PITTWATER PRESS BE RESPECTFUL ASPIRE BE RESPONSIBLE Gearing up with Homework
Jane Ferris: Principal’s Report. 7 May 2019
Homework is an important aspect of learning in high children during homework tasks, then positive school. Although there has been some research that correlations were found throughout the literature, suggests that homework is of limited value, this is in in particular when parents support the child's the context of primary schools. High school home- understanding of homework. work has been found to be increasingly positive, particularly as students get older and move into their Homework and home-study at Pittwater High senior years of high school. At this time, I particularly School encourage Year 10 students to review their home- Firstly, when specific homework is set by teachers, work and study patterns to ensure that good habits our expectation is that it is always done with a are in place for the senior school. serious effort and completed on time – that is not a rushed last minute effort. Secondly, it should be The Department of Education has provided a noted that some homework is linked to a long research summary in regards to homework and term assignment. This needs careful planning to below are some of the comments/findings from the ensure the assignment is worked on systematically various studies: over the weeks, ensuring that when class time is As students grow older, homework has a growing available the student is in a position to seek help effect on achievement outcomes. and clarification. Such work should not mean a Homework effort and conscientiousness were late night the day before it is due with the inevita- systematically related over time (Grade 5 to ble unnecessary stress. Some homework is linked to Grade 8). Most importantly, students who invest- the ‘flipped’ classroom; the simpler background or ed more effort in their homework showed more introductory work is done at home before the positive development in conscientiousness. more difficult aspect is taught in class. All set One study shows a positive relationship between homework is essential in order to keep up with and homework and a range of self-regulation skills understand classwork. that facilitates academic achievement and performance. It reveals that homework assign- Even when no specific homework has been set, ments can enhance the development of self- there is always home-study that should take place regulation processes and self-efficacy beliefs, as each day to maintain good learning habits and well as goal setting, time management, build up skills. For example, work from each managing the environment, and maintaining at- subject for the day should be reviewed and tention. checked for accurate completion and to ensure Homework helps students develop good study understanding. In English, students are expected habits, such as goal setting, following directions, to read regularly each day, and a reading list has organising materials, planning ahead, and budg- been included in this newsletter. This builds up eting time, as well as strategies for dealing with fluency, comprehension and vocabulary develop- mistakes, difficulties and distractions. ment. Additionally, in Years 7 to 10 students can Homework fosters student initiative and log into Wordflyers to assist with grammar, spelling independence. and vocabulary. In Maths, as well as set home- Homework helps students develop positive work, students can access MathsOnline in the attitudes toward school and a sense of personal junior school for additional work at their responsibility. competency level. For seniors in all subjects, Homework promotes greater parental apprecia- regularly reviewing content, note taking, tion of and involvement in schooling. summaries, memorising and practice responses Middle school students doing less than 90 are essential to learning. For many subjects seniors minutes of homework per night did better can also access online Edrolo for tutorials and academically than students who did no home- practice questions.
work. At Pittwater High School the Homework Club runs When parents are not actively involved in in the library from Monday to Thursday with an ad- assisting in homework tasks, then the literature ditional teacher as well as Mr Kovacs. This service is indicates indecisive or negative results. However, available from 8.15, and the Library itself is open when parents are directly involved in assisting their from 8.00pm.
Principal: Jane Ferris Website: www.pittwater-h.schools.nsw.edu Deputy Principals: Rachel Fleming, Sharon Behringer , Martin Hardy (rel) Email: [email protected] Rachel Fleming, Sharon Behringer, Martin Hardy and Carol Roulston
Issues raised in the newsletter are No one needs to be exposed to constantly reinforced by the staff, unacceptable and offensive language including at our Monday assembly and at and there are clear consequences for weekly year meetings. We would swearing at a teacher or in a disciplinary appreciate it if you could discuss some of meeting with a head teacher, deputy or these issues with your child this week. the principal. Such language is aggressive behaviour and will result in a Level or a This is a learning area suspension.
OFF AND AWAY Mobile Phone Use Mobile phones are to be off and away during class time and we would appreci- ate it if you do not call or text your child during class time. Please phone the office if there is an urgent need to contact your It’s Cool to be Kind child. Mrs Ferris spoke at last Monday’s assembly about the importance of being kind to a If a student has their phone out in class, friend or to a student you might not know, the teacher may contact the Deputy including helping new students navigate Principal to confiscate the phone for the their way around the school, saying hi in remainder of the school day. Repeat of- the corridor or assisting with learning. She fenders will have to hand in their phone spoke about what a difference it can before school each day. Phones will be make to a person’s day and the value of secured in a locked cabinet for this thinking less about ourselves and focusing purpose in the Deputies' Offices. on someone else.
Student Services A student who is feeling unwell should ask their class teacher for a green note to go to Student Services. Students should not contact parents and ask to go home before going to Student Services. It is imperative that, as a duty of care require- Keep it Clean ment, we know where students are at all In 2018 we had a focus on “Keep it times. Student Services will contact parents Clean” which made a difference to the to determine whether the student can language that was used in the classroom, return to class or needs to go home. It is canteen, corridors and the playground. important that contact details are kept up Students responded positively to this to date. campaign and there were light hearted moments, especially on the playground, where they reminded their friends to keep it clean! Rachel Fleming, Sharon Behringer, Martin Hardy and Carol Roulston
Senior Boys Senior Girls Junior Boys Junior Girls Sport
Uniform Notes must be presented before school Ms Gudmunson sent out a message to all and green notes will only be issued for a parents in the last week of term and as we short time. We appreciate your support in are monitoring uniform I felt it relevant to ensuring that all students are in the correct discuss the requirements for all students so school uniform. they are in correct uniform, every day. As the weather becomes colder there is an Consequences increase in students wearing the wrong Students who are out of uniform will be jumper. It is expected that all students placed on a Lunch One uniform wear the school maroon sloppy joe or blue detention. Pittwater High jacket. Students are to attend punctually in A8 at the beginning of Lunch One. Students are allowed to wear a long Students who do not attend will be sleeve white t-shirt under their usual shirt for placed on an after school detention. extra warmth, however no writing is Failure to attend the original detention allowed on the sleeves. and the after school detention will result in the student being placed on Students must wear sports uniform on Level 2. Wednesdays and girls cannot wear skimpy black shorts as an alternative. If this is the Thank you to all of the parents and only alternative girls should bring a note students who attended the Embracing the and wear their school uniform for sport. HSC evening on Thursday night. I have received some excellent feedback about Jumpers or jackets can be ordered from the night and it seems many students and the uniform shop and paid for online parents went away having learnt some- at https://phsshop.com/ to pick up on thing. An email went out with the Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8.15am - information attached for those who could 11.15am. not attend.
A reminder also that black leather shoes Last week's Year 8 and 9 parent teacher (not boots) are the only approved foot- night went very smoothly and thank you to wear for school (except PE) and that only all the parents who attended and kept to white and grey socks should be worn, not the 5 minutes. If however, a teacher was black socks. It is understandable that on not present and you intended to speak occasion students will be out of uniform them perhaps you could contact them by and the correct procedure is to send a email and then have the teacher call you note with your child to see Mrs Roulston in for a 5 minute conversation. A7 for a green note.
Dear Parents and Caregivers,
It is an annual legislative requirement for all schools to participate in the collection of data about how we provide appropriate adjustments to students with a disability.
Please find below an information sheet for parents and caregivers that explains the main features of the data collection.
If you have additional enquiries, please contact Michaela Flood (PHS NCCD Coordina-
Information for parents and carers
WHAT IS THE NATIONAL DATA COLLECTION? With the the national data collection, every The Nationally Consistent Collection of Data school in Australia uses the same method to on School Students with Disability (the national collect information. Therefore, a government data collection) is an annual collection that school in suburban Sydney will collect and counts the number of school students with report data in the same way as a Catholic disability and the level of reasonable educa- school in country Victoria and an independent tional adjustment they are provided with. school in the Northern Territory.
The national data collection will count The information provided through the national students who have been identified as data collection will enable all Australian receiving an adjustment to address a disability governments to better target support and under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 resources to benefit students with disability. The (the DDA). The DDA can be accessed from data will help schools to better support the ComLaw website at www.comlaw.gov.au. students with disability so that they have the same opportunities for a high quality WHAT IS THE BENEFIT FOR MY CHILD? education as students without disability. The aim of the national data collection is to collect better information about school WHAT ARE SCHOOLS REQUIRED TO DO FOR students with disability in Australia. STUDENTS WITH DISABILITY? All students are entitled to a quality learning This information will help teachers, principals, experience at school. education authorities and families to better support students with disability to take part in Schools are required to make reasonable school on the same basis as students without adjustments, where needed, to assist students disability. with disability to access and participate in education free from discrimination and on the The national data collection is an opportunity same basis as other students. for schools to review their learning and support systems and processes to continually improve These responsibilities are outlined in the DDA education outcomes for their students with and the Disability Standards for Education 2005 disability. (the Standards). The Standards require educators, students, parents and others (e.g. WHY IS THIS DATA BEING COLLECTED? allied health professionals) to work together so All schools across Australia collect information that students with disability can participate in about students with disability. But the type of education. information previously collected varied between each state and territory and across government, Catholic and independent school sectors. The Standards can be accessed via the ComLaw website at www.comlaw.gov.au. School principals are responsible for ensuring the information identified about each student WHAT IS A REASONABLE ADJUSTMENT? is accurate. A reasonable adjustment is a measure or How will my child’s privacy be protected? action taken to help a student with disability Protecting the privacy and confidentiality of all access and participate in education on the students and their families is essential. Personal same basis as students without disability. details such as student names or other Reasonable adjustments can be made across identifying information will not be provided to the whole school setting (e.g. ramps into local or federal education authorities. school buildings), in the classroom (such as adapting class lessons) and at an individual Further information about privacy is available student level (e.g. extra tuition for a student from www.education.gov.au/notices. with learning difficulties). IS THE NATIONAL DATA COLLECTION
COMPULSORY? WHAT INFORMATION WILL BE COLLECTED? All education ministers agreed to full Every year your child’s school will collect the implementation of the national data following information for each student with a collection from 2015. This means that all disability: schools must now collect and report the student’s level of education (i.e. information annually on the number of primary or secondary) students with disability in their care and the the student’s level of adjustment level of adjustment provided to them. the student’s broad type of disability. Information about the arrangements that may The information collected by schools will be apply to your school in relation to this data provided to all governments to inform policy collection is available from your child’s school and programme improvement for students principal and the relevant education authority with disability. or association of independent schools.
WHO WILL BE INCLUDED IN THE NATIONAL DATA Even if your child’s information is not included COLLECTION? in the national data collection, the school is still The definition of disability for the national data required to provide support to your child with collection is based on the broad definition education needs. under the DDA. FURTHER INFORMATION For the purposes of the national data Contact your child’s school if you have further collection, students with learning difficulties questions about the Nationally Consistent such as dyslexia or auditory processing Collection of Data on School Students with disorder as well as chronic health conditions Disability and how it may involve your child. like epilepsy, diabetes or asthma, that require active monitoring by the school, may be You can also visit www.education.gov.au/ included. nationally-consistent-collection-data-school- students-disability. WHO WILL COLLECT INFORMATION FOR THE NATIONAL DATA COLLECTION? An e-learning resource about the Disability Teachers and school staff will identify the Standards for Education 2005 is freely available number of students with disability in their for the use of individuals, families and school and the level of reasonable adjustment communities at http:// they are provided based on: resource.dse.theeducationinstitute.edu.au/. consultation with parents and carers in the course of determining and providing reasonable adjustments the school team’s observations and professional judgements any medical or other professional diagnosis other relevant information.
In term 1, Year 7 were introduced to High School English through learning about the concept of Identity. They were tasked with answering the big question, ‘How does our identity influence the way we see the world?’ They studied a variety of short texts in different forms looking at the identity of the characters, and how that shaped their perspective on the world. Some extracts from their creative writing assessments are below. Dear Future self, “We're all here for a reason. Whether that reason is to serve, to care, to fight, to love or to be a small jigsaw piece of this wild, unexpected world. We will never know why we’re here, never know why we are the way we are and why we act and think the way we do. But while we’re standing here on this marble, that hurtles through space, our orbits and paths are unique. I will stand here beside you, and look in your eyes, and believe that I can go on.”
Ruby Haythornthwaite 7I
It was nearing morning and Kirvar was panting towards the wall. Barbed wire, smoke and red brick made up most of his vision. He was careful to not wander into the sights of the guards, who were on extra alert after dawn. A few years ago, he witnessed the shooting of a man who was climbing the wall in an attempt to escape once and for all. Kirvar knew very well that was not the first time this had happened.
By the second, he felt more tense. The wall was only fifteen or so metres away now, but the guards were still on their heels. Suddenly, a frenzy of swearing and shouting unleashed from the other side of the wall and immediately he could hear volleys of gunfire and bullets ricocheting against the surface. As he ran for cover behind a trash can, a guard’s body slumped in front of him, drenching the ground in blood.
‘Resistance,’ Kirvar thought.
Caleb Robinson 7E
As I look through the clear glass of my window the hot sun warms my face. The long beach’s aquamarine water is glistening brightly like a jewel. The colour of the crystal clear water changes as the sunlight shines on the surface of the water creating more shades of blue and green than I could ever imagine possible. The beautiful white sand sparkles brilliantly like a million tiny diamonds, as the early morning sun rises over the horizon. As I watch the sun rising I have to squint and put my hand to my forehead to shield my eyes as it begins to glow brightly. I stare at the small waves lapping at the sandy shore and start to feel hypnotized by the repetitive sound and sight. My eyes glaze over and I start to imagine what creatures lie below the glimmering surface. In my mind I can see brilliantly coloured tropical fish darting in and out of coral that looks like an underwater flower garden. A big black tip reef shark looms over the fish and coral like a dark storm cloud blocking out the sun. I imagine a reef to be like a huge under- water city teaming with life and movement. A vast area of the reef is filled with tower- ing seaweed moving gently with the current.
Jake Everett 7T My hands froze, and my heart sank further as the stone window was the one thing hold- ing me.
A blanket of flaming torches cut through the darkness of night. A flame of my own decided to join in to eat me alive. Is this battle really what fate has decided for me? Should I not be the woman the kingdom desires of me? Beautiful. Fair. Porcelain. Or can I really be the warrior I dream of being? Strong. Elegant. A protector.
Selena Gendic 7E
It was very early in the morning as I looked through the scratched and dirty window of the car. Everything was very still. Nothing moved, not even the leaves on the trees. A mist was slowly rising revealing faint and distant shadows with the warm rising sun. We rolled slowly and quietly out off the station heading east towards the cold, clear and blue waters of Exmouth. Within a few minutes of travelling, we started seeing a yellow haze off in the distance. As we got closer, the wind got stronger and stronger and tum- bleweeds rolled into the side of the car. The shrubs beside the road bent in the breeze violently.
Max Steele 7I
Year 7 - TED Talk 7P also produced TED talks, as a learning activity this term, allowing them to communi- cate their understanding of identity. The opening of Mia Mountseer’s TED talk transcript is below:
My identity is who I am. I like to go to the beach, go to the farm and go water skiing. I also play three instruments, flute, clarinet and guitar, and I love playing them in my spare time. I also have quite a lot of freckles, I like to eat carrot cake, I like horse riding and motorbike riding, I have a birthmark on the inside of my knee and I hate snakes and needles. These are things that make me unique and are a part of my identity. They make me, me.
So that gets me to the big question ‘How does our identity influence the way we see the world?’ What about stereotypes? Have you ever heard someone say to a boy to ‘stop crying like a girl’, ‘don’t kick like a girl’ and ‘stop acting like a girl’? Nowadays it is getting better, but this has influenced the way I see the world dramatically. Looking for a good book to read? Here is a list of novels recommended by students and teachers: Suggested Reading List for Years 7-10 Year 7
Title Author Skellig David Almond King of Shadows Susan Cooper Harry Potter series JK Rowling Lockie Leonard series Tim Winton Once series Morris Gleitzman Blueback Tim Winton
Year 8
Title Author Holes Louis Sacher Twilight series Stephanie Meyer Backlash Sarah Darer Littman Hitler’s Daughter Jackie French The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas John Boyne Purple Threads Jeanine Leane Trash Andy Mulligan Midnight Zoo Sonya Hartnett Dougy James Moloney Cherub series Robert Muchamore The John Green Collection John Green
Year 9
Title Author The Kite Runner Khaled Hosseini Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Ransom Riggs Children The Incredible Here and Now Felicity Castagna The Outsiders S E Hinton Deadly, Unna? Phillip Gwynne Six Impossible Things Fiona Wood Classics Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, JRR Tolkien, Arthur Conan Doyle etc
Year 10
Title Author
The Simple Gift Stephen Herrick
The Hate U Give Angie Thomas Shift Em Bailey The Story of Tom Brennan J. C. Burke Finding Grace Alyssa Brugman
48 Shades of Brown Nick Earls
Tomorrow When the War Began John Marsden
All of Year 12 were fortunate to see a live production of the play they are studying in English, The Crucible by Arthur Miller at the Seymour Centre last term. It was a very entertaining, immersive production with amazing acting, costuming and sets.
Next week we have the theatre troop Shake and Stir visiting the school for a performance of William Shakespeare’s The Tempest for Year 11 and 12 Advanced English students.
This is a wonderful opportunity because it allows students to see the characters and words come to life in a bold adaptation of the play, offering a clear understanding of the key players on the island.
“THE TEMPEST is pure magic and gives students so much more than laughter. A modern soundtrack, contemporary AV design, The Bard’s rich language – all set on Shakespeare’s version of ‘Love Island’.” Shake and Stir The Power of Poetry at Pittwater
"A poet’s work is to name the unnameable, to point at frauds, to take sides, start arguments, shape the world, and stop it going to sleep." – Salman Rushdie
"Poetry is just the evidence of life." ― Leonard Cohen
World Poetry Day
In celebrating World Poetry Day, March 21, UNESCO recognizes the unique ability of poetry to capture the creative spirit of the human mind.
As stated on the United Nations website, Poetry reaffirms our common humanity by revealing to us that individuals, everywhere in the world, share the same questions and feelings.
On 21 March, students at Pittwater High School celebrated World Poetry Day. A group of student poets went to the quad during Lunch 1 and wrote poems for anyone that requested them. The poets enjoyed the process and the thrill that comes with creating something on the spot. The students and teachers receiving the poems were appreciative and amazed at the poems written just for them. In fact some students, not poetry inclined at all, joined the group and started writing poetry as well, demonstrating that writing poetry can be an enjoyable and cathartic process for everyone.
In some classrooms, in conjunction with coursework, poetry was incorporated in some way as a way of acknowledging the power of poetry and how relevant it is today in different aspects of learning and living.
My Year 10 class engaged in a Poetry Slam, which is where students have the opportunity to craft their own poems and them read them aloud to the group. The class embraced the challenge and the poetry that they shared was unique, insightful, moving and powerful. I was very impressed.
Pittwater Poetry Group ‘The Jam’ If you are interested in reading and/or writing poetry or even writing songs, we would love to have you come along to ‘The Jam’ – Pittwater High School’s Poetry Group. It runs every Thursday Week B, Lunch 2 and is open to everyone.
Mrs Giddings In line with the Community and Family Studies (CAFS) and Physical Activity and Sports Studies (PASS) syllabus Mrs Roulston organised Wheelchair Sport NSW to come to the school for a three hour workshop on how to adjust to participating in wheelchair sport. The presenter had been involved with Wheelchair Tennis all his life and explained to the students the benefits of competing at such a high level in sport. Students were informed of the variety of disabilities that wheelchair sports people are involved with. Students appreciated the chance to have fun and participate in a game of basketball from a totally different perspective.
Musical Review by Harrison Haladus
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is a slapstick comedy The directors ensured the play showed the that follows the story of a con artist joy in conning people like its movie counter- (Lawrence Jameson played by Isaac part. Two main protagonists are followed as Hogarth) who is a long-term resident at a they take advantage of gullible rich women. luxurious coastal resort. He finds excitement In a life of luxury, there is not much that could in enjoying the rewards of deception. go wrong for the con artists. However, when Despite his successes, he lacks the thrill that real feelings are thrown into the mix, the pair his job once brought. David Yazbek was the must butt heads to avoid the expected original composer and playwright of the corruption. Dirty Rotten Scoundrels explores musical which premiered on Broadway. It themes of crime and scandal shown by the received many nominations for its success. parody of two puzzled criminals. These elements work hand in hand to produce a slapstick comedy written in a way that allows the audience to relate and has them loving, hating, fearing, and generally being moved by the character’s portrayal of con-artists.
Mr Gleeson and Miss Meyers made their own adaptation of the script and music of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. The pair created Pittwater High School’s own, authentic performance. Directed by this dynamic duo, the show debuted at Pittwater High School on Sunday the 31st of March and continued These aspects are especially evident in the for six following evening sessions, finishing on Pittwater High school adaptation of Dirty Saturday the 13th of April. Rotten Scoundrels. Older audience members reacted well to the puzzlement shown by the The theme and genre of the film were real- actors. It seemed as though Dirty Rotten ised in the Pittwater High School adaptation Scoundrels brought feelings of nostalgia to its of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. The experience viewers. Older audience members laughed both Miss Meyers and Mr. Gleeson have in at all the jokes told by the performers that drama and music was certainly evident in some of the actors and students did not the school’s production. Their experience understand. teaching students across all years at Pittwater and their success with previous The purpose of the play was to entertain but productions held them in good stead to also enlighten. The play communicated a create yet another successful production. subtle message that showed even con artists can fall for their own tricks. This message was portrayed in a humorous way, particularly when showing the puzzlement of the protag- onists. The cast delivered this message authentically and their performance was certainly convincing.
Despite this, I some performers were more The successful design of the musical and its convincing than others. I especially liked the costumes are attributed to the experience Holly Hawken’s portrayal of Joelene from and efforts of the Costume Manager. Her Oklahoma. Her authentic performance influence, choosing the costumes and in the brought more entertainment to the scene. set design is impressive. Collective efforts She acted clueless, unaware of her partner’s were recognised on the night of the true intentions. However, despite her performances by audience members. The cluelessness, she walked and spoke audience response through their engage- confidently when on stage. She used large ment, laughter, participation, and applause hand gestures making her seem even more confirmed their appreciation of the story, oblivious to what was going on in the scene. acting and quality of the production. This contrast of emotions is why she stood out from her fellow actors. Her acting allowed for humour to develop nicely throughout her scene.
Considering all of the elements critical to making a production such as Dirty Rotten Scoundrels a success, it is clear that Pittwater High School’s musical exceeded expectations. The play lived up to the Broad- The set of the production at Pittwater High way musical it was adapted from. After the School could be compared to that of a first act of the night had finished I was sure it professional production. could not get any better. However, as the story developed and more characters were introduced in the second act, the quality of It was as professionally executed as any the play continued to impress. Many others musical I have experienced at a local would agree that the play was a successful theatre. The lighting was effective, dimmed piece of theatre. However, the success of the and spotlighted to enhance the story of the play is not only a result of the actors. The characters. The band was also placed at directors, actors, orchestra and crew had a the front of the stage and were synchro- significant impact on the play’s success. This nised playing together, on point to support has been my first year at Pittwater High the storylines. Audience members could be School and I am certainly impressed at how forgiven for thinking they were at a theatre my teachers and classmates have the ability and not at Pittwater High School production. to create and perform in a production that is The costumes and makeup worn by the high quality and professional. characters were also to a high standard. The style of clothing worn by each character was a reflection of their personality which helped create a realistic performance that was easy to follow. The use of lighting, sound and the Front House operated differently in each scene depending on the mood. These factors are what made the design the production professional and effective.
Congratulations to the following students who competed in the Open Boys Knockout Water Polo competition who placed second in their division and third overall in the knock out comp! A great achievement for a team that hadn’t played together before and Coach Quince who quickly studied up on the rules and led the boys to an outstanding result!
Callyn Fenwick-Kearns Year 10 – MVP Jarvis Saunders Year 8 – Best Rookie
Joshua Beneke, Jarvis Saunders, Harrison Shipton, Angus Hinves, Julius Krabbe, Jake Nelson, Thomas Shanahan, Luke Thornton, Valentin Delerue, Callyn Fenwick-Kearns, Ned Milliner and Jeremy Sala.
Game 1 Freshwater Senior Campus WON 4-2 Game 2 Narrabeen Sports High WON 5-3 Game 3 Epping Boys High Up 4-3 at half time but lost 4-7 Game 4 Fort Street High WON 6-0
SEMI 1 Balgowlah Boys High Lost 1-7
SEMI 2 Randwick Boys High WON 3-2
Kai Van Kool, Lexi Harrison and Callyn Fenwick-Kearns attended the State swimming championships last term and received some great results. Kai won the 100m Backstroke with a personal best. Lexi had a remarkable carnival with some exceptional results. 2nd in 200 IM (PB), 100 backstroke (PB), 200m Freestyle (PB), 3rd 100m Freestyle (PB), 100m butterfly (PB), 4th 900m freestyle, 5th 400m freestyle. Callyn came 9th out of 30 in the 200m freestyle final with a PB. On the last three days of the Easter It was a lopsided competition in one way holidays seven sailors from Pittwater High in that the oldest PHS sailors are in Year 9. participated in the Secondary Schools Most of the opposition were seniors. Teams Champions. This was held on the waters of Botany Bay. At the conclusion of Day one they were in 17th position out of 21. Day two saw our Twenty GPS schools participated. Pittwater team again with a slow start however a High was the only non GPS School. brilliant win over Montie saw their spirits lifted and more importantly confidence Our students Sophie Aitken, Hugo raised. Butterworth, Harley Ratcliff, Quentin Willman, Joshua Lakeman, Mia Marsh and Day three our team was on a high and Tristan White did their teacher Mr Robinson won every race they sailed. They lifted their proud as they demonstrated the skills they position to 14th however on race wins were learned on the long training sessions held on equal 8th place. every Monday night. Thank you Mr Robinson for all the time you put into this This incredible turnaround is a credit to their training!! The event was long, with in training and their stoic application. excess of 186 races being sailed. With the experience gained in this Regatta, Pittwater High was slow to acclimatise to and the fact that this youthful team has the nature of teams racing under the many years of school sailing to come, we pressure of the 6 Umpire boats which are hopeful of great things in the future. followed them adjudicating on the many protests.
“Champions keep playing unƟl they get it right.”
Welcome back from the two week break A few of our valued players were selected to between Term 1 and Term 2! The entire volley- represent NSW for Beach Volleyball this year, ball squad hopes you had a very relaxing travelling across to Perth to compete against break, and wishes you a successful return into some of the best players in Australia. the routine of weekly school life. And if you need to de-stress, take your mind off that Harley Sinclair and his partners Kynan Leong assignment, or even just to get some exercise, and Benjamin Schickinger (Not PHS students), we train Monday evenings from 3:30 – 5:45 brought home gold for the U15 Male age and Wednesday Mornings from 7:00 – 8:30. group, Amy Le Blang and her partner Sofia From beginner to already experienced, your Prilutskaya came 5th in the U17 Female age presence at our trainings will be greatly group and Keifer Sinclair and his partner Thom appreciated and catered for. Hope to see Smith brought us another 5th. you soon! These results are their ranking in Australia for To re-cap Term 1, knockout season has their age group, so a huge well done to already begun its course, with our competitive Harley, Amy and Kiefer! team playing against schools all over NSW, not just on the Northern Beaches. If you are interested in joining the squad, remember, our trainings are: Our Term 1 Knockout team (Amy Le Blang, Aleesa May, Stephanie Forster, Kerrin White, Mondays 3:30PM – 5:45 PM Grace Power, Zoe Bryant, Madison and Wednesdays 7:00AM – 8:30AM Georgia Peisley) played against four super tough, super talented schools this term. You are also welcome to watch a training or two before coming to try. Our student coach- The first game was hosted by Pittwater High es will cater to your ability and you’ll meet School, a fantastic opportunity for both teams some pretty cool people. to show-off their amazing game skills in front of an audience! Mosman High School put up an We hope to see you there! amazing fight, but Pittwater pulled through, winning by a sensational 3 – 0. Article by: Kerrin White
After the first game, our girls continued on their winning streak, outshining the teams from Gorokan High School, Cherrybrook Technology High School and Carlingford High School.
We’d like to thank all these teams for playing against us, and a special thanks to Cherrybrook, Gorokan and Carlingford for allowing us to use their fantastic facilities. On Monday March 25 Pittwater High School teachers opened their classrooms to 30 up and coming student teachers completing their Masters of Teaching from Sydney University. The students were treated to open doors from many teachers across the school. They observed a variety of lessons from Agriculture, Science, Commerce, History, English, TAS and the Connected Classroom. Pittwater High School showcased engaging lessons across the day which included an introduction to the school, school tours from Year 10 Peer Support Leaders, observing the playground at lunch times and an opportunity to discuss educational strategies with the teaching staff at a morning tea provided by the queen of scones Glenda Pettit. This is the second year the school has hosted such a day for the university to introduce the student teachers to their new life as a teacher, either primary or secondary. The day was hosted by Ms Fleming and Ms Roulston In the final week of Term 1, six intrepid Year 11 students and two staff set out on a challenging adventure into the wilds of the rugged Snowy Mountains. The journey encompassed 95kms of hiking (approximately 100,000 steps) across four days in variable terrain. The conditions were superb for hiking, with clear blue skies and cool evenings. The students are to be commended for their dedication, resilience, and creativity in completing the hike. This hike constitutes the first Adventurous Journey of the students Gold Duke of Edinburgh program. Students will also have to complete a second hike, along with skill development, volunteer work, and a residential program to attain the Gold certificate. The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is an internationally recognised program for young people, building their skills to equip them for life and work. By creating opportunities for young people to develop skills, get physically active, give service and experience adventure, the Award can play a critical role in their develop- ment.
Students completing the Gold Duke of Edinburgh Practice Hike: Ruby Moxham, Jasper Mueller, Leah Fenley, James Niddrie, Andrew Lee, and Ryan De Belle. Staff: Mr Tristan Goodwin, Miss Genevieve Holden On Friday May 3, the students in Year 10 Students were very impressed when Mr Commerce and Year 12 Legal Studies Kiely donned his ‘legal robes’ and wig, were privileged to hear from guest explaining the difference in court dress speaker John Kiely SC (now retired). between Junior Barristers and Senior Counsel ‘silks’. This proved to be a very John Kiely informed the students of the enlightening and valuable incursion for the Legal Practitioners Admission Board (LPAB) students and Mr Kiely’s take home which is another avenue, apart from message was ‘don’t be afraid to dream’. university, students can take if they wish to be involved in the legal profession. He Students asked questions at the end of the outlined the process in moving through presentation and Mr Kiely explained that the legal profession from solicitor through as a Crown Prosecutor the most important to Senior Counsel. He then briefed the aspect of the role was to see that the students on his role as a solicitor in Cowra, accused received a fair trial. The in country NSW and on his first murder trial Commerce and Legal Studies classes were in which he had been instructed. grateful to be able to hear from such an This prompted him to go to the esteemed member of the legal profession ‘bar’ (Australian Bar Association) and and thanked Mr Kiely for his presentation. further develop his legal career by Alison Mumford, Kathryn Neil and Byron becoming a barrister. He enthralled the Horrell. students with details of a number of cases (including murder trials and drug crimes) HSIE faculty in which he was the Crown Prosecutor and the outcomes of these cases.
Year 12 are excited to announce that we will be showing a production of “The Incredibles” this Thursday the 9 May in the school hall! It is open to all year groups to attend and there will be milkshakes, pizza, drinks and a bake sale so that people have things to snack on during the night! Tickets are currently on sale on the quad during lunch times and are also online for your convenience at www.trybooking.com/BCBCC for $10. Doors open at 6:00 with the movie starting at 6:30 with tickets on sale on the night at the door for an increased price of $15. Tickets include a bag of lollies that will be distributed upon entrance to the hall. All funds raised will be going towards our Year 12 gift of sprucing up the senior area between B Block and A Block so that future year groups get to enjoy a functional and relaxing area. So please come along! Get excited! Bring your beanbags, jammies, and blankets for an INCREDIBLE night with friends and delightful treats. Hope to see you all there! Year 12 Prefects. Year 10 Food and Beverage Hospitality students will be opening the doors of our school café “Gary’s Place” this Thursday 9 May from 7.45am-8.45am and every Thursday of Week B thereaŌer.
Gary’s Place (named a er one of Pi water High’s favourite sheep “Gary”) was launched in 2018 and was a huge success across the school.
The Year 10 students are trained in barista, customer service and café management. The café is staffed by students with all proceeds directed back into the cafe. Pi water High students and staff are welcome to drop in for a hot chocolate, iced chocolate, milkshake, toas e or home made waffle to kick start their day. Coffee will be served to senior students and staff only.
Mrs T Lagois Hospitality Teacher.
OPEN EVERY THURSDAY WEEK B
Trade Training Centre 7.45am - 8.45am
Coffee Cold Drinks Regular (Light or whole milk)………….$3.00 Milkshakes………………………………………....$3.00 Regular (soy)……………………………..$3.50 (Chocolate, strawberry, vanilla) Cappuccino…………………..…………$3.00 Iced Chocolates………………………………....$4.00 Espresso…………………………………...$3.00 Iced Coffee………………...………………….….$4.00 Flat White……………………………...….$3.00 Latte…………………………………….....$3.00 Snacks Long Black………………………..………$3.00 Cookies………………………………………………...50c Mocha…………………………...………..$3.00 Muffins………………………...…………………….$2.00 *Bring your own mug for 50c discount (see specials board for flavour of the day) Toasties(ham/cheese)….………………………..$2.50 Toasties(Cheese only)…………………...……….$2.00 Teas Waffles served with Regular…………………………………….$2.00 maple syrup and ice cream…………………….$3.00 Peppermint Tea………………………….$2.00 Bacon and Egg Muffins…………………………..$4.00 (see specials board when available) Smoothie Bowls…………………………………….$4.00 Other (see specials board when available) Hot chocolate…………………………...$3.00 Year 10 Food and Beverage Pittwater High School
Parents/Carers - Please don’t hesitate to contact me via phone or email if you have any questions.
YEAR 12 The University Admission Centre, (UAC) opened for university applications on 3 April, much earlier than in previous years. Early bird applications close 30 September.
Year 10 Careers Classes - once a fortnight, during lessons, we will be investigating: Skills and Abilities and Work Values Interest Tests Creating a ‘Career Planner’ scaffold for students’ E-Portfolio Subject Selection for 2020-2021 PHS Careers Expo Exhibitor Tables Years 10-12 Please check department emails regularly for jobs/courses/etc. I am always available in the Library Careers Office if you need to discuss any plans. For LOCAL JOBS: browse the Manly Daily on Saturdays and checkout www.seek.com.au for more jobs.
YEAR 10, 11 AND 12 STUDENTS: Please log onto: The MHSCareers website is now called Study, Work, Grow! which advertises current careers events. To login: use “Pittwater” then password “water”. Newsletters are emailed each week.
Pittwater High Careers website, please have a look. We encourage you to register!! JobJump website for students and parents, login password ‘pittwater’. Newsletters are also emailed each week.
J. Bates, (Careers Adviser) PH: 99994035 EXT 128 [email protected]
President - Andrew Young PiƩwater High School EM: [email protected] Treasurer - Cindy Wylie: Ensemble Notes EM: [email protected] Secretary - Paula Paterson: NewsleƩer EM: [email protected] Week 1 / Term 2 / 2019
ENSEMBLE REHEARSALS All rehearsals begin week 1 of term 2, except Monday strings groups which start week 2 – and Junior Stage Band, also star ng week 2.
2020 USA TOUR There will be a parent/student informa on night week two, Term 2 on May 7. Expression of Interest Forms have been emailed out. If you have misplaced your form, please email our Secretary Paula Paterson for a replacement form: [email protected] . Expecta on will be at the end of the informa on to hand in the Expression of Interest, or within the week. With numbers the tour commi ee can then work out the full feasibility of the tour. Important dates for now:
PHS 2020 Tour informa on evening – 7 May 2019 Expression of Interest Forms Due - 10 May 2019 Final decision to proceed with the tour – end May 2019
2019 PHS MUSICAL – It’s a wrap. That was some musical. To the cast, crew and orchestra of Dirty Ro en Scoundrels, you guys really put on a stellar show 7 performances in total. Thanks to all the parent volunteers behind the scene ge ng your star performer to all the rehearsals and shows, helping with costumes and helping with either cket sales or on the canteen. Can’t wait ll the next show!
NORTHERN BEACHES EISTEDDFODS It’s Eisteddfod season. Parents, please let us know of any student’s achievements for us to pop into the newsle er.
VACANCY We have a vacancy for Parent Rep to our PHS Concert Band, director Josh Hughes. If you are able to be that person, or keen to find out more, please email Shay ([email protected]) with your best email address and phone number for Josh. Sincere thanks from the commi ee to out-going Parent Rep, Jila Baker.
NORTHERN BEACHES INSTRUMENTAL FESTIVAL – JUNE 15 to 23 This fes val, held at PHS, is a big event for our school and all the surrounding schools. It is a much an cipated fes val on the calendar. We will be looking for helpers with the canteen, ckets and much more. Please be ready to help out when the call goes out.
HOST FAMILIES NEEDED PHS Ensemble families will be hos ng Albuquerque Youth Symphony Orchestra (AYSA). The Orchestra group are only visi ng for a week; arriving on Tuesday, 18th June and depar ng on Monday, 24th June 2019. An email has gone out reques ng host families. We are s ll looking for homes for 28 students (14 families). Please consider your family’s ability to host, it is a great opportunity to acquire $150 towards your child(s) trip in 2020. We plan to visit Albuquerque during our 2020 Tour and stay with host families, so this is an excellent opportunity to get to know some of the students from Albuquerque before your child visits America. If you can help, please email Robyn Keavy: [email protected]
2019 STATE MUSIC CAMPS – APPLICATIONS CLOSE FRIDAY 3 MAY Talented music students get together for one week each year to receive expert tutelage and develop their performance skills. Par cipants rehearse and perform high quality repertoire culmina ng in a concert for families and friends on the final night of the camp. Musical ac vi es at camp include par cipa on in a major ensemble (symphony orchestra, symphonic bands, vocal ensembles, stage band) as well as several elec ve ensembles and ac vi es. Elec ve ac vi es include brass and woodwind ensembles, jazz improvisa on, composi on, music theatre, percussion ensemble.
Dates for 2019 Junior Music Camp (Years 5-8): Sunday 21 July - Friday 26 July (Week 1, Term 3) Senior Music Camp (Years 8-12): Sunday 30 June - Friday 5 July (Week 10, Term 2)
For more informa on and to apply please see the website: h ps://www.artsunit.nsw.edu.au/state-junior-and-senior-music-camps
PHS ENSEMBLES on FACEBOOK We have created a PHS Ensemble Notes Facebook page. It is a closed group. We will be loading “on the fly” informa on, performance photos and more. Please go to our page www.facebook.com/phsensembles ….. then click on the GROUP link to like and follow. Thanks.
AS ALWAYS It is never too late to join any of our performance ensembles. We are always welcoming of new members or even members who wish to return. PHS - Upcoming Ensemble Events in 2019 (print me out and pop on the fridge) Venue Event Timing Dress Code Address And Notes
TERM 2
2020 Tour Info Night Performance DATE: Tues 7th May WHO: 6 ll 7 pm Space at School All interested
2020 Tour Expression Refer the form for finer details. of Interest No form? Please email us for a Forms DUE replacement DATE: Fri 10th May [email protected]
CommiƩee MeeƟng DATE: Tuesday May 21 6:30pm Pi water RSL WHO: Commi ee
Sydney Eisteddfod Concourse Concert Hall Performance DATE: Monday June 17 5pm for 5:30pm 409 Victoria Uniform WHO: Orchestra Ave, Chatswood
Port Macquarie Tour Everyone going should be DATE: May 31 – June 2 up-to-date with WHO: Big Band arrangements
Vocal Ensemble Soiree Performance Performance DATE: Mon May 27 WHO: 6:30pm Space Uniform Vocal Ensemble
Northern Beaches Performance Instrumental FesƟval Full details next newsle er Hall Uniform DATE: 15 – 23 June WHO: TBA Collect the Earn and Learn stickers from 1 May when you shop at Woolworths to help our school earn new equipment for our classrooms. Please drop any stickers into the office or give them to your child to deliver. Alternatively, drop them in the Pittwater High School box which will be positioned outside the registers. Thank you. ROSTER Monday 6 May Kate Macgregor, Hannah Tuesday 7 May Georgia Bramham, need Volunteers Wednesday 8 May Linda Newman, Di Brian Thursday 9 May Peter & Margaret Woods Friday 10 May Sandra Avedissian, Corrina Bouman,
Monday 13 May Sheridan Femia, Natty Dryden, Tanti Oetojo Tuesday 14 May Athletics Carnival- Canteen Closed Wednesday 15 May Irina & Bindi Thursday 16 May Suzanne Humphreys Friday 17 May Sharon Grainger, Sarah Attfield, Louise England
Monday 20 May Nikki Matthews, Kim Czerwenka Vietnamese salad bowl with chicken Tuesday 21 May Alison Brown, Severine Delerue Wednesday 22 May Leah Bartlett, Richard Touw Thursday 23 May Sabrina Gereaux, Need Volunteers Friday 24 May Jen Masters (AM) Need Volunteers
Volunteers - Please contact the canteen on 9979 6968 or email [email protected] if you are unable to make it. It’s never too late to volunteer. We welcome extra help so we can serve the students faster and make more food!
We would like to encourage the students to order their lunch to reduce queue times. We would also like to encourage the students to order the pasta or rice dishes and we will have them heated and ready to go. This will prevent the hold ups & delays at the microwave. They can order at lunch 1 for lunch 2.
Check out the specials board for what is on each day. There is always a vegetarian dish availa- ble. Along with fresh fruit salads we also do muesli, fruit & yoghurt cups or chia, fruit & yoghurt cups. Sometimes these are made with coconut yoghurt (these are then vegan).
NEWS FLASH NEWS FLASH NEWS FLASH NEWS FLASH NEWS FLASH NEWS FLASH Did you know: The pasta sauce is made on site, along with the nachos & bolognese meat. The pizzas are made on Monday, Thursday & Friday, ready for Lunch 2. We make our own dough. The Butter chicken is gluten free. If there are dietary concerns, please visit the canteen before school and we will do our best. Example is no cheese on the pasta if you are dairy intolerant. FLEXISCHOOLS INFORMATION Please make sure you have received a email confirmation that your order has been received. Students are coming up for their order and we do not have it, saying the order was placed early this morning.
The cut off time is 8am each morning. Flexischools will not be processing any orders after that. We are printing off a list containing all names & what they ordered so we are able to double check.