improv Dance Troupe Rehearsals Dance Troupe Dance Troupe Rehearsals Dance Troupe Year 7 - 9 Musical Production Rehearsals 7 - 9 Musical Production Year Rehearsals 7 - 9 Musical Production Year HANDBOOK 2021 YEAR 7 HANDBOOK 2021

7.30 - 8.20 a.m. 7.30 - 8.20 a.m. 1.15 - 2.00 p.m. 1.15 - 2.00 p.m. 3.45 - 6.00 p.m. 1.00 - 5.00 p.m. Improv 1, 2 and 3 - Terms Club meets every Tuesday Drama 1, 2 and 3 - Terms Club meets every Friday Dance 1 - 4 week - Terms held every are rehearsals Troupe PERFORMING ARTS REHEARSAL TIMES REHEARSAL PERFORMING ARTS Matches after school on Matches after school on Thursday afternoon 3.00 - 6.00 p.m. GSV SPORT is on Training 8.00 a.m. 7.00 - Monday mornings from -CURRICULAR CO

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GENERAL INFORMATION GENERAL APP App. the Firbank you download Please ensure School on the for Firbank Grammar Search or Google Play to download Store Apple App School App. the Firbank Grammar tool communications The App is an aggregate at a whole School that is designed to connect appropriate, where level, campus level and, not alter your 1:1 or year level. The App does class level communication. letters, receive the App, you will now Through the weekly School latest updates, alerts and The School calendar is on the App newsletter. with your directly and this can be synched calendar/iCal. Senior School Clubs, sporting activities, dance, ensure all on the App. To drama and music are the continued safety of our students, our App you to use your OneLogin School sign requires in to access any data. This is the same login to access the Firbank that you use as a parent Portal. Parent you visit please ensure Most importantly, firbank.vic.edu.au for instructions on how to recommend manage your subscriptions. We that you select only the information that is can, of course, change to you. You relevant your subscriptions at any time. Please note that you will need to sign in and on each manage subscription preferences device if you download the App to more than one device such as an iPad and iPhone. need to be set up on Subscription preferences each device initially when you first download the App. ASTHMA have a number of students at Firbank We at Grammar School with asthma. All our staff trained in first Firbank Grammar School are aid. If a student has asthma, details of their in by parents condition must be provided Consent2Go. For further information about to our Asthma policy on asthma please refer our school website. HANDBOOK 2021 YEAR 7 HANDBOOK 2021

We respectfully request that students and request respectfully We mindful of anaphylaxis when are parents sending food to school. any nuts or nut do not provide/sell We at the school canteen, or for products special events. any foods served at the ensure We signage and school have appropriate communication to the school community. on first aid and train all staff We anaphylaxis, and the use of Auto injector devices annually. have Auto Injector devices for We the school, and general use around site activities. in first aid kits for off required Individuals with anaphylaxis are to carry their own device at all times. and other relevant Our Health Centre work with families to develop staff Individual Anaphylaxis Management and for any camps. Plans annually,

For further information please refer to our For further information please refer school Anaphylaxis Management Policy on our website, or contact our Health Centre. ANAPHYLAXIS in our school have a number of students We to various community with anaphylaxis rapidly Anaphylaxis is a severe, allergens. that is potentially reaction allergic progressive can be Common allergens life threatening. fish and dairy, (nuts, found in food products various fruits), latex shellfish, wheat, soy, Grammar School and insect venom. Firbank is an that the school ensure cannot reasonably and we educate our environment, free allergen accordingly. students and school community manage the risk of anaphylaxis We accordingly: 1. medical any relevant Please ensure into information about your child is entered Consent2Go. ASSEMBLY in a students will participate Every Friday in the CCA. general assembly 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. GENERAL INFORMATION GENERAL

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Provide a portal for parents/guardians to a portal for parents/guardians Provide and update contact information, provide and medical information about their child. teachers with a system to Provides plan and manage risks involved with excursions and incursions. to easily give/ a way for parents Provides decline permission for students to attend will Parents the year. events throughout Firbank a welcome email from receive which will Grammar upon enrolment, provide / guardians parents request health information, emergency current contacts, medical information including and notes and asthma and allergies to the instructions which relate care student. Should you have any questions about this, please contact Senior School Reception. student cohort, and are a much-valued a much-valued and are student cohort, further life at Firbank. For aspect of school or Internationalinformation about Boarding to the School website refer Students, please for further information. CALENDAR can be found on All important school events the Firbank App. the School website or CAFETERIA we have a At Firbank Grammar School Catering. run by Avoca cafeteria onsite that is food via and pay for Students can pre-order with cash or directly the Flexischool App, or card. Consent2Go (C2G) Consent2Go is a system that is used by the School to: 1. 2. 3. No student is permitted to go on an excursion or camp unless C2G has been completed and permission been given has by a parent/guardian. Calling the absentee line 9591 5198 Calling the absentee line (The absentee line is a 24 hour voicemail message, so may be called at any time) Call Senior School Reception on 9591 5188 Email [email protected] Via the Firbank App BOARDING AND INTERNATIONAL BOARDING AND INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS very proud At Firbank Grammar School we are Boarding of our long history of providing House is facilities for students. Our Boarding used by students whose families live in rural interstate or overseas. Our International areas, in the Boarding Student community reside House. Our International Student community the world, many countries around come from a richness and diversity to our and provide If extended leave is required, please discuss If extended leave is required, Written Leader. 7 Wellbeing this with the Year from permission for extended leave is required the Deputy Principal, Head of Senior School, Mrs Leandra Turner. If a student is absent for 2 or more consecutive consecutive If a student is absent for 2 or more 7 Wellbeing days, please contact the Year Leader. Please call or email before 10.00 a.m. if Please call or email before your child will be absent or late for the day. Unexplained absences will be followed up by / guardians. School Reception with parents If a student is going to be absent from school, be absent from If a student is going to notify the school or late to school, please This can be done by: ASAP. 1. 2. 3. 4. Students are to be at school no later than 8.30 to be at school Students are expected to be as students are a.m. each day, by 8.30 a.m. where in their Period 1 classroom Attendance recorded. attendance at school is class at the start of every is also recorded during the school day. ATTENDANCE timetabled to attend all required Students are School all official activities and classes and listed are school events functions. Compulsory in the key dates section. Child Protection and Safety Child Protection Child Safety Code of Conduct Mandatory Reporting with Children Working teacher or Mentor about The student’s learning issues and incidents that happen in their class or group Leader if Level Wellbeing The Year involved several classes are students from Leader or the Level Wellbeing The Year Deputy Head of Senior School about members or to staff issues relating complex student issues The Deputy Principal, Head of Senior to school School about issues relating staff school management, policy, members or very complex student issues Students will earn their certificate through earnStudents will certificate through their be which will of credits, the accumulation and co-curricular for both academic awarded Certificate and achievement. The participation achievement: Bronze, will have four levels of Gold and Platinum. Silver, progress of a student’s Cumulative reporting at will be provided and level of involvement as part of the end- the end of each semester of-semester report. Specific information about the points allocated available on the portal. to various activities is CHILD PROTECTION takes the safety and Firbank Grammar School Please very seriously. wellbeing of our students to our school website for our policies on: refer • • • • COMPLAINTS In the first instance a concern or complaint to the School. The should be made directly to complainant should telephone, visit or write or email: • • • • who to contact in If a complainant is unsure of the first instance, contact the Deputy Head Senior School to our For further information please refer policy on the school complaints resolution website. HANDBOOK 2021 YEAR 7 HANDBOOK 2021

The Certificate will reinforce the fact that we reinforce The Certificate will involvement in a range of value a student’s recognise We activities beyond the classroom. that this involvement is important for the development of a student. The Certificate will provide accurate The Certificate will provide information about the Firbank experience for each student. The holistic educational experience of each student will be documented and participation in the School’s will be academic and co-curricular programs and rewarded. recognised It is becoming increasingly the case that It is becoming increasingly requiring universities and employers are transcripts, which document the scope of a involvement and achievement during student’s their secondary school years. As they are student, institutions looking for a well-rounded to students for their overseas give extra credit participation and leadership in co-curricular activities. Our graduates will be able to in these reference use this certificate as a situations. There are a number of reasons for the a number of reasons are There of the Firbank Grammar introduction Certificate of Achievement. The Firbank Grammar Certificate of The Firbank Grammar a and reward Achievement will recognise involvement and achievement in the student’s Senior School. The certificate will be awarded 12. to students at the completion of Year While we celebrate the outstanding academic While we celebrate the students, achievements of our graduating that Firbank it is important to recognise to participate extensive opportunities provides take on program, in a diverse co-curricular involved in and become leadership roles know that We community service programs. involved. being students benefit from CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT CERTIFICATE are We we value achievement. At Firbank well-balanced a that we provide proud of a our students. The success education for than by more Firbank education is measured completion of Year at the score ATAR a strong 12.

UPDATED 27 January 2021 CRICOS Provider No 00140K 18 UPDATED 27 January 2021 CRICOS Provider No 00140K YEAR 7 HANDBOOK 2021 19 finish times for the day will be as usual. for the day will be as finish times Diving Carnival Inter-House 17 February Wednesday, the day at the This event is held during to vary according Firbank pool. Event times check these with your the year level, so please welcome. are daughters. Parents Carnival Athletics Inter-House 25 March Thursday, Carnival Athletics is held The Inter-House Parents Track. at the Sandringham Athletics which is welcome to attend this event are Each House compulsory for all students. for the day and up theme’ chooses a ‘dress Start and finish times for accordingly. dresses the day will be as usual. Country Carnival Cross Inter-House 5 May Wednesday, This event is held at school. The students run House and Turner a 2 km course in and around times so there run in year levels at staggered not too many students on the course at are any one time. HEALTH CENTRE - FOR GENERAL HEALTH AND FIRST AID for is located at the Centre The Health Centre Arts (CCA) Creative 8.30 a.m. - 3.30 p.m. Opening hours are Monday - Friday first aid during unwell or require If students are class-time they should ask for permission the teacher to go to the Health Centre. from The School Their attendance will be recorded. Manager will assess Nurse or Health Centre the student and if they need to go home, they contact. If or an emergency will ring parents the student needs to go home, the Health Manager will complete the necessary Centre paperwork for them to leave school. Students may not go home without the permission from Deputy Head of either the Health Centre, Senior School or Head of Senior School. first aid at unwell or require If students are or lunchtime, they should visit the recess (HC). Health Centre Inter-House Swimming Carnival Inter-House 15 February Monday, Swimming Carnival is held The Inter-House at Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre welcome to attend this are (MSAC). Parents event which is compulsory for all students. the for theme’ up ‘dress a chooses House Each The students will accordingly. day and dresses MSAC in buses. Start and travel to and from GSV Firbank is a member of Girls Sport Victoria (GSV) which comprises the 24 Girls Schools in Melbourne that have weekly competitions the year, through in 12 sports rotating with training every Monday at 7.00 a.m. and matches every Thursday afternoon. In Carnivals Inter-School are addition, there in Athletics, Swimming, Diving and Cross- Country. FIREFLY AND TEAMS FIREFLY The main form of student communication App which is our Learning is the Firefly students will find Management System. Here for classes. their timetable and resources may send students messages about Teachers classwork and assignments by mail on Firefly. Students may want to submit work via Firefly. FEES in 4 separate typically charged Fees are For further the year. instalments throughout to our school website. information please refer EXCURSIONS AND INCURSIONS of the range is proud Firbank Grammar School our students to of experiences we provide Students will participate the year. throughout excursions, and these in various incursions and or either by individual faculties, organised are year entire Leader for the by the Wellbeing via communicated are level. Details of these use of the the School, through email from Consent2Go. CURRICULUM available Overviews are Separate Curriculum are level. Copies of these for each year Please our school website. available on to with Senior School Reception enquire copy. obtain a hard Cyber Safety Policy Cyber Safety Policy Social Media • • WOMEN’S DAY INTERNATIONAL BREAKFAST the Student by This event, coordinated held on Friday, Council, will be Representative (venue to be confirmed). All parents 12 March support this encouraged to attend and are celebration. IT SUPPORT to support in the IT office will be able Staff logging in trouble students if they have any or with iPad/laptop to the School network The IT Office is located upstairs connectivity. in the Library/Info Hub. LOCKERS Each student will be allocated a personal of each student It is the responsibility locker. combination lock. a strong to purchase LOST PROPERTY All uniforms, books, stationery and personal named. When named to be required items are will contact that student found, staff items are to arrange for items to be collected. directly Lost items will either be kept at Reception or in the PESC for collection. MENTOR GROUP of students that will be This is the group Sessions. together SOC time and Wellbeing will be guided and supported Mentor Group by a teacher Mentor. HEALTH MENTAL confidential Firbank Grammar offers a registered counselling services from Psychologist and Counsellor to Senior able to considered School students who are informed consent. understand and provide Information discussed during counselling confidential, except when the remains Psychologist or Counsellor has a legal the safety of students. obligation to protect by the and processed received Referrals are Referrals can be Student Counselling Staff. HANDBOOK 2021 YEAR 7 HANDBOOK 2021

Information and Communication Policy Technology and Intervention Bullying Prevention Policy The Health Centre coordinate with the with the coordinate The Health Centre students Bayside Council to provide Immunisation with access to the DHHS Program. 2019, the Diphtheria-tetanus- From and the Human pertussis (dTp) vaccine to be offered papillomavirus (HPV) will students. Meningococcal A, C, W, 7 Year in to students Y vaccine will be offered 10 Year and Information about the program via communicated consent forms are Consent2Go email through

Conduct: Students are required to comply with required Conduct: Students are the following policies, which can be found on our website: • • Software: Students must connect their device Software: to the Firbank Mobile Device Management Firbank Grammar uses Microsoft Program. Intune to help manage devices and to ensure to school security that personal devices adhere policies without accessing your personal files. includes a school application This software portal and allows Firbank to deploy required configuration for as connectivity Wireless Office well as applications, such as Microsoft 365 and a full enterprise version of Sophos Endpoint Security for free. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INFORMATION their to bring required Students are Hardware: own device for use at school. LIBRARY/INFO HUB LIBRARY/INFO both print The Library/Info Hub provides and actively supports and online resources a.m. to 8.00 students’ learning. It is open from 6.00 p.m. during the week and closes at 4.00 p.m. on Fridays. IMMUNISATION PROGRAM IMMUNISATION general School supports Firbank Grammar an community by providing health in the 7 Year to all Program optional Immunisation 10 students, in conjunction with the and Year Bayside Council. • • •

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On the first occasion, students will be that this is a disruption to the reminded and will be asked learning environment to place their mobile on the classroom desk until the end of the lesson. teacher’s that this Students will again be reminded the disrupts the learning environment, this on the teacher will record classroom attendance list. Wellbeing Synergetic Leaders will be notified, and this information recorded. Student will be asked to meet with their Leader to discuss how the Wellbeing School can help them in their responsible choices to support teaching and learning Leaders will Wellbeing in the classroom. to support students. work with parents secured in student lockers. secured class 11 and 12: During in Years For students off to be switched phones are time mobile Students can in student lockers. and secured and lunch recess use mobile phones during breaks. Classroom Mobile Phones and The mobile may be occasions where There for in the classroom phones will be required This can be coordinated educational purposes. teacher’s to the classroom according requirements. the use of As a general rule however, class time can limit mobile phones during learning.engagement and disrupt If a student their mobile phone is found to have brought to class, then: • subsequent occasions: are If there • If this behaviour persists: • ASSOCIATION PARENTS Association (SSPA) The Senior School Parents and works closely with the meets regularly a sense of community School to promote funds for specific and provide among parents at each level Class representatives projects. Any informal functions for parents. organise volunteering at the School is required parent Check. with Children to have a valid Working Wellbeing Leaders: An Internal Leaders: Wellbeing to the be filled in and sent Referral can Services Counselling be made by can Students: Self-referrals via Team contacting the Counselling Sara Groves, email Psychologist: Ms [email protected] Gorton, Counsellors: Ms Sally and Ms [email protected] or Jodi Fox, [email protected] Offices to the Counselling presenting by Families can refer Parents/Guardians: Leaders contacting the Wellbeing Other health care External Providers: by contacting may refer professionals Leaders or School the Wellbeing Psychologist/Counsellors Academic success Psychological health and wellbeing Social and emotional wellbeing For students in Years 7-10: during the school For students in Years and to be switched off day mobile phones are The use of mobile phones to film or photograph people and their activities without their knowledge and/or permission is an invasion of privacy and is strictly not permitted. A School Psychologist/Counsellors’ aim is to A School Psychologist/Counsellors’ aim is to at help a young person get the best out of life school by supporting students to achieve: • Student Guidelines permitted to carry at their own Students are risk a mobile phone to school. received from: from: received • • • • • • • MOBILE PHONES Purpose a useful communication Mobile phones are access to informationand tool. They offer can also be a valuable learning device. These information for guidelines intend to provide the use of mobile phones at Firbank Grammar Senior School by our students. The aim of the classroom student guidelines is to promote engagement and positive learning outcomes and encourage students to develop self- regulation. Student Representative Council Student Representative Action Group Environmental Social Justice League Group Student Wellbeing leadership offer groups A number of year level. for students at any opportunities and interviews for leadership Applications which are groups, positions in the following 7 - 12 take Years from comprised of students be effective will roles 3. The place in Term 3, 2022. of Term 4, 2021 to the end Term from • • • • AND INDIVIDUAL STUDENT SERVICES LEARNING the oversees Department Services Student The and support Psychoeducational Assessments for students who may be struggling with their conducted for learning. Assessments are students to be supported in English Language Studies (ELS) classes and for Mathematics evidence-based Essentials, a targeted for assessment referred Students are program. Leaders teachers and Wellbeing by parents, concerned with the difficulties that who are students may have with their learning. The of Student Services, Mrs Jennifer Director ([email protected]. Vincent-Green edu.au) is the Educational Psychologist in of the Psychological Assessments and charge of Learning is supported by the Coordinator Strategies. The Department also manages the each year. NCCD process SUNSMART Firbank Grammar School is a Sunsmart and when UV monitored school. UV levels are expected above 3, sun protection levels are put in place, for both classes are measures breaks. held outside and in lunch and recess to wear hats during sport classes, Students are by the as provided and apply sunscreen to School. For further information please refer Policy on our website. our Sun Protection HANDBOOK 2021 YEAR 7 HANDBOOK 2021

SISTER GROUP within the House This is a vertical group 7 - 12 students/sisters. The system of Years an opportunity to form aim is to provide year levels. across meaningful relationships 11 and 12 sisters. led by Year The sessions are meets every second Thursday at Sister Group 2.05 p.m. STUDENT LEADERSHIP At Firbank, we view leadership in a broad context as leadership of self is a vital part of a development. student’s SCHOOL PHOTO DAY 12 February Friday, Immaculate School Uniform this day is on a separate notice will receive essential. Parents about payment details. SCHOOL EMAIL will often contact students by email, Teachers so we encourage students to check it regularly. SCHOLARSHIPS Information is posted on the School website. The season starts in Term 3 with competitions 3 with competitions The season starts in Term 4 and 1. The season culminates with in Terms the Head of the School Girls Regatta held in 1. Geelong at the end of Term ROWING 8 in Years as a sport to girls Rowing is offered both on week a times multiple train Girls 12. to Gym. River and in the School the Yarra PRIVACY all respects Firbank Grammar School and is committed individuals right to privacy, students, staff, the privacy of our to protecting our school community. and other members of to the adheres Firbank Grammar School established by the National Privacy Principles All members of the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth). with to comply required School community are which can be found the Schools Privacy Policy, on the School website. To get involved please contact: get involved please To [email protected]

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Summer Uniform - during Terms 4 and 1 Summer Uniform - during Terms 2 and 3 Winter Uniform - during Terms Sports Uniform - to bring their sports uniformschool and change into it to Students are at school for sports class. permitted at school in their to arrive sports uniform if sport is their first lesson, sports uniformand leave school in their if day sport is at the end of the Our website The Student Diary Teacher Mentor Group daughter’s Your Leader 7 Wellbeing The Year The Deputy Head of Senior School UNIFORM of School is very proud Firbank Grammar uniform,our school students wearing it and pride and a student’s demonstrates correctly for our school. Our Uniform Shop is respect The Dobsons Uniform Shop at 348 Centre Students are Road, Bentleigh, VIC 3204. expected to wear: • • • For further guidelines on how to wear the to the Student Diary, uniform, please refer for or call Dobsons or the ParentHelpDesk assistance. WELLBEING is at the heart of everything we Wellbeing see wellbeing as the state in which do. We our students can achieve their goals, have challenges, can live skills to work through and contribute to their and learn productively a committed to providing are We community. in which students environment safe and secure At Firbank we able to learn and grow. are for our students value and care strive to know, our Wellbeing our Mentor Program, through Leaders, our Social and Emotional Curriculum acknowledging that every teacher and through is a teacher of wellbeing. For further information on our Wellbeing to: please refer Program, • • • • • TIMETABLE a timetable on the first Students will receive can also be found day at school. Timetables subjects This will have a list of the on Firefly. and the code of being studied, the classrooms the teacher who will be taking the class. The timetable is a 10-day timetable which goes over two weeks. If students arrive during the course of the year, If students arrive during the course of the year, Leader can help determine the Wellbeing of for the remainder required which books are the year. TEXTBOOKS Information is on the School website and they online. can be ordered At Firbank Grammar School we seek to At Firbank Grammar School the independence support and encourage and develop maturity of our Senior School students. It is expected that students, along will make appropriate with parents/guardians, to get to and arrangements for their children extracurricular school, and to and from from and activities unless otherwise provided advised by the School. SUPERVISION supervised the Senior School are Students in duty by yard during class time, and at all times Students breaks. and lunch during recess staff within the permitted expected to remain are supervision can appropriate to ensure areas Map to our School Please refer be ensured. also are Students for “out of bounds” areas. at all compulsory supervised at all times supervision not be school events. Should will parents for an optional event, provided about this to ensure be communicated with can be supervision arrangements appropriate School. the made independently from Girls Campus • Co-educational Campus • ELC - Year 12 ELC - Year • ELC - Year 6 ELC - Year • CRICOS Provider No 00140K CRICOS Provider firbank.vic.edu.au •

51 Outer Crescent, Brighton Vic 3186 51 Outer Crescent,

45 Royal Avenue, Sandringham Vic 3191 45 Royal Avenue, HANDBOOK 2021 YEAR 7 HANDBOOK 2021

UPDATED 27 January 2021 CRICOS Provider No 00140K 24