IRRAWANG HIGH SCHOOL Promoting excellence in academic, cultural and sporting performance
Newsletter - Issue 7 - August 2017 Important Dates From the Principal’s Desk . . . Term 3 - Mon 17 July - Fri 22 September My thanks go to the whole staff team for the efforts of the last Mon 21 - Fri Year 11 VET Work couple of weeks in particular. We have had a string of additional 25 Aug Placements activities, all of which have gone very well, but require a lot of Thur 24 Aug 365 Healthy Lifestyle extra work. Thanks to everyone involved with the Education Program Week activities, Showcase and the multiple extra curricular opportunities provided to students. It has been a busy first half Fri 25 - Tue 29 7E 2018 Interviews Aug of Term 3 and the pace will continue with HSC practical exams and major works being submitted along with the trial HSC Mon 28 Aug P & C Meeting- 6:00 pm in the Library examinations.
Mon 28 - Tue 7E 2018 Interviews Education Week 29 Aug In Weeks 3 and 4 Irrawang HS acknowledged and celebrated Thur 31 Aug 365 Healthy Lifestyle Education Week. This year’s theme is I LEARN – WE LEARN, a Program celebration of the school’s commitment to ensuring better Tue 5, Wed 6, VALID Year 10 Exam Fri 8 Sep learning, stronger communities and provides us with an opportunity to Inside this issue: acknowledge the important role public schools play in fostering the Thur 7 Sep From the Principal’s Desk . . . 1-2 CAPA Stage 6 Evening partnership in learning between students, staff, parents and the Stage 3-6 Enrichment community. SAOTW/Important Dates 2 Display Ed Week/Awards/CAPA Tour 3-5 365 Healthy Lifestyle Kate Washington Congrats Program It was a fabulous way to celebrate our successes here at Irrawang HS. A number of staff, students and community members were recognised PBL/Enrichment Afternoon 6-7 Mon 11 - Tue Year 11 Exams with Education Week awards for their efforts in making this school a 19 Sep Showcase/Meryl Swanson 8-10 place of better learning and a stronger school community. You will find Congrats/Congrats Maddison Thur 14 - Fri VALID Year 10 Exam a list of our worthy award recipients within the newsletter. 22 Sep Welcome Back Mrs L’Ecluse 11 Congrats James and Chase! Thur 14 Sep 365 Healthy Lifestyle Showcase - Imagine! Program I was again lucky enough to attend SHOWCASE! Huge congratulations Congrats Roan!/Dance 12 Festival Tue 19 Sep Talk Like a Pirate Day on two fantastic evenings of entertainment, a true showcase of student's talent and staff's dedication and commitment in providing this Food Tech 13 Wed 20 Sep Year 12 Presentation opportunity for all the students of the Lakeside Learning Community. Practice IHS Culture Club/Chinese 14 The accolades I received on both nights from our special guests and Girls Rugby League Cultural Day Gala Day parents about the performances, the professionalism, the organisation - they were all truly impressed about how good each night was. The Thou Walla/Congrats 15 Shayley! Thur 21 Sep 365 Healthy Lifestyle depth of talent, the variety of performances and evident enthusiasm Program and passion that our students displayed, was outstanding and inspiring. Science 16-17 Fri 22 Sep Year 12 Presentation The school and Showcase was mentioned and praised in both State and News from English 18 Last Day of Term 3 - Federal parliament, please take the time to look at the footage of Kate School Resumes - Mon 9 Oct Washington’s State MP Port Stephens and Meryl Swanson Federal MP Senior Support Students Gain 19 Life Skills at Coles
Youyoong 2016 GATS/Accelerated Maths/ 20
Meetings EMPOWER Term 3: Wed 31 Aug - Raymond Terrace PS - Gen 10am P & C Meetings PDHPE/Careers Day at IPS 21 Term 4: Wed 26 Oct - Anna Bay PS - AGM 10am Wed 23 Nov - Hunter River HS - XMAS Party 10am P & C meetings are held on the fourth New Gardens /Earn & Learn 22 Monday of the month. The next All welcome bstreetsmart 23 meeting is on: Mr Baxter back to Classroom 24 Date: Monday 28 August 2017 Mount Hall Road Archibull Takes Shape RAYMOND TERRACE NSW 2324 Time: 6:00pm P: 49874687 F: 49831027 Where: Library Positions Vacant 25
This is a chance to meet other parents and learn what is going on OPAL Cards/PBL Community 26-31 Principal: Mr P Baxter Sponsors/IHS Supporters at your child’s school. www.irrawang-h.schools.nsw.edu.au Become involved in your school community. Good luck Year 12 for Have your say in your child’s/children’s education. your upcoming HSC [email protected] Principal in attendance. exams!! From the Principal’s Desk cont’d. . . SAOTW/Important Dates
Paterson parliamentary speeches on our Facebook site. Well done Dates for Year 11: to Adele Robinson, the CAPA team and other staff involved. Year 11 are also in the final stages of completing their
preliminary courses. Please be reminded of the following key NAPLAN Online School Readiness dates: NSW schools will participate in the NAPLAN Online School Preliminary end of course examinations: Monday 11 Readiness Test from 14 August to 22 September. There is a lot of information for schools, students and parents on the NAPLAN September – Tuesday 19 September
Online transition website. The school readiness test is a ‘practice Commencement of HSC courses: Monday 16 October 2017 run' for schools to assess their technology as we prepare to STUDENT ACHIEVER OF THE WEEK transition to NAPLAN Online. It provides an opportunity for schools Congratulations to the following students on their achievements: to become familiar with the NAPLAN Online assessment platform, Week 1: Week 2: but is not an assessment of student ability. HSIE: Joel Gam, Caleb Small HSIE: Jessica Kearns, Jayme Bertram
Irrawang High School students in Years 7 and 9 will be participating Week 3: CAPA: Katie Evans, Casey Dolman, Dylan Hopper in the readiness test between Monday 11 September and Friday 15 English: Courtney Withers, Ryan Halson September 2017. HSIE: Kaylan Fisher, Caitlin Ping TAS: Brent Bernado, Chloe Lambert The readiness test will involve students in Years 7 and 9 sitting two, 40 minute assessments, a writing test and a combined numeracy/ Week 4: HSIE: Mikayla Warren, Deakin Slade literacy test (Omnibus).
Week 5: Student participation in the readiness test is important in ensuring HSIE: Caitlyn Panuccio, Rhys Harley that the online test platform is tested to support online NAPLAN delivery in the future, it is also an opportunity for them to become familiar with the NAPLAN Online test format. It is not an Term 4 - Mon 9 October - Tue 19 December assessment of student ability and there will be no reporting of Mon 9 Oct School Resumes for all students and staff student results. Mon 9 - Fri 13 Oct CAPA Tour It is important to note that participation in the school readiness Fri 13 Oct Road Wise test has no effect on students’ NAPLAN results from the paper- Mon 16 Oct - Fri 10 based tests students sat in May. HSC Exams Nov
Best Wishes! Wed 18 Oct Lions Youth of the Year - RTBC I would like to wish our Year 12 students all the very best. As I Sat 21 Oct Medowie Lions Youth of the Year write this newsletter they are almost finished their Trial HSC and approaching their final weeks at Irrawang High. It is a stressful, Mon 23 Oct P & C Meeting- 6:00 pm in the Library anxious and exciting time for all involved, including their family!
Mon 23 - Wed 25 Oct Learn Drive, Survive
The Trial HSC is very important because it provides teachers and Wed 25 Oct Celebration of Words- RT Senior Citizens Hall students with a very clear idea of what they need to focus upon in the remaining weeks of school in order to maximise their final HSC Fri 27 Oct VOR Year 7 Art Excursion marks. It is important for every student to work through their Mon 30 Oct - Fri 3 Year 10 Exams exam papers and learn how to make further improvements. This Nov period is unbelievably valuable to students as feedback is the key Wed 1 Nov to making improvements. The next few weeks are hugely Year 7 Vaccinations important in terms of preparation for the real thing! Thur 2 Nov Year 11 Assembly
Stage 6 Parent/Teacher Night Dates for Year 12 This is an exciting time of the year for Year 12 as they begin the Thur 2 - Fri 3 Nov Year 10 Portfolios countdown to some key significant milestones in their education. Fri 3 Nov Year 8 VALID Exam Year 12 Presentation Day, Year 12 Formal and the completion of Thur 16 Nov their final exams as secondary students mark the end of their time Year 12 Formal as high school students, and the graduation and formal are Mon 20, Tue 21, Fri World of Work marquee events in the school calendar. Year 12 are reminded of 24 Nov the following dates: Mon 27 Nov P & C Meeting- 6:00 pm in the Library
Fri 1 Dec Year 8 Luna Park Friday 22 September: Presentation Ceremony Fri 15 Dec Thursday 16 November: Year 12 Formal Presentation Day Monday 16 October: HSC commences Last Day of Term 4 for all Students
Mon 18 - Tue 19 Dec Staff Development Days Education Week
Education Week Even our Archibull cow wasn’t left out of the Thanks also to the wonderful MarketPlace action. The Variety Club was doing a country team who have been so incredibly By Mrs L Fagan Community Liaison Officer themed promotion at Woolies, so our supportive in every way and who presented gorgeous cow was out in public in all her a beautiful surprise cake to the Year 12
glory. Thank you to the Woolies staff who students who will be leaving us at the end of Education Week came to a close with just as kindly donated a box of fruit for our the term. MarketPlace has been sponsoring much enthusiasm from our students as there was at the beginning of the week. The CAPA students. this particular group of students since they students performed at MarketPlace were in Year 7 and have watched them grow Raymond Terrace and our Visual Arts and Our CAPA faculty, as everyone knows has and mature into the beautiful young people Music teachers presented static art displays, been incredibly busy this week and all they are today. with student’s artworks. Ms Bangle involved in some way in Showcase with choreography, sound, backstage and Sincere thanks must go to this group of demonstrated her skills on the pottery wheel offering everyone the opportunity to have a photography. So, big congratulations to disciplined, happy students, who have made try, whilst Mr Wyllie was busy hand sculpting Head Teacher, Ms Robinson and her loyal us laugh and cry this week with their talents. his skull. team.
Wow – what a week!
Seeing much, suffering much, and
studying much, are the three pillars of learning. Benjamin Disraeli
Education is not a product; mark, diploma,
job, money - in that order, it is a process, a never-ending one. Bel Kaufman Education Week Awards
CAPA Tour 2017
Education Week Awards Ceremony By Mrs L Fagan Community Liaison Officer
What a wonderful celebration for the 11 schools in the Lakeside and Hunter River Learning Communities recently as Hunter River High School hosted the annual Education Week Awards Ceremony. Eleven schools came together to acknowledge people connected to their schools who make outstanding contributions to Public Education. Congrats to all involved!
Irrawang High’s award recipients were:
Excellence in Student Achievement: Outstanding Contribution by a School Community Member to the Annabel Bisley and Lincoln Hunter School: MarketPlace Raymond Terrace, accepted by Mrs Mulholland- Excellence in Teaching: Ruiz Ms Ashley Burgess Mr Grant Wyllie Pictured above from left: Ms Burgess, Annabel Bisley, Colleen Mulholland-Ruiz, Mr Wyllie, Ms Robinson, Mrs Clifford, Lincoln Outstanding Contribution by a Non-Teaching Member of Staff: Hunter and Mr Baxter. Mrs Tina Clifford Well done everyone! School Achievement Award - Transition Program: Accepted by Ms Adele Robinson
CAPA tour 2017 By Mrs L Fagan Community Liaison Officer
“Beyond the Black Stump” 2017 CAPA Tour Fundraising night . . . THURSDAY 14 SEPTEMBER
Colleen, Stewart, Joe and all the MarketPlace team are again supporting our CAPA students to fund their annual tour - this year it is . . . Beyond the Black Stump . . . out to Longreach in Central West Queensland.
So, gather all your relatives, friends, neighbours, their families, in fact everyone you know and head to MarketPlace Raymond Terrace for the CAPA ANNUAL MAJOR FUNDRAISING EVENT. A perfect opportunity to have an early dinner at the cafes, purchase early Christmas gifts, birthday presents, stock up on the spring fashions . . and support our students at the same time. $20, donate $20 to the Irrawang High School CAPA Tour.
This is how it works . . . any customer that shops at MarketPlace Raymond Terrace from 5:30pm to 6:30pm and spends $20 or more How incredibly generous is that? See you there! in one store and brings their receipt down to the food court,
MarketPlace will, for each single receipt (one receipt per store) over THANK YOU MARKETPLACE RAYMOND TERRACE!
Education Week Congratulations
From . . . Ms Kate Washington MP
Extract of speech from Ms Kate Washington MP: their schools to the shopping centre. It even presented a cake to the Year 12 students it has supported since Year 7. This illustrates the strong collaborative approach of our community. I pay special tribute to Irrawang High School’s CAPA head teacher, Adele Robinson, who has had the mammoth task of organising both events during Education Week for all the schools. This is an example of how hard our teachers are willing to work, and there are many more examples across other schools.
None of this would happen without the support and leadership of school principals Paul Baxter, Irrawang High School; Deb Dibley, Hunter River High School; Philippa Young, Wirreanda Public School; Stacy Mathieson, Irrawang Public School; and John Picton, Raymond Terrace Primary School. Port Stephens Education Week Events I also make mention of the deputy principal from Irrawang High Ms KATE WASHINGTON (Port Stephens) School, Michael O’Brien, who has retired after 38 years, three (21:25:49): Last week we celebrated Education Week in New months and 27 days of teaching in public schools. Mr O’Brien has South Wales. It is a week to celebrate, highlight and promote the made a difference to the lives of children from Dorrigo to Nyngan remarkable achievements in schools across our State and, from all I and Raymond Terrace. Outside of school, he also made a significant see happening at the schools in my electorate, there is plenty to contribution through his local, State and national roles in the sport celebrate. This year’s theme was “I learn, we learn” and its focus of water polo. His other big contribution to education in my eyes is was to celebrate the high-quality, personalised learning culture his daughter, who also took up teaching. My youngest child had the within our schools. Education Week is a time to recognise the hard benefit of a year with the amazing Erin O’Brien. Congratulations work and dedication of our teachers, as well as the talent and and thank you, Michael, for your years of service to education and passion of our students. Not only does Port Stephens have the best our community. beaches in New South Wales, but also we are blessed with some of the hardest-working teachers and the most talented students in the Thank you to all the principals and teachers at all schools in State. Port Stephens for all your hard work and for making a difference to young people’s lives every day. My parents Every school day across my electorate school principals and were both teachers so I grew up knowing that teaching is not teachers work with students to help them achieve their potential to a job, it is a life. Witnessing the collaborative approach of our be the very best they can be. Last week students in many schools schools, I am reminded of a frequently used expression: It is a showcased their talent and I was once again disappointed that Parliament was sitting during Education Week. This means that village that raises a child. It rings true in Port Stephens most of us, particularly those who represent regional communities, because it is demonstrated every day in our schools, with miss out on seeing the Education Week extravaganzas such as the strong partnerships between schools, families, businesses, enormously successful “Showcase,” hosted by Irrawang High School service clubs, community groups and volunteers. I thank the in Raymond Terrace. Irrawang High School showcases all the parents, grandparents and carers who partner with their student who form part of the Lakeside Learning Community - children’s schools to make sure they get the most out of it, I Irrawang Public School, Grahamstown Public School, Medowie offer a special thank you to all the parents who go one step Public School and Wirreanda Public School. further and become members of the parents and citizens association, and who give up their free time to provide much- Over two nights 1,000 people saw students shining in all areas of needed support. I have been there and done that, and know the performing arts, gaining experience with professional lighting, staging and sound. “Showcase” would not be complete without how difficult and time consuming it can be - but it is always so the amazing Irrawang High School drumming corps. These kids do rewarding. amazing things and perform everywhere. I absolutely love it. It is not a performance you just listen to, you feel it through your whole I thank the service clubs, community groups and many other body. Nor would the night be complete without the amazing volunteers who help out with reading groups and breakfast Irrawang High School dancers. The creative and performing arts clubs or, as is the case at the Boat Harbour Tennis Association, [CAPA] program at Irrawang High School is incredible. provide free tennis lessons for students at Anna Bay Public School. There are so many other schools in Port Stephens Last week students from each of the Lakeside Learning Community where equally amazing things are happening. Education schools, together with Hunter River High and Raymond Terrace Week is an occasion worthy of celebration because our Public schools, showcased their talents in the wider community children and our schools provide the heartbeat for our performing at MarketPlace Raymond Terrace - our local shopping centre. MarketPlace Raymond Terrace not only hosted the communities. performances but also paid for the students to be bussed from
PBL
Adult community PBL winner By Mrs L Fagan Community Liaison Officer
CONGRATULATIONS to Ms Adele Robinson, our very first adult Raymond Terrace Community Positive Behaviour for Learning
(CPBL) winner.
Because of the success of the student CPBL program, all participating Raymond Terrace schools have now established the award for staff and school community members who also demonstrate their school's PBL values, with ours of Respect, Responsibility and Personal Best.
This award is generously sponsored by Michel's Patisserie and Cafe located at MarketPlace Raymond Terrace, who will each week donate a coffee and cake voucher to a person nominated by each of the five local schools. Recipients will also receive a certificate from MarketPlace management.
Ms Robinson was nominated for her long term passion, dedication and commitment to all students and staff at Irrawang High School particularly in the CAPA faculty, at all times displaying our PBL values of Respect, Responsibility and Personal Best.
This award for Ms Robinson is timely with her tremendous effort for Showcase, as well as her organisational skills for all Lakeside Learning schools participating in Education Week activities at MarketPlace during Education Week.
Adult community PBL winner By Mrs L Fagan Community Liaison Officer
Libby was nominated for her many years of commitment as Co- ordinator of the Plan-it-Youth Career Mentoring Program at Irrawang High School, always instilling in our students our core values of Respect, Responsibility and Personal Best. Libby was presented with her award at a Plan-it-Youth meeting by Deputy Principal Mr David Pearson.
This weekly award is sponsored by Michel's Patisserie and Cafe at MarketPlace Raymond Terrace where each recipient receives a coffee and cake voucher.
PBL
Enrichment Afternoon . . . coming soon
Community PBL Students have been busy creating art work with their interpretation By Mrs L Fagan of that theme.
Community Liaison Officer Respect, Responsibility and Personal Best Big thanks again to MarketPlace for providing such a great venue. The five Raymond Terrace Community PBL schools, set up a static display at MarketPlace a few weeks ago with the theme "Acting Also thanks to Mrs Lilley who happened to be walking past and Responsibly.” offered to help.
Showcase Showcase THANK YOU to everyone for making this such an incredible event, including the hardworking volunteers in the school canteen, Mr By Mrs L Fagan Community Liaison Officer Enright and his Year 11 Hospitality students for their superb catering for our VIP party, and to all the staff and students who so
WOW WOW WOW another incredible two nights of the Showcase generously gave up their time, again, to ensure every person present had an amazing and memorable evening. extravaganza “Imagine” for our partner schools from the Lakeside Learning Community. Special thanks to CAPA Head Teacher Ms Robinson and her team - well - for everything! Students from Grahamstown PS, Wirreanda PS and Irrawang HS performed on Tuesday evening with students from Irrawang PS, Medowie PS and of course Irrawang High shining on Wednesday Many great comments have been coming our way about all night. What a great opportunity for our spectacular entertainers to performances on both nights; it is very encouraging to see how much the event is appreciated by the local community. perform with professional sound and lighting, many for the first time. Same time next year!
Showcase
Showcase Congratulations from Meryl Swanson MP Congratulations Maddison!
As a scout, Maddison has also completed many hours of community service, volunteering around the community doing gardening, Clean Up Australia Day and maintenance at the Hunter Wetlands. She has explored our local heritage, completed good turns, and developed her values based on the scouting promise and laws.
Maddison completed her Scout Leadership Course and First Aid Course in May and undertook her journey of 30kms in the July school holidays. This hike was from the last section of The Great North Walk which is a trail of 250kms that begins in Sydney City and ends in Newcastle at the Obelisk. Maddison trekked this last section of the hike with 5 fellow scouts, including Irrawang High students Matthew Williams and Ella Ruhl, also in Year 9. On this hike, Maddison led the way with each member of her team carrying their own tents, food, water, clothes and equipment for the three days they were traveling. The team successfully completed the hike on their own as the Scout Leaders are not allowed to go on the hike with them.
Maddison also had to undertake a Leadership Activity to demonstrate her skills in this area. She chose to organise a disco for the entire group which included Joeys and Cubs (6 to 11 year olds), and Scouts and Venturers (11 to 18 year olds). Maddison liaised with a local teacher from Medowie Christian School to provide music, lights and a fog machine, organised a sausage sizzle for over 70 people, glowsticks for the little ones and a quiet corner for those who just can’t dance for 2 hours! An added excitement for the night was the sounding of the alarms as the fog machine set off the fire alarm and the fire brigade arrived to clear the hall of the fog. All money raised on the night was gifted to a local family who had suffered a recent tragic loss.
Maddison now moves into the Venturer section for 15 to 18 year olds and is looking forward to learning new skills. Congratulations Maddison, this is an amazing achievement!
Australian Scout Medal awarded to Maddison For more information on joining Scouts, go to www.nsw.scouts.com.au or speak to one of the five Medowie By Mrs L Fagan Scouts at Irrawang High School. Community Liaison Officer
It was a special assembly recently for Maddison Woodcock who Pictured below from left: Cr Steve Tucker, Kate Smailes, Maddie, received her Australian Scout Medal in front of the whole school. Principal Paul Baxter and Regional Commissioner Bruce Leverton Maddie was presented with her medal by Regional Commissioner Bruce Leverton and her Scout Leader Kate Smailes. Cr Steve Tucker also presented her with a certificate from Port Stephens Council.
Mr Baxter also spoke as he has done many times before, about the importance of giving back to the community, just as Maddison has done with her volunteering.
Maddison is a member of the 1st Medowie Scout Group and has achieved the highest award in the Scouts section, the Australian Scout Medallion. Her journey towards this exceptional accomplishment has seen her gain many skills over the last four years. She has learnt about many facets of camping, both in standing camps and trail or hike camps, navigation using compasses, topographical maps and the stars and sun, and leadership skills. With an extensive knowledge of fire and fuel, safety and survival, and camp cooking and hygiene, Maddie is the person you want around you in an emergency.
Welcome Back, Mrs L’Ecluse Good Luck, James!/Congratulations Chase!
Welcome back - Good luck, James! Mrs L'Ecluse By Mrs L Fagan Community Liaison Officer By Mrs L Fagan Community Liaison Officer Huge congratulations to James Elias, a Student Learning A warm welcome back to Support Officer at our school Mrs L’Ecluse who has been on his selection in the on maternity leave. She will Lebanese World Cup 40 man now be heading up the training squad. This comes as Lexia program, which is for a result of a lot of hard work students who need a little extra assistance with their (and a few injuries along the literacy skills. Great to have way). We wish him the very you back Mrs L’Ecluse! best.
Congratulations Chase! Chase’s apprenticeship is a direct result of School based trainees work part-time and By Mrs L Fagan his Plan-it-Youth visit to Newcastle TAFE, complete their traineeship by the end of Community Liaison Officer and a follow up interview with HTN. Chase their HSC year. so impressed his future employers, that he Both the on-the-job and off-the-job training Congratulations to Year 10 student Chase has already commenced working at MoneyPenny every Saturday – a job he undertaken by school based apprentices/ Thoburn who has chosen to take up a School trainees can contribute to their HSC. loves. Based Apprenticeship next year at the MoneyPenny restaurant as an apprentice What is a School Based Apprenticeship or School based apprentices and trainees in chef in Newcastle in 2018. School Based Traineeship? New South Wales will undertake their University may not be for every student, apprenticeship training through TAFE NSW The latest in a long line of our students who however there are many options to or a private Registered Training Organisation have undertaken a School Based transition from school to work already with authorised to provide apprenticeship/ Apprenticeship or Traineeship, Chase is very traineeship training. a qualification. excited about commencing his School Based Apprenticeships/Traineeships Chase is pictured in the kitchen at Apprenticeship at the beginning of Year 11 allow senior high school students to MoneyPenny with from left: knowing that when he finishes his HSC he commence an apprenticeship or complete a IHS Careers Advisor Mr Tonks, Tristan the will have completed his first year of the traineeship while at school. School based Sous Chef and Mr Rod Andrews from HTN. apprenticeship, providing that he has apprentices work part-time and undertake successfully completed both their on-the-job the first stage of their apprenticeship For more information about these exciting and off-the-job training program. training before the end of the HSC year. opportunities please contact our School Careers Advisor Mr Tonks on 4987 4687.
Congratulations Roan!
Hunter Schools Dance Festival
Our futsal champ! By Mrs L Fagan
Community Liaison Officer
We congratulate Roan Panther on his selection to the Australian under 16 Boys team which will play at the Pearl River Cup in Hong
Kong and China next month. Roan was selected through his club to play at the elite Gol Academy in Newcastle and from there was selected for the Australian team.
On behalf of the school P&C,
Principal Mr Baxter presented
Roan Panther with a cheque for
$150 to assist with his costs. Big thanks to the P&C and we look forward to hearing all about your trip Roan :)
2017 Hunter Schools Dance Festival
By Mrs L Fagan
Community Liaison Officer
The Hunter Schools Dance Festival is a celebration of dance by Public Schools NSW from the Hunter and Central Coast that provides the opportunity for children to perform alongside peers from other schools and participate in a professional dance setting across the four-day festival.
Our IHS Junior, Intermediate and Senior Dance Ensembles groups have been rehearsing their contemporary dances with their teacher Mrs Meagan Rembarz (nee Witchard) since the beginning of the year, and danced their way into the hearts of the audiences on all three nights. Well done and congratulations to all involved!
Food Tech
Year 12 food tech By Mrs L Fagan Community Liaison Officer
Pizza made from scratch (and learning about the scientific reactions of yeast) was on the menu recently for Year 12 Food Tech students. Looked, smelt and tasted delish!
Year 8 food tech By Mrs L Fagan Community Liaison Officer
Year 8 Food Tech students have been busy making fried rice and learning about nutrition. Smells great, looks great and tastes wonderful!
Culture Club
Chinese Cultural Day
IHS Culture Club By Mrs L Fagan Community Liaison Officer
The first meeting of the school Culture Club was a great success recently as students met with Ms Carter to discuss plans for excursions/international food days/family gatherings etc.
There are 16 nationalities represented with students identifying that another language other than English is spoken at home.
The program will promote cultural learning experiences for students and provide them with the opportunity to share their culture with their peers at Irrawang High School. Students will also learn about other countries and gain a deeper understanding of other cultures.
The Culture Club will meet every second Friday. Just another great school initiative :)
Chinese cultural day By Mrs L Fagan Community Liaison Officer
Several weeks ago, students from 7E and 7M got a taste of Chinese Culture following all day workshops from Jonathon Yi and three associates from the Confuscious Institute at the University of Newcastle. The Institute is the leading provider of high quality Chinese literacy programs in the Hunter, the Central Coast and regional NSW.
The students who were encouraged to wear red on the day, learnt the art of origami, using chopsticks and had lots of fun with maths and word games. A game of Chinese trivia kicked the day off and got the students in the mood for all things Chinese.
Great day Mrs Wallace, Ms Mamin and Ms Sheriff. 谢谢
Thou Walla Family Centre Congratulations Shayley!
Thou Walla Family Centre Thou Walla is offering the following support courses: By Mrs L Fagan Families and their relationships. A four hour workshop. Community Liaison Officer Supported Playgroups MyTime for families with children with special needs (up to The Thou Walla Family Centre located at Irrawang PS, is a Schools as 16 years) Community Centres (SaCCs), which is a Families NSW Initiative. Early Literacy Flyer. Collecting books to swap. SaCCS support families with young children birth to eight years with a particular focus on the years prior to school entry. SaCCs use a For more information please contact Gina Ascott-Evans on - Ph: 02 community development approach to link families with their local 4987 4666 Fax: 02 4987 5974 Mobile: 0400 431 657 for more school. information.
Congratulations Shayley! By Mrs L Fagan Community Liaison Officer
Congrats to Year 10 student Shayley Olive, who, after some amazing results at the Lakes Grammar Interschool Equestrian Sports Day, won OVERALL CHAMPION of the day for the under 16's - a great effort considering she wasn’t feeling 100%. Her results:
Sporting Events . . . Show Hack Events . . . 1st - Barrel Race 2nd - Best Presented 1st - Key Hole 2nd - Rider 2nd - Bending 2nd - Hack horse Making Neuroscience Fun
Year 9 Science
Making Neuroscience FUN Students placed headsets on and showed how the electricity By Mrs L Fagan generated from our brainwaves is used to move objects and play Community Liaison Officer games. A moving image of each student’s neuron activity could then be seen. It was a completely safe and fascinating journey into Today, staff from MINDZ Brainplay visited our school and their minds. demonstrated to randomly selected students in Years 9 and 10 in a fun and interactive manner, how electrical signals being emitted The Mindz Brainplay STEM session explained not only the from our brain work; the brainwave signals generated by the 80 brainwaves that are produced by your neurons, but the way your billion neurons inside your head. neurons communicate with one another.
Another fantastic STEM opportunity for our students.
Year 9 Science By Mrs L Fagan Community Liaison Officer
Another fun day in Science for Year 9 students - looking at different areas of a lamb’s brain. After careful dissection, they saw the brain stem, the right and left cerebral hemispheres, and frontal, occipital and temporal poles, amongst other areas.
Year 11 Chemistry
ICAS Science
Year 11 Chemistry Students have conducted practical tasks of Electrochemistry and efficient energy about precipitation, calorimetry, storage. By Mrs L Fagan Community Liaison Officer molarity, viscosity and surface tension. He is passionate about science education
Our Year 11 Chemistry students have We are very fortunate to have Dr Bailey with in the public system and has been been discovering the properties of us via the Great Teaching, Inspired Learning enthusiastic in sharing his knowledge and experience with our students. water, its ability to dissolve things and program - a Dept of Education initiative. Dr Bailey has a PhD in Materials Chemistry and the concentration of solutions under the attained the University of Newcastle Medal Dr Bailey took pride in showing his watchful eye of teacher Ms Leanne Hines in Chemistry for excellence in his original University Medal to his students recently. and intern Dr Mark Bailey. Bachelor Degree. He has studied in the areas
ICAS Science exam By Mrs L Fagan Community Liaison Officer
As a part of Irrawang High School's GATS program co-ordinated by Ms Wotton, a group of students recently participated in the University of NSW ICAS Science Exam.
ICAS is an independent, skills based assessment program which recognises and rewards student achievement.
Once again our results were excellent with four Credits, 2 Merits and a High Distinction which was awarded to Hanako Versluis.
Well done to all students who participated!
Public Speaking/Year 11 Drama
Write4fun/Premier’s Reading Challenge
Carrying on the legacy of public The competition consisted of two categories: The overall competition was won by a prepared six minute speech of the the talented Jadon Routley from Newcastle speaking student's choice and an impromptu section Grammar who spoke on the over use of By Mrs T Wallace where participants were given five minutes plastics in our society and presented a Head Teacher English to prepare a two minute speech on the topic wonderful impromptu speech. Our school of: FAKE NEWS. wishes Jadon well as he goes on to represent Caitlin Ping (8E) and Selman Hassan the Hunter/Central Coast Region in the State (7E) proudly represented Irrawang High Caitlin presented a thought Final. School at the 2017 HUNTER/CENTRAL provoking prepared speech entitled "Why COAST LEGACY PUBLIC SPEAKING FINAL at would she do it?" based on character Caitlin and Selman were excellent Kurri Kurri High School, August 4, 2017. Our misrepresentation and Selman spoke ambassadors for our school community. students competed against both public and passionately on the serious issue of bullying: independent schools. "The Big B is still out there!"
Year 11 drama What is the Premier’s Reading By Mrs L Fagan Challenge (PRC)? Community Liaison Officer By Shannon Bohan, 7E
Year 11 Drama students were The Premier’s Reading Challenge is not a competition, it workshopping their play Ruby is a challenge to encourage students to read more Moon recently, in our state-of-the books and to read more widely. The Challenge is for - art drama studio. Georgia Sulis students from Kindergarten to Year 9. and Rachel Nicou were applying the conventions of epic theatre to Students and parents are reminded that the PRC their performance of scenes from concludes on Friday 25 August (Week 6). All books the play. must be recorded on the student reading records by this date.
write4fun “I love the PRC as it By Mrs L Fagan gives me the Community Liaison Officer opportunity to reflect on the different types Exciting News – the 2017 Write4fun competition is NOW OPEN! of book I read. It also gives my teacher an Write4fun encourages young student writers and artists with opportunity to see fantastic competitions by publishing top quality books and how many books I conducting interactive, fun workshops across Australia. read. The PRC has been fun. To me, Write a poem or short story for your chance to win $1,000 cash reading takes me to ($500 for you and $500 for our school). another place, a place away from my In the previous three years our students have had extraordinary troubles. During this challenge, I read the whole ‘Harry Potter’ series which success in this competition and we encourage all students to enter. sent me on a magical and imaginative adventure that everyone should Please see English teacher Ms Sheriff for more information. experience! “
Thank you, Coles Medowie
Senior support students gain life skills at Coles from his customers about their friendliness and helpfulness.
Medowie Medowie News of the Area journalist, Rachael Noake and huge By Mrs L Fagan supporter of our school, was at the store recently doing a story Community Liaison Officer about the students, so for once it was nice to have her on the other side of the camera. As part of the Life Skills program, students in our Senior Support Classes at Irrawang High, have been travelling by bus to Coles Medowie every Tuesday in the school term for over 10 years.
Accompanied by their teacher, Ms Ward and Student Learning Support Officer, Mrs O’Rourke, the group of 14 students have the opportunity to practice their money handling skills whilst on public transport, and also when they are purchasing their morning tea from the store.
From 9:30 - 12:30pm the students assist the staff and learn many new skills along the way including; facing the shelves and keeping them clean and tidy, recycling, removing damaged goods from the shelves and moving stock around.
Relieving Manager, James Day says the store is very appreciative of the assistance from the students, and often receives great feedback
GATS Day
Accelerated Maths/EMPOWER Program
GATS transition activities our exceptional GATS Transition program. figures, rotations and optical illusions. By Mrs L Fagan Community Liaison Officer Year 6 students were assigned to Head HSIE teachers Ms Wotton and Mr Hopper Teacher Maths Ms Bailey and Ms Ryan spent the day with Year 5 students engaging Years 5 and 6 Gifted and Talented Students another of our maths teachers, and them in historical investigation into medieval (GATS) from our partner primary schools, participated in numeracy activities including castles and building catapults. plus students from Raymond Terrace PS, ping pong maths (ask them to explain), other visited our school recently to participate in activities involving tessellations, similar So much fun!
Accelerated maths program By Mrs L Fagan Community Liaison Officer
Maths must certainly be a favourite subject for Year 9 students Nick Hopper, Delaya Johns and Nicola Green, as all three are studying Year 9 and Year 10 maths this year in an accelerated learning program.
Head Teacher Ms Bailey takes the students for Year 10 maths which runs concurrently with their Year 9 maths taught by Mrs de Plater, and all will sit for both Year 9 and 10 maths exams this year.
Well done students! Quality Teachers = Quality Learning
Pictured at rear: Ms Bailey, Nick Hopper Pictured at front: Delaya Johns, Nicola Green
EMPOWER program By Mrs L Fagan Community Liaison Officer
It was a working morning tea meeting for our 20 EMPOWER students recently.
EMPOWER is an exciting initiative in the Business/Law Faculty (BL) at the University of Newcastle, and involves senior female students interested in a BL career being mentored by university students and community business mentors, via online forums and face to face meetings. Senior PDHPE
Careers Day at Irrawang Public
Senior PDHPE accreditation with Royal Surf Lifesaving By Mrs L Fagan Australia on Monday 4 September at school. Community Liaison Officer Great job everyone - this is a very worthwhile It was a hands on class recently with senior qualification. PDHPE students. All students will be gaining
Careers day at IPS groups and visited many "Careers" GATS and STEM programs (robotics and By Mrs L Fagan stations around the school. rockets), the huge range of sporting Community Liaison Officer choices and competitions, CAPA Year 10 students, Jess Halloran and activities plus many more. It was a pleasure to attend the annual Christina D'Arcy accompanied by IHS Careers Day at Irrawang Public School Careers Advisor Mr Tonks, spoke to each Thanks Jess and Christina - you were recently. group of students about life at Irrawang wonderful Ambassadors for our school! High School and some of the vast array Following a very creative "fashion of opportunities available, including parade," students moved off into year
New Gardens
Earn & Learn
Environment grant for support classes Earn & learn By Mrs L Fagan Please help us again by Community Liaison Officer collecting the stickers from Woolies and dropping them in the collection boxes at The Support Unit received a grant from the Environmental Trust Medowie, the two Raymond earlier in the year to be spent on creating an outdoor learning Terrace Woolies stores, or at environment that promotes citizenship and sustainability. Five school. garden beds were purchased, with one double height to allow students in wheelchairs the opportunity to participate.
Students in the Senior Support classes have been working hard in their new gardens over the past few days planting fruit, veges, herbs and bush tucker that they will use in their cooking program. A compost bin and a worm farm will be added soon to make their own fertilizer.
What a great project and the happy faces say it all.
bstreetsmart 2017 bstreetsmart By Mrs L Fagan Community Liaison Officer
Year 10 and 11 students attended bstreetsmart in Sydney recently accompanied by Mr Hosking and Ms Burns.
For the last 11 years, Westmead Hospital has held bstreetsmart (previously known as the Youth and Road Trauma Forum) at the Qudos Bank Arena Boulevard, Olympic Park. This injury prevention program is open to students in Years 10 to 12, with over 19,500 students from 178 high schools attending in 2016. bstreetsmart is held because our youth are being severely injured and killed due to potentially preventable road crashes. The NSW statistics for 2014 for 17‐25 year olds, recorded 15181 road traffic crashes of which 67 were fatalities and 4742 were injuries. These young people hold only 14% of licenses, but they are involved in 21% of fatal crashes. Westmead Hospital's Trauma Service is committed to decreasing these numbers.
The day included an exciting combination of demonstrations, crash dynamics and rescue, vehicle stopping distances and active exhibits. The forum included displays relating to youth trauma and safety from:
Westmead Hospital's Emergency Department and Intensive Care Unit Brain Injury Unit and Synapse Organ and Tissue Donation & Transplant Australia Centre for addiction medicine WSLHD The NSW Police Fire and Rescue NSW NSW Ambulance Service Careflight NSW Centre for Road Safety and Crash Lab St John Ambulance Australia (NSW) State Emergency Service Wheelchair Sports NSW L Trent Driving School Solo Ready Next Gen. Driving School Brainarium WSLHD Back to the Classroom! Archibull Takes Shape
Back to the classroom By Mrs L Fagan Community Liaison Officer
With a few staff off sick recently with the dreaded flu, Principal Mr Baxter quickly jumped back into classroom teacher mode with Stage 4 Spanish students.
Archibull takes shape By Ms K Bangle CAPA Faculty
So the Archibull is starting to come together! The students have been helping transform our cow into part chicken as we have the egg and poultry industry to . . . give us inspiration. We have looked into the "Faberge Egg" which is what the body of the cow will look like.
We also liked the idea of the very valuable Faberge Eggs IRRAWANG HIGH SCHOOL which were often given to royalty and was a very famous prop and addition to movies such as "James Bond" and ABSENTEE NOTE "Ocean's Twelve.” (to be returned to Roll Call Teacher first day back after absence) What is the most expensive Faberge egg in the world? Approximately 9.6 million dollars . . . STUDENT’S NAME:
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Reason for Absence: □ Sick □ Leave □ Other
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Positions Vacant
Casual Canteen Assistant Irrawang High School
Irrawang High School (IHS) P & C Association are seeking a suitable candidate to fill the role of Casual Canteen Assistant.
We are looking for a person who is friendly, reliable, organised and motivated with a strong work ethic. Exceptional time management skills, effective communication and excellent interpersonal skills to work with the P&C and school community is essential.
The successful applicant will work closely with the IHS Canteen Supervisor, P&C Executive, school principal, students and parent volunteers.
Proposed start date: Immediate
The position is casual, working 1 day per week (day can be negotiated) plus other days as required for special catering functions. However for 5 days, 11th - 15th September, the position would be 7:30am to 2:30pm as relief Canteen Supervisor.
Essential Skills and Experience: Experience in food preparation. A genuine love of cooking and pride in food presentation. The ability to work within specific time frames. Demonstrated organisational and customer service skills. The ability to follow instructions and work autonomously. Cash handling and financial management experience. Experience in maintaining stock levels on a FIFO basis and other duties relevant to the successful day to day running of the canteen. Computer literacy. NSW Working With Children Check. Awareness of WH&S obligations. Must have a current NSW drivers license.
The successful applicant will be required to devise and implement special event days and other catered school functions. The successful applicant may have input into the school menu planning (within the guidelines of the Department of Education policies). This will be an opportunity to demonstrate your ability for creative and imaginative menu planning.
Candidates with a Certificate II in Food Safety and knowledge of the Nutrition in Schools policy will be highly regarded.
Employment terms and conditions will be in line with the Fast Food Industry Award 2010. The successful applicant will be required to sign a Contract of Duties before commencing employment.
If you are looking for great hours while working in a friendly, rewarding environment please forward your cover letter together with your resume and two referees who are able to discuss your professional abilities and suitability for this position.
Email applications to: [email protected]
Applications close: Friday 25th August at 3pm.
IHS Supporters
OPAL card information DYSLEXIA OR LEARNING DIFFICULTIES?
Who needs to apply? Some children experience reading and learning difficulties as An application is needed if the student: a result of visual perception problems caused by Has not had a travel pass before Is moving from Year 6 to Year 7 Is changing schools Irlen Syndrome/Scotopic Sensitivity Is changing address Irlen Syndrome can cause Dyslexia and difficulties with: How to apply Complete the application at transportnsw.info/school- Reading Spelling Writing students (this is the easiest way to apply) Once completed online, this will generate a report to the Comprehension Concentration Ball Sports school so we can approve the application Once approved, the School Opal Card will be sent to the Fatigue Eye Strain Headaches address provided on the application within 10 business days IRLEN DIAGNOSTIC CLINIC NEWCASTLE To report a lost, stolen or damaged Opal card Go to www.apps.transport.nsw.gov.au/ssts/reportPass and follow the instructions to Replace School Opal Card Regional Clinics DO NOT apply for a new Opal card Please allow up to 10 business days to receive your card. Singleton: 49556904 Suite 3/136 Nelson Street An email will be sent to your nominated email address that Taree: 0409 653 700 Wallsend 2287 confirms you have ordered a replacement School Opal Coffs Harbour: 0437698559 Card. Please keep this email for your records. www.irlendyslexia.com Phone: 49 556904 For any further enquiries regarding your application, please send an email to [email protected] or contact Transport on 131500.
A BIG thank you to our
Raymond Terrace
Community PBL sponsors:
IHS Supporters
Did you know that you can make payments to your child’s school online? Irrawang High School
We have launched a new online payment portal linked to FREE School Phone App our school’s website to make it easier for you to pay for How to Install Our School App school related payments. This is a secure payment page On Apple: hosted by Westpac. On your iPhone open the app store Search for our school name WHEN MAKING ONLINE PAYMENTS, PLEASE ENSURE YOU ARE Press Install CLICKING ON IRRAWANG HIGH WEBSITE NOT IRRAWANG Enter your iTunes password PUBLIC WEBSITE. It will commence downloading immediately Android/Google Play: What expenses can be paid online? On your SmartPhone open the Android/Google Play Voluntary School Contributions market Subject Contributions Excursions Search for our school name Sport Press install Creative and Practical Arts Sales to Students Your app will start installing instantly Other To Open Our School App:
When? Look for our schools app icon on your phone screen This payment method has now gone live. Press the icon once It will open automatically How? When prompted select yes to receive notifications and use Log onto our school site: http://www.irrawang- your location (this will make sure the Google maps and h.schools.nsw.edu.au/home. On the pale green tab along the top pop-up alerts work for you) of the home page Click on “Make a Payment” and follow the If you encounter troubles: prompts to make a payment via Visa or MasterCard. Shut down the app and or your phone to refresh the phones memory Uninstall your app and reinstall it Contact www.activeschoolapps.com.au/support for help within 48 hours.
IHS Supporters
PAID ADVERTISING Irrawang’s newsletter contains paid advertisements, which assist with the cost of publication. The publication of such advertisements does not imply endorsement of any product or service by the NSW Department of Education or Irrawang High School. IHS Supporters
The Real Futures Foundation is a non-profit organisation which has an established track record of helping to inspire and motivate students in Port Stephens to either stay in school and increase their educational engagement and attainment, or choose a positive pathway that enables successful transition to employment, further education or training.
Have you changed your personal details?
In order to keep our records up-to-date, if your student has any change in their personal details eg doctor, medical condition, emergency contact, telephone no., address etc, please inform the school ASAP.
Does your child need an extra hand with English or Maths?
Sometimes children fall behind at school. They may have moved from another state, changed classes, or something else has happened in their life beyond your control. For whatever reason they then begin to struggle with their work at school, with their homework and with their exams. This can be frustrating for both them and you as a parent.
Kip McGrath specialises in helping children catch up to where they need to be in English and Maths. The resources we use are specifically designed to do this job. And the reason we only use qualified teachers, is that they have the tools and skills to accelerate your child’s learning, so that any gaps are closed as quickly as possible.
We complement what is done at school to help your child. Your school gives your child an essential foundation in education across a wide range of subjects and developmental activities. Our job is to give your child an extra hand when they need to catch up … for whatever reason. So together we can help your child reach their full potential.
If your child is experiencing these frustrations and they need an extra hand in English or Maths, then call Christine to see how we can help. 4983 1000 www.kipmcgrath.com.au/raymond-terrace
IHS Supporters
Koryu Uchinadi Kenpo Jutsu
Practical, Application - Based Martial Arts
Full time training centre now open at : 9 Kangaroo St Raymond Terrace
Classes for Juniors (4-7yo), Youths (8-15yo), mixed age & adults. Open 5 days a week.
Koryu Uchinadi Teaches:
Strikes, Kicks, Throws, Joint Locks, Strangles & Grappling Koryu Uchinadi Develops:
Health & Fitness, Self Confidence &
Self Discipline 15 Port Stephens St Raymond Terrace
Ph Sensei Bob King - 49964700 or 0416197644 www.kunewcastle.com
Abundance Auto Recycling
Have you got an old car or caravan around your place that you want removed?
Let Brett take all the hassle and worry away from you and
get the job done quickly and without any fuss.
Specialising in removal of car bodies, caravans and small trucks from Newcastle, Port Stephens and Lake Macquarie areas.
Contact Brett on:
0417067080
IHS Supporters
RAYMOND TERRACE
WINDSCREEN SERVICES
Does your windscreen need repairing quickly? Look no further than Geoff Foot to help you out with his same day mobile service.
cars * trucks * buses * 4WDs * plant machinery
* custom cars * custom auto glass
Also insurance and emergency
work and servicing ALL areas
Locally owned and operated for 20 years
P: 0427833269
NSW Government Schools Term Dates - 2017 VISITORS TO IRRAWANG HIGH SCHOOL Term 1 Friday 27 January - Friday 7 April
Term 2 Monday 24 April - Friday 30 June Visitors should not enter school playgrounds without the Term 3 Monday 17 July - Friday 22 September issue of a visitors pass from the front office.
Term 4 Monday 9 October - Tuesday 19 December NB: Teaching staff are not always available, *School Development Days occur at the beginning of Terms 1, 2 and 3 and the last therefore it would be appreciated if two days of the school year. Please check with the school, as schools may vary appointments were made beforehand. some of these dates.
Irrawang High School POSTAGE MOUNT HALL ROAD PAID RAYMOND TERRACE NSW 2324
have you changed your address? - please let us know
Name: ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
Address: ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………... email: …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
Phone: ………………………………………………… Student’s Name: ……………………………………………………..
Mobile: ...…………………………………………….. Year: ………………………….
If you hold a bus pass, please see staff in the Photocopy Room