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ISSUE 5 TERM 3 6 AUGUST 2014

Tribute to Mrs Amanda Atkinson

9/6/1957 – 24/6/2014

Mrs Atkinson dedicated her working life to the education of our children focusing, not only on developing their mathematical skills, but also on the wellbeing of every child in her care.

Mrs Atkinson began teaching in 1980 and taught at Killara High School as a reserve teacher whilst she waited for a permanent position to become available with the Department of Education. At the end of February she was appointed to Mosman High School where she didn’t use photocopiers or printers but gestetner machines to reproduce the mostly hand written handouts for students. Following two years at Mosman High School, Mrs Atkinson was appointed to Cumberland High School where she remained for 10 years. She then transferred to Erskine Park High School in 1992 and on to Windsor High School in 1995. In 1998 she was appointed Head Teacher Mathematics at Windsor High School. After more than three years as Head Teacher, Mrs Atkinson joined the newly formed Secondary Numeracy Assessment Program (SNAP) at Bankstown State Office. The SNAP program applied best practice in assessing numeracy through extended responses, providing the opportunity for Year 7 & 8 students to communicate mathematically. This was ground breaking practice and was successfully implemented at state wide level and was a forerunner of the NAPLAN tests we have today.

Mrs Atkinson worked with the SNAP team for a period of 6 years rising to the position of Principal Education Officer, in which time the assessment went from strength to strength, from pilot to a highly regarded cross curricula program.

From this position Mrs Atkinson took on the role of Special Project Officer, supporting the work of the Director of the Educational Measurement and School Accountability Directorate (EMSAD). Mrs Atkinson’s work with the Director involved providing policy advice, giving presentations, representing the Directorate on various committees and conferences, advising on restructures, organising correspondence and parliamentary briefings to Ministerial enquiries for the whole directorate as well as managing the Director’s workflow. She performed these difficult duties with the utmost efficiency and discretion.

Seeking further challenges in 2011, Mrs Atkinson accepted a position as Policy Advisor to the Illawarra Regional Director, a position of enormous responsibility. In 2012 Mrs Atkinson found her way back into the school environment when she was appointed Head Teacher Mathematics at Glenwood High School.

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

At Glenwood High School Mrs Atkinson calmly led a large, dynamic faculty of outstanding teachers. Teachers who consistently inspire students to improve their skills resulting in exceptional Higher School Certificate results. Mrs Atkinson quickly recognised the gift she had received through her appointment and praised the work of the Mathematics Faculty every day. She was a true advocate of their practice and strove to support them in every way.

Mrs Atkinson used the vast skills she had gained working in EMSAD and led the Numeracy Team at Glenwood High School helping teachers to develop a stronger understanding of the importance of numeracy in all key learning areas.

Mrs Atkinson’s compassion for others was evident in her work with the Learning and Support Team at Glenwood High School. She played a vital role in the development of processes and policies to ensure students with learning and support needs were able to access the curriculum and have every opportunity for academic success.

Similarly, Mrs Atkinson’s work with the Aboriginal students was exceptional. She mentored the coordinator of Aboriginal education ensuring all educational needs of the students were addressed. Her particular passion for Aboriginal education manifested itself in assemblies and special recognition of Aboriginal culture across the whole school. She brought all our Aboriginal students together once a fortnight so they could get to know each other and discuss their plans for the future.

As Head Teacher Mathematics, Mrs Atkinson was a key member of the school leadership team. She was our processes expert helping with the coordination of assemblies and offering advice to streamline the many procedures and policies needed in a large high school.

On 18th June 2014 the executive team began planning for the future – looking at what we hope to achieve as a school in the next five years. Mrs Atkinson’s enthusiasm for this planning and how she could contribute to the second decade of Glenwood High School was inspiring. Little did we know that she would not be able to join us on the physical part of this journey. However, we know she will be with us in spirit always.

Finally as a classroom practitioner, Mrs Atkinson’s passion for mathematics was obvious. Her many students recognised this passion, inspiring them to excel in the classroom. However, and more importantly, her students recognised Amanda’s nurturing side. Much to their delight she treated her Year 11 class to homemade cupcakes on her birthday earlier this month. Parents have commented how she would always go above and beyond to ensure their children’s needs were addressed.

Students, staff and parents have many happy memories of Mrs Atkinson at Glenwood High School. Her positive personality and nurturing approach will be appreciated forever. Her passion for mathematics and commitment to public education resonated in all aspects of her working life.

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

From the Principal \ Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment

until it becomes a memory.

- Dr. Seuss

In Praise of Our School Community

On behalf of the Glenwood High School community I would like to thank all of the caring and considerate people who expressed condolences and showed selfless support to all of us after the loss of Mrs Amanda Atkinson on 24th June 2014. The staff were overwhelmed by the generous community response and in particular, the respectful, responsible and compassionate reaction from our student body. The empathy and concern they showed for both their peers and their teachers cemented our belief that we truly belong to the most wonderful community. To have students approach staff and stress that they want the teachers to know they can rely on them for support is astounding. At their own time of grief they were still thinking of others in the true Glenwood way. Year 12 baked cakes, biscuits and slices for the staff on the last day of term and presented us with beautiful flower bouquets. Accompanying the flowers were letters addressed to ‘Our Incredible Teachers’. A letter that brought tears to us all. The students at Glenwood are a very special group of young people. Parents and carers you must be as proud as we are of these fine young men and women.

Semester 1 Reports By the time this article is published all students will have received their Half-Yearly Reports. I have been very impressed with the quality of the reports and the huge number of students who have improved their skills and knowledge so far this year. Parents/carers are encouraged to compare previous reports with their children to celebrate improvement as well as identify areas for particular focus.

Open Girls Soccer Team - Final Eight in the State Our wonderful Open Girls Soccer Team defeated Kelso High School (Queanbeyan) 201, on Friday 27th June 2014. The girls and many of their parents travelled to Bathurst on the Friday accompanied by Mr Stefanic(Coach) and Mr Wood (Coach). It was a great way to end the term.

The team then played Freshwater Senior High School on Tuesday 22nd July, 2014 but unfortunately were defeated 1-0. Throughout the entire game they never gave up against a much bigger and older team. We are very proud of their skill, sportsmanship and teamwork. Congratulations Kira Owen (C), Year 12; Nicole Adamson, Year 12; Rachel Camara, Year 12; Caitlin Barlow, Year 12; Renee Blakemore, Year 11; Lucinda Pickett, Year 11; Sarah Zavovich, Year 11; Olivia Callaghan, Year 11; Laura Byrom, Year 11; Lydia Surgeon, Year 10; Tayla Chaplin, Year 10; Ruth Wigley, Year 9; Tiana Jaber, Year 9; Lauren Santos, Year 9; and Lisa Mays, Year 8.

Congratulations to Year 11 Crossroads Camp Participants I have had wonderful feedback from Mrs Fleurant, Year 11 Adviser, about the Year 11 students who attended the Crossroads Camp, 23rd – 25th July 2014. She said the instructors at camp were extremely impressed with the students, stating that compared to some other schools the students were a breeze. One instructor said it was more like a holiday working with our students than being at work and another said she had been working at the camp for 3 years and it was the best group she had ever had. Worthy praise indeed, and I know the teachers on camp were so proud of the way the students interacted and supported each other in the challenging physical activities. Once again Glenwood High School students prove to the world that they are amazing young men and women.

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

P&C Back to the 80s Fundraising Night – Saturday 9th August 2014 Our fabulous P&C are organising a great night out for all of us. The theme for the evening is ‘Back to 80s’ so dust off those formal dresses and come along. We are looking forward to a great evening with a live band and lots of auction items. We may even have a certain P&C President warm up her vocal chords and treat all of us! The P&C have been working hard collecting lots of sponsors and the prizes look amazing. Don’t waste any time! Gather your friends together, book a table and come along for a great time whilst getting to know more members of our wonderful school community.

Congratulations  Throughout June and July we have had much cause for celebration as Glenwood students continue to shine in many fields. Our congratulations goes to:  Open Girls Knockout Soccer Team – Kira Owen (C), Year 12; Nicole Adamson, Year 12; Rachel Camara, Year 12; Caitlin Barlow, Year 12; Renee Blakemore, Year 11; Lucinda Pickett, Year 11; Sarah Zavovich, Year 11; Olivia Callaghan, Year 11; Laura Byrom, Year 11; Lydia Surgeon, Year 10; Tayla Chaplin, Year 10; Ruth Wigley, Year 9; Tiana Jaber, Year 9; Lauren Santos, Year 9; and Lisa Mays, Year 8.  The Year 8 Debating Team who were the Sydney West finalists in the Premier’s Debating Challenge against Colo High School at Blacktown Council Chambers on 20th June, 2014. Our fine Year 8 debaters include Patrick Gleeson, Joshua Brooks, Nina Matani, Maddalyn Bokenham with Alaapi Shreekumar as understudy and prep assistant.  Nicole Adamson, Year 12, Braden Murrow, Year 8, and Brooke Bonnell, Year 7, who represented the region and school in the NSW All Schools Cross Country Carnival on Friday 18th July at Eastern Creek raceway. All three were placed in the top 50 in the state for their age group. A wonderful effort!  The following students who represented the Macquarie Zone in the Sydney West Regional Special Athletics Carnival: Amat Malok, Year 10, 1st in Long Jump, Shotput, Discus; 2nd in 100m and 200m; Daniel Radocaj, Year 10, 2nd in Discus; Dyllan Wonfor, Year 9, 1st in 200m and 3rd in 100m;  Patrick Gleeson, Year 8, for coaching the Support Unit students in his own time in preparation for the special Athletics Carnival. Thank you Patrick! nd  Macquarie Zone Athletics Carnival Boys Age Champions - Patrick Gleeson 13 years- 2 place, Elijah James 13 years—4th place Samuel Mahoney 14 years— 1st place, Reece Smith 15 years—3rd place, Jack Fenton 16 years— 4th place, Naigan Gan 17 years— 1st place, Brandon Lacey 17 years—4th place, Shaun Robieson 18 Years—3rd place; nd  Macquarie Zone Athletics Carnival Girls Age Champions—Taylah Scutts 12 years—2 place, Brooke Bonnell 13 years—2nd place, Losaline Tupou 14 years—3rd place, Tayla Chaplin 15 years—1st place, Angelica Ojinnaka 16 years—4th place, Nicole Adamson 18 years—1st place;  Ursula Stevenson, Marista Arshba, Arthur Urzilins, Rhojan Villoria, Shawn Armstrong, Sally Campbell, Jonathan Guion, Alistair Villaneuva, Con Constanti – Years 11 and 12, who have been nominated for a VET Award at the Annual AusSip Awards this month.  Jayden Darmanin, Aaron Papandrea and Lakshan Jayakody Year 11, who volunteered in Nepal during the holidays as part of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.  Cameron Rogers (Year 11) for his continued dedication to the Glenwood High School community;  Vinith Gamage, Year 7, Harini Mahendra Prabhu and Sahana Mohanarajah, Year 8, who have been selected to receive a Commended Award as part of the 2014 Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Student Achievement – Community Languages Schools.  Lakshan Jayakody, Year 11, who has been accepted into the National Youth Science Forum in Canberra.

Till next time Erla McMaster Principal

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

FROM THE DESKS OF THE DEPUTY PRINCIPALS

“Learning is not attained by chance; it must be sought for with ardour and diligence.”Abigail Adams (Second Lady of the USA)

It is hard to believe that we are nearly ½ way through Term 3. We are all asking ourselves where is the year going? So much has been achieved this year and there is so much more to come.

Reporting Student Progress Year 12 have completed their trial exams and staff are currently writing reports. All other Year group 1st semester reports were issued at the end of last term and if you have not received them you should contact the office. We recently this term held Parent and Teacher interviews for Years 7, 9 and 10. This evening was well represented by parents and many expressed how informative the feedback was from their child’s classroom teacher. If you missed this opportunity to speak with your child’s teachers or are concerned about their progress, please do not hesitate to contact the school as all staff are more than happy to meet with you, or speak with you over the phone, regarding the progress of your child. Years 8 and 11 Parent and Teacher evening will be held on the 11th August and we look forward to discussing your child’s progress with you. Bookings are available online.

Surveys Glenwood High School is evaluating the school management plan and establishing the strategic priorities for the next three years. Within this process students, parents/community and staff are encouraged to have input into this very important planning process. Parent surveys are being distributed at parent and teacher evenings. We value the opinions of all in this very important process. Through everyone’s views we pave the way to continue to achieve high outcomes for all students and continue to grow as an exemplary school. If you would like to contribute, and did not have the opportunity to complete a survey please contact the front office and one will be forwarded to you.

Uniform Glenwood High School is very proud of the great standard of uniform and we commend our students for their presentation. All students are well aware of the uniform process if in any event they do not have a correct uniform item. We thank our parents and students for their continued diligence ensuring our uniform code is upheld. For those who require uniform items, the uniform shop has a full range of stock in all sizes. We are in the colder months of the year and this is a reminder that students must wear the correct jumpers, jackets or blazers. The Deputies would also like to remind everyone that the only scarfs that can be worn is the Glenwood blue scarf available from the uniform shop.

Banned Items Chewing gum is banned from school. Chewing of gum and spitting it out on the ground creates a health issue. We encourage all students to respect others and property including the school environment. Students have been notified of not being permitted to have gum at school through connect, year group meetings and on assembly. Students who have chewing gum at school will be reported by teachers to the deputies. This will then be dealt with as per the school discipline and welfare policy as continued disobedience.

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

Before school supervision Please be aware that morning supervision of students commences at 8.10am.This is minimal supervision of the main quad and grass area only. We recommend that students do not arrive before this time. It should also be noted that the Oval and Basket Ball Courts are out of bounds in the mornings.

Year Group Information Year 7: This cohort needs to be commended for their enthusiasm and involvement in school life. It is so rewarding to see the number of awards and certificates they are achieving. They have embraced high school with zealous, participating in extra curricula activities, leadership programs and engaging in all learning opportunities. It is a pleasure to see so many Year 7 students being active contributors to the positive tone of the school.

At the beginning of this term Year 7 received new timetables. This is due to changes in their curriculum pattern due to semesterised subjects. This is a normal occurrence. Students should be prepared to embrace these new subject experiences and work hard in these new courses with their new teachers.

Year 8: Are currently going through the elective subject selection process for Year 9 2015. It was great to see so many parents attend the subject information evening last term. The key advice the school offers is students should do the subjects they like rather then what their friends are doing. Children will always achieve their best if they are happy and interested in what they are doing. Any students who have questions regarding their subject choices or have changed their mind about what subjects they want to do next year should see Ms Healy as a matter of urgency so they do not miss out.

Year 9: This is an important stepping stone year in building positive study habits and routines. Students need to aim high and work on improving their semester one results even further in semester two. This includes spending time each night on study and homework, completing and submitting assessment tasks and work on time and participating in class to achieve best results and strive for success. Assessments must be handed in on time. Any late assignments require an appeal form and evidence must also be provided. This prepares students for the standards expected in their final years. It also assists stage five students to develop ownership of their learning process and meet deadlines. Mr Sutton is more than willing to assist students with this process.

Year 10: Year 10 students are currently in the subject selection process for Year 11 2015. Students have chosen their subjects. These have been placed on lines to give as many students as possible their first choice options. Ms Young is currently interviewing the small number of students who may have not received all of their choices. It is important to understand that Glenwood High School offers one of the widest curriculum structures in NSW which allows the majority of students to obtain their first choice options. The next phase of the subject selection process is ensuring that students have selected the best subjects for them based on their ability, results and future aspirations. This will involve an interview day. Students will not attend formal lessons on this day and will only be required to attend school during their scheduled formal interview.

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

Parents are also invited to attend. Information regarding this event will be sent to parents and students via an invitation, email and through Facebook. Students and parents are reminded that the subject selection handbook has been distributed to all Year 10 students and has also been uploaded to the school website and should be consulted by both parents and students before their interview.

Year 11: Year 11 Cross Roads Camp was once again a great success. Thank you to Ms Fluerant, Ms Pidgeon and the staff who gave up their time to make this valuable experience possible. Students gained a greater knowledge of how to handle more difficult situations in life and make informed choices. Valuable lifelong learning experiences. We are sure they also had a great time.

Year 11 are approaching the end of their preliminary year. They must complete all tasks including redeeming any outstanding ‘N’ awards before they can proceed to Year 12 in term 4 and their final year of study. We encourage all Year 11 students to be awarew of the assessment policy as this process must be followed. The requirements for redeeming ‘N’ awards and all expectations are outlined in this document. All students were issued this at the commencement of year 11 and it is also available on the school website.

Year 12: Year 12 have completed their Trial exams, the last formal exams, before their HSC which commences in October. They need to reflect on their results and increase these through planning their study regime. This is vital to their final success in the HSC. Students need to commit and engage in each and every lesson as well as commit to study at home. Year 12 students are encouraged to be studying in a structured and methodical manner. Three hours per night in 50 minute time slots. This should be increased on the weekend.

We would also like to acknowledge the commitment of staff who give up time after school, on weekends and during holidays to further support their students. They are not required to do this but do so as they want the best results for all students in their care. Year 12 need to take full advantage of any extra opportunities their teachers offer them. This final focus over the next few weeks can mean the difference of up to 10 marks or more. Remember it is never to late to improve results.

To all our HSC students with practical components within their courses who are actually presenting for the HSC now we wish you all the best and are confident you will achieve the results you have worked for.

Till next time Kindest Regards Belinda Young (Deputy Principal – Year 7 and Year 10) Donna Healy (Deputy Principal – Year 8 and Year 11) Mark Sutton (Deputy Principal – Year 9 and Year 12)

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

The Semester 1 reports have identified a number of outstanding results from students in all subjects. Congratulations goes to the following students who have consistently performed well in all areas and continue to strive for excellence in the classroom. These students will be formally recognised at a celebratory morning tea with the Principal in August.

Year 7

Ayush Bilash, Brooke Bonnell, Alicia Callanan, Sophie Charters, Vikrant Chaundhary, Ryan Glanville, Sarah Hamilton, Ekaagra Kesarwani, Rijul Khunger, Manisha Kumar, Aishwarya Kuthethoor, Victoria Luo, Veshay Manilal, Mitchell McLennan, Prithvi Mistry, Robert Murphy, Jessika Odenthal, Julia Park, Shrushti Ramani, Erika Rayhan, Tiarna Schinella, Khyati Singh, Aryan Singh, Roshan Singh, Brandon Solvyns, Aayush Tarak, Ajay Thanki, Liberty Tupou, Alexandra Walker, Kate Wilson, Raymond Xiao

Year 8

Sophie Dahia, Maddalyne Bokenham, Penelope Brightmoore, Aalapi Sreekumar, Harneet Kaur, Johnathon King, Kiara Whitton, Patrick Gleeson, Jessica Ewens, Keziah Hendra, Nicky Han, Charlotte Dawson, Lauren Wijaya, Nine Matani, Diyaa Rajbhandari, Luke Barbour, Tyanna Perkins, Farmanullah Zarifi, Jessica Smart, Jane Susanto, Dulith Dangalle, Becky Wan, Fizzah Hussain, Gihan Kalupahana, Joshua Brooks, Luzzie Casilao, Sahana Mohanarajah, Sarbjot Sadeora, Amita Singh, Chris Fakhouri

Year 9

Eloise Dannoun, Michael Darmanian, Isabella Guarin, Jhanenee Mistry, Sofia Ahmad, Kirsten Guion, Navtej Rainu, Cameron Veerhuis, Zakiyyah Akbar, Kayla Robertson, Gina Skapetis, Kaarunya Venkatesh, Navil Nadan, Ishpreet Banwait, Cathryn Stubbs, Salma Gobara, Justine Matulewicz, Najwa-Joelle Metri, Lucianna Salloum, Charlotte Burn, Daniel Fittler, Harjinder Ajimal, Harvinder Ajimal, Kirrily Hand, Latisha Manilal, Prashita Sareen, Ishalin Moopanar, Amy Wan, Michelle Markov, Tiana Jaber

Year 10

Fariha Ahmad, Andrew Camara, Pritika Chandra, Joyce Cheung, Jack Fenton, Cherin Fernando, Marwa Ghourbandi, Callum Glanville, Jessica Head, Naveed Huda, Neha Jagannath, Rai Jayswai, Stephanie Jia, Sujneet Johal, Arzoi Kamboj, Harnoor Kaur, Sharon Majella, Lauren Medlin, Joan Mina, Garath Morgan, Palwasha Nawabi, Marium Saiyid, Amna Saiyid, Natasha Sharma, Harjaap Singh, Tim Smith, Karina Uppal, Ethan Van Hilst, William Wang, Jamie Williams.

Year 11

Yusuf Abdul-Galil, Adrian Aidasani, David Badea, Sion Barratt-Fitzgerald, Vignesh Bhargava, Saurab Bhave, Harpreet Chahal, Liz Dik, Arya Ebadi, Zachary Farmer, Micah Gonzales, Rita Guan, Amy Han, Janice Ho, Daniel Ibarcena, Ecem Kurangil, Rajiv Narayan, Angelika Ojinaka, Aaron Papandrea, Jasmine Phull, Farah Rehman, Gzing Saadi, Shaina Shankar, Nick Sherwood, Anushka Shrestha, Ahad Tharani, Hewot Tibebu

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

PREMIER’S READING CHALLENGE

We are well into the Premier’s reading challenge for 2014. If you haven’t started, you still have plenty of time, 1 month to go! You need to read 20 books by August 31st 2014. 15 of the titles need to be on the PRC list, and 5 can be free choice.

As part of the PRC this year, our school library are focusing on a different genre each month. During July we have celebrated FANTASY authors and their books.

During the month of August, our PRC focus will be PICTURE BOOKS

Come into the library and have a look at our display on PICTURE BOOKS. We have a list of all our Series Titles and Authors for you to choose from, and enter our reading competition for your chance to win a prize.

LIBRARY HELPERS

A very big thank you to Monica Chun, Monica is a parent of one of our Year 7’s who has been coming in to help for 1 hour in the library on a Wednesday afternoon.

Thank you also goes to Adjitpal Singh’s family who are always covering books for our Library students.

We would welcome anyone else who would like to help us in the library. There is always plenty of things to do. Please call Mrs Achar in the Library.

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

Vaccinations

The last vaccination clinic for 2014 will be held at Glenwood High School on Friday 12th September 2014.

On the day the following vaccines will be given:

Year 7, 3rd dose HPV Year 7, Varicella (single dose) Year 7, dTpa catchup’s Year 9, boys, 3rd dose HPV

If you still have your vaccination cards at home and wanted to start the program, this is your last chance. Please ensure your son/daughter brings their cards to the Library immediately. MMR—7-12 1 dose

Please ensure that your child eats breakfast on the day, and brings plenty of food and drink for throughout the day. Vaccines are free ONLY in the year they are offered under this program. If students do not commence their scheduled vaccine courses this year then they can only be obtained through private purchase on a prescription from the GP.

To improve vaccination completion, students will be offered any missed doses throughout the year where possible. Students who commence HPV vaccination in Year 7 but do not complete the course may be offered catch-up doses at school in Year 8.

A record of Vaccination will be provided to each student vaccinated at the clinic. Parents/ guardians should ensure that this record is kept for future reference and should not assume that your child has been vaccinated if you do not receive this Record of Vaccination.

For further information on the vaccination program, please log onto the following site, http://hpv.health.gov.au/videos-hpv/animation-hpv-vaccine-works/

Should you have any further questions or comments regarding this program please call the Immunisation Team on 98403603 or call Mrs Achar in the Library at Glenwood High School on 9629 9577.

Kind regards Radha Achar HT Welfare & Library

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

GLENWOOD DUKE OF EDINBURGH CAMP Mill Creek - Wisemans Ferry 20-22 June 2014

During the second last week of Term 2, 33 students of the Glenwood Duke of Edinburgh program ventured out into the wilderness of Wisemans Ferry to participate in a hike or bike expedition. 21 students completed a 20km hike, and 12 students completed a 26km ride, with 4 continuing on to complete 42kms. The highlight of the trip was by far the visit to ‘Wat Buddha Dhamma’. Wat Buddha Dhamma is a Theravadin Forest Monastery devoted to the training of monks, nuns and lay practitioners. Below are the accounts of Kayla Robertson (rider) & Caitlin Purss (hiker) regarding their experiences on camp.

“Our latest Duke of Edinburgh adventure was a bike or hike camp. I took part in the mountain biking, which was around 25km. Before the camp, I was very nervous about doing the bike ride because I had never done anything like it before, but once I had met all the other riders I began to relax and look forward to the ride. On Saturday morning we left the campsite at around 8:30 and started the ride. For the first 6km it was all ‘on road’ riding which was a good way to start.

We then turned to ‘off road’ and soon we hit a massive hill that was one of the most challenging parts of the ride! Soon after we reached our first technical section of the course and after a quick demonstration from our expert guide Mr Bendt we all had a couple shots at it. Overall the ride had a good even split of gentle and difficult riding which offered many different challenges as everyone had different skill levels, and I thought we all did really well. After effectively completing the day I felt great! Overall I had a really great ride and I can’t wait for the next one. I personally enjoyed the challenge and am really proud of myself and the other riders for taking it on and doing so well.” (Kayla Robertson, Year 9).

“We left school at lunch time and made a start on our trip to Wisemans Ferry where we caught a ferry across the Hawkesbury River. We needed to be on the other side to head towards the Dharug National Park. Once we entered the national park, we followed the route all the way until we came across a camping ground named 'Mill Creek' where we were to camp for the night. We set up our tents, unrolled our sleeping bags and prepared our dinner for that night. Most of us enjoyed our usual favourites: 2 minute noodles or soup.

We woke up at 6am and got ready for the day. This preparation included having breakfast, getting dressed and packing everything but our tent into our hiking bags. Once we were dropped at the entrance of the fire trail we commenced our long hike to the ‘Wat Buddha Dhamma’ Monastery.

It was a pleasant walk as the early morning fog was rising up through the gullies. Everyone looked forward to the next open lookout area because they held the best photo opportunities. After a number of 5 minute snack breaks, we were getting closer and closer to the monastery. As we approached the entrance, one of the monks greeted us. We ate lunch all together and began our tour of the place.

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

It was beautiful, natural and very sacred. We passed many of the houses and worshipping spaces. We were lead into their meditation hall where we were introduced and emerged into their culture even further. We spent some time in the temple asking questions about their faith, meditating and listening to the monk chanting.

After saying our goodbyes we began our hike home along the same trail we used on the way there. With the trip there and back, we walked a total of 26km. Most of us found this experience very special and educational. We learnt many things about what it is like to live as one of the Buddhist, nun or a lay person.” (Caitlin Purss, Year 10)

Glenwood High School Duke of Edinburgh Student’s out the front of the Wat Buddha Dhamma Meditation Hall with a Senior Monk.

Glenwood High School Duke of Edinburgh Student’s admire the architecture of the Wat Buddha Dhamma Mediation Hall.

Matthew Hurley testing his newly learnt Mountain Biking Skills.

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

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Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

TERM 3, 2014

9 AUGUST 2014

 80”s Night—7.00pm—Hall 11 AUGUST 2014

 Years 8 & 11 Parent Teacher Interviews 3.30-7.30pm 19-20 AUGUST 2014

 HSC Project Marking 27 AUGUST 2014

 School Disco—6-9.30pm—Hall 29 AUGUST 2014

 Wear it Purple Day 11SEPTEMBER 2014

 Year 10 into 11 Subject Interviews 12 SEPTEMBER 2014

 Year 7 Vaccinations 3rd dose HPV 8 –17 SEPTEMBER 2014

 Year 11 Yearly Exams 17 SEPTEMBER 2014

 Year 12 Picnic Day 19 SEPTEMBER 2014

 Year 12 Graduation

 End of Term 3

TERM 4, 2014

7 OCTOBER 2014  Students & Staff Resume 8 OCTOBER 2014  Year 11, 2014 HSC Information Evening—6 - 8pm

Refer to website calendar for further information

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

Career News

Parents As Career Transition Support (PACTS) Training

Do you know much about the career options for your child? Will you know how to support your child if they don’t get into University, TAFE, College or even decide they don’t want to stay in school? Would you like to be better informed in helping your son or daughter plan for their future?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions then PACTs training will benefit you. Glenwood High School will be scheduling three sessions on the 29th August in the Library. Please register your interest by emailing [email protected] with subject “PACTS Interest”

Work Experience Opportunities

Year 10 students have the opportunity to participate in work experience at the end of November (24th – 28th) and beginning of December (1st – 5th), 2014. Students are to organise their own work experience and return Student Placement Forms to Mrs Fevre.

Work Experience provides students a unique opportunity to “test their interest” in a profession and validate if that career choice is for them. If you or the company you work for are in a position to place one or more students please email Glenwood- [email protected] with subject “Work Experience Opportunity”. Please provide information on the business roles available and how many students can be accommodated.

Try ‘a Skill

47 students attended the Western Sydney Try ‘a Skill day. Students had the opportunity to learn and experience several trades. For instance; bricklaying, landscaping, painting, hairdressing, plumbing, glass fitting, welding, beauty therapy, mechanics, spray painting, carpentry, electrician plus a lot more.

Refer to website calendar for further information

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

White Card Course

A White Card is required in order to work on a building site in NSW, QLD, SA, VIC and shows that you have received the necessary training in safe work place practices. Students may need this for year 10 work experience or may want it for future employment.

Congratulations to the 15 students, who successfully completed their White Card accreditation on the 25th June, 2014.

If you are interested in obtaining your white card another course will be run on the 10th September, 2014. The course is run at school from 8:30am to 4pm at a cost of $85 per student. The course needs a minimum of 10 students and maximum of 15 students to run. The student must be 14 years or older to attend the course.

If you are interested in enrolling in a White Card course please see Mrs Fevre, Career Adviser for a permission note and more information.

Western Sydney Career Expo

This year over 200 students from Glenwood High School in year 10 and 12 went to the Western Sydney Career Expo. The Expo brings together over 150 exhibitors providing HSC, tertiary course, career, study skills and gap year information and resources. Plus students had the opportunity to attend a variety of seminars covering UAC admissions, Year 10 subject selection, various Year 12 course topics, UMAT entry to name a few. Here is one students comment about attending the Career Expo…

The career expo that we went to on the 19th of June was a pretty exciting day for all of year 10. We visited uni stalls such as UNSW (University of NSW), UWS (University of Western Sydney) and UNE (University of New England). We also visited the defence force stall which personally was my favourite. There were plenty of other stalls that we went to during the day, and also attend seminars which were quite helpful in terms of how to study. The whole day was about roaming around the expo and looking for something you could study in the future and lead to a future career. I think the day was very beneficial.

By Parbjot Singh – Year 10

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

Step out Program – Brick wall

Ten year 9 students from the Future Directions program were selected to participate in the step – out program. We had fun working with our mentor Nigel. It was enjoyable and satisfying to know we built a permanent wall at school and it won’t be torn down. It was great to try out a job that we might want to do and to use our work skills in practice.

By Cameron and Matthew

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

Download our New GHS app!

Introducing our Glenwood High School app!!

Our school smartphone mobile app is now available on both the Apple and Android networks for you to download and start using.

The app is going to give parents the ability to instantly access newsletters without going to the website, send in a sick note, bell times, updated calendar and much more. We will be sharing many of the other features with you over the coming weeks, but for now download it to your smartphone by going to either the Apple App Store or Android Google Play Market and search for our school name.

On Apple • On your iPhone open the app store • Search for our school name • Press Install • Enter your iTunes password • It will commence downloading immediately

Android/Google Play • On your SmartPhone open the Android/Google Play market • Search for our school name • Press install • Your app will start installing instantly

To Open Our School App • Look for our schools app icon on your phone screen • Press the icon once • It will open automatically • When prompted select yes to receive notifications and use your location (this will make sure the google maps and pop-up alerts work for you)

If you encounter troubles; • 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.

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

INFORMATION FOR PARENTS

TERM DATES 2014

TERM 1 Tuesday 28 January School Development Day -Teachers and Staff Resume Wednesday 29 January Students Resume —Years 7, 11 & 12 Thursday 30 January Students Resume—Years 8, 9 & 10 Friday 11 April Last Day of Term 1

TERM 2 Monday 28 April School Development Day—Teachers and Staff Resume Tuesday 29 April Students Resume Friday 27 June Last day of Term 2

TERM 3 Monday 14 July School Development Day—Teachers and Staff Resume Tuesday 15 July Students Resume Friday 19 September Last Day of Term 3

TERM 4 Tuesday 7 October Teachers, Staff & Students Resume Wednesday 17 December Last day of Term 4 for Students Thursday 18 December School Development Day Friday 19 December School Development Day—Last Day of Term 4 for Teachers and Staff

UNIFORM SHOP HOURS

MONDAY 8.00AM - 11.00AM TUESDAY 2.30PM - 4.00PM WEDNESDAY 8.00AM - 11.00AM FRIDAY 2.30PM - 4.00PM

OFFICE HOURS

OFFICE HOURS 8.00AM - 3.15PM

OFFICE HOURS for payment of fees: 8.30AM - 2.30PM

The school wishes to inform all parents/carers the exact cash is required when paying for excursions and accounts. In the past, the giving and collection of change for such payments has caused undue stress and confusion for both staff and students. The school is most happy to accept payment by cheque or credit card for all expenses.

Eftpos Facility Due to the financial cost of the use of the Eftpos facility the policy of a $10.00 minimum charge will remain.

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

LATE, ABSENT OR LEAVING EARLY NOTES

Notes are required from Parent / Guardian to explain reasons for lateness, absence or leaving early. Please ensure your child’s full name and year is clearly written on the note. If a student does not produce a note for lateness a detention will be issued for that day.

ALL notes are required to be handed in at Student Reception at the beginning of the day to enable a pass to be issued to the student and for the details to be noted in the system to avoid a truancy note being issued.

OUR NEXT P & C MEETING will be held on 3 September in the Conference Room. Please come along and join us 7.00pm start.

NEWSLETTER is on our website just prior to the P & C Meeting

FROM THE P & C PRESIDENT

The Parents and Citizens Association (P&C) has continued fostering positive relationships between the school community and the staff at Glenwood High School this year.

The introduction of our P & C Contribution and the support shown by the parent community to it, has enabled us to work closely with the school Executive to put those funds toward additional resources required to assist our students at Glenwood High School receive the best education possible. Martine Balcombe P&C President 2014

The P&C meets the first Wednesday of each month at 7pm in the School Front Office

(Excluding School & Public Holidays) September 3rd November 5th December 3rd (AGM)

These dates maybe subject to change & notification will be given of any changes.

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

GLENWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS & ADVERTISING

Good Afternoon,

The North West Rail Link has reached its most important milestone yet, with the Northwest Rapid Transit consortium being selected as the preferred operator to run the new rapid transit service. As previously announced, this consortium is made up of: MTR Corporation (Australia), John Holland, Leighton Contractors, UGL Rail Services and Plenary Group. The Operations, Trains and Systems (OTS) contract includes:

 Building the eight brand new railway stations;  Delivering 4,000 commuter car parking spaces;  Supplying Sydney’s new generation, fully-automated rapid transit trains;  Building and operating the stabling and maintenance facility at Tallawong Road;  Installing tracks, signalling, mechanical and electrical systems;  Upgrading and converting the railway between Epping to Chatswood to rapid transit status; and  Operating the North West Rail Link – including all maintenance work.

The NSW Government will pay the successful operator to run the North West Rail Link and meet customer service contract requirements like running trains on time and making sure they are clean. Importantly, the Government will set and control fares.

A number of other milestones for the project have also been announced today including:  The first Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) has now been built overseas and is on its way to Australia from France via China;  The first TBM has been named ‘Elizabeth’ by a local student, after colonial icon Elizabeth Rouse;  ‘Elizabeth’ will be in the ground by October; the second TBM by the end of this year;  The exact location of the first two TBM entry points has been revealed at Bella Vista, where major excavation of the site has reached almost 10 metres.

For your information, we have attached a recent image of the Bella Vista tunnelling site. The station has been excavated to just under 10m and you can see the two tunnel entry points, from where the first two of the four tunnel boring machines will dig 9km towards Cherrybrook. For more information please visit our website at http://nwrail.transport.nsw.gov.au/News/Latest-news

Kind Regards, The North West Rail Link Team Transport for NSW T 1800 019 989 Community Information Centre - 299 Old Northern Road, Castle Hill NSW 2154 www.northwestrail.com.au Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

GLENWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS & ADVERTISING

Can your Students Climb Sydney’s Tallest Building?

We would love to invite your students to be part of the ‘School’s Challenge’ at this year’s Sydney Tower Stair Challenge on August 24. This is a great chance for teams of 4 to take on the 1504 stairs from Pitt Street Mall to the Observation Deck at the Sydney Tower Eye. Participants have to be 12 years or older.

Each stair climbed will assist Giant Steps who operate a school and intervention service for children and young people (2- 20) who have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

For more information and to register simply go to www.active8change.com.au. Alternatively you can contact Steve Corrie at Active8Change on 0439 975 759 for specific event day information or Michelle Jocum at Giant Steps on (02) 9879 4971.

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

GLENWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS & ADVERTISING

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

GLENWOOD HIGH SCHOOL

AUTHORITY TO CHANGE STUDENT RECORD DETAILS

Dear Parent/Guardian

The need for our school to keep records up to date and accurate it is extremely important, particularly in the case of emergencies. Please fill in the following change of record details and return to the school at your earliest convenience.

STUDENT’S FULL NAME

(include Siblings ATTENDING

Glenwood High School)

PARENT / GUARDIAN’S NAMES

RESIDENTIAL ADDRESS

CORRESPONDENCE ADDRESS

HOME PHONE NUMBER

FAMILY EMAIL ADDRESS

PARENT/GUARDIAN WORK NAME PHONE NO:

NUMBERS NAME PHONE NO:

PARENT / GUARDIAN MOBILE NAME: PHONE NO:

PHONE NUMBERS

NAME: PHONE NO: EMERGENCY CONTACT NAME & NO NAME: PHONE NO;

(other than parent / guardian) RELATIONSHIP:

NAME: PHONE NO:

RELATIONSHIP:

ATTENTION If you have moved out of the Glenwood High School local enrolment area you need to attach a letter to the Principal outlining the reason for your move. The letter must also explain why you wish your child to remain at the school as a non local enrolment, instead of moving your child/children to their local High School.

PARENT/GUARDIAN’S NAME SIGNATURE DATE

Telephone: 9629 9577 Fax: 9629 2796 Website: www.glenwood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au