Annual Report 2017

Published 30 June 2018

Dominic College 2017 Annual Report 1 Dominic College 2017 Annual Report 2 The context of the College

Dominic College is a Catholic co- life-long friendships they made well as many sensory and craft educational Kindergarten to Year 10 through our school. activities. College, conducted by the Salesians of Don Bosco. Located on spacious St John Bosco worked tirelessly for his grounds in Tolosa Street, Glenorchy, students to become good Christians Hobart, Tasmania, the College is and honest citizens. Dominic College nestled in the foothills of Mount continues this commitment of Wellington. developing a belief in God’s presence and goodness in our lives, and the call A comprehensive, independent, for all to be exemplary local and global Catholic school, the College is focused citizens. on innovative and creative learning to support individual student growth. Dominic Early Learning Centre Dominic College and Discovery Early Tradition and Charism Learning Centre have been in partnership together since 2009, offering Long Day Care to children aged from 6-weeks to 5-years old and Outside School Hours Care for children

up to 12-years old. Kindergarten The College has two Kindergarten classes (Kinder Bears and Kinder Mice), each running three days a week. Our Kindergarten Program offers a safe, stimulating environment with the opportunity for children to discover new friends, develop an understanding of ‘school life’ and experience real life

learning. Located on the Dominic College

Our founder, St John Bosco, was a grounds on Tolosa Street, the Centre is Kindergarten classes are guided by the visionary 19th century priest and modern and purpose-built to provide a Early Years Learning Framework and educator, who believed relationships high-quality learning environment. the children enjoy programs with were at the heart of shaping young The Centre provides engaging and specialist teachers in Music, Japanese people. challenging learning programs based and Health and Physical Education. on children’s interests and stages of

Contemporary educational research development. Our Kindergarten spaces are now supports this: the relationship The Centre uses the Early Years technologically rich environments and between teacher and learner is one of Learning Framework which is feature the use of iPads, data the most important factors in designed to allow children to achieve projectors and interactive achieving educational outcomes. at their own pace in their own way. whiteboards, in addition to a separate

playground, undercover sandpit and Dominic College invests a great deal in Launch into Learning (LIL) bathroom facilities. developing this relationship. Our The College’s new pre-kindergarten teachers work with students in A team of highly qualified staff work experience, commenced in February with each class. Parents, as the developing quality engagement and 2017 with two groups. In 2018 we are relationships in the learning dynamic. primary educators, are always able to offer five sessions weekly. welcome in classes and welcome to Children and parents have engaged in Old Scholars of Dominic speak of three assist with classroom activities. a variety of hands-on activities, such as Kindergarten students are provided things they valued most about the visiting the College animals in the 7-10 College: the quality staff who cared with fundamental literacy and science facilities, listening to stories in numeracy development. about them, their diverse learning the K-6 Library, enjoying excursions as opportunities and experiences and the

Dominic College 2017 Annual Report 3 A typical Kindergarten day might Co-curricular Program consist of a morning gathering, guided An integral part of life at Dominic play, story time, daily fitness, learning College is the wide array of co- circle time, rest and relaxation, songs curricular activities. These help to and games. enrich students and enable them to extend their skills and talents in their Prep-Year 6 areas of interest and passion. They There are two classes in each Year build positive personal relationships group, Prep–Year 6; there are no and specific skills. Co-curricular composite classes. activities are held at lunch times and after school. The Prep-Year 6 program is literacy Religious Education and numeracy rich and has a focus on Religious Education is at the heart of Some of the of co-curricular activities developing higher order thinking. our education at Dominic College. Our on offer at Dominic College include an Religious Education Program is taken extensive range of school sports and Literacy and numeracy are from the TCEO Religious Education outdoor activities such as basketball, fundamental to all areas of learning. Framework: Good News for Living and football, soccer, netball, volleyball, The main focus is on development of is complemented by celebrations of cricket, water polo, tennis and concepts and skills to enable them to faith through prayer, Masses, Feast badminton. apply problem-solving principles to Days and other important liturgical everyday life. occasions. St Vincent de Paul’s ‘Young Vinnies’ 7- 10, Year 6 ‘Mini Vinnies’, Tournament The College liaises with the St John’s of the Minds, Choirs, Band¸ Rock Band, Parish to actively support student Drama groups, Photography, Robotics, participation in the Sacramental Chess, Debating and Model United Program. Nations Assembly are also enjoyed.

Pastoral Care Vision and mission Each student in K-10 is allocated a class (K-6) and a pastoral/home room group (7-10) with whom they meet at the beginning of each day.

Each day a solid block of class time is In Year 7-10, pastoral groups are allotted to the core areas of Literacy, vertically integrated, comprising Numeracy and Religious Education. students from each Year level. The Students have specialist classes in pastoral group acts as a small family, Music, Japanese, Physical Education encouraging students to develop and Mamma Margaret’s Kitchen. friendships across different age groups. Access to other Creative Arts subjects, taught by specialists, such as Art and There are opportunities for students

Drama, begins in Year 3. to interact K-10 throughout the year. Our dream

To complement our core curriculum College House System We dare to dream of an exciting we provide a broad education, learning community in which each including a wide range of educational person is valued, nurtured and activities and excursions to provide challenged to achieve incredible goals. breadth and depth of experience. Our vision Year 7-10 Dominic College will be a community Year 7-10 students have a that welcomes; that nourishes our comprehensive curriculum in which Christian values; that prepares for life; students study six core subjects along and a place where friendships are forged within a spirit of joy and hope. with a wide range of elective subjects. Commencing in 2014 the College The House system operates in all years Our mission consolidated its commitment to the K-10. All students and staff are Dominic College aims to prepare Australian Curriculum subjects of assigned to a particular House. individuals to embrace the challenges English, History, Geography, Science, Year 7-10 pastoral groups are of life and understand that and Mathematics, for Foundation organised under the House system. relationships are based on openness through to Year 10. Each student belongs to one of the and acceptance of others. The example College’s four Houses, named after our of Jesus Christ and the life of Don Salesian and Dominican Patron saints: Bosco are our foundation. Bosco, Savio, Guzman, and Siena.

Dominic College 2017 Annual Report 4 The school year of 2017 in review

2017 marked the 70th anniversary of Westwood, (Dominic College 1983- The spiritual and religious life of the the commencement of classes on the 1986) for Academia –Scientist, College continued to be central to Dominic College site under Salesian researching phytoplankton in the Dominic with our students participating patronage in 1947. Dominic College Antarctic ecosystem and Dr Olivia again in Salesian youth gatherings, now has thousands of former students Rundle, (Dominic College (1986-1991) OzBosco and the Don Bosco Camps at who were once part of our school for Academia – Senior Lecturer in the Dromana with the Salesian Youth community living and working both Faculty of Law. Ministry staff. The College’s youth near and far across the globe. With the group, Salesian Youth – Dominic advent of seven decades, there is a College (SYDC) continued to enjoy a deep sense now in the College of our committed membership and regular past and the origins of our traditions. activity.

Hall of Achievement Annually we invite one of our younger staff members to nominate to be a In February, we commenced the 2017 participant in the Salesians’ two-week academic year by holding Dominic Cagliero Immersion. In 2017, our College’s fourth Hall of Achievement Kindergarten teacher, Mr Michael Voss Ceremony. travelled to Cambodia for this unique Later in November, Mr. Michael Lampard, (Dominic College, 1999 – learning experience. These immersions 2001) was inducted into the Hall of are always a life changing experience for Achievement for his achievement as a participants who use the experience to renowned Opera singer, conductor and enrich the College community in composer and for his significant different ways. contribution to the Creative and Performing Arts. Mr. Lampard received his recognition at the College’s annual Awards Ceremony and captivated the assembled gathering with a brilliant rendition of ‘Stars’ from Les Misérables.

The Hall of Achievement aims Religious Dimension to celebrate the history of the College and the students whose In 2017, Dominic College continued to careers have been significantly be deeply focused on the Mission of the Catholic Church, giving witness to the shaped by their education at charism of the Salesians of Don Bosco Dominic College. Here we In August, 2017, our key staff leaders and enacting and facilitating the Salesian recognise and acknowledge had the opportunity to attend the biennial Mission of Education. significant achievements by Old Salesian Educational Leaders

Scholars that have upheld the Conference, held in Melbourne and run Our classroom Religious Education spirit and values of our by the Australian Pacific Salesian programs continued to operate in founder, Don Bosco, including Principals Association (APSPA). The alignment with other elements of the Conference gave our leaders a unique hard work, honesty, respect religious life of the College, including and good citizenship. opportunity to be inspired by the life and prayer, liturgies, retreats days for Years work of our founder, Don Bosco and to 7-10, feast day celebrations and social Five old scholars were inducted into return with greater knowledge of the justice initiatives related to the College’s source of his faith, his motivation and our Hall of Achievement - Fr Denis Catholic identity and Salesian heritage. Allen, (Boys’ Town 1947-1950) for his commitment to working and educating young people in new and Human Spirit as Priest of the The St Vincent de Paul Society Archdiocese for 51 years; Dr Ian innovative ways. It was also an continued as a wonderful influence and opportunity to connect with Salesian McShane, (Savio College & Dominic we maintained a strong Young Vinnies College 1969-1974) Academia - Senior friends, mentors and leaders. in our 7-10. An enthusiastic and active Research Fellow in the School of Mini-Vinnies was established in our K-6 Global Urban & Social Studies at RMIT in 2017. University Melbourne; Dr Karen Dominic College 2017 Annual Report 5

Provincial Council Visit The College’s involvement in the 2017 Creative Arts at Dominic College In October, our Provincial, Fr Greg Cancer Council’s Relay for Life was an The Creative Arts at the College Chambers SDB and members of the amazing and memorable experience for continued throughout 2017 to offer our Salesian Provincial Council visited the all involved. Our College involvement students a wonderful range of College and held their monthly Council in 2017 instilled in students that every opportunities to be challenged and Meeting in the Basil Fox Room in action they take individually and extended. Grantleigh. collectively can make a difference, developing crucial self-efficacy. The College’s Elective Dance Program continued to strengthen in 2017 in 2017 Asian Festival partnership with and under the tutelage Dominic College students were of Ms Jenina Evans, founder and immersed in the sights and sounds of the principal of Jenina’s Dance Workshop Asia region for our biennial Asian (JDW). Festival in October, 2017. At the end of Term 2, the Year 8 and The three-day Asian Festival saw Year 9/10 Dance classes competed in the

students enjoy an array of activities with Southern Tasmanian Dance Eisteddfod – The Council included three former food taster plates, an excellent static Schools Section at the Derwent principals of Dominic College - Fr display area to explore, wonderful books Entertainment Centre. Competing Bernie Graham SDB, Fr Phil Gleeson to read together, a range of volunteer against College students, our Year 9/10 SDB, as well as the Provincial, Fr Greg guest speakers and the opportunity to elective class was placed equal first and Chambers SDB. It was a privilege to participate in lunch time games from the our Year 8 class received a ‘Highly take the Council on a tour of parts of the Asia region. Year 8-10 Japanese elective Commended.’ The quality of the student College and to take pride in the way we students took the lead and ran a range of work was the result of the quality of the have built on the legacy of these Japanese cultural activities for our teaching by Jenina Evans through our Principals and Principals before them. younger students. partnership with JDW. The Council members were impressed with the facilities development as well as The routines were noted as being the engagement and focus of students in polished, well-rehearsed and cleverly classrooms that we visited. The College utilising the diversity and strength of Leadership Team also met with the their dancers. Apart from their solid Salesian Provincial Council to discuss technical work, the students were and share our work and focus. emotionally connected to the routines and to each other and their teacher, Community Outreach Jenina Evans set the bar high for our students. The Cancer Council’s Relay for Life was a significant event early in 2017 for the Inaugural Music and Dance Showcase Dominic College community. Students and staff and their families raised over In September 2017, the College held our $15,000 for the Cancer Council – the K-6 students were highly engaged in inaugural Showcase of Music and Dance most ever raised at the College for a research tasks and fun classroom at the Don Bosco Creative Arts Centre at charity. Over 100 students walked and activities on their allocated countries Guilford Young College. Indeed it was a ran around the Domain all night, one including Japan, Sri Lanka, the wonderful showcase of performing arts Saturday night in March, to support Philippines, China, Vietnam, South talent from Years 3-10. everyone in our school community and Korea, Thailand and Pakistan. the broader community who has been, and is, affected by cancer. Eighteen Year 8 -10 Japanese language elective students comprised our newly formed ‘Dominiku Daiko.’ The students completed ten weeks of drumming training under the tutelage of Taiko Drum. Funding was provided by a University of Tasmania Asia Institute grant and from our own budget. ‘Dominiku Daiko’ worked towards the

performance of two items at the One of the outstanding features of the College’s Asian Festival Assembly. evening was the high student

participation with over 100 students The K-6 Asian Assembly was a performing on stage. In addition to these wonderful celebration of our Dominic College involvement was students, there were a number of appreciation of our Asian neighbours’ initiated and supported by our 7-10 students involved in backstage vast diversity, rich cultural backgrounds Coordinator of Pastoral Care, Mr Aaron management, technical production and and traditions. With singing, dancing and Davey. Mr Davey had a constant aim of front of house. entertainment, the highlight was without sustaining and increasing student Students also compered the show with doubt the incredible performance of our participation, and developing a high great conviction and sense of fun. The ‘Dominiku Daiko.’ sense of connectedness and belonging in event attracted an audience of well over community and care for others by 500 people and the College received students. excellent feedback on the event.

Dominic College 2017 Annual Report 6 There was a terrific variety and diversity actor and director of React Drama, The weather station is a compact facility across the production program which Andrew Casey and actor and radio mounted on our Boys’ Town building was well structured and aptly named a presenter, John X. which sends data wirelessly to a student ‘showcase’. Feedback from the audience accessible data hub below. It comprises indicated that the quality of performance In 2017, the College’s Year 5 and 6 instruments to accurately record was impressive and the group work Choir formed part of a mass choir of 300 temperature, UV Index, precipitation, strong and disciplined. voices participating in ‘Tasmania Sings’ wind speed and direction, and which was the opening event for the barometric pressure. Festival of Voices in the last week of Term 2. This choir performed five songs accompanied by the Tasmanian Youth Orchestra. Dominic College’s choir was under the direction of Ms Katherine Hewitt and Mr Martin Smith.

In August, the Senior Drama classes comprising a cast of 37, shared roles in their production of Neil Simon’s comedy, The Good Doctor, which Students’ pride in their work, sense of focuses on writer Anton Chekhov. confidence and connectivity to each Performances were held in the Oratory As we begin to establish our other was underpinned by substantial Space. Meteorological Club in 2018, students student skill and talent. will be able to analyse data from the Dominic College Weather Station and Drama and Theatre Opportunities build their own mini-weather stations to The last week of Term 2 in 2017 was take home to other locations. marked by some wonderful opportunities The weather station uses a webcam to for our students in the Creative Arts. The display live views of Mt Wellington three Year 6 classes presented ‘Say it /kunanyi so that locally and globally we Loud!’ to their parents and teachers can watch our mountain remotely. during a gazetted evening. This annual production featured three original one These facilities will not only be act plays devised, scripted and presented important for Dominic College’s K-10 by the students. Science program, but will hopefully bring a new and accessible weather 2017 marked the fourth year of ‘Say It A Thursday matinee performance saw watching portal for the growing Loud!’ as the culmination of the Year 6 residents of two local aged care community of Glenorchy residents who Drama curriculum in which students facilities, Glenview and Glenhaven join want to contribute to and participate in develop, produce and stage their own our audience as part of our community the conversation about the weather. plays. The Year 6 play building program outreach. As an ensemble production, commences for the students with the every performance featured different Commonwealth Government’s question: What would you say if you combinations of performers presenting Sporting Schools knew everyone was listening? Over two their own interpretations of the Dominic College has been fortunate to terms, students then respond to this characters. The students, under the receive a wide variety of funding support question exploring an issue that directly guidance of Mr Mike O’Brien, Director from the Australian Government affects their age group or a local-global of Creative Arts K-10, did an excellent partnership program, Sporting Schools. issue they feel passionate about and want job in sustaining good quality theatre The program aims to provide and to share through ‘Say it Loud!’ performances. promote unique and authentic sporting opportunities for students in the hope of At the end of October, sixteen of our inspiring lifelong physical fitness. talented Year 9 and 10 Drama students took to the stage to present the College’s Through the work of Director of HPE K- 2017 Talking Heads –as a two-night 10, Mr Cameron Golding, we have show. Conquering the monologue takes accessed almost $20,000 for HPE and focus, discipline and hard work. We Sports programs in the last two years were very pleased with students on their (2016-17) through our involvement in achievement of excellence in this the Commonwealth Sporting Schools extension opportunity. . Program. This program has provided our

students with specialist development Dominic College Weather Station Also in the final week of Term 2, the opportunities from external providers. Creative Arts faculty, using the The College was fortunate to establish improvisation conventions of Theatre our own weather station in 2017 thanks These have included a K-6 Gymnastics Sports, held the Scriptless Cup House to the financial support of the then Program, a Primary Netball program, a Competition. There were three divisions Speaker of the Assembly, Mrs Elise Year 4-6 Surfing Program and Years 5-6 - Years 5 & 6, Years 7 & 8 and Years 9 Archer and Mr Will Hodgman’s Beach Day and Surf Lessons as well as & 10. Students had wonderful sessions Premier’s Department. Tennis coaching lessons for Years 7-8. which they thoroughly enjoyed. Special guest judges for 2017 were Old Scholar,

Dominic College 2017 Annual Report 7 One 2017 Sporting Schools grant in A body of longitudinal research now By the end of 2017, we were able to particular, also enabled the College to highlights the effectiveness of Launch celebrate the achievements of the year introduce Orienteering into our Year 3-6 into Learning programs as significantly around the nine text types; the Curriculum. The first step in introducing supporting children to achieve success as formulation of a scope and sequence the program was to commission a they commence and continue formal document that allows writing to be professionally drawn Orienteering Map schooling. explicitly taught in the necessary depth of the College’s property. This was giving students the time to practise and completed by Orienteering Tasmania Our Launch into Learning in 2017, under fully develop their skills as writers; the and subsequent student training was the leadership of Mrs Linda Douglas, development of a shared understanding provided by Orienteering Tasmania. supported the transition of children into of the purpose, structure and features of our Kindergarten through a range of each text type and the development of a Students responded with enthusiasm to physical, social and emotional clear set of steps to ensure that each year the challenges of map reading, compass development activities and early literacy level builds on the knowledge and skill use and navigating the control points set and numeracy experiences. that has been developed in previous out on the property’s grid. Once the grade levels. course was established, qualified instructors from Orienteering Tasmania Revitalizing Shakespeare were engaged to teach staff and students, In July, 2017, Year 9 English students over 4 weeks, the basics of Orienteering. enjoyed a presentation by the Bell In the final week of the program in Term Shakespeare Company called 1, students competed in teams to ‘Shakespeare is Dead.’ The three- complete an orienteering course plotted member company that visited Hobart on the College’s grid. explored with students why Shakespeare’s plays are still being Students loved running around the performed 400 years after his death. It College grounds, reading the map and The children who attended Launch into was a fabulous and interactive locating the checkpoints in the right Learning played together using a full production staged in the Oratory Space. numerical order. Balancing speed with array of stimuli; they enjoyed fine and accurate navigational judgement in a gross motor development activities and This visit by Bell Shakespeare was part collaborative team situation proved to be thrived in the dancing, singing and music of the 7-10 English Coordinator, Mrs Jan a highly exciting and challenging making activities. Across 2017 they Marcenko’s implementation of a plan for learning framework. enjoyed a range of other specialist how the 7-10 English Faculty would activities and exciting excursions. continue to grow and develop our students’ interactions with the works of K-10 Writing Project Shakespeare over the next few years. Under the leadership of our Director of The plan focuses on the involvement of Teaching and Learning K-10, Mrs Selina Bell Shakespeare inclusive of Kinne, K-10 Teacher Meetings in 2017 professional learning for our English continued to focus on further developing teachers in addition to our students. our Writing Project, exploring ways to embed and enhance writing across all areas of the curriculum, creating a culture where ‘every teacher is a teacher of writing’.

With a huge property of over 70 acres, Teachers developed a common orienteering offers an excellent agreement on the names of the nine main framework to achieve both HPE text types that are taught: narrative, outcomes combined with teaching recount, report, procedure, exposition, systematic thinking. The map and course explanation, description, response and will be used annually from now on as discussion. We also continued to work part of the HPE curriculum from Year 3- towards reducing the cognitive load of As part of our review of the way we 10 with the Map being a valuable our students with shared resources teach Shakespeare at the College and a resource for the HPE faculty. including checklists, graphic organisers redevelopment of our pedagogy, a team and exemplars. of our 7-10 English teachers travelled to Launch into Learning Melbourne at the end of 2017 to visit In 2017, Dominic College commenced the world’s first full-scale temporary the Launch into Learning program for working replica of the Globe Theatre pre-kinder children and their parents. called ‘Pop-Up Globe’. This program recognises and has The faculty members, together with the reinforced our philosophy that parents Director of Creative Arts K-10, returned are the primary educators and that the from this Shakespearean immersion with nature and quality of children’s’ new ideas and lots of energy for the experiences in the first phase of their project to be implemented in 2018. life, before they commence school, are critical to their healthy development as Mrs Marcenko was further awarded a learners. prestigious regional Shakespeare mentorship with the Bell Shakespeare Company for 2018.

Dominic College 2017 Annual Report 8 Science Pedagogy Review and New Students were able to engage with the We extended our congratulations to Science Program Initiative general public and answer their queries. Sebastian on this outstanding Student projects included: a Water Flow achievement. Sebastian joined the Our 2017 Science Pedagogy Review Meter, Microwave, Chicken Incubator, Dominic College ICAS Hall of Year 5-10 was undertaken towards the Automatic Chicken Feeder, Electric Achievement medal winners that end of Term 2. Ms Yvana Jones who has Skateboard, Heat Sensor Blinds, Water includes Max Brideson, Harry Breslin, been working with the College on our Moisture Sensor, Distortion Pedal and Oscar Breslin, Mikaela Cruz and Lily pedagogical framework was engaged to many more. Newell. undertake the review, which involved interviews with staff, curriculum leaders The 2017 Festival kick-started Science and students as well as observations of Week at the College. Many students classes. The report and recommendations from our K-6 classes visited our were provided to the faculty and the laboratories to participate in a range of College Leadership Team for activities that explored a variety of consideration and implementation. science concepts. The Physical Science students enjoyed these experiences and it In 2017, our Director of Science K-10, was a wonderful opportunity to watch Ms Jane Myers introduced a new Year the students’ projects come together

9/10 elective, Animal Husbandry and successfully. Marine Studies. An animal maintenance Fred Hollows Humanity Awards facility was built and created at Dominic Year 6 students, Bianca Russell and College, at the rear of the Science Kitean Aitken received Fred Hollows laboratories. This allowed us to house Humanity Awards. the animals overnight during the week and they enjoy a break on Ms Myers’ Bianca has been an outstanding leader property on the weekends and holidays. with our Mini-Vinnies in 2017, demonstrating wonderful commitment to those who are poor and disadvantaged. As part of their studies, students selected an animal and then researched and Kitean was an impressive agent for change and hope; his efforts to raise created a very detailed portfolio about Introduction of Mid-Year Exams their chosen animal. Students have funds for the McGrath Foundation Under the leadership of the Coordinator through holding a Pink Stumps Day, investigated the ethics, veterinary care, of Teaching and Learning 7-10, Mrs feeding and housing, genetics, breeding, were admired across Hobart. Kitean was Ganga Fraser and the 7-10 Curriculum chosen as the Fred Hollows Humanity the structure and all the body systems of Team, 2017 saw the introduction of Year the animals. Award Tasmanian Junior Ambassador. 10 Mid-year exams for the first time at the end of Term 2. 2017 also saw the Student Achievements Our students had an amazing range of introduction of end-of-year exams for opportunities in 2017 including Year 9 students. The College entered Year 10 student exhibiting their animals at the Brighton work in the inaugural 2017 Tasmanian Young Artist Awards held and exhibited Show, the Royal Hobart Show and the This initiative was designed to extend at Deloraine. This provided a wonderful Huon Show with outstanding feedback student examination experience, and excellent results. introduce study planning earlier and opportunity to enter artwork from our better prepare students for the demands senior students. We had five finalists in the exhibition out of a total 28 exhibiting of Years 11 and 12. Year 9 and 10 finalists state-wide. teachers worked effectively with students to guide them in preparing well for the exams. Visual Arts and Media Arts students offered a good number of entries to the 2017 Royal Hobart Show Youth Art and ICAS Success Photography Competition. With well Each year Dominic College students take over 100 submissions in a variety of part in the International Competitions media, from photography, printmaking and Assessments for Schools (ICAS). to painting and skateboard designs. Over one million student entries are

accepted from more than 6,300 schools Twenty students received awards in the Festival of Bright Ideas in Australia and New Zealand annually Youth Art and Photography sections In August, 2017 our Year 9 and 10 and students from over 20 countries ranging from Highly Commended to Science students, together with our participate in ICAS, organised by the Director of Science K-10 and Physical First Place winners. University of NSW. Science teacher, Mr Brad Parkin, participated in the state’s Festival of We were delighted that three ICAS Bright Ideas at Princes Wharf. This was medals came to Dominic College in a wonderful initiative and great 2017. Year 7 student, Oscar Breslin was experience for our Animal Husbandry awarded two ICAS medals for coming and Physical Science students as they first in Tasmania in Year 7 English and interacted with school students and Year 7 Mathematics. One of our Year 2 families about their projects and our students, Sebastian Smith, was awarded animals over two intense days. a 2017 ICAS medal for coming first in Tasmania in Year 2 Spelling.

Dominic College 2017 Annual Report 9 Twenty-seven of our Year 3-10 Japanese With the accelerating profile and support Language students represented the of women’s AFL teams amongst the College at the Tasmanian Japanese public and media, and the increase in the speech competition. All students number of girls playing in local teams, performed very well. Thirteen of our SATIS was able to introduce a new students gained either a place in the top football competition in 2017. three or Honourable Mentions, with Dominic was strong throughout the Year 6 student Xin Chan winning first season, remaining undefeated through to place in her year division. its grand final against Mackillop College. Dominic College students also did extremely well in the 2017 Tasmanian Japanese Calligraphy Competition. Of the 12 state-wide prize winners, three Australian Under-18 T38 Para record of Dominic students were chosen as first or 11.57m in the Under 15 shot put. second prize winners in their category after winning their sections in our Sam Walker also travelled to internal competition. Year 6 student, Xin Switzerland in 2017 to compete in the Chan again took out first place in the first World Junior Para Athletics primary division. Championships. Sam was one of twelve Australians selected and was the only Our Animal Husbandry students were Tasmanian. Sam competed in the 100m sprint, for which he holds the current invited to a ‘Cows Create Careers’ event U/16 Australian record, as well as for schools in our region led by the Breaking into a new sport is challenging competing in the 200m sprint. Dairy Industry during Term 3, a and all players in this new SATIS roster nationwide program run by Dairy are to be commended for having the Australia. This involved students Tournament of Minds courage to do this. The key to good team undertaking theory work whilst hand- In 2017, the College re-commenced our sportsmanship is commitment, hard rearing three-day old twin Holstein involvement in the Tasmanian work, focus and graciousness both on heifers provided to the College by Green Tournament of Minds (TOM) - a and off the field. We were proud that the Glory Dairy Farm. Kirrily Garwood and problem-solving program for teams of Dominic College AFL team Bree Golding were awarded first place in students from primary and secondary demonstrated these attributes in 2017. the secondary division across Tasmania, years who solve demanding, open-ended and a team comprising Rhianna Dean, challenges from many disciplines. The Dominic College U/11 Soccer Team Gabby McGuire, Molly Warren and was awarded the 2017 Principal’s Shield Caledonia Atkin gained second place. Two Dominic College teams participated as the best sporting team at Dominic in the State Final of the Tournament of College for the year. This was the first Minds, working on a Challenge for six time a K-6 team was awarded this weeks without assistance from teachers, prestigious shield. The team has been parents or peers. They were encouraged together since 2013 and have been to explore possibilities and experiment coached by dedicated parent Adrian with ideas as they endeavoured to Bannister. produce their best possible solution right up to the deadline of Tournament Day. The team, made up of mainly U/10 Both our teams, as novices, performed (Year 4) players, played up a year level admirably. to challenge themselves. They were highly motivated, demonstrated excellent commitment to training and The College again entered students into competition in the NSJSA Saturday the annual City of Clarence Eisteddfod Soccer roster. The team represented in September 2017. We had over 70 Dominic at the 2017 ‘Mano’s Cup’ in students performing across two days. Launceston which is a state-wide The Senior Choir (Years 7-10) was tournament for interested teams to awarded a merit certificate in a highly challenge themselves against the best competitive section. The Year 3-4 choir teams in the state. and the Year 5-6 Choir both placed first in their sections. Dominic College Sport Program The Dominic College Sport program The Southern Sports Association for continued in its amazing diversity and Tasmanian Independent Schools strength, with high participation rates by (SSATIS) Athletics Carnival was held at students. the Domain Athletics Centre in September. We had 86 students Of note in 2017 was the Dominic represent Dominic College in the College girls’ AFL team who won the Carnival. Year 10 student Indy Brideson, inaugural junior Southern Sports broke the record for Under 16 Girls Association of Tasmanian Independent Javelin with a throw of 28.95 metres. Schools (SSATIS) title in a stellar Year 9 student Samuel Walker, set a new season.

Dominic College 2017 Annual Report 10 This was the first time a team from trade in areas such as automotive, International Women’s and Men’s Dominic had entered the Mano’s Cup. electronics, printing and computers. Day Breakfast Our Dominic team were the only school With wonderful generosity and humility, Annually we hold our International team at this tournament, which was a Dominic College students donated Women’s Day Breakfast for girls in feat within itself, and had to play against laptops, sports equipment, their sleeping Years 5-10 and their mothers, clubs from the north of the state which bags and the money they had raised to grandmothers and aunties and our demonstrated very strong opposition, but support the Salesians in continuing with International Men’s Day Breakfast for they held their own in a wonderful their important work. boys in Years 5-10 and their fathers, display of soccer in each and every grandfathers and older male friends. match. All four Immersion Learning groups maintained excellent blogs which kept Immersion Learning Continues and members of our community well- Expands informed and engaged every day of their In the last week of Term 3 2017, three trips. Students and teachers returned groups of students set off on much safely from these rich learning anticipated immersion learning experiences full of stories, memories and experiences. Year 10 students travelled greater insights into our local-global to Japan, visiting Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, community. Hiroshima and Tokyo. This was the first time we had Japanese language students Support from the Rotary Club of travelling on the trip. Glenorchy In 2017, we extended our gratitude to the These events aim to build community A large group of Year 9 students Rotary Club of Glenorchy for their and sense of belonging and build a travelled to Central Australia visiting wonderful support and donation to our culture of aspiration. Old Scholars are significant spots such as Uluru, Kata College for the purchase of new class invited to be our guests of honour and Tjuta and the Valley of the Winds, Ubirr readers. Thanks to the generosity of we select an impressive Old Scholar to Rock and Katherine Gorge including a Glenorchy Rotary we were able to be the guest speaker who is considered great visit to a local Aboriginal purchase $1,000 of new readers. an outstanding role model and Community. ambassador for Dominic College. The generous sponsorship by Glenorchy In 2017, we were blessed to have two Year 6 visited Canberra in a wonderful Rotary allowed the continuation of our Dominic Old Scholars speak on these experience across places such as our Year 10 student annual participation in occasions- Dr Naomi Tomlinson and Parliament House, the Australian the Model United Nations Assembly Professor James Vickers. Museum and Art Gallery, the War (MUNA) at Deloraine. Memorial, the Mint, Questacon and the much anticipated Australian Institute of Sport where they enjoyed a memorable swim.

In 2017, the College expanded its program of Immersion Learning to include an opportunity for students in Dr Tomlinson is a paediatrician, has her South East Asia within a Service own practice as well as working at the Learning framework. In November, ten Royal Hobart Hospital and lecturing in Year 9-10 students accompanied by medicine at the University of Tasmania. teachers Mr Aaron Davey and Mrs Jan Professor Vickers is the Chair of Pathology at the University of Tasmania Marcenko, departed for our first World and is Co-Director of the Wicking Challenge Service Learning trip to In 2017, two Year 9 Dominic College Dementia Research and Education Cambodia. This was a 16 day trip and students Maggie Baker and Aynee Centre and Deputy Dean of the Faculty involved a trekking phase, a community Williams, were sponsored by the Rotary of Health. project phase and a rest and relaxation Club of Glenorchy to participate in phase. Rotary’s Youth Program of Enrichment Both these Old Scholars shared their (RYPEN), a fabulous weekend experiences of being students at Dominic adventure-based leadership learning College, gave insight into success and camp with other students from a range of shared wise advice for our students as southern Tasmanian schools. they set their life goals. The funds raised

from both these events supported girls Annually Rotary supports our End of and boys for scholarships to attend our Year Awards with several hundred Salesian schools in Samoa. dollars in prize money for trophies and

books. The Rotary Club of Glenorchy Facilities Development are a force for tremendous good in the The College Master Plan, while As part of their immersion, the group Glenorchy community and in 2017, we complete and unfolding, continues to be visited the Don Bosco Technical School were fortunate to be recipients of their a flexible plan which is regularly re- in Phnom Penh. Students met with Fr wonderful outreach. visited with our architects, Liminal and Charles Arun SDB and learnt how the the Dominic College Council. school provides for some of the poorest

Cambodians the opportunity to learn a

Dominic College 2017 Annual Report 11 In 2017, we commenced the re- the K-2 play area in her memory; a and Principal of three Catholic schools. development of the area below and plaque was placed beneath this tree and, She has been Principal of St Thomas around the College Library as a Creative as it grows, some seating will be erected More’s Primary, Newstead (1993-1997), Arts hub which will house K-10 Music under its shade. Sacred Heart Primary, Ulverstone (1998- and Visual Arts spaces. This has been 2001), and St Aloysius Primary, named Fra Angelico, after the Communications Improvement - Kingston (2002-2006). Dominican artist and is a long Parent Paperwork In all of her educational endeavours, Mrs anticipated and exciting development. Sometimes a small change can have O’Hea’s total focus has been on This was ready and operational for the huge benefits in a community. One of achieving improved educational commencement of the 2018 academic these developments vastly improved our outcomes for students. Her contribution year. communications and capacity to be in to the leadership of Catholic schools has touch with parents with speed and been tireless; marked by wisdom, a We were successful in receiving a efficiency. commitment to the disadvantaged and Commonwealth Capital Grant of marginalised and a passionate resolve $450,000 towards the project for which In 2017, Dominic College implemented that students and their well-being be at we were most grateful. We have needed Parent Paperwork to assist with the heart of all decisions. patience and tolerance as we managed communication between school and our traffic and the safe movement of parents. Parent Paperwork is an online Mrs O’Hea’s Honorary ACEL students to and from a relocated bus system that replaces the paper forms we Fellowship acknowledges her area. send home for parents to complete and outstanding educational leadership that return. The online system has proved has made a significant difference not We worked with the P&F to develop a very easy for parents and staff to use. only in her school communities but in phased structured K-6 playground Instead of paper forms coming home in a shaping, preparing, supporting and comprising a climbing spider, swings, child’s school bag, parents are sent an walking with the next generation of slides and other play structures. The email notification, with a link to click teachers and school leaders in Tasmania. shaping of this outdoor facility will that opens a secure web page version of continue to be developed. the form to complete and submit. Our Director of Creative Arts K-10, Mr Mike O’Brien, also received a 2017 In 2017, an extensive Animal Husbandry This made an amazing difference in Australian Council for Educational facility was established by our own 2017 to our management of permissions Leadership (ACEL TAS) award for Property Team to support the Director of and direct information to parents about Excellence in Educational Leadership. Science K-10’s vision to establish and the activities and experiences their develop applied science learning. With children are involved in each term. Mr O’Brien has consistently two Year 9/10 elective classes in this demonstrated visionary leadership in subject, we developed this facility within Australian Council for Educational implementing Creative Arts initiatives at existing spaces and land. Leadership Awards to Dominic Dominic College and his dedication and College Leaders achievements are most worthy of this The Passing of Mrs Jenny Edwards Two of our College leaders, Mrs Janine recognition as an outstanding, innovative We sadly recommenced our 2017 school O’Hea and Mr Mike O’Brien were leader at Dominic College. year without our warm and generous honoured in 2017 by the Australian Teacher Assistant, Mrs Jenny Edwards. Council for Educational Leadership Under Mr O’Brien’s leadership, there Our colleague and friend, sadly passed (ACEL TAS) for their work and have been impressive initiatives in away unexpectedly in December 2016. achievements in making significant student performance and presentation Jenny was a former student and much- contribution to the understanding and opportunities since 2013. The loved member of staff for 14 years. practice of educational leadership. development of a Creative Arts framework for enabling arts integration In February, members of the Dominic through such initiatives as the biennial community gathered in our College Creative Arts Festival and the College’s Chapel to give thanks for Jenny’s life. Fr Anzac Centenary project, ‘In their Own Nick Castelyns SDB led us in prayer and Words’ has been extensive. The Jenny’s daughter, Dianne O’Rourke, development of quality arts experiences joined us for this celebration of her for students such as the introduction of mother’s life. our much-loved Theatre Sports House Competition has led to rich educational outcomes for students.

Parent Involvement and Parents & Friends Committee Throughout 2017, parents continued to Mrs Janine O’Hea was awarded an support learning in K-6 classrooms Honorary ACEL Fellowship, which is a through our program of ‘Parent Help’. testimony to her 40 years of committed Our Mamma Margaret Kitchen Program and energetic service to education in and the Sports Program were just a few Tasmania. of the ways parents were actively

involved in the College. The diversity of Staff and students at the College will Mrs O’Hea has had a distinguished the College’s Co-Curricular Sports always remember Jenny for her quick career as an outstanding Assistant Program in particular relies on the wit, ready laughter and sincere heart. Principal of two Catholic schools generous involvement and support of a The College planted a magnolia tree in including Dominic College since 2011, significant numbers of our parents as

Dominic College 2017 Annual Report 12 volunteer coaches, managers and The College Leadership Team also spent servants of Christ and our founder Don umpires. time working on our School Bosco. Development Plan which is a specific The College Parents and Friends (P&F) plan for developing and improving the Recruitment of New College Leaders are a small but dynamic group who educational outcomes for all students. In mid-2017, the College recruited Mr continued to meet monthly across 2017 Stephen Casni as the College’s 2018 and regularly acted as a structured forum The team used the 2014 review that the Deputy Principal and the College’s new through which feedback on a range of Australian Council for Educational Director of Faith and Mission K-10, College issues was sought and provided. Research (ACER) had undertaken of the Alicia McMahon. Across the last part of College, using the National School the year Mr Casni and Mrs McMahon The P&F had a range of presentations Improvement Tool. We compared the spent time with College leaders and on from K-10 staff members on areas of College as captured in this report three the College site as part of their school development and areas of years ago, our position in 2017, and induction. information/discussion requested by the articulated what we saw as the priorities P&F. This group continued in 2017 as an for our improvement focus. These plans Thanksgiving for 2017 important forum, through which parents will be ready for broader consultation at 2017 was certainly challenging in many influenced change and development in the beginning of 2018. ways but was a productive and the College. rewarding year for Dominic College and

Farewell Mrs O’Hea and Mr Williams saw significant development. Staff, 2017 marked the retirement of our students, parents and Old Scholars made Deputy Principal, Mrs Janine O’Hea and many wonderful contributions to the the retirement of Mr Paul Williams. Mr College community. Williams held a number of important roles at the College across many years Dominic College is an excellent school and in 2017 was our 7-10 Daily because of the collective wisdom and Organiser. initiative of these groups and the excellent leadership of the many in designated leadership positions who have supported our shared vision. The P&F and its Committee under the The students in particular demonstrated leadership of President Nicola Rayner strong leadership, commitment to their worked hard all year round in 2017; their studies and a great sense of community generous efforts to raise additional funds and interconnectedness across 2017. for College initiatives made a genuine Student outreach to the poor and difference to our school community. In disadvantaged and those in need was 2017, there were many valuable particularly encouraging. contributions by the P&F to the College through events such as their Easter The 2017 staff at Dominic College were Raffle, Mother’s and Father’s Day stalls, a dynamic, hardworking and talented Sports Day BBQ, and our K-6 Disco. team. Dominic is fortunate to continue to The College Fair in November was once attract a range of outstanding and again a huge success with the Fair experienced educators, leaders and Committee doing exceptional work. The administrators dedicated to our students completion of Stage 2 of the K-6 Their retirements brought to conclusion and to the College. Playground in 2017 was testimony to decades of outstanding and loyal service their dedication and tireless, generous to Catholic Education Tasmania. All at The exceptional efforts and commitment service to the students and families of Dominic College saluted them both for of our College Leadership Team Mrs the College. their outstanding work over many years Janine O’Hea, Mrs Selina Kinne, Mr and we commended them on their Andrew Pritchard, Mr Dylan Chivers, Strategic Planning & School dedication, commitment and resolve to Mr Mike O’Brien, and Fr Lawrie Moate Development effectively manage a wide range of SDB were commendable. Our College Towards the end of 2017, the College duties for the College, always with Council and its dedicated Chairman, Fr Leadership Team devoted time to students at the centre. Bernie Graham SDB have enabled the drafting our strategic directions for the College to achieve a great deal in College for the next four years (2018- They were wonderful assets to Dominic bearing witness to the Gospel in the 2021). The draft framework includes a College and key figures in moving tradition of the Don Bosco and Dominic focus on the four domains of Mission, Dominic to become a Salesian school Guzman. Teaching and Learning, Community and community marked by integrity and Resources and Systems. excellence. Their loyalty and faithfulness Beth Gilligan to our mission has been steadfast and Dominic College Principal their tireless work representative of a deep vocation to the young - true

Dominic College 2017 Annual Report 13

Teaching Staff Qualifications Surname Name Qualifications Surname Name Qualifications Agius Jessica BA(Hons), GradDipEd, MEd (Special Kumrai Sunita BEd Needs) Allan Susan BEd Le Rossignol Kate BA, BTeach Attuoni Anna BA, DipEd Lowe Allison BA, BTeach Bellinger Daniel BA, BTeach Mackie Joshua BEd, BArts (Middle School) Blake Daniel BEd(HPE & Outdoor Ed) Cert IV Mangione Rocco BEd, DipTrade (Outdoor Recreation) Brennan Brian BSc DipEd Marcenko Janet BEd Brownrigg Jessica BTeach, BCA (Contemporary Arts) McDevitt Therese BEd Cardamatis Warwick BEd McGee Bradi BEd PostGrad RE Cazaly Anna BA Millikan Nicole BHM Cunningham Sue-Ellen DipT, BEd Moore Joseph BEd (Primary) Davey Aaron B HM Moulton Barbara BA, GradDipEd Davey Natalie B HM (Hons) Myers Jane BEd Davoren Veronica BA, DipEd, MEd Nolan Mark BEd (Hons) Donnelly Christine BA(Hons), GradDipLib, BTeach O'Brien Charmienne BEd Primary Douglas Linda BEd O'Brien Michael BA, DipEd Doyle Jane BEd O’Grady Michelle BA (Archaeology)BEd(Early Childhood) Durbridge Audrey BA, BTeach O'Hea Janine BEd, MEd, MACE Farr Kiera BEd O'Leary Frederick BEd Fraser Ganga BCom, BTeach, GradCert TESOL, MEd O'Leary Sonia BA, BTeach Fulton Benjamin GradDipT, BA Olejniczak Alexandra BSc (Hons), GradDipEd, MEd Gilligan Beth BA, DipEd, MA Palermo Jessica BSc, GradDipEd (Sec) Golding Cameron BHM Parkin Bradley BA, BSc Graham Beth BEd Pearce Jacinta BA, BTeach Gysen Jane BTeach, DipDes & Tech, AdvDipTourism Pritchard Andrew BA Harris Graeme BEd Reinbach David BEd Hawkins Roslyn DipTeach, BEd, TTC Rootes Margaret BA, BEd Healy Samantha PostGrad DipEd (Performing Arts) Scanlon Ruth BEd Hewitt Katherine BMus, BEd Stephen Olivia BEd Hooper April BEd, BA Swan Dora B BSc, BTeach(Hons) Jeffery Joanna Dip(Visual Art), B(Fine Art), BTeach Swan Timothy MEd, BA(Hons), GradDipEd, GradCert Theol Jordan Annie BEd Venettacci Christina BA, MTeach Joyce Hayley BEd, MEd Voss Michael BA, MTeach Kilpatrick Jane BA, DipEd, DipPsych Wearing-Smith Helen BSc, DipEd Kinne Selina BEd, DipTeach, GradCert (Ed) Williams Paul TeachCert Kress Martin BA, GradCert (Ed), GradDip (Ed) Wright Christopher BSc, GradDipEd, GradCert (RE) Kumashiro Belinda BEd (Hons)

Dominic College 2017 Annual Report 14

Staff overview In 2017 the College staff consisted of Teacher Qualifications 67 teachers and 32 non-teaching staff. All teachers employed at Dominic At other times the Kindergarten to The composition of the non-teaching College held Registration with the Year 10 teaching staff were jointly staff was 12 Teacher Assistants, 12 Tasmanian Teacher’s Registration involved in professional learning that Administration Staff, 4 Electronic Board. Included in this report is the included the whole college, specific Learning staff, 3 Maintenance staff list of all teacher qualifications. All year levels and opportunities that and 1 full time Counsellor. non-teaching staff were appropriately addressed individual requirements. qualified for their positions. Staff Attendance In 2017 the professional learning The average daily attendance rate for Expenditure and teacher costs were as follows: teaching staff in 2017 was 95%. participation in Professional This includes maternity leave, long Learning $33,883.00 Seminars & Conference service leave, carer’s leave, sick leave Professional learning is an integral $87,318.00 Staffing and Relief and bereavement leave. aspect of all staff being lifelong $32,146.00 Travel & Accommodation

learners. Staff Retention As a Kindergarten to Year 10 Salesian 82% of teaching staff employed in 76 individual staff members accessed Catholic College we ensured that all the 111 professional learning 2016 were retained at the beginning our staff had opportunities for of Term 1 2017. Movement of opportunities offered through the collaborative discussions as well as College in 2017. teaching staff was due to conclusion spiritual reflections about Catholic of contract, retirement, promotion ethos and Salesian charism. and transfer.

Student attendance

In 2017, average attendance for the whole school was recorded as 92%. Average attendance for each year level was as follows:

Year % Year % Kinder 94 5 93 Prep 94 6 93 The College’s Attendance Policy is affecting their child’s regular 1 93 7 91 available to parents on the College attendance at school. website, in the Parent Handbook and 2 94 8 90 in the Student Diary. 2017 saw the introduction of 3 93 9 90 Attendance Contracts for Year 10 Monthly attendance reports are students which was very successful. 4 94 10 90 issued to the Pastoral Care Team, where non-attendance is monitored Dominic College has reviewed its Addressing any non-attendance closely. Attendance Policy and the strategies continues to be a priority at Dominic in practice to manage non-attendance. College. Parents/guardians are Pastoral Care staff are in regular strongly encouraged to be in contact contact with parents/guardians of Online, period based attendance for with the school in all matters students with unexplained absences Year 7-10 students has been regarding student attendance. or indicators of at-risk attendance consolidated, and an SMS service to (80% or below regular attendance). inform parents of student absence is An unexplained student absence automatic. A strict audit trail of generates a letter to their Each term, parents/guardians of student absence and response parents/guardians, requesting an students with at-risk attendance continues to confirm recording and explanation for the non-attendance. receive a letter from the Director of reporting integrity. Parents are asked to provide a Pastoral Care requesting a meeting medical certificate for absences of with the Coordinator of Pastoral Care three days or more. to explore any issues that may be

Dominic College 2017 Annual Report 15 Senior Secondary 2017 Year 3 NAPLAN Results for Dominic College outcomes Post-school destinations Percentage of students who scored at or above the benchmark Area tested Dominic College State National Reading 96% 95% 95% Writing 98% 95% 96% Spelling 96% 91% 94% Grammar & punctuation 86% 94% 95% Numeracy 96% 96% 96%

74% of Year 10 students enrolled to 2017 Year 5 NAPLAN Results for Dominic College continue their education at Guilford Area tested Dominic College State National Young College (GYC). There continues to be targeted follow up of students to Reading 94% 92% 94% support their future pathway planning. Writing 86% 90% 92%

Another 22% enrolled in other Colleges Spelling 92% 90% 94% which is 10% higher than the number of enrolments in other Colleges in 2016 Grammar & punctuation 86% 90% 92% so this in an increase on last year. 3% of Numeracy 92% 95% 95% students enrolled in TasTAFE, and 1% were unsure and looking for full time 2017 Year 7 NAPLAN Results for Dominic College employment. This explains the Dominic College State National reduction in enrolments at GYC. Area tested Reading 97% 93% 94% We have continued the Year 10 Empower Program which means the Writing 90% 86% 88% Year 10 cohort are generally well Spelling 98% 91% 93% informed about future pathways providing students with a smooth Grammar & punctuation 95% 91% 92% transition to their most suitable pathways. The College continually Numeracy 99% 95% 95% evaluates transition processes to 2017 Year 9 NAPLAN Results for Dominic College ensure that we are providing the best advice and support to students as they Area tested Dominic College% State% National% transition to the next phase of their Reading 96% 89% 92% educational journey. Writing 86% 76% 82% A number of students who transitioned to GYC received Spelling 91% 85% 91% recognition at that College for Grammar & punctuation 93% 85% 89% achievements both in academic fields and in cultural and community Numeracy 100% 96% 96% pursuits in 2017. Analysis of NAPLAN data for 2017.

Student outcomes Year 3 and Year 5 2017 than in 2016 so the low percentage Dominic College’s 2017 Year 3 results has been impacted by the large range of Standardised national literacy and for NAPLAN testing continue to track results across the cohort, from very low numeracy testing results well with a high percentage of students to very high. This will be something to At all times our major focus is to at or above the National Minimum closely monitor with this group over the improve the literacy and numeracy Standard compared to the Tasmanian next two years. skills of every student and annual and Australian average. Writing is above Year 5 students maintained their good National testing in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 the State and National averages and results except in the Writing and provides us with data to monitor the Spelling is well above. There was a much Grammar and Punctuation categories ongoing performance of every student higher number of students who were which were below the National average. as they move through the College. below the National Minimum standard In Grammar and Punctuation we once in Grammar and Punctuation which again saw a slightly higher number of An analysis of NAPLAN data for 2017 explains the significant drop from 96% students in the highest two bands as (above) has provided the following in 2016 to 86% in 2017. Having said compared to 2016 results but also a information: that, there are actually slightly more much higher number in the band below students in the two highest bands in National Minimum Standard as

Dominic College 2017 Annual Report 16 compared to 2016. This is shown in the Literacy and Numeracy focus and the Year Book for 2017. It was wide range of results across the cohort. We will continue to ensure classroom pleasing to note the high quality Particular focus will be given to teaching and curriculum development achievements from so many within supporting the students who performed are focused on continuing to improve our College community. below National Minimum Standard over levels of Literacy and Numeracy the next two years. across all year levels and ensuring that Other forms of testing While the overall percentage of students resources such as Reading Eggs and Dominic College also participates in an above National Minimum Standard is Mathletics are tools that continue to annual program of numeracy and lower than the 2016 result, we are again positively support the teaching of literacy testing called PAT seeing that there have been significant English and Mathematics. All teachers (Progressive Achievement Tests) gains for students in the top two bands have a responsibility to teach literacy which is administered through the with 40 students having higher gains and numeracy skills in all curriculum Tasmanian Catholic Education Office since their Year 3 NAPLAN results in areas. Explicit literacy and numeracy (TCEO). In 2017 this included all writing as opposed to the 2016 cohort skills are then taught in English and students in Years 1-9 and occurred in who only had 15 students achieve a Mathematics classes. K-6 staff spent a the second part of the year. Tests were higher rate of gain. significant amount of time throughout administered in Spelling, Mathematics, the year evaluating Spelling programs Comprehension and Vocabulary and Year 7 focus and planned to launch a common were again completed online. PAT is It is pleasing to see that Year 7 spelling program across K-6. This will designed for use in Australian schools students of 2017 achieved very good provide consistency of language about to provide objective information about results across all areas with the best spelling and the opportunity to track achievement levels to inform teaching result being 99% of students above the progress of students as they practice and monitor progress. the National Minimum Standard in progress through the year levels. Teaching and Support staff use these Numeracy which is 4% above the results to inform literacy and National and State averages. Spelling Data analysis numeracy groupings, special needs results for this cohort improved by NAPLAN results are used to identify assistance and enrichment groupings. 4% compared to the 2016 cohort in students who need specific and The data is used to track students and Year 7, and scored 7% above the State targeted programs to improve their analyse their progress from year to average. levels in literacy and numeracy. year as evidence of improvement or The highest relative gain was in Student Support staff, under the the need for more targeted programs Grammar & Punctuation. It appears direction of classroom teachers, then for specific areas of concern. This that a strong focus on literacy and provide the support required for these testing, along with NAPLAN results, numeracy including increased time students. This is through working with provides us with a comprehensive allocation to our English and small groups of students working with picture of how our students are Mathematics classes has had a positive individual students in the classroom. achieving. impact for these students. Streaming in Year 7-10 Mathematics and English classes allows for the Another form of testing used at Year 9 focus timetabling of smaller classes to cater Dominic College is PIPS (Performance Year 9 students performed well across for students with low results. This Indicators in Primary Schools) for all areas although there was a slight ensures that they receive adequate Prep students. Two tests were drop in spelling results as compared attention and support. The College will administered, one at the beginning of to the Year 9 cohort in 2016. This continue to investigate further models the year and one at the end of the year’s group achieved 10O% above of support for students such as the use year. The test assesses the progress of the National Minimum Standard in of Literacy Support Teachers. The students in literacy, numeracy and Numeracy which was an excellent College has provided an acceleration phonological awareness, diagnoses outcome and a testament to the focus program for a group of 3 students who individual student work and provides on extra lessons being allocated to have been identified as students who data to indicate where students are Mathematics in the timetable ensuring are excelling specifically in the area of achieving or under-achieving, that students have daily lessons in Mathematics. These students have predicting future performance for Mathematics. been able to undertake a full year of identifying individuals who might study in the Mathematics course for benefit from early intervention. Other Success in Grammar & Punctuation the year level above their current year tests used in K-6 are Reading has risen by 4% compared to the 2016 group. Recovery, Phonemic Awareness results - a direct consequence of (Prep) and Auditory Processing focused strategies by the English Achievements by students from all (Prep). A simple test is administered faculty to improve skills in this area. year levels, as well as staff and old at the end of the Kinder year called Spelling was lower in 2017 compared scholars, in academic work, sport, ‘Who am I’ to gauge students’ level of to 2016, due to a higher number of community service, the arts and other school readiness when they transition students below National Minimum cultural pursuits, as well as in to Prep in the following year. Standard but the number in the top competitions such as the ICAS A range of tools was used for testing two bands was similar to the previous Mathematics, Science and English individual students if a concern was year. competitions, the Southern Tasmanian raised by teachers. These tests gave a Readers’ Cup competition, Brain Bee more comprehensive understanding competition, Hobart Eisteddfod and of the literacy and numeracy skills of the Model United Nations Assembly to students allowing staff to target name a few, were acknowledged and specific areas of need for intervention. recorded with pride in the Newsletter

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In early 2018 staff, students and The College is recognised as effectively Satisfaction: parents were surveyed to gauge their organised and administered. satisfaction levels on a variety of areas Stakeholders agree that resources are staff, students, in the College in reflection on the 2017 well-used in the physical environment, school year. These three groups were and in teaching and learning facilities. surveyed on the areas of teaching and Access to and use of technology are seen parents learning, pastoral care, school to be very satisfactory by all In 2017, a variety of informal resources, development opportunities, stakeholders. instruments was used across and leadership and administration. stakeholder groups to assess Areas where stakeholders perceive satisfaction and gauge areas for There was also an invitation to give the school can improve include: improvement, supplemented with a further feedback. A total of 513 consultation of students regarding formal online survey. surveys were returned, reflecting their views and opinions on what slightly decreased participation by happens within the school Student leader forums, such as the stakeholders. The results of this community, the kinds of learning Student Representative Council (SRC), survey indicated all groups were experiences students are engaged in, were an important mechanism for substantially satisfied with the above feedback to students on their work, students to have their concerns and stated areas in the College. and reporting on student progress. issues represented through their peers. There is very high satisfaction with the Improved support for students with The P&F Association continued to be a College across most domains. Over two special needs continues to be seen as consistent and valuable forum for the thirds of stakeholders agreed or extremely important. This will remain a expression of both individual and strongly agreed with positive priority for the College Leadership Team collective responses by parents across comments on almost all areas. who have continued to work the College. It was particularly pleasing that around strategically and with commitment, to 90% of parents agreed their children ensure student needs are met within the Parent-teacher interviews, newsletter were learning effectively, were taught available resources. feedback, College website interaction by good teachers, had a variety of and Facebook messages were also interesting learning experiences, and It has been identified that key direct opportunities for parents to were cared for by professionals. These improvements made to the Learning express satisfaction or advise areas core responsibilities are being fulfilled Support Model need to be conveyed for improvement. Principal-initiated well. more effectively to all stakeholders, to parent morning teas continued to seek As in previous years, stakeholders increase their awareness of these parental feedback on school showed a high appreciation of and changes. improvement in 2017. value for the Mission-related areas of the school. Ongoing significant improvement in Staff satisfaction was regularly Pastoral Care continues to be seen parent satisfaction levels since 2011 has monitored through personal interviews to be delivering. Students feel cared been remarkable, especially in Pastoral with members of the College for, acknowledged and engaged in the Care, resourcing, faith development and Leadership Team, surveys and annual College community. Stakeholders school leadership. It is noteworthy that feedback and Teacher Reflection forms. maintain there are excellent around two thirds of parents agree that Staff meetings together with the opportunities for student the College fees are appropriate and evaluation processes involved in cycles participation, extension and affordable. of review, enabled diverse achievement. Students and parents have continued opportunities for staff to express in 2017 to express their satisfaction, openly and collegially levels of There continues to be recognition of the in particular with the ongoing focus satisfaction with specific operations. quality of staff the College attracts and on raising standards across the retains. College.

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School Income Total income for 2017 was $15.2 million, an increase Total liabilities have decreased by $812,000 due to the of $707,000 on the previous year. This was due to repayment of two building loans. increased enrolments resulting in additional . Government funding and tuition fees being received by the College. Expenses increased by $242,000 due to increased repairs and maintenance expenses and increased depreciation and amortisation expenses. Cash reserves have decreased by $1.3 million due to the near completion of the Fra Angelico Creative Arts Project.

In November 2015, the College was informed of its successful application for new capital funding from the Capital Projects Committee (CPC). The funding was awarded for the development of a new Creative Arts facility which includes provision of two new fine arts classrooms, two new sound proof music classrooms, a new creative studio, seven new practice rooms with adjoining recording room, print making room, a new courtyard, an outdoor walkway and improvements to the adjacent landscaping. To complement this new space we are also investing in new furniture, high grade sound and audio recording equipment, and a selection of new instruments so that we can expand our music instrumental program into years 5 and 6.

Completion of the project will enable the centralisation of Creative Arts facilities allowing all K-10 Creative Arts subjects to be taught from the one location and ensure all students benefit from the capital project. This is a very exciting project that will significantly boost the quality of the College’s Creative Arts facilities.

The College was successful in gaining a grant from the Tasmanian Community Fund as a contribution towards the installation of Stage 1 of the new K-6 playground on the edge of the main oval. We are very grateful to the Tasmanian Community Fund for giving us the opportunity to provide our Dominic College students and also the wider community with this new play space. The first stage was completed in January 2017 and was ready for use by our students when they returned at the start of Term 1. This included the installation of swings, a large climbing net and rubberised soft fall.

Our Dominic College Parents & Friends had also raised significant funds which enabled us to complete Stage 2 of the playground project before the end of

Term 4. The additional playground items installed as part of stage 2 included a Galaxy Aldebaran, two slides, supernova, two spinner bowls and additional rubberised soft fall. The completion of stage 2 has considerably expanded the current structured play spaces for our students providing them with access to exciting contemporary and innovative playground equipment when onsite at the College.

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In producing the 2017 Annual Report, information has been gathered from a diverse range of sources, including various College databases, internal and external reports, the College Yearbook and Strategic Plan implementation documents.

This report was prepared by the College Principal, Ms Beth Gilligan BA Dip Ed MA.

Dominic College 204 Tolosa Street Glenorchy TAS 7010

Tel 03 6274 6000 Fax 03 7273 0940 Email [email protected] www.dominic.tas.edu.au

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