From the Principal

Stories of Persistence and Empowerment

Term 2 began separately with Boys’ and Girls’ Junior School Assemblies. Their common theme was persistence, commitment and ‘grit’.

Our Junior Boys heard about cancer survivor Terry Fox and his incredible goal of running across Canada with an artificial leg. Terry’s persistence engaged a nation and although he did not ultimately achieve his goal, his persistence and commitment were a wonderful example to our young men!

Our Junior Girls examined these qualities through Hilary Clinton and Helen Reddy (an Old Girl of Tintern!) bookending the face of brave, persistent women in Western society who have shown real grit since the appreciation of the capacity of women. The anthem “I Am Woman (hear me roar)” was played at the end to an enthusiastic audience of students, staff and parents in recognition of the path of bravery and grit trodden by Helen as one of the significant faces of modern feminism.

At today’s Secondary Assembly (with the theme of ‘Persistence”) I spoke to the students about the story of Mathew Hayman, winner of last Sunday week’s 2016 Paris-Roubaix bicycle race at his 15th attempt! Mat has been a selfless servant of others for 18 years in the pro cycling ranks and only won on Sunday by virtue of putting himself in a position others were to benefit from; an overnight success 18 years in the making!

As we enter the winter terms, with its dark mornings, rain and cold temperatures, motivation can be hard to find in many ways. For our students, staying optimistic, positive and persisting can be tough through the winter. While there are many benefits, personally and academically, to doing so, it really does require persistence, commitment and ‘grit’.

These are critical qualities for everyone in our community to develop or refine – and not just at Tintern. The development of persistence and grit is tough, there is no doubt and I know as a parent myself that providing the environment for it goes against many of our natural parenting tendencies. But in the current environment of increasing anxiety and psychological ill-health in our young men and women, the development of resilience and grit, while tough on parents and teachers, is key to their (and our) good mental health and fulfilment.

In the event you have queries about supporting and developing your child or seek more significant support as a parent, we are happy to assist or provide direction towards suitable others to provide support. Parenting has never been more difficult than it is in the 21st century.

Factis non Verbis

Brad Fry
Principal

Please click on the Video Blog below from our Principal, Mr Brad Fry and Head of Girls’ Middle School and Girls’ Education, Ms Oriana Constable. The interview discusses the Tintern girls Middle School experience.

Music Matters

Tintern Grammar’s Brass Ensemble represents Tintern at Maroondah Schools ANZAC Service

On Wednesday afternoon the Tintern Brass Ensemble and a small group of Chamber Choir girls attended the Maroondah Schools ANZAC Service at Ringwood Lake. Guests at the event included representatives of The Honorable French Consul General and The Honorable Turkish Vice Consul, as well as the Mayor of Maroondah, Federal and State local politicians, local Council members and other local dignitaries.

The Tintern student group consisted of trumpeters Nicholas Elliott (Year 12), Ella Watt (Year 8), Eddie Wang (Year 11) and Kim Maher (Year 9) and Maya Watt (trombone) along with their tutor Maria Pisani (trombone). The group provided musical accompaniment for the singing of the National Anthem and a hymn. Grace Edwards, Sienna Gerin, Lovelyn Lim, Heidi Ruckert and Lucy Wheeler led the singing. Especially notable was Nick Elliott’s haunting rendition of the Last Post and Reveille on a World War 2 bugle which was gifted to Nick many years ago by the president of the Ringwood RSL in recognition of Nick’s talent on the trumpet. This event was convened by the Rotary Clubs of Ringwood and Croydon and was blessed with lovely warm weather and a gentle breeze.

The service was poignant and quite moving at times, as the MC explained to over 600 gathered primary and secondary school students that the purpose of the event was not to glorify war, but to remember the lives lost in the pursuit of peace. Junior School Captains, Amber Wild and Max Adam represented the school by reading the Requiem and laying a wreath. Our music students were wonderful ambassadors for our school and we thank them for their contribution to this local community event.

Upcoming Music Faculty events in Term 2 include our Annual “At Home” Music Camp next weekend (29/30 April and 1 May). Over 120 music students will be coming together to rehearse with their ensembles at various times over the three-day event and to prepare the finale for our Annual Concert, which is scheduled for Friday 9 June in the CM Wood Centre, 7.30pm. Note this date in your diaries now!

Music Camp Schedule:

Friday 29 April

2:15pm                       Girls & Boys Intermediate Choirs

3:45pm                       Concert Choir & Senior Jazz Band

5:00pm                       Afternoon Tea

5:15-6.30pm           Girls & Boys Senior Chamber Choirs

Saturday 30 April

9:30am                       Concert Band & Scrolls

11.00am                    Morning Tea

11:15am                    All Music Campers (Choral Item)             

12:45pm                    Lunch, Camp Photo & Music Leaders’ Activities

2:15pm                       All Music Campers (Choral Item)

3:15pm                       Afternoon Tea                                 

3:30-5.00pm           Chamber Orchestra & Wind Symphony

Sunday 1 May

1:00pm                       All Music Campers (Choral Item)

3:00pm                       Afternoon Tea

3.30-5.00pm           Symphony Orchestra & Inter. Jazz Band

Please direct all enquiries about Music Camp to Mrs Feenane in the Music Office (9845 7837) or efeenane@tintern.vic.edu.au

Camp reply slips are due in to the Music Office by Friday 22 April.

Music Campers 2015

Gerard Barclay marching with band on ANZAC Day

Keep your eyes peeled on Monday 25 April if you are watching the annual ANZAC Day march down St Kilda Road and you may see our own Gerard Barclay (Year 10) performing with the MYM Marching Band. Well done, Gerard, on your regular weekly commitment to this ensemble and your contribution to this important event.

Community Matters

Welcome to Term 2. The Community Relations team hope you all enjoyed a break from the usual routine. Term 2 is already shaping up to be a very busy term for our Community Groups; Interschool Horse Trials, Jazz Night, Presentation Ball and Spring Celebration planning, Reunions for our past students and of course Mother’s Day stalls for our younger students. If you would like to get involved with any of our community groups please contact Di Lacey in the Community Relations Office.

Parent Representatives

Hello fellow Tintern Grammar parents,

You may not have seen my article at the end of last term? We are still looking for Parent Reps for many classes. As a new parent in the Tintern Community I’ve been particularly keen on the opportunities to meet other parents and stay connected. I’ve volunteered to help organise representatives for each class/year level as I believe parent involvement in the classroom and school community is a critical piece to the overall sense of community we share.

Would you please consider signing up to represent your son or daughter’s class?  

Generally speaking, Parent Reps help by organising class or year level gatherings in order to provide opportunity to better get to know one another.  Now that Eastland is complete, there are many great places to meet for lunch, coffee or wine: https://www.eastland.com.au/eat/dinner.  Alternatively we have Cafe Emjay in Ringwood East or Leaf and Vine in Ringwood North: http://www.leafandvine.com.au/

Parent representatives also help to keep parents informed of class/school gatherings (i.e. – Community Relations and/or your class teacher may contact you asking you to help promote an event.)  Parent Representatives will be notified of upcoming school events through the Community Relations Office and are also encouraged to periodically check in with your the classroom teacher to see if there are any upcoming classroom events to promote or assist with.

If this sounds like something you’d like to be a part of, please let me know.  I’m happy to help assist you. You can contact me on 0423 223 296 or jessicaladam@gmail.com

Cheers, 
Jessica Adam

Mum to Max, Year 6 and Rachel, Year 5

Friends of Equestrian (FOE)

The moment has arrived for the Friends of Equestrian 16^th Interschool Horse Trials to be held tomorrow, Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 April at the beautiful Wandin Park. The FOE are also very proud and excited as this event is now an official qualifying event for the Australian Interschool Horse Trail Championships. Please share and like the Facebook event by clicking here. This prestigious event attracts nearly 300 competitors and around 500 plus families and spectators from all over Victoria. The FOE group invite you to come along and support the Tintern Grammar Equestrian teams and enjoy a day out at one of the Yarra Valley’s finest estates: Wandin Park, Victoria Rd. Wandin North (Melways Ref. 119 G7). Full canteen is available both days.

If you or child is interested to find out more about being involved with our Friends of Equestrian or Equestrian at Tintern please contact the Event secretary, Mrs Sandra Garland on 0425 735 577 or email FOE@tintern.vic.edu.au or the Equestrian coordinator Mrs Alison Bezaire abezaire@tintern.vic.edu.au

Photo Albums; New and Old for your children’s School photos

The Tintern Association have a limited number of Navy and Maroon old style Photo Albums to offer at a reduced price of $60. These albums feature the old School name printed in gold on the front cover and come complete with 10 transparent 30cm x 30cm sheet inserts albums and are large enough to hold the school photos provided by SchoolPix. The Tintern Association are currently upgrading the album design to reflect the new Tintern Grammar name and logo and these will be available later in Term 2 to purchase.  Download an order form here and forward to the Community Relations Office for processing.

Past student news – GOLF

T.O.G.A Golf welcomed new member Lyn Coutie (Stevenson yr ’70) to our group this year and along with regulars Joan Hoyle (Nairn yr ‘52), Sue-Viginia Mackay (O’Hanlon yr’71), Deb Guilmartin (Bell yr ’91), Sue Semmens (yr ’78) and Melinda Thomas (yr’83), we had a lovely morning of golf on Friday,16 October 2015. Lyn had a great day out and won the day with a lovely score of 36pts, even though she had never played at Woodlands before!! Di Thompson (Landy yr ’56) and Margaret-Anne Thomas (Yr’47) joined us for lovely lunch and a pleasant day was had by all. 

Tintern gets closer!!!

The 87th annual Interschool Golf Challenge Cup was held this year at Metropolitan Golf Club, on Monday, 11th April, 2016. Grey skies threatened rain as we headed out, just as Jordan Speith plonked his ball into the water while holding a narrow lead at the Masters at Augusta. The bunkers at Metro were up to their usual tricks and the greens not far behind. However, the rain stayed away and Tintern’s team of Joan Hoyle (Nairn yr ‘52), Deb Guilmartin (Bell yr ’91), Sue Semmens (yr ’78) and Melinda Thomas (yr’83) made a valiant attempt to bring home the Cup for the first time. Unfortunately for us, Geelong Grammar decided it was their day and took the prize with a score of 135pts. Ruyton was 2nd with 129pts and Tintern was equal 3rd with PLC, with 128pts. Our ever consistent Joan Hoyle did manage to snare the Nell Goff trophy for B grade’s best score, with 36pts…well done Joan!!! So, just as it wasn’t meant to be for Jordan Speith, nor was it meant to be for Tintern….but we are getting closer !!

If you’re interested in joining the TOGA golfers, please contact Melinda Thomas on 9778-3444 or 0417 508 725. 

Entertainment book 2016/2017

The Entertainment books are once again offered for purchase through the School. These books are full of discounts to be used for restaurants, entertainment, accommodation and a range of services and retail goods. The book is current from purchase until the end of 1 June 2017. Please click here to purchase your 2016/2017 book or download the order form here from the Portal and return to the Community Relations office and collect your book.  For more information please refer to the community news on the Tintern portal or contact the Community Relations Office. Alternatively you can click here to have a look at what is inside.

Thank you for your ongoing support.

Community Committee dates

• The Tintern Association (TTA) –Next meeting AGM: Thursday 19 May 7.30pm CM Wood Common room President: Amanda McKenzie
• Southwood Parents’ Club (SPC) – Next meeting AGM: Thursday 19 May 7.30pm CM Wood Common room President: Loraine Allender
• Friends of Music (FOM) – Next Meeting: Tuesday 3 May 7pm CM Wood Common room President: Tim Oldmeadow
• Friends of Young Farmers (FOYF) – Next meeting: Tuesday 10 May 7.30pm Kennedy Cottage, Community services. President: Joy Ashfield              
  
• Friends of Equestrian (FOE) – Next meeting: Please contact the Community Relations office for next meeting details. President: Kevin Jones
  

Social Justice group support Sunflower foundation; Trivia night, Saturday 7 May – save the date now! Donations needed.

Members of the Tintern Grammar Social Justice Group, The Poverty Project are working to support the Sunflower Foundation this year.

The Sunflower Foundation was set up in 2008 and through annual grants of up to $5,000, help to educate girls and women in indigenous communities across the world. They believe that education is an important means of facilitating the creation of sustainable communities and investing social capital – something we strongly believe in. Thus, these grants assist organisations and communities to deliver educational projects that benefit girls and women, and through them, the community. For more information please visit http://sunflowerfoundation.com.au

In today’s world, extreme poverty and inequality are unjustifiable and unfair. Around the world 1.4 billion people are living in extreme poverty and we believe that it is important for young people to work together as a team to try and end this cycle of poverty.

The Tintern Grammar Social Justice Group meets on a weekly basis and run events to raise both funds and awareness. This year we will be holding a Trivia Night on Saturday 7 May. The night will include refreshments, guest speakers, live music and, of course, trivia,  and will be open to all members of the local community. Additional advertising has been implemented in order to generate a large crowd for the event.  We hope that this event will stimulate awareness about the issue of the poverty cycle and how, through education, we can move towards breaking that cycle. 

Awareness will be generated through the guest speakers such as the founders of the Sunflower Foundation as well as Trivia. All proceeds will be sent to the Sunflower Foundation and will go towards building a better future for indigenous communities, as all organisational costs are met from membership subscriptions.

Community events such as these are not possible without the help and support of our community. As a member of our community, we would be extremely grateful for any support you could provide, whether it is in monetary or a donation towards our raffle. In return for your generosity, we would promote your business or recognise you as an individual supporter of our event in our pamphlet for the night. In addition, we would be proud to display any promotional material that you provide us for the night.

We look forward to hearing from you.

We also invite you to attend our event, where your entry also contributes to our final donation.

Entries can be completed through trybooking at this link: https://www.trybooking.com/LBVL

Please direct all enquiries to Community Relations Office on 9845 7877 or to Alexandra Wakeley (YG 2012) 0423 862 698 a.wakeley05@gmail.com

Thank you for your support.

Victorian State Interschools at Werribee

Equestrian Captains’ Report

Victorian State Interschools held at Werribee National Equestrian Centre is always a big week for the members of the equestrian team who are competing. With many different disciplines and heights, the event caters for our littlest riders right through to our older riders.

We had 7 Tintern Equestrian Team members competing. There was a great sense of team spirit and everyone performed exceptionally, but the greatest achievement for the week at Werribee was 7 year old Odette McCallum who became the 35cm Combined Training State Champion. Not only was this her first ever event but it was also at State level against very talented young riders. She completed a lovely dressage test and then show jumped a clear round, winning her first ever rug!

This event was a great run up to our Tintern Horse Trials coming up soon. We are all very excited to again compete for our school!

by Madison Jones & Eliza Harvey, Equestrian Captains

Equestrian Coordinator’s Update

Congratulations to all Tintern Grammar Equestrian Team Members who rode at the 2016 Equestrian Victorian Interschool State Championships at Werribee during the holidays. Our team members were:

Madi Jones, Eliza Harvey, Millie Harvey, Keeley Thomas, Ella Trevorrow, Lilly Trevorrow, Darcee McCallum and Odette McCallum.

Overall Interschool State Championship Results for our members at this event were as follows:

Odette McCallum      1st 35cm Combined Training Championship

Keeley Thomas            4th Primary Show Hunter Championship

Eliza Harvey                  4th Preliminary Dressage Championship
                                               4th 1* Combined Training Championship
                                               6th Novice Dressage Championship

Other Results included:

Keeley Thomas            1st Primary Show Horse Led phase
                                               4th Primary Show Hunter Ridden phase

Eliza Harvey                   2nd 1.3 Preliminary dressage test
                                               4th 1.2 Preliminary dressage test
                                               2nd overall preliminary division dressage (which went to a ride off)

Further to these impressive results at Werribee, special note must be made of Keeley Thomas and her pony, Rose (pictured) who competed at the Grand Nationals in Sydney during the last week of last term, where Keeley was awarded a top ten out of 30+ entries in her competition.

The following week Keeley was back up the Hume Hwy to Sydney to compete at the Sydney Royal Easter show where Keeley and Rose received two second places, one third and a fourth.

Keeley Thomas has qualified for a place on the Victorian Interschools equestrian team over the school holidays at the Victorian Interschools championships representing Tintern. The nationals are to be held in Sydney at the end of September.

And just this past weekend Eliza Harvey, Madison Jones and Ella Trevorrow competed at the Camperdown CIC Horse Trials. Eliza Harvey and Sea Student placed 9^th in the 1* class and won the Interschool Class for Tintern. Madi Jones and Graceful Gaga placed 9^th in the 80cm class and 4th in the Interschool Class for Tintern. Ella Trevorrow and Woodside Supernova placed 11^th in the Interschool Class for Tintern in a very hotly contested section.

We have just received news from Eventing Victoria that Madi and Graceful Gaga are 10^th place on the Victorian Eventing Leaderboard 80cm and Eliza and Sea Student (pictured) have secured first place on the Victorian Interschool 1* leaderboard.

The Victorian leaderboard is the pathway to represent Victoria at Sydney Interschool Nationals in September. The 1* class is the highest level and currently is being hotly contested by 4 riders from Tintern Grammar, Bacchus Marsh College, Haileybury College and Eltham College. There are only 2 more qualifying competitions this year.

Victoria’s top 4 Interschool 1* riders can be seen live battling to climb up and secure their place on the ladder at our Horse Trials next weekend at Wandin Park and are certainly worth watching on Sunday as they head cross country over solid and rather scary jumps.

 

STEM Robotics

The Tintern Association, through the generous fundraising of Parents and Friends, are pleased to be able to provide 2 new Lego Robotics Kits for the benefits of both the Girls Junior and Middle Schools.  The new Robotics Kits will be a great addition to the school’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) programs, which work to engage girls in STEM disciplines and build self-belief within those fields.

Here is an example of a competition:

Primary Rescue is designed for primary aged students. Robots compete by following a winding line on a series of tiles to a designated rescue area. On the way the robot could encounter obstacles, bridges and short cut opportunities that will challenge the most intrepid programmer. After negotiating the randomly selected path, the robot arrives at a green coloured area which indicates a chemical spill. While the clock is still ticking the robot must find “the victim” before pushing them out of the quicksand to safety.

We anticipate the girls to have great fun, and enjoy valuable learning through the use of these sets of equipment.

Fundraising activities such as the Mothers & Fathers Day Stalls, Movie Nights and Photo Album sales have helped to contribute towards these purchases, and we wish to express sincere thanks to all volunteers who have contributed towards outcomes such as this over the years.

by Amanda McKenzie, President TTA

 

 

Sport Matters

Victorian State Interschools at Werribee

Equestrian Captains’ Report

Victorian State Interschools held at Werribee National Equestrian Centre is always a big week for the members of the equestrian team who are competing. With many different disciplines and heights, the event caters for our littlest riders right through to our older riders.

We had 7 Tintern Equestrian Team members competing. There was a great sense of team spirit and everyone performed exceptionally, but the greatest achievement for the week at Werribee was 7 year old Odette McCallum who became the 35cm Combined Training State Champion. Not only was this her first ever event but it was also at State level against very talented young riders. She completed a lovely dressage test and then show jumped a clear round, winning her first ever rug!

This event was a great run up to our Tintern Horse Trials coming up soon. We are all very excited to again compete for our school!

by Madison Jones & Eliza Harvey, Equestrian Captains

Equestrian Coordinator’s Update

Congratulations to all Tintern Grammar Equestrian Team Members who rode at the 2016 Equestrian Victorian Interschool State Championships at Werribee during the holidays. Our team members were:

Madi Jones, Eliza Harvey, Millie Harvey, Keeley Thomas, Ella Trevorrow, Lilly Trevorrow, Darcee McCallum and Odette McCallum.

Overall Interschool State Championship Results for our members at this event were as follows:

Odette McCallum      1st 35cm Combined Training Championship

Keeley Thomas            4th Primary Show Hunter Championship

Eliza Harvey                  4th Preliminary Dressage Championship
                                               4th 1* Combined Training Championship
                                               6th Novice Dressage Championship

Other Results included:

Keeley Thomas            1st Primary Show Horse Led phase
                                               4th Primary Show Hunter Ridden phase

Eliza Harvey                   2nd 1.3 Preliminary dressage test
                                               4th 1.2 Preliminary dressage test
                                               2nd overall preliminary division dressage (which went to a ride off)

Further to these impressive results at Werribee, special note must be made of Keeley Thomas and her pony, Rose (pictured) who competed at the Grand Nationals in Sydney during the last week of last term, where Keeley was awarded a top ten out of 30+ entries in her competition.

The following week Keeley was back up the Hume Hwy to Sydney to compete at the Sydney Royal Easter show where Keeley and Rose received two second places, one third and a fourth.

Keeley Thomas has qualified for a place on the Victorian Interschools equestrian team over the school holidays at the Victorian Interschools championships representing Tintern. The nationals are to be held in Sydney at the end of September.

And just this past weekend Eliza Harvey, Madison Jones and Ella Trevorrow competed at the Camperdown CIC Horse Trials. Eliza Harvey and Sea Student placed 9^th in the 1* class and won the Interschool Class for Tintern. Madi Jones and Graceful Gaga placed 9^th in the 80cm class and 4th in the Interschool Class for Tintern. Ella Trevorrow and Woodside Supernova placed 11^th in the Interschool Class for Tintern in a very hotly contested section.

We have just received news from Eventing Victoria that Madi and Graceful Gaga are 10^th place on the Victorian Eventing Leaderboard 80cm and Eliza and Sea Student (pictured) have secured first place on the Victorian Interschool 1* leaderboard.

The Victorian leaderboard is the pathway to represent Victoria at Sydney Interschool Nationals in September. The 1* class is the highest level and currently is being hotly contested by 4 riders from Tintern Grammar, Bacchus Marsh College, Haileybury College and Eltham College. There are only 2 more qualifying competitions this year.

Victoria’s top 4 Interschool 1* riders can be seen live battling to climb up and secure their place on the ladder at our Horse Trials next weekend at Wandin Park and are certainly worth watching on Sunday as they head cross country over solid and rather scary jumps.

Tintern Senior & Middle School House Cross Country runs

Our annual Senior and Middle School House Cross Countries will be held on Wednesday 27th & Thursday 28th April respectively at Lillydale Lake. All competitors will contribute points to their House Aggregate and medals will be awarded to the first three placegetters at each Year Level. Competitors who manage to complete the 3 km course within 20 minutes will go into the draw for major and minor spot prizes, which will add to the fun. Following the run, we will be holding a sausage sizzle for lunch before announcing results and heading back to school at 2.55pm. Students will be dismissed at normal time. This is a whole school event and all students are expected to attend and compete on their day. Students unable to compete for medical reasons are required to bring a note from home and will be asked to assist as helpers on the day. Parents are most welcome to attend on the day with the Swansea Road carpark entrance being the best place to gain access to the venue. Events start at 1.20pm.

Curriculum Matters

NAPLAN

The NAPLAN tests are nearly upon us once again. Students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 will sit these standardised tests on the following dates:

Tuesday 10 May                                                                     Wednesday 11 May                 Thursday  12 May

Year 3    Language Conventions 40 minutes           Reading 45 minutes                    Numeracy 45 minutes
                   Writing 40 minutes

Year 5    Language Conventions 40 minutes           Reading 50 minutes                    Numeracy 50 minutes
                   Writing 40 minutes

Year 7    Language Conventions 45 minutes           Reading 65 minutes                    Numeracy (Calculator) 40 minutes
                   Writing 40 minutes                                                                                                            Numeracy (Non-calculator) 40 minutes

Year 9    Language Conventions 45 minutes           Reading 65 minutes                    Numeracy (Calculator) 40 minutes
                  Writing 40 minutes                                                                                                             Numeracy (Non-calculator) 40 minutes

While these are a rich source of data for schools and parents to assess the progress of individual students, cohorts and programs it is important to note that they are but a single snapshot in time and not the whole picture. Teacher assessment and other internal standardised testing over time provides a rich and deep picture of student learning and NAPLAN results should be seen in this wider context. More information on NAPLAN testing can be found at the following website: http://www.nap.edu.au/naplan/naplan.html

These tests do provide practice for students at sitting formal tests; however, we do not want students to become anxious about them so please reinforce with your child that while we want them to try their best these are not something they should worry about. Schools receive the results to forward to families in September.

ICAS Competitions

Tintern Grammar offers a variety of invitational opportunities for our students to participate in the University of New South Wales, International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS). For over 30 years, ICAS has taken place annually in schools throughout Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, the Pacific Region and South Africa. At Tintern Grammar, there is no cost to parents for students who are invited to participate in these competitions.

In the Junior Schools, students are invited to participate based on academic readiness as judged by their Head of School and in consultation with their teacher. These opportunities are provided as extension and enhancement activities. Parents who receive this offer will then be asked to choose whether to accept the offer.

In the Middle Schools, all students are entered in the English, Mathematics and Science competitions as they provide a timely opportunity for students to gain a measure of their own achievement in an external testing situation. The school receives useful cohort data which, alongside the NAPLAN, assists us in tracking the progress of our students. In addition, we offer opportunities to selected students in Writing as an extension activity. Limited invitations to the Science, Mathematics and English competitions are extended to students in Years 10-12.

If your child has entered one of these competitions, it is important to note when reading your child’s report that the State cohort of students is not the same as that of the NAPLAN reports. NAPLAN includes over 95% of all Victorian students in those year levels sitting a test; however, each individual school opts whether to participate in the ICAS competitions and to what extent any given cohort will participate. Therefore, caution should be exercised when looking at the comparative data in ICAS reports as the cohort to which your child is compared is skewed.

All participating students receive a certificate and an individual student report indicating which questions they answered correctly and their score compared with the rest of the students tested. A UNSW medal is awarded for the highest score in each year level in each state, in each subject.

If you do not want your child to be included in a secondary competition, please email our Vice Principal of Teaching and Learning, Jason McManus at jmcmanus@tintern.vic.edu.au. Queries regarding Junior Schools Competitions should be directed to the relevant Head of School.

Secondary Subject Preferences Selection Process for 2017 Programs

As part of Tintern Grammar’s commitment to ensuring students make informed choices, we are holding a number of information sessions relating to the options available for our Years 10 and 11 students of 2017. Tintern Grammar is proud to be the only school in the Maroondah Region which offers all three pathways VCE, VET and International Baccalaureate (IB), and to have such a significant history of success in all of these programs.

The first of these sessions is the IB Information Evening which is held in the Theatre on Monday May 9 at 7pm. Students and teachers will be on hand to speak about their experience of the program and take questions.

Next, on Wednesday 8 June 2016 is the Pathways and Subject Selection Evening in the CM Wood Centre. At this event, all three pathways will be outlined by the program co-ordinators and we give an overview of the selection process. We invite you and your child to attend the Pathways Evening so that there can be informed discussions at home as to which pathway will best suit their daughter’s/son’s needs.

As a follow up to this evening, a Subject Showcase Evening will be held in Term 3 on Wednesday 20 July 2016. On this evening, Heads of Faculty and a range of subject teachers will be on hand to present information and answer questions about individual IB, VCE and VET subjects on offer next year. At this evening, 2015 Year 9 students and families are invited to attend a special information session on the possibility of taking a VCE subject in Year 10, prior to joining 2017 Year 10 students and families in the Anderson Centre (Senior College).

As in previous years, subject preference selection will be made on-line. This year, that process will commence on Friday 22 July and will close at 9pm on Sunday 31 July. Students will be briefed on how to use this online system at a special Middle School Assembly in the first week of Term 3 prior to receiving the link and instructions by email on the opening day. Year 7, 8 and 9 students will also receive a briefing on the electives on offer for preferences in this system at this assembly.

The information sessions mentioned above will assist students to select the most suitable pathway and subject choices for 2017. Individual teachers and our careers counsellors are available to assist in this process throughout this period as needed.

Shared Learning

A new initiative in the ELC this year is ‘Shared Learning’. This takes place every Wednesday afternoon and all 3 classes participate. Shared learning is a time for children to expand their relationships with both peers and staff and to develop their emerging autonomy. Five activities are offered in five separate spaces (3 x classrooms, kitchen and deck). The children have the opportunity to choose which activity they would like to participate in. Activities include cooking, puppet making, story-telling and open ended play and often focus on teacher led learning areas such as our recent focus on Anzac Day.

Last week in Shared Learning Nikki Cazaz, a Year 11 student who volunteers in the ELC each week, presented to the children on Anzac Day. Nikki, a budding Early Years educator, did a wonderful job informing nearly sixty 3 and 4 year olds on the history and importance of Anzac Day. She read them the lovely story ‘Lest We Forget’ that helps young children to begin to understand the significance of this commemorative day. Following Nikki’s presentation some of the children made Anzac biscuits and Anzac day wreaths.

Shared Learning is a wonderful time for cross age group relationship building and peer learning. It’s also an excellent opportunity for parents to be involved in our program. Please let staff know if you’d like to participate any Wednesday afternoon.

by Amanda Cooke, ELC Coordinator/Pre-Prep B Teacher

Canoe camp at Lake Eildon

On 18 April the Year 9 Outdoor Ed class set off for a wonderful three days canoeing at Lake Eildon. We all shared so many great experiences with each other. Some of the highlights included setting up and sleeping under tarps, building camp fires and sharing a group meal where we all helped to prepare, make and cook calzone style pizzas.

Canoe camp was such an incredible experience for us to build on skills that we had learnt in class. It was a way for us to challenge ourselves as well as a way to build on our skills as a team. We all got to spend lots of time getting to know each other more and sharing stories. Another highlight of camp was the climb up the mountain behind our camp site. Though it was a tough climb, we persevered and took in the beautiful view from the top. We all felt extremely accomplished after we got to see how far we canoed earlier that day. On our last morning at camp, we all braved the early morning and headed out onto the lake in our canoes to watch the sunrise. Watching the sunrise from the lake in the crisp morning air was such a memorable experience, it was definitely worth the early start. This camp was one with many fantastic opportunities and memories that will stay with us forever.

by Meagan Hynson, Year 9

Anzac Assembly

This week the girls took part in an interactive Assembly.  The theme was taken from our GRIT acronym, in particular:  I – Ignore giving up. Students took part in a quiz and answered questions about the ANZACs  –  it was impressive how much they could answer!  They also watched a great clip which integrated old and modern day footage of soldiers and featured a special music video ‘Spirit of the Anzacs’.   Take a look…

http://portal.tintern.vic.edu.au/homepage/code/00HOS1a

We discussed that the solders gave great commitment and determination by giving their best while during great hardship:  they Ignored Giving Up. We discussed some of the common elements of the soldiers and Nick Vujicic (man without limbs).  Do you remember him? (we spoke about him last year!)  Nick gives us a 1 minute overview of his attitude and determination about how he has managed his life. He discusses that there is no point concentrating on the things which you don’t have and what you can’t do.  You need to concentrate on what you do have.   http://safeshare.tv/v/i5Q02YX2VTw

One of the key messages about demonstrating GRIT is that you do not give up.  The ANZACs and Nick have certainly these characteristics in common.

Rotary ANZAC Service, 20 April 2016

We were very  proud of the manner in which Amber Wild and Max Adam conducted themselves and represented Tintern at the Rotary ANZAC Service at Ringwood Lake on Wednesday. They both read the requiem very well and lay a lovely wreath on behalf of the school. We also had 10 senior students performing at the event, including Nick Elliott playing the Last Post and Reveille on a World War 2 bugle.  It was an important reflective time for all concerned.

Anzac Day Ceremony, Friday 22 April

Today the Girls’ Junior School gave thanks for the many soldiers who fought for Australia. Thank you to Warrant Officer Tony Luchterhand, who was our special guest and also to Mrs Wagner who made the occasion very memorable. Some Year 6 and 2 students accompanied by Mrs Wagner, sang and discussed the origins of the Anzac Biscuit.  The girls also talked about the Last Post and Reveille which are the traditional elements of the service.  The Australian Flag was lowered to half-mast and also raised to masthead at the appropriate time by Keira Vandenbroeck our Flag Captain. 

 “Lest We Forget”

Flag Protocol for the Australian Flag on ANZAC Day

• In the morning the flag is raised to the masthead then immediately lowered to half-mast.
• On the first note of Reveille (sometimes referred to as the Rouse) the flag is raised smartly to the masthead.
• After the ceremony the flag is returned to the half-mast until noon when it is raised to the masthead.

Art Excursion to Canberra 2016

On Friday 11 March, 20 Year 11 and 12 VCE and IB Art Students ventured to Canberra with Mrs Waud and Mrs Amiet. We departed Tintern at the crisp hour of 5:30am, and, bleary eyed we began our exciting excursion.

We first visited the National Gallery of Australia (NGA), which featured the infamous painting ‘Blue Poles’ by Jackson Pollock, the beautiful ‘Waterlilies’ by Claude Monet, George Baldessin’s ‘Pear’ sculpture (which was particularly exciting for the VCE Studio Arts students to see, as they had visited the Baldessin Press Studio earlier in the year), the iconic ‘Ned Kelly’ works by Sidney Nolan, a special exhibition on the works of Australian artist, Tom Roberts, and many modern and traditional iconic Aboriginal artworks. One of the particularly interesting exhibitions on display at the NGA, was an exhibition curated purely around the theme ‘Black’. This exhibition solely contained artworks that utilised the colour black in diverse, interesting and inspiring ways. While at this gallery, the students participated in a treasure hunt activity, where we had to explore the NGA looking for particular artworks, and then take a photo in front of the artwork. Great fun was had by all! The broad range of artworks in this gallery ensured that all students left feeling incredibly inspired.

We then visited the Contemporary Gallery, where we were all left in awe of the eerie lighting and sculpture installation ‘The Last Temptation’ by Ken and Julia Yonetani.

Next, we made our way across the road to the National Portrait Gallery of Australia. This gallery featured many portraits of notable people throughout Australia’s history, and it was inspiring to view how different artists created their portraits, with many techniques, styles and mediums showcased throughout the various artworks.

We ended our adventure in Canberra by all sitting in the ‘Skyscape’ structure, James Turrell’s 2010 ‘With Or Without’ artwork. Here we all reflected on our jam packed day, and reviewed all that we had seen and experienced. The day was incredibly inspiring, it exposed us to many new artists and prompted many new ideas for artworks of our own.

by Meg Swain, Year 11 IB Visual Art Student

2015-2016 Years 7 – 11 Annual Visual Art & Design Show

From 22^nd April until 20^th May – open from 8.30 – 4.00 pm Monday to Friday.

The Visual Art & Design department eagerly invite you to the Visual Art Gallery space to enjoy the works from Year 7 to 11 students from classes in Semester 2, 2015 and Semester 1. 2016.

Each year, the students amaze us with their creative and enthusiastic approach to making and creating visual pieces, in a variety of forms, exploring a range of themes and concepts. From woodwork to 3D printing, textiles to computer generated packaging design, painting and drawing, sculpture and installation works just to name a few.

The exhibition is an opportunity for students to showcase their efforts and wonderful final pieces, sharing their insights and skills developed over the past 12 months. Please come and join us to view this ‘visual feast for the eyes’ from the 22nd April.

We are offering a new experience this year with Guided tours for Students and Staff each Monday and Friday at lunchtime. 1.05 pm – 1.20 pm – Please meet near the spiral staircase and let the 2016 Art Captains introduce and explore the works on display.

by Rachel Waud, Head of Visual Art & Design

Trivia House Competition

Week 1 Assembly – Growth Mindset and GRIT

French (Years 3-6)

Welcome to our new students!

• Thomas Wang – Early Learners A
• Ethan Abdurahman – Early Learners B
• Isaac Abdurahman  – Early Learners B
• Marley Erickson – Early Learners B
• Eve Ferrie – Year 4A

Visit to Olivet Nursing Home

Thank you to all the families who contributed chocolate eggs and gifts for Olivet Nursing Home.  Amber Wild and Kelsey Paterson, Junior School Captains and I delivered the gifts on the last day of Term 1.  The residents were delighted with the visit and also enjoyed receiving some beautifully made Easter books from the ELC students. 

Get involved in the School Banking program

Tintern Junior School is excited to offer the Commonwealth Bank School Banking program to all students. The School Banking program provides children with an opportunity to deposit money into their Commonwealth Bank Youthsaver account at school each week. The program is about how often your child makes deposits, not how much they deposit.

To encourage regular savings behaviour the program offers an exciting Rewards Program. Every deposit earns your child a silver Dollarmites token, and once they’ve collected 10 tokens they can redeem them for a reward.

The rewards available during 2016 are:
– Flying Snake Tail
– Wildlife Writer Set
– Mud Splat Handball
– Outback Pat Bag Tag
– Backtrack Eraser Pen
– Jump and Skip Rope
– Bush Fly Fan
– Wriggly Glow Worm

School Banking is also a great fundraiser for our school. Our school receives $5 when a student makes their first ever School Banking deposit and 5% on every deposit made through the school (to a maximum of $10 per individual deposit).

Getting involved in School Banking is easy!

You can get involved in the School Banking program by opening a Commonwealth Bank Youthsaver account at your local branch. All you need to bring is your current identification as well as your child’s birth certificate. If you are an existing Commonwealth Bank customer and have NetBank, you can open an account online.

If your child has an existing Commonwealth Bank Youthsaver account they can start banking straight away. They just need to bring their deposit in every week on School Banking day using their Dollarmites deposit wallet.

School Banking day is Wednesday. Each week you need to hand your bank book to Reception or via the classroom teacher.

If you would like to know more about School Banking, please ask for a 2016 School Banking program information pack from the Tintern Junior school Reception .

Top results for Keeley!

Trivia Night – The Poverty Project

Date:    Saturday 7th May

Time:    6:00 – 9:30pm

The night will include guest speakers, live entertainment by Little Archive and Tim Mason (magician) and of course trivia. The Poverty Project students of Tintern Grammar are holding this Trivia Night in support of The Sunflower Foundation. The Sunflower Foundation was set up in 2008 and through annual grants of up to $5,000, help to educate girls and women in indigenous communities across the world which is vital creating sustainable communities. For more information please visit http://sunflowerfoundation.com.au. All proceeds will be sent directly to The Sunflower Foundation.

To book a table please visit: https://www.trybooking.com/LBVL

Ticket prices: Free for children U 12 and $10 entry fee for all other ages

Thank you,                                                                                 

Tintern Grammar Social Justice Group

Scottish Highland Dancing competition

  

Year 8 Camp

I was fortunate enough to spend the first week of this term on camp with our Year 8 boys and girls up in Myrtleford and Mount Buffalo. This was a stunning week in so many ways and the weather was magnificent for this time of year in and around Myrtleford. The gorgeous colours of the changing leaves on the trees, back dropped by vineyards, olive groves and large mountain ranges made for a fantastic venue. What was most impressive though was the experiences our boys had whilst on camp and the benefits these camps provide to their personal growth and development. They were challenged physically with some of the strenuous activities as well as emotionally as some of the activities really pushed them out of their comfort zone. Our boys climbed 15 metre vertical challenges, scrambled over 250 metres of aerial obstacle courses and also rode a 220 metre dual flying fox which was a real favourite. Another challenge the boys faced was to hike along the top of Mount Buffalo to Lake Catani where they set up camp for the evening. They were responsible for their own food, water, cooking equipment, etc. There were some real success stories in terms of food as well as some efforts that will need to be refined next time! Let’s just say that cooking pizza on a trangia stove doesn’t work all that well! These are the memories that the boys take with them from school and are certainly a very important opportunity for them over their schooling journey.

A poem by a group of our Year 8 boys:

‘Alone we can do so little. Together we can do so much.’ (Helen Keller)

Perhaps this could have been the theme for us on our camp this year.

We helped each other to push through our challenges.

We had to trust each other often when we felt most vulnerable.

We learned more about each other and how we can work together as a team.

We learned that mice don’t eat chips!

We learned that horse heads are not flexible when they’re on your head!

We took the time to just talk to each other whilst we cooked a communal dinner.

We can dance if we want to.

We can solve the most difficult problems in trivia.

We can all sing in tune if a ukulele is the instrument of choice.

Miss Diviney rocks a pink feather boa.

Rhonda’s name is Rhonda and that’s what she answers to

We are a community.

We learned that our teachers have hidden talents.

We learned that we all have hidden talents.

Year 8D and 8E Boys written as a team

Year 7 Camp

In the last week of Term 1 our Year 7 boys ventured on their first camp to Merricks on the Mornington Peninsula. Again we were blessed with the weather which is fortunate given that this is a water based camp. The boys were involved in stand up paddle boarding, bike riding, tree climbing, snorkelling in the pool and then out at Pope’s Eye in Port Phillip Bay and in and around the seals. The boys also hiked along the coastline for their overnight hike before spending the night in groups sleeping under a big tarp. It was a great experience for the boys, learning to cook for themselves on trangias, cooperate together and also have a lot of fun.

Work Experience

In the first week of this term our Year 9 boys had a session around work experience presented by our Career’s staff. This gave the boys a heads up about what is expected of them next year in regard to work experience and that they should be starting to look for positions now. These sessions will continue for our Year 9s as the year progresses with a focus shifting towards careers and future courses – all part of the boys getting closer to Senior College and beyond.

Tutoring by Year 9s

As part of their leadership development our Year 9 boys have developed an idea to run a weekly tutoring session for Year 7 & 8 boys in M3 at lunchtime. These sessions will be taken by different Year 9 boys and range from assisting in Maths, Science, English and potentially a few other subjects. They will also be able to help guide boys on how to study effectively, manage time, meet deadlines, etc. This is a voluntary opportunity for the boys to attend to but something well worthwhile, and a great initiative by our Year 9s.

Musical performance

At our last Middle School Boys’ Assembly in Term 1 James Manson of Year 7 demonstrated not just a wonderful ability to play his bassoon, but to also demonstrate many values of our Compass such as confidence and commitment in order to stand up in front of all Middle School boys and staff and play. What made his performance even more impressive was the fact that as he set up to play his intended piece just prior to the boys arriving, he discovered that he did not have the correct accompanying music for the pianist Mr Kidd. To his credit he demonstrated great resilience and very quickly changed his piece to another of which he did have the correct music for. This piece was called Battle Hymn of the Republic and was played beautifully.

Philosophy Workshop

On 13 April a number of Year 7 students were introduced to Philosophy. The benefits of learning Philosophy are many; Philosophy is not a set of facts to be memorised, but rather a methodological approach to thinking and solving problems. It teaches students to approach problems from a number of different perspectives, as problems often have multiple solutions.

Two teams of Year 7 students contributed their thoughts along with other schools in the region during our Philosophy Workshop, in an experience which generated a great deal of controversial conversation. Tisha Eggleston led each session, presenting the students with an overview of some key areas of philosophical thought in what was a most rewarding day for all.

Mother Son Bowling Evening

A key date to add to your calendar is our Mother Son bowling evening. This is an opportunity for your son to spend an evening bowling with mum or mother figure (aunty, big sister, grandmother, etc) and to show their appreciation for the support they are provided. It is happening on Thursday 5 May at the AMF Bowling Centre in Forest Hill Chase. The arrival time is 6:15am for a 6:30pm start with the night concluding around 7:30pm.

Pay it Forward Day

Whilst there is a fair bit of ‘schmaltz’ associated with the concept of ‘paying it forward’, there is also much that can be achieved by embracing the idea.

The Book and movie of ‘Pay It Forward” saw a young boy perform three acts of kindness for others, and they then paid this forward to another three, and they paid it forward to another three….until the world was embraced in acts of kindness!

There is no doubt that doing something of a kind nature, especially when unexpected, for another leaves both the ‘doer’ and the recipient with a positive glow. Sometimes in our busy lives we forget how important it is to complete acts of kindness towards others, even as simple as smiling, or holding a door open. Dr Gary Chapman believes that there are only five basic Love Languages (Physical Touch, Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Giving and Receiving Gifts, and Acts of Service) and each person has a ‘primary one’ that affects them deeply; in the case of children, if a parent fails to speak this language adequately, the teen will not feel loved, regardless of other expressions of love. It is a really interesting concept, and I have seen examples of the power of this knowledge work positively in families, and in  teacher – student rapport.

“Acts of Service”, through paying it forward, can strike a chord with many children, and empower them to feel they can and do make a difference to others, and assist in the development of respect and empathy for others.

Next week, our Junior School Boys will for the first time be recognising Pay It Forward Day by participating in a number of special events and activities, including paying it forward, anonymously, to another designated member of our Junior School. At the end of the week, the boys will reflect upon the impact of performing acts of kindness, and it is hoped they will gain esteem and insight into the power of positive relationships with others.

Anzac Assembly

Our annual Junior School ANZAC Assembly is always a very moving and important occasion. We were once again most appreciative of Nick Elliott, Year 12, who played the Last Post and the Rouse during our Ceremony. Nick has performed this duty at every one of our ANZAC assemblies for the past 7 years, having been presented with a World War One bugle from the Ringwood RSL when he was in Year 6.

As always, our Year 6 boys actively participated in the Assembly with readings and facts, presented with a real sense of the occasion while all of our Junior School boys displayed a rich understanding of the significance of ANZAC Day.

Mother’s Day Classic – Tintern Grammar Team

Saturday 8 May is the annual Mother’s Day Classic where participant’s walk or run to help raise money and awareness for Breast Cancer Research. It is a great opportunity for women and families to come together and this year we are encouraging members of our community to participate together as part of the Tintern Grammar Team. If you would like to join our team please register through the website http://www.mothersdayclassic.com.au/ . You can then select ‘Join Team’ and search for Tintern Grammar. You may elect to walk or run either 4km or 8km.

Prior to the event we will contact you to let you know of our meeting point on the day. If you have any questions or would like to know any more information please contact Oriana Constable oconstable@tintern.vic.edu.au

Girls’ Middle School News

Welcome back to Term 2! We have hit the ground running in the first two weeks and there is a buzz of excitement about the upcoming events this term holds for us. Year 8s had a wonderful camp experience at Valley Homestead last week and I was tremendously proud of and impressed by the way in which the girls interacted with each other, their Year 10 Outdoor Ed Leaders and staff. The support and encouragement of each other was evident throughout the whole week as girls conquered their fears and challenged themselves as well as learn new skills and have loads of fun!

Year 7s have begun learning their House Cheersports routines and preparing for the competition in June. Likewise Year 9 girls have begun to develop their ideas and choreography for House Dancing. On top of this, each House has been busily practising their House Music songs!!! House competitions and activities add great life and energy to our school and are a wonderful opportunity for students to work with groups outside that of their friendship and class groups. It also allows for interaction between students from different year levels and I’m really pleased to see the positive approach students have demonstrated towards these activities.

Girls studying the Year 9 Outdoor Education Elective completed their 3-day canoe camp to Lake Eildon this week and they enjoyed some fabulous learning opportunities and weather.

Senior College News

As we come to the end of the first fortnight of Term 2, I am reminded that we are at that time of the school year when students may wear either the full summer uniform or the full winter uniform. This time of transition is most appropriate given the recent “Indian Summer” we have enjoyed in recent days. I do wish to emphasise that there is to be no mixing of the two acceptable versions of the school uniform. Full details of the winter uniform are contained in the Senior College Handbook which all families should have a copy of at home and which were also included in the end of Term 1 edition of Aspectus. The dates when full Winter Uniform must be worn are: from 1 June through to 31 August inclusive.

Some upcoming activities that Senior College families should be aware of and which are scheduled across the next few weeks are as follows:

• Monday 25 April, Ringwood RSL ANZAC Dawn Service at the Ringwood Clocktower commencing at 6am; numbers are always large so it is crucial to be there no later than 5.45am. Tintern Grammar will be represented by our School Leaders and by various senior staff and families are invited to join this commemoration of the bravery and service of our combined forces.
• Wednesday 27 April, Senior College House Cross Country, offsite at Lilydale Lake, 12.30 – 3.25pm
• Saturday 30 April & Sunday 1 May, Annual Music Camp
• Saturday 7 May, Poverty Project Trivia Night in the CM Wood Centre, 6 – 9.30pm, organised by our Social Justice Leaders
• Saturday 14 May, Friends of Music Jazz Night in the CM Wood Centre, 7 – 11pm
• Tuesday 17 May, House Music final rehearsal, followed by the House Music Competition in the CM Wood Centre, 10.30am – 12.50pm

Finally, I need to make all Senior College families aware that I am on leave from Tuesday 26 April through to Tuesday 17 May inclusive. During this time, Mrs Heather Ruckert, Year 10 Co-ordinator and Careers Counsellor will be acting Head of Senior College and can be contacted for issues related to the Senior College that you would normally refer to me. Of course, for most matters the expectation is that your first contact will be through your daughter’s/son’s Pastoral Mentor or through a specific subject teacher.

With kind regards to all families,

Year 12 Report

Year 12 students are settling back into the routine of classes and study after a well-earned rest over the holidays. No doubt many Year 12 students were still working hard during this time, and were also able to spend some down time with family and friends and importantly catch up on some sleep.

Before the holidays the Year 12 students used Easter as a way to connect with various communities. The School Leaders made a visit to the Junior School for an Easter egg hunt and others in the year level raised money and awareness for the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal.

For the last time Year 12 students will soon be participating in the House Music competition. The Year 12 House Captains along with all other Year 12 students are engaging the younger students and working enthusiastically with them to make their last House singing performance a memorable one.

This week we are also looking forward to hanging the traditional Year 12 banner, signed by all the students, in the updated Senior College space. It is a ‘work of art’ but this banner also serves as a reminder that we are all one in the Tintern Grammar Community and that students should continue to encourage and support each other as much as possible throughout this challenging yet rewarding year.

by Jen Tsai Bove, Year 12  Co-ordinator

Year 11 Report

The Year 11 Initiative previously reported on is progressing full steam ahead with excitement and anticipation from each of the Forms. The Year 11 Mentor Group Captains have organised to have each Mentor group run an activity for a specific year level in the Junior School as a way of bringing some of the youngest members of our school community closer to the students who study in the Senior College.

The Year 11s will also benefit tremendously by taking part in activities that require they engage with junior school students, allowing them to work outside of their familiar school routine to benefit the needs of young boys and girls who will challenge and inspire them. Scavenger hunts, amazing races, dodgeball, and other activities have been planned as a way to get the young students engaged with each other, have some fun, and become familiar with the Year 11 students.

Mr Nick Stefanac, Year 11 Co-ordinator

News from Year 10

The Year 10 students have returned to school after a well-deserved holiday and the themes for this term in our pastoral sessions relate to ‘Career Exploration’ and ‘Examination Preparation’ including study skills, examination room technique and an introduction to mindfulness. This week our students have been working with their Mentors on their electronic Career Action Plan and also completing their Occupational Health and Safety module tests in preparation for Work Experience at the end of the term. Subject choice interviews have also commenced with one of the Careers staff to discuss the different pathway options provided by the school in terms of VCE, VCE/VET and IB. Conversations relate to the different subject options, possible pre-requisite subjects for tertiary study and preparation for the Subject Showcase Evening to be held on Wednesday 20 July from 7.30 to 9.00pm in the Anderson Centre.

Multiple Sclerosis 24 Hour Mega Swim

On Saturday 9 July Daniella Cosentino will be participating in the 24 Hour Mega Swim which is an event that raises funds for people living with the chronic disease Multiple Sclerosis. As a member of her swimming squad, she will be relay swimming without stopping for a total of 24 hours. She would appreciate the support of the school community by either making a cash donation to be submitted to the Senior College Reception and a receipt will be provided or by donating online at: http://www.msmegaswim.org.au/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.participant&participantID=2547

Upcoming Events – Elevate Education

The first Elevate Education seminar will occur on Tuesday 26 April during the afternoon for Year 10 students and families have also received an invitation to the Parent/Guardian evening to be held on Wednesday 27 April from 7.30 – 8.30pm in the Tintern Theatre. Reply slips for this evening are due back on Friday 22 April to the Senior College Reception.

by Heather Ruckert, Year 10 Co-ordinator

Year 10 Self Defence

During Term 1 all Year 10 girls participated in a ‘Self Defence for Women’ unit of work as part of the compulsory Physical Education curriculum. As well as the essential physical skills, students learnt the value of non-victim behaviour, the importance of staying alert and the effective use of their voice. The girls were intrigued to hear real life stories of incidents involving girls/women who were able to diffuse potentially intimidating situations and they learnt just as much from listening as they did from ‘doing’.

Year 10 students are at an age when they are gaining more independence, seeking to socialise more with friends outside the home and, in the next 2 years, increase their leisure time activities dramatically. We are confident that your girls now have the skills necessary to assist them on their safe journey into adulthood.

Fundraising Walk

Earlier this year I did a 30km fundraising walk to raise money for One Girl, an organisation that funds girls education in Africa. I walked from my house in Research to Fairfield Boathouse, in Melbourne. I raised $1800!

I really enjoyed doing the walk and organising the fundraising. I have an online fundraising page which includes photos from my training and the walk. You can access it by going to http://my.onegirl.org.au/hannah-taylor

I really appreciated the support I got from friends, family, and teachers. The fundraising meant a lot to me and I’m pleased to say that the money I raised was enough to send 6 girls to school for a year! Thanks a lot to everyone who donated and helped make it possible for my to do this fundraising project.

by Hannah Taylor, Year 8

News from the Careers Department

CAREERS IN THE SENIOR COLLEGE

Visit from Bond University

Year 10 to 12 students had the opportunity to learn about Bond University and the special relationship with Tintern Grammar as a collegiate school including the offer of a 50 percent scholarship. Vanessa Lea the Manager of Schools chatted informally with students on Wednesday 13 April during lunch time and Year 12 students interested in applying to Bond University should note the scholarship closing date of Sunday 31 July 2016.

Student Ambassador – Year 12 Assembly

A La Trobe University student Ambassador spoke to the Year 12 students about the ATAR calculation, selection procedures and tertiary life plus the opportunities in higher education including study abroad. A representative from La Trobe will return in August to support students applying for the ASPIRE Early Admissions Program that recognises community service and, if successful, results in an early offer to particular courses at a lower ATAR. The application process has not yet commenced for the ASPIRE program and the closing date is Wednesday 31 August 2016.

Some general parent information can be found at:

http://www.latrobe.edu.au/study/resources/parents

Updates to the Tintern Careers Portal Page

The following information has been added to the Careers Portal page in the last couple of weeks with access for students and their families. Please refer to http://portal.tintern.vic.edu.au/homepage/7966

Focus on Melbourne Seminar Series from 17 May to 15 June 2016

Each seminar focuses on a different area and provides information about entry and application requirements, structure of courses, employment possibilities and pathway options. The first session is ‘Focus on Engineering’ on Tuesday 17 May from 6.30 – 8.00pm and registration is online.

https://futurestudents.unimelb.edu.au/explore/events/victoria_and_interstate/victoria/2016-focus-on-melbourne?utm_source=careersupdate_201603&utm_medium=enewsletter&utm_campaign=oa_nm_2016_focus&utm_content=prosp_ug_parents_register_now

Please Note: Inside Monash Seminars continue until the 13 September. Registration is also online at http://www.monash.edu/inside-monash/#dates or link from the icon on the Careers page of the Portal.

CareerNews Newsletter

Reminders

UMAT
VCE and Careers Expo
‘Keeper for the Day’ and ‘Vet for a Day’

1. Check out Monash University
2. What is Happening at the University of Melbourne?
3. La Trobe University News
4. Restoring the Focus on STEM in Schools
5. New Course in Sound Production at Box Hill InstituteCareerNews Number 4 April 2016 can be found at http://portal.tintern.vic.edu.au/homepage/11088  

by  Heather Ruckert, Careers Consultant

Scottish Highland Dancing competition

  

Friends of Music Jazz Night Saturday 14 May

Bookings are open for the Friends of Music Annual Jazz Night. Click here to purchase your tickets through trybooking. Keep the date free and start putting together a table of family and friends. The theme is “Vintage Jazz”, so for those who want to get dressed-up the possibilities are endless. Jazz Night is a major social event on the school calendar for students, families and staff, as well as a major fundraiser to support our music students and staff, so make sure not to miss it. There will be plenty of fantastic entertainment from the New Melbourne Jazz Band as well as a number of talented students showing off their musical skills!  Friends of Music look forward to welcoming as many of our School and wider community as possible at the 2016 Jazz Night, so keep the date free and plan to come along.

Duke of Edinburgh Award program

Tintern Grammar has always been a supporter for the Duke of Edinburgh program and this year there has been a renewed interest with 50 new applicants signing up for the program. The Duke of Edinburgh Award is internationally recognised and invites young people aged 14-25 to realise their ambitions and to change their world. Run in over 130 countries, the Duke of Ed is designed over three levels: Bronze, Silver and Gold. To achieve each level, young people create their own unique program of activities over a set length of time across four Sections:

• Service
• Skill
• Physical Recreation
• Adventurous Journey

Young people challenge themselves by choosing activities that spark their interest in each section and then setting their own goals. The Duke of Ed is about individual choice; young people tailor their award and develop their career aspirations as they forge skills which go beyond academic success.

Over the April school holidays 14 students from Tintern Grammar, 2 students from Yarra Valley Grammar, 1 student from The Knox school and 3 staff (Ms Constable, Ms Ord and Ms Bortolussi) undertook an adventurous journey to one of the most picturesque and spectacular coastlines in Australia. Jack Read (Year 10) describes this journey:

During the holiday break between term one and two, a group of Duke of Ed participants ventured out into the vast bushland of the Great Ocean Road to complete stages 4-8 of the famous walk which runs alongside it – the Great Ocean Walk.

This journey all began one Wednesday lunchtime. A group of us made our way up to C11 in the senior college to begin our preparation for the Great Ocean Walk. The buzz of excitement as we all entered the room was astounding and we were all anxious to begin. Mrs Bortolussi and Ms Constable gave us a quick briefing on what we needed to achieve and we were off! We went into our two predetermined groups and started to build our plan for the walk we would be embarking on in just two weeks.

After that, time flew and before we knew it, we were already at school by 5:45am, packs filled to the brim, ready to embark on our 4 day hike along the Great Ocean Walk. The bus ride there was a bit gloomy and everyone was falling asleep in their seats but luckily enough we all picked up by the time we got to Aire River, and our journey began. We got out of the bus, pulled our packs out of the trailer, strapped our gaiters on, rubbed on some sunscreen, helped each other out with chucking our packs on and slowly but surely we were off!

The first day was an outstanding beginning to our adventure. The sun was shining and the beautiful seaside views made for an awesome first experience of this sensational coastal environment. As the day grew older we started to tire a bit, but the gentle sea breeze was enough of an amenity for us to keep on persisting to our campsite.

Every day was a new challenge, but with each day also came many great experiences and memories. After finishing this walk, I really cannot express how much fun it was in just words. All the different people, all the different environments and the challenges that we experienced on this walk lead to such a dynamic and fulfilling feeling. I would give anything to go back and do it again. Jack Read, Year 10

by Anne Bortolussi, Secondary Music Teacher

Key Dates Term 2 2016