Warilla High School Newsletter

Keross Avenue Barrack Heights NSW 2528 9 May 2016 T: 02 42963055 F: 02 42972817

E: [email protected] FB: /WarillaHigh Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 W: http://www.warilla-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

Principal’s Message Welcome back to what will no doubt be another very hectic term which will include the annual NAPLAN Assessment on 10,11 and 12 May; a debriefing between Year 12 and their respective teachers on the basis of their half yearly results from the end of term 1, NAIDOC Week festivities and the plethora of learning opportunities that will be made available both within and beyond the classroom.

Again, the holiday period has seen some significant infrastructure upgrades occur, including sandstone seating adjacent to the sail-covered outdoor area; the completion of the B Block Café; a Video Conferencing facility in the seminar room of the library and the upgrading of the section backing onto this to accommodate collaborative classroom teaching styles; a clean out of the D Block courtyard and the freshening up of the gardens around the school. I would be most appreciative if you could impress upon your child that these new learning spaces need to be appreciated and that this is best done by keeping them clean and graffiti free!

Indeed, the school has embarked on an ambitious and exciting project being named as 1 of only 15 schools across NSW to be involved in the Schools of the Future project. This will see schools trial new learning spaces and configurations; set up access to technology which is reliable and user-friendly; explicitly address the 21st learning skills employers now demand, but most importantly, jettison outmoded teaching strategies and resources in favour of those that engage students, challenge their capacity to learn and to be able to apply this learning in a range of new and complex settings.

These outcomes were the main focus of our recent School Development Day, held on Tuesday 26 April, which saw all staff involved in a range of Curriculum Network Illawarra events. Staff feedback was overwhelmingly positive as they participated with staff from the same KLA from 17 other local high schools to exchange programs, resources and ideas about curriculum differentiation and effective student engagement. Indeed, some faculties, such as our CAPA staff, had the unique opportunity to work at Bundanon- Arthur Boyd’s Shoalhaven retreat- where they honed their skills and developed their capacities in the tranquil and inspiring settings of one of Australia’s best known artists.

On more mundane matters, the school was audited by the Auditor General’s Department late last term and received a very positive Audit Report. I acknowledge the tireless efforts of our School Administrative Manager, Mrs Cindy Souter, whose attention to detail and government policy ensured the positive result that was achieved. We have also been advised that the school will be required to undertake an External Validation process this term. This will see an independent validation panel examine the school’s data to benchmark us against the criteria set in the School Excellence Framework document….and in case this wasn’t enough, we will also undergo a Vocational Education and Training Internal Audit conducted by regional staff to ensure we are compliant with the Registered Training Organisation requirements the DET must adhere to as the registered provider for VET courses in the network! Although these external assessments of our operation are time consuming, I welcome them as an independent corroboration of the outstanding results the school has achieved over an extended period of time.

I would urge you to take the time to view our Annual Report for 2015. This compulsory Federal Government requirement chronicles every aspect of our operation for last year and can be accessed on our website. If you would prefer a hard copy, please enquire at the counter in the Administrative area of the school. You have the opportunity to comment on this document- and any other aspect of our operation- at our P&C meetings, held on the second Tuesday of each month, commencing at 7pm in the library.

Finally, I would like to reiterate our zero tolerance policy towards violence, and to thank parents who stand with us in support of this position. Likewise, I seek your help to eradicate the scourge of bullying and harassment, especially when manifested in social media commentaries that are demeaning, embarrassing and designed to denigrate individuals and groups. This is unacceptable and I have no doubt I can rely on your support as we ramp up of efforts in this area.

With my kind regards, John Hambly

Our School’s Core Values: Care for your environment Page 1 Embrace honesty Respect others and value yourself Seek knowledge W: http://www.warilla-h.schools.nsw.edu.au FB: /WarillaHigh

Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016 Deputies Report It is hard to believe that Term 2 is already well underway. Year 12 finished their Half Yearly exams at the end of last term, and at this point in time Year 11 are pretty much done with theirs. Getting marks back from exams is not a finishing point, but rather a place to start from to continue improvement. If a student is disappointed with their results they should see this as challenge to work harder and it need not be the final indicator of their ability. On the other hand, really solid results should be celebrated and used as reassurance that what they are doing is being effective and that they should continue along this line. This is the term when all of our students really need to apply themselves to their work, both in class and at home.

There are a number of things that you can do to support your students and help them achieve their best personal results. The most obvious thing you can do as a family supporter is to ensure that your student has a workplace that they can use. While the family dining table might be a good place to spread out, it is not the ideal long term situation. It is important for a student to have a desk which they can work from, and not need to pack their work away every time the family wants to have dinner. A desk in a quiet place, that has a good source of light is one of the best things that family can give to a student to set them up for success. While snuggling on the bed, with the laptop keeping them warm, might sound appealing on a cold autumn evening, it is not the way to work effectively, and it is more likely they might doze off to sleep rather than stay alert and complete the task at hand. The other thing that family members can provide to their students to support them is a kind, listening ear. Sometimes students just need a sounding board for their concerns and worries. Other times a supportive listener can allow students to read their work and allow them to think about what they have written. Your role can simply be to listen and maybe even ask the obvious questions. Providing such support is highly effective and allows the family members to feel that they are contributing and assisting their student in their studies.

Students grapple with many issues in their lives, and because of all of the competing things for their attention, it’s often hard for them to concentrate on studying. Too many students look at studying as a necessary and unenjoyable task, not as an opportunity to learn. That’s fine, but researchers have found that how you approach something matters almost as much as what you do. Being in the right mindset is important in order to study smarter. So how can you help your student to approach their work with the right attitude? The best thing is to remind them of their many skills and abilities. Be your child's advocate!!! Use these great traits to replace negative thinking. If you hear them voicing concerns such as “I’m hopeless, I’ll never have enough time to study for this exam or finish this work,” help them to change their approach to be more like, “I may be a little late to study as much as I’d like, but since I’m doing it now, I’ll get most of it done.” It is amazing what this can do to help them settle down and really give it a shot.

Because so many students view studying as a chore, it’s human nature to avoid it. If, however, they find rewards to help reinforce what they’re doing, they may be pleasantly surprised by their change in attitude over time. No matter what you do it is important that your student knows that you are trying to support them to do their very best, and this is sometimes the most important thing you can do all day. Being a family member for a person under stress is not easy, and the school experience is not easy for many children, and this is especially so when they are in the senior school. However, start with a good work space, give them lots of positive reinforcement about their worth and listen carefully, and you will be well on your way to a very successful and rewarding term!!!

From the start of Week 3 this term the toilets will be closed during class time. Any student needing to access the toilet during classes will need to report to one of the Deputy Principal's with a signed note from their teacher. The toilets will continue to remain open before the start of Period 1 and during break time.

We would like to wish all of our Year 7 and 9 students the very best for the upcoming NAPLAN testing. Over the last few weeks our students have been engaged in several NAPLAN preparation lessons and we are hoping that this has resulted in our students feeling confident and ready to attempt each section of the NAPLAN testing to the best of their ability. Special thanks to Mrs Raison for the tireless work she has done in organising these NAPLAN preparation lessons.

The school is excited to announce that we have entered into a partnership with the St George Illawarra Dragons centred around Mental Health. This will involve representatives from the club presenting a series of workshops to all of our students during Terms 2 and 3 with the focus on equipping our students with the skills required to manage their mental health. Mr Stanizzo will distribute further information on this exciting initiative within the next couple of weeks.

Deputy Principals We are proud to announce we now have a Facebook page! Mrs Raison, Ms Brook and Please visit the link below, like and share our page. Mr Stanizzo https://www.facebook.com/WarillaHigh Our Facebook feed will also appear at the bottom of our website and in our Skoolbag App.

Our School’s Core Values: Care for your environment Seek knowledge Embrace honesty Page 2 Respect others and value yourself Seek knowledge W: http://www.warilla-h.schools.nsw.edu.au FB: /WarillaHigh

Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016

Week 3A IMPORTANT MESSAGES  Year 11 Half Yealy Exams LATE ARRIVAL – CHANGE OF PROCEDURES 9 May  Year 11 Retail (LEAP) Up until 9.15am go to the side window of the Library between ‘A’ block and the Library block. One of the  Year 7 English CAT Task Office Staff will record your information and give you a 10-12 May  NAPLAN late slip to get into class. After 9.15am report to the 11 May  Year 10/12 Illawarra Coal Careers Expo front office. Arriving late 3 times without a note from parent/guardian will result in parents being contacted  Year 11 Earth and Environment Excursion by the school and consequences will apply. 13 May  Visual Arts Excursion - Art Gallery of NSW SCHOOL FEES  Year 7 CAP HSIE Excursion Invoices for school fees will be sent to Week 4B parents/guardians by mail during Week 5 of this term.  Australian Geography Competition 7 & 8 The fridge magnet calendar with 2016 important 16 May CAP classes school dates will also be included.  Alternative Year 11 LEAP Retail  Future Directions – Year 12 Ms Lever UPDATING STUDENT DETAILS 17 May  U14/U16 Rugby Leagues If you change your address, phone number, including mobile number, or other contact details could you  Student Vaccinations please let the school know as soon as possible.  Max Potential Workshop – Ms Lever 18 May  Year 11 & 12 Legal Studies Excursion – Law PRIVATE PERSONAL PROPERTY Courts Personal property which is brought to school is the sole responsibility of the individual. The school is not  Athletics Carnival 20 May insured to cover loss or damage.  South Coast Lawn Bowls STUDENT DIARIES Week 5A This Year diaries will only be issued to Year 7 and new 23 May  Year 10 English CAT Task students. 24 May  Story Factory Visit – 7/8 CAP Classes PARKING IN SCHOOL ZONES  25 May Story Factory Visit – S Maher’s Group Heavy fines are imposed for illegal dropping off or 27 May  Athletics Carnival Wet Day – Backup Day picking up students in school zone hours. The school car park is for staff parking only and is not Week 6B to be used for dropping off or picking up students. 30 May – 1 RIDING A BIKE TO SCHOOL  NSW CHS League June Students who ride a bike to school are required by law to wear a helmet.  Year 11 Workplacement 30 May  Brainstorm Cheap Thrills Yr 9 Ms Lever STUDENT ABSENCES 31 May  Formal Assembly Students must bring a note to explain their absences. 1 June  Motivational Media A green ‘Absence Book’ is available from the front office. Unexplained absences will appear on the  3 June South Coast Cross Country - Nowra student’s report. Week 7A FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE 6 – 10  Alternative Year 11 Workplacement Week Parents experiencing financial difficulties can apply for June support through the Student Assistance Scheme. 8 June  Year 10 Unique Experience Day Funds are available to help with subject fees, school  Year 7/8 CAP Challenge Day – Illawarra uniform and books. All enquiries through the front 10 June Sports High office.

Our School’s Core Values: Care for your environment Seek knowledge Embrace honesty Page 3 Respect others and value yourself Seek knowledge W: http://www.warilla-h.schools.nsw.edu.au FB: /WarillaHigh

Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016 BYOD Update Throughout 2015 Warilla High School trialled the rollout of a BYOD program. This trial involved all teaching staff receiving extensive training in the use of a broad range of technological resources for use in the classroom. It also involved upgrades to the existing network and Wi-Fi systems used to support the use of technology throughout the school.

From the beginning of 2016 there is an expectation that all students will begin to bring a device to school every day. We recognise that just like uniforms, supplies, and extracurricular activities, a device for student use represents a significant investment for families. In response to this we are offering a range of support options for those families who are unable to meet these expectations due to financial hardship. Please contact the school to discuss these options if support is required. In order to enable future-focused 21st century learning programs to continue to be implemented at WHS it is very important that all students are ready to participate in this BYOD program from the beginning of 2016.

Chromebooks

Due to a range of supply issues, Chromebooks are hard to find in retail outlets so to address concerns raised by parents we will now be recommending a range of Windows based devices as well as Chromebooks.

If you have a Chromebook or have ordered a Chromebook, well done. The Chromebook is a great device that will deliver a rich learning environment in what is becoming a web based world. Chromebooks have also become widely used in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom by schools in disadvantaged areas because they are affordable and effective devices.

Over the next week the technology committee will be visiting local retailers to check devices and stock levels to compile a list of Windows devices available for purchase.

It is also important that laptops brought by students are suitable for use at school. Please be aware that some older laptops and Android devices will not work on the school's 5 GHz wireless network. Details of the minimum specifications and the types of devices suitable for use in the school environment are available on the following website;

● http://warillahighbyod.weebly.com/

Students will also be able to access Microsoft Office and some Adobe software free of charge to place on their device. Please DO NOT purchase these software packages. The following image gives a visual outline of Microsoft Office access for students and staff.

We appreciate your ongoing support and participation as we make this transition. We will continue to keep you informed.

Ben Spooner / Barry Jones Computer Co-ordinators

Japan Homestay, 22 July – 2 August 2016 After a very successful ‘taster’ visit last year, Warilla School is again hosting 15-20 students from Japan. Our visitors are coming from Asaka Kaisei High School and- after listening to our student body, the stay has been extended! This time the students will be here for 12 days early in Term 3. They will attend classes with their buddies and enjoy our dynamic school life, participating in cultural activities and making lots of new friends. This program provides opportunities to further develop the Japanese Program which is running successfully across all Year 7 classes at WHS. This language and cultural exchange will be an enriching experience for all - specifically designed to broaden our students’ understanding and appreciation of Japanese culture. If you are interested, Expression of Interest forms are available at the front office or contact Emma King/ Helen Sheridan at WHS

Helen Sheridan Relieving HT Secondary Studies

Our School’s Core Values: Care for your environment Seek knowledge Embrace honesty Page 4 Respect others and value yourself Seek knowledge W: http://www.warilla-h.schools.nsw.edu.au FB: /WarillaHigh

Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016 Library News Exciting times in the Library this term! Firstly, Oliver, our new library operating system is up and running. It is a web based system and offers many new features for students and teachers, such as 24-hour access to the WHS Library catalogue, and the ability to reserve books and renew loans at home. Students can publish book reviews on their favourite books, and they also have access to reading lists for the Premier’s Reading Challenge, class assignment and other specialty reading lists.

Also this term the library has started two new WHS Clubs – Chess Club and Book Club. Students can come along on Wednesday at lunch time to the library and participate in a Chess round robin, or sit and read, or talk about their favourite books. Students are invited to bring their lunch and enjoy some quiet time.

Many students and teachers are excited about the new interactive collaborative learning centre being set up in the library. A whiteboard wall, colourful furniture, whiteboard tables as well the interactive whiteboard, has produced some enthusiastic students and teachers keen to make use of these facilities. There is much more to come about this fantastic new facility so watch this space!!! Parents are welcome to come and visit us and see the exciting changes we are making in the library!

Maria Bryant Teacher Librarian

Our School’s Core Values: Care for your environment Seek knowledge Embrace honesty Page 5 Respect others and value yourself Seek knowledge W: http://www.warilla-h.schools.nsw.edu.au FB: /WarillaHigh

Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016 Special Provisions for the HSC 2016 The Board of Studies will allow students who have a “disability” to use special provisions for the HSC. They are practical arrangements designed to help students who can’t otherwise make a fair attempt at the HSC exams. The provisions are determined based on the way in which the student’s performance is disadvantaged during exams. The definition of the term “disability” is very broad. Examples of disability include learning disability, literacy difficulty, and fine motor skill issues, medical problems such as diabetes, severe asthma, chronic back problems, physical disfigurement, and mental health such as anxiety, depression, bi-polar, neurological and sensory such as scotopic sensitivity or hearing loss. Special Provisions available can include readers, writers, extra time, rest breaks and separate small group supervision. Applications are lodged electronically by Warilla High School staff. Documentary evidence is required as supporting evidence and must be submitted to the school for inclusion with the application. The application process is lengthy. It is advisable to begin the application process as quickly as possible to avoid delays. Applications generally close at the end of Term 1, 2016. Applications may be lodged later in the year, even during the HSC exam period.

Information regarding Disability Support is available on the BOSTES website. Should you wish to find out more about Special Provisions please contact Ros Gaynor at school on 02 4296 3055.

Ros Gaynor Learning and Support Teacher

The Tell Them From Me student feedback survey We are delighted that this term, our school, like many others in the state, will again participate in a Department of Education initiative: the Tell Them From Me student feedback survey. The survey aims to help improve student learning outcomes and measures factors that are known to affect academic achievement and other student outcomes. The focus of the NSW-wide survey is on student wellbeing, engagement and effective teaching practices.

More information about the survey is available at: http://surveys.cese.nsw.gov.au/information-for-parents The survey is a great opportunity for our students to provide our school with valuable and quick feedback on what they think about school life, how engaged they are with school and the different ways that teachers interact with them. Schools in Australia and around the world have used the Tell Them From Me survey to help improve how they do things at school.

We want to assure you that the survey is confidential and school staff will not be able to identify individual students from their responses. The survey is conducted online and will typically take less than 30 minutes to complete. It will be administered during school hours between 14 March and 8 April. Participating in the survey is entirely voluntary.

A consent form and a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) for parents/carers about the survey is being sent home with students. If you do not want your child or children to participate, please return the consent form to school by Friday 11 March. The FAQs and copies of the consent form, including translated consent forms, are available from the website above.

Mrs J. Raison Deputy Principal

Our School’s Core Values: Care for your environment Seek knowledge Embrace honesty Page 6 Respect others and value yourself Seek knowledge W: http://www.warilla-h.schools.nsw.edu.au FB: /WarillaHigh

Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016 2016 Additions to CAP (Core Academic Program) The students in Year 7 and 8 CAP classes will have the opportunity to extend their thinking and participate in some extra-curricular activities this year. Warilla High School is entering two Year 7 teams and 1 Year 8 team into the “da vinci decathlon” on Thursday 5th May at the Illawarra Frammar Centre (TIGS). Teams of 8 students from a range of disciplines (maths and chess, english, code breaking, philosophy etc) will compete in a range of challenges against other schools.

Warilla High School is also entering into the Tournament of Minds competition this year. Students in year 7 & 8 who are interested will be preparing during sport time in tTerm 2 and 3. In preparation for these events, our year 7 & 8 CAP classes will take on Illawarra Sports High School in a variety of “challenge days”.

Please contact Mr G.Smart (CAP Coordinator) or Mrs R.Pettit (Head Teacher, Teaching and Learning) for any further details.

Renee Pettit Head Teacher Teacher and Learning

Year 7 Scripture Thank you to the students who have returned their Permission Notes for Scripture. The program begins on Wednesday, March 16. Please ensure that all permission notes are returned to A3.

H. Sheridan Relieving HT Secondary Studies

Catch up Vaccinations for Year 7 On Monday March 7 the 60 Year 7 students who, due to time constraints, were not vaccinated on the first day (3 Feb.) had the opportunity to be seen by the Department of Public Health Nurses. This time was set by the nurses as they visited us after another smaller school had been visited in the morning. Thanks to all the students involved who were very cooperative and assisted this rushed activity to conclude easily.

Sonya Ankerholz-Potts HT TAS- Home Economics

Warilla High Café Watch this space for more information about the Grand Opening of the newly created Warilla High Café. We are thinking of developing a new name to go with the new space- a purpose built room with equipment to Hospitality Industry café standard. Suggestions for a new name gratefully received!! If you want to be involved in the setup of the area, we would be happy to accept donations of equipment or supplies. Sonya Potts HT TAS

Sonya Ankerholz-Potts HT TAS- Home Economics

Our School’s Core Values: Care for your environment Seek knowledge Embrace honesty Page 7 Respect others and value yourself Seek knowledge W: http://www.warilla-h.schools.nsw.edu.au FB: /WarillaHigh

Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016 OPAL Cards

Almost 340,000 school students are now travelling to and from school using their new School Opal cards. Students have embraced travelling with Opal, completing over 370,000 journeys each day. And most students are remembering to tap on and off each trip, with almost 80% of journeys taken with School Opal cards being successfully completed.

As always with the start of a new school year, some students have needed to update their operator selection as they have moved home, school or campus. We’ve successfully updated 4,500 School Opal cards with the correct operator to help students travel. If a student gets a “Card not valid – 65” message, they are not approved for that service and should go online at transportnsw.info/school-students to request an update of operator(s). With most school holidays starting on 11 April, it is important to remember that School Opal cards, including School Term Bus Passes, will not be enabled for travel on weekends or during school holidays. School Opal cards will be reactivated when term two starts on 26 April. Below are some reason codes students may see on Opal card readers if they use their School Opal card during these times.

Customers who currently have a School Term Bus Pass, that is due to expire after term one, will also receive an email notification from Transport for NSW reminding them to renew their pass. These customers simply need to go online at transportnsw.info/school-students and apply for a new School Term Bus Pass, and their existing School Opal card will be updated if the application is submitted and approved prior to the start of Term 2.

How you can help  Endorse any new School Opal card applications and send these to Transport for NSW.  Remind students to travel with a Child/Youth Opal card for travel on weekends and school holidays.  Remind students to tap on and off every time.

Thank you for your support. The Concessions Team

Our School’s Core Values: Care for your environment Seek knowledge Embrace honesty Page 8 Respect others and value yourself Seek knowledge W: http://www.warilla-h.schools.nsw.edu.au FB: /WarillaHigh

Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016

Our School’s Core Values: Care for your environment Seek knowledge Embrace honesty Page 9 Respect others and value yourself Seek knowledge W: http://www.warilla-h.schools.nsw.edu.au FB: /WarillaHigh

Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016 PBL Continuing with our EFFECTIVE CLASSROOM PRACTICES strategy for 2016, PBL lessons in Term 2 will be focused on “students experience high rates of academic success”. This was identified as a need from data collated by a recent survey completed by the school community. The lessons will be: Week Focus Area / Core Value 2 Personal Strengths 3 Different Intelligences 4 Modes of Learning 5 Different Intelligences for Different People 6 Obstacles/Barriers 7 High Standards 8 Feedback: What, How & Why? 9 Feedback: Staff/Peer/Teacher 10 Student Goals

Each Week, students who display these expectations will be acknowledged with a Warilla Winner Slip. These are collected by our PBL Youth voice student body and winners are announced each fortnight on the Thursday morning assembly.

There is a consistent focus across the school now that the “Warilla High School Classroom Rules” have been taught during Term 1. The rules are: Look, Listen, Learn Be on time with equipment ready Use technology only when directed Leave classroom tidy and Be safe I would like to acknowledge and thank the teachers on the PBL committee who are the driving force behind the lessons, data collation and facilitator of Youth Voice. The Warilla High School Community values and appreciates your commitment.

Mrs Unicomb

CAPA Brooke has been successfully competing as a Soloist in Jazz, Modern, Contemporary, Hip Hop and Broadway Jazz for the past 7 years, during this time she has also Brook Spiteri had great success with her Duo (Year 7) partner in Jazz, Contemporary and Modern and as always a team Has been successful player in the Troupes for Jazz, in her audition for a Modern, Hip Hop and place in the Contemporary. Brooke is an prestigious Southern assistant student teacher for the Stars Dance little ones at our dance studio "All Company. that Jazz Dance Co Illawarra"

Brookes latest accolades include Congratulations qualifying last September for the Brook from the Warilla High School Community

Our School’s Core Values: Care for your environment Seek knowledge Embrace honesty Page 10 Respect others and value yourself Seek knowledge W: http://www.warilla-h.schools.nsw.edu.au FB: /WarillaHigh

Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016 Showcase National Championships held on the Gold Coast in January 2016. Bearing in mind Brooke actually had 14 weeks off prior to competing in the championships due to surgery in October to correct Os Trigonum (an extra bone in her foot). She beat the odds, started walking through her routines just after Christmas and decided she would definitely compete despite her lack of fitness/condition. Long story short Brooke competed as a soloist in 12-14yr Jazz, Modern and Contemporary, where she was placed 3rd in Jazz and placed 1st in both her Modern and Contemporary routines, these results accumulated to take the position of 4th in the top 10 in her section. Brooke and Mykenzie her duo partner placed 3rd in Jazz and Brooke and her troupe team mates came home with 2nd place in both the Modern and Jazz Sections. The dancing season has just begun and Brooke was placed 3rd in Broadway Jazz and 5th in Hip Hop at an extremely tough contested eisteddfod Get the Beat in Newcastle.

SCHOOL EXPO Thank you to the students who supported the school EXPO by volunteering their time in subject demonstrations and helping prospective students and their parents around the school. Following is a copy of an email sent to Mr John Hambly that acknowledge the many students in our school who are caring, well-mannered, community minded citizens.

Hi, I would like to provide some feedback on one of your students during the Education Expo last week. I am not sure of her full name, she just introduced herself as Piper. Piper noticed my husband, son and I looking a bit lost as we arrived at the school and immediately offered to guide us. Piper ended up staying with us and provided us with a personal tour of the school. She also provided us with lots of information about the school and what it has to offer. During this entire time, she was very friendly, helpful and kind, and certainly left us with a positive opinion of the school. I hope that you are able to identify Piper and provide her with some form of reward or recognition as she went out of her way to help, even though she did not know us. …….. and yes Piper was both acknowledged and rewarded. Congratulations to all the students who made this school event so successful.

Mrs Unicomb HT CAPA

Our School’s Core Values: Care for your environment Seek knowledge Embrace honesty Page 11 Respect others and value yourself Seek knowledge W: http://www.warilla-h.schools.nsw.edu.au FB: /WarillaHigh

Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016 Welfare Year 7 Year 7 have now settled in at Warilla High school and have cemented themselves as an integral part of the WHS community. The two CAP classes attended camp at Killalea and there have been several sporting successes in the fields of swimming, sailing, lawn bowls and many more. 150 students also enjoyed a great day out (and lots of show bags and lollies!) at the Royal Easter show. The students and staff alike had a blast! Elle Fitzgerald

Year 8 Some Year 8 students have had the privilege to experience the learning labs offered at the University of Wollongong, whom offer school holiday programs. These programs run for 2-3 days and provide students with a sample of university life and learning opportunities (for all age groups). These are offered each set of school holidays and information is provided to the students by their Year Advisors. Matt Girdlestone of Year 8 has provided a recount of his experiences so far over 2 sets of learning labs.

1.The first university learning labs I attended was Lego robotics with my friend Jack Johnson. We were tasked with building a robot that could move a ball from one side of a table to the other so that’s what we did on the first day; we created a body and the arm that would eventually attach to the body with the use of the motors and next kit (which is a Lego robotic kit) we continued and I started coding the robot whilst jack continued making the robot the coding was very simple using the next coding app on a laptop. I finished the coding and Jack finished the robot so we uploaded the coding to it and tested it. It worked very well but it sort of didn’t work as it would drive forward and slam the ball down on the table then drive back. We tried connecting robots with another group to co-ordinate a collect and catch function, but that didn't work. I really enjoyed the learning lab & couldn't wait for the next one.

2.The second learning labs were in January 2016. I did the Lego robotics Lab again this time I was with someone I didn't even know until we started. Her name was Mazye but we just called her Maz. Our first task for this one was that we had to make a "social bot" that said something then did a gesture. I built the robot this time as Maz had used the ex3 (another Lego robotics kit) so I built a robot that then called project Jaún Cena. After a lot of work, I finished the robot and we had done the coding as well. We had a robot that sensed you near it, then it smiled then did a Mexican wave (yes a Mexican wave!). In the afternoon we had to make a robot that did the same thing as last time; a robot that moved a ball, but this time it had to have a rail on both ends of the table and your creation was in the middle. The next day I eventually created a turn table that the ball ran into of the rail it picked it up and spun around then drop the ball of the on the other rail this one had a 100% success rate were as the old one only had a like 75% success rate. I can't wait to apply to attend the next Learning Labs!!! Matt Girdlestone

Year 9 Welcome back Year 9! We are entering into a very busy time of year. NAPLAN testing is on in Week 3 and it is an important tool to monitor student academic progress. Good luck to all year 9 students. Also, Camp notes were sent home late last term. A reminder to all parents that the initial deposit is due by the end of week 5! The excitement around the camp is almost palpable and Term 4 is fast approaching. Lastly, congratulations to Year 9 on their wonderful academic, sporting and extracurricular achievements in Term 1. I am confident we can achieve even more this term. Ben Roskell

Year 10 Great start back to Term 2. This is an important term as students will be receiving information on subject selections for the senior years. There is a subject information evening for students and parents of year 10 on the 29th June in the school hall. Mrs Hicks the Careers Advisor will be working closely with the students to prepare them for the workforce work experience or further study. Drew Cairncross

Our School’s Core Values: Care for your environment Seek knowledge Embrace honesty Page 12 Respect others and value yourself Seek knowledge W: http://www.warilla-h.schools.nsw.edu.au FB: /WarillaHigh

Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016 Year 11 Year 11 are currently preparing for their half yearly exams and should be studying. Any students that need help with exam techniques can see. Ms Neden.

Year 12 Year 12 Travel Safety Presentation Fitzsimmons photo attached On March 11 - Kate Fitzsimmons (Founder of the Nicole Fitzsimmons Foundation) presented a hard-hitting & timely presentation on the importance of remembering to maintain all sensible precautions when travelling, particularly overseas. Kate lost her sister in a motor bike accident in Thailand because she was not wearing a helmet and has since set up this foundation in her memory to educate young Australians to travel safely so that they may come home alive and well. Kate also presented stories about various other tragedies of young Australians who have lost their lives or become seriously injured through contaminated alcohol or risk- taking behaviours. It was thought provoking and moving and I'm sure it will make our students think twice before they make impulsive dangerous choices in the future. Mrs Murray

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Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016 2016 Youth Week Art Exhibition Students from Warilla High School participated in the Annual Youth Week Art Exhibition at Blackbutt Youth Centre. This event is held yearly by Shellharbour Council. A big THANK YOU to Louise Hakkenbrock who took some of our Year 10 students on a photography excursion in the local area in order to develop their photography skills and to produce works for this event. A big CONGRATULATIONS to all of the students who participated!!

Sport Report Much of this report is from Term 1 although, Term 2 has already seen plenty of achievements that deserve recognition. The School Swimming Age Champions have not been publicly acknowledges so can we congratulate the following students in this report:

Warilla HS Swimming Age Champions

Age Girls Points Boys Points 12 1.Brielle Lambert 58 1. Jake Almond 54 2. Kristi Babic 34 2. Isaac Shaw 27 13 1. Kyana Snook 52 1. Jett Murray 59 2. Lori Miller 40 2. Tom Ryan 41 14 1. Grace McLeod 57 1. Kai Richards 59 2. Tahni Dropulic: 50 2. Ethan Rowles 41 15 1. Emma Hutchison 50 1. Jai Marland 29 2. Elissa Hayman 26 2. Jovan Ristevski 19 16 1. Jordyn Burke 55 1. Trent Clarke 48 2. Kiara Meredith 18 2. Luke Hunter 38 17+ 1. Emerson Leighton 60 1. Ben Hayman 47 2. Alex Parker 27 Support 1. Taleigha Cook: 27

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Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016 The majority of these students went on to compete with distinction at the Zone and South Coast Carnivals.

State Swimming Championships The following students competed at the Homebush Aquatic Centre – the 2000 Olympic venue in the CHS State Swimming Championships. Warilla High had 3 relay teams qualify for state level: 12-19 Boys 300m Freestyle relay – Jake Almond, Jett Murray, Kai Richards, Jai Marland, Trent Clarke and Ben Hayman. Boys 12 yrs 200m Freestyle relay: Jake Almond, Isaac Shaw, Joel Whalan and Lachlan Cairns. Girls 13 yrs 200m Freestyle relay: Maddelyn Newton, Lori Miller, Emelie Robinson and Brielle Lambert. As well, Brielle Lambert, Jett Murray and Kai Richards competed in individual events with distinction.

South Coast Netball Trials Tamara Ebbs (Year 10) and Karlie Zwolsman (Year 11) were the two students from Warilla HS to trial for the South Coast Netball team that will compete in the State Championships in Narrabeen from 24th-26th May. As you can imagine, netball is the highest participation sport for girls in NSW if not Australia. For these girls to be selected in a team of 10 for the South Coast is an outstanding effort and an acknowledgement of the high level of skill both these girls possess.

South Coast Lawn Bowls Singles and Pairs Championships Kaleigh Darlington (Yr 11), Jayden Gebbie, Ryan Noronha (Yr 10), and Toby Peters competed in the South Coast Lawn Bowls Championships held at Warilla Bowling Club over two days in Week 10 last term. Toby is the U15 South Coast Singles Champion and he and Ryan Noronha the South Coast Pairs Champions. Jayden and Kaleigh finished Runners Up in the Open Singles event. All of these are fantastic efforts and recognise the amount of training and competing these students are involved in during out of school hours. This is an appropriate time to again acknowledge the input that Warilla Bowling Club puts in to developing junior lawn bowlers. They have very extensive training programs and a genuine desire to develop this sport. Warilla High is fortunate enough to be a beneficiary of their talent identification program each year where every Year 8 student is able to experience lawn bowling and, if identified, invited to join the lawn bowls program. These students compete around the state and can earn some very handy pocket money, as well as some valuable life skills required when working in a team environment. Congratulations to these bowlers and we will be hearing more about their achievements as the lawn bowling calendar continues throughout the year.

Southern Illawarra Zone Open Touch Championships Following on from the success of Warilla High School Open Boys Touch Team in 2015 where the boys finished second in the State Schools Championships, Warilla High are again off to a good start winning the Southern Zone Touch Competition on a very wet Monday, the last week of Term 1. Very good wins against Oak Flats, Illawarra Sports, Albion Park and Kanahooka HS have ensured the team will be competing in the South Coast Schools Championships in Milton on Tuesday 14th June. The girls Open Team is also through to the South Coast Championships winning all but their one game against Illawarra Sports High. The girls completed one training session during the holidays and will be training regularly during school leading up to the next competition.

South Coast Rugby League Trials 7 of our students were selected to trial for the South Coast U15 and Open Rugby League teams following the Southern Illawarra Carnival. For the U15’s Justin Check, Jack Butler , Callum Gromek and Jai Marland travelled to Nowra for the trials. Parrish Ballette, Luke Jurd and Cameron Vazzoler were selected to trial for the Open Team. Congratulations to Luke Jurd who was selected at halfback. Luke travels to Canberra in Week 2 of this term to compete against Riverina for a chance to play at the CHS State Carnival in the Southern NSW team. Luke will attempt to emulate the achievements of his big brother Matt who made the Southern team and went on to represent NSW CHS at the National Championships in Darwin.

South Coast Rugby Union Trials Kyh Roche (Yr 11) was our sole representative at the South Coast Open Rugby Union Trials held in Kiama late Term 1. Congratulations to Kyh who will compete in the State Championships in Camden during Week 4 this term.

Jye Edwards competes in the World Cross Country Championships in Budapest, Hungary

You may have watched the WIN TV interview with Jye Edwards (Yr 12) before he left with the Australian Team to travel to Hungary. Jye came 11th in the world in his run – the second Australian home. What a sensational effort. We are all so proud of this young

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Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016 man who trains so hard and is so humble in his achievements. He is still overseas with the Australian team and we look forward to hearing about his travels and the experiences he has enjoyed.

U15 CHS Touch Championships – Mudgee Trey Barlow, Callum Gromek and Jack Bostock; Teisha McKenzie, Ellie Bostock and Emily Quinn have competed in the South Coast team at the State Touch Championships in Mudgee over the weekend of the 31st April and 1st May. Both the South Coast Boys and Girls Teams met with some tough competition but have returned home better for the experience. Congratulations to these students for being excellent representatives for their school and region.

U13’s Rugby League Our Under 13’s Rugby League team competed in the Country Cup (Illawarra Zone) at Croome Road Albion Park. There were many teams competing on the day split between four separate pools. Warilla played pool games against Edmund Rice B winning 38-0 and Dapto winning 32-0. This allowed the team to progress through to the Semi Finals playing Edmund Rice A winning 24-0. Warilla then met Holy Spirit College in the final and were defeated 10-0 in a very close game. This was an excellent effort from a young team who have the ability to progress a long way in future competitions as they develop as a squad. Standout players on the day were Trey Barlow (Year 8), Toby Peters (Year 7), Will Starling (Year 7) and Kane Stage (Year 7).

South Coast Surfing Championships On Friday the 1st of April, 3 students travelled to Rennies Beach Ulladulla for the South Coast Surfing Titles. Jack Headrick (Year 8) and Samuel Georges (Year 9) competed in the Junior boy’s division. Both boys were competing for the first time at this event against some highly accomplished surfers. Both boys gave their best and both finished fifth in their respective heats. Kiara Meredith (Year 10) competed in the Open Girls division. This was the first time Kiara had competed in this division, stepping up from the Junior Girls. Kiara won her heat, progressing straight through to the final. In the final Kiara renewed old and existing rivalries against highly experienced surfers. Kiara surfed exceptionally well finishing second and will now proceed to the State Titles. Well done to all of the competitors who represented Warilla High School on the day. They were a great credit to the school and themselves.

Bill Turner Shield U15 Girls Football We have had a sensational start to the year in Girls Football. In the Open Girls CHS Knockout we defeated Oak Flats 6-2. In an overall competitive and well contested game we were able to knock the ball forward early to create one-on-one opportunities with the keeper. Oak Flats hit back quickly though. Both goal keepers had stand out performances with some fantastic saves. We were able to put a few more goals away to take the pressure off. Our goals scorers were Casey-Lee Bedford with a hat trick! (3), Cristina Barraza (1), Shana Bourne (1) and Teisha McKenzie (1). Congratulations girls. I’m looking forward to Round two against Dapto High School in the coming weeks.

In the U/15’s Girls Bill Turner Trophy we have 5 new recruits who seamlessly fitted into the team and made fabulous contributions to the 8-0 score line against Oak Flats in our Round one game. The score line does not reflect the commitment and intensity shown by both teams until the final whistle. Our goal scorers were Rhiannon Tungai (4), Keely Boon (1) and Angelica Barraza with a hat trick! (3). It was brilliant to watch the construction of the opportunities for shots on goal and the precise decision making by our goal keepers Rosemary Boyland and Ellie Levy. The girls should be really proud of their efforts and I’m looking forward to Round two against Shellharbour Anglican College in the coming weeks.

Cricket Report At the end of term one Warilla High school played two state knockout cricket matches. Our U15’s Hassett Cup Boys played against a strong Keira High side. The boys set a nice target but went down by 7 wickets. There were some nice performances from Finbar Gittoes, Jack Headrick and Byron Lawler. Our Senior Girls Cricket team fared better in the second round of the Marie Cornish Cup. The girls scored a massive 171 runs against Bomaderry High. We then dismissed them for 67. The girls will now play Wollongong High in Round three. Outstanding performers included Erin Dalley, Karie Myers, Tykea Tungai and Keely Dodd.

Rugby League Report Also at the end of Term One, our Under 15’s Rugby League team competed at the Country Cup held at Croome Road Sporting Complex. This knockout competition also doubled as the Southern Illawarra Zone Team trials. Our boys did exceptionally well, narrowly missing out on the final. Congratulations to Justin Check, Lachlan Gromek, Jack Butler and Jai Marland. These boys were selected to represent Southern Illawarra.

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Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016 Cross Country Warilla HS Cross Country Age Champions

Age Girls Boys 12 Tayleah Handcock Isaac Shaw 13 Ruby Kean Riley Curry 14 Madi Singleton Nathan Scollery 15 Olivia Rutten Ethan O'Connell 16 Shenay Edwards Finlay McPhillips 17+ Shana Bourne Kade Szakis

Support Taleigha Cook Emma Scollary

Southern Illawarra League Tag Gala Day We have had girl’s teams represent the school in the U16 and U13 League Tag competitions run at Croome Road last Term. The U13 age group had so many girls trial, we were able to enter 3 teams. Congratulations to these teams on their efforts, in particular the U13 girls A Team who were narrowly defeated in the semi-final. League Tag is a sport that now runs with the local rugby league competitions and is a fantastic participation sport. These gala days are organized to increase the profile of the sport and encourage more girls to get involved, rather than just going along as spectators to watch the boys play rugby league.

NSW CHS Sailing During the last school holidays Riley Curry in year 7 competed in the NSW CHS sailing championships at Belmont 16ft Sailing Club. Riley and his sailing partner sailed extremely well finishing 3rd overall, 1st in Flying 11 & 1st in Division 4.

Calendar Events for Term 2: Zone Cross Country Championships – Friday 6th May at Kembla Joggers, Dapto Open Boys and Girls South Coast Touch Trials – Friday 6th May - Nowra South Coast Cross Country Championships – Friday 3rd June Cambewarra - Nowra Warilla High School Athletics Carnival – Friday 20th May – Myimbarr Reserve Lawn Bowls Triples Championship -Friday 20th May Warilla Bowling Club Dean Young U14 & U16 Rugby League Carnival – Tuesday 17th May – Figtree Coondoo Classis – BMX – Thursday 16th June – Shoalhaven CHS Netball Knockouts U/15 7 Opens – Wednesday 15th June & Wednesday 3rd August

Not School Sport but we are so proud of these students:

Kiara Meredith has been continuing to make a name for herself in the surfing arena. After competing in Adelaide last term, Kiara has her U18 Australasian ranking now at 10 – a fantastic feat considering she is only 16. Toby Peters – won the Warilla Bowls Easter Tournament – just ask him how much pocket money he picked up – he’s only in Year 7.

Melanie Tregonning Head Teacher P/D/H/PE

No to Violence In previous editions of our newsletter and on our website and Face-book page, I have indicated the school's zero tolerance policy towards violence. I have included my open letter to the school community again, as some students have recently resorted to violence to settle disputes. This is bitterly disappointing and something I refuse to accept. Again, I ask that you speak with your child about our policy and the need to bring issues to the notice of staff, year advisers, mentors, counsellors, class-room teachers, DP's- or whoever they feel comfortable discussing their concerns with. The safety and well-being of all demands that we develop in our students the capacity to resolve differences amicably and without confrontation. Students who don't comply will have their enrolment at this school reviewed. I thank you in anticipation of your ongoing and unwavering support of this position.

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Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016

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Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016

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Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016 Make Online Payments (POP) Is now possible for parents to make online payments to the school for amounts owing for students, via a secure payment page hosted by Westpac. Payments can be made using either a Visa or MasterCard credit/debit card. The payment page is accessed from the front page of the schools website by selecting $ Make a payment

Items that can be paid include voluntary school contributions, subject contributions, excursions, sales to students and creative and practical arts activities (these include band, drama and dance). There is also a category called “other”, this would cover items not covered in the previous heading. ‘Other’ can be used to make a complete payment of a school invoice.

When you access the $ Make a payment you must enter:

 the students name, and  class and reference number OR  the students name, and  Date of birth.

These details are entered each time you make a payment, as student information is not held within the payment system.

This is a secure payment system hosted by Westpac to ensure that your credit/debit card details are captured in a secure manner and these details are not passed back to the school.

You have the ability to check and change any details of the payment before the payment is processed. Receipts can be emailed and/or printed.

Details of the payments are passed daily to the school where they will be receipted against your child’s account. As a receipt has been issued from the payment page a further receipt will not be issued by the school.

For any enquiries regarding the Online Payment process please contact the office staff on 02 4296 3055 or alternately email; warilla- [email protected]

The Office Staff

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Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016 Warilla High School Attendance During the last two terms, a growing number of students have been coming late to school, that is after the bell rings for the commencement of the school day, without a note from a parent or caregiver. Warilla High School is required under the Education Act 2009, to record and report on all absences (whole day or partial day absences). This includes students who are “a few minutes late”. Parents are responsible under the act to explain the absences of their children from school with either a note or a verbal notification in person or on the telephone. Listed below is a table of justified and unjustified absences as determined by the NSW Department of Education.

Justified Reasons Unjustified Reasons  Doctor’s/dentist appointment – must provide evidence, such as a  Sleeping in / alarm not working doctor’s certificate or letter.  Missed the bus  Appointment with other health care professional or similar service –  Traffic / road works must provide evidence, such as an appointment card or letter.  Walked to school  Special family circumstances – note/verbal explanation must be  Waiting for parent provided.  Minding sibling  Bus delayed – school will check to verify.  Shopping  Interview with Principal, Deputy Principal, Counsellor or other school  Other similar reasons personnel – staff involved must inform the front office.

Please Note: A note from a parent or verbal explanation from parent who drops student at school for any reason listed above as “unjustified” DOES NOT make the reason “justified”. Any late arrivals to school without this notification will be recorded as a partial absence and will be reported as an ‘Unexplained Partial Absence” on the student’s report card and on the official record of student attendance. In addition, any student who is late without a justified reason will be placed on detention by a member of the Senior Executive. Late Arrival Change of Procedures – Students arriving late between 8:30 a.m. and 9:15 a.m. are to report to the side window of the library. Any late arrivals after 9:15 a.m. are to report to the front office. Students who are late should bring a note from a parent or caregiver. Your cooperation with our obligations under the DEC Attendance Guidelines is greatly appreciated.

Mr Ben Spooner Relieving HT Student Engagement and Retention

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Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016

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Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016

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Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016

WE ACCEPT MASTERCARD, VISA & EFTPOS – NO CHEQUE PAYMENTS OPERATING HOURS – Wednesday 12pm -> 5pm – Friday 8am -> 1pm Online Store - http://www.daylightsportswear.com/warilla/

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Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016

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Issue 1 – Term 2 – Week 3 9 May 2016

Our School’s Core Values: Care for your environment Seek knowledge Embrace honesty Page 26 Respect others and value yourself Seek knowledge W: http://www.warilla-h.schools.nsw.edu.au FB: /WarillaHigh