From the Principal

“Mens sana in corpore sano” (A healthy mind in a healthy body)

Written originally by the poet Juvenal (ad c.60–c.130), from the Satires of Juvenal the Latin quote above has been used to describe the overall purpose of education since the 17^th century. More recently, it has been adopted as a rationale for the inclusion of sport and physical activity in schools, arguing that mens sana in corpore sano isn’t possible without a healthy body – I’m not convinced that this was what Juvenal intended, however!

Sport and physical activity have a place of importance in the lives of all people, older and younger. It makes us more alert, productive, gives us more physical and mental staying power and ultimately enables us to live longer and more fulfilling lives. Competitive sport also engages our mind. It teaches us new skills and strategies, promotes the key skills of collaboration and teamwork and develops resilience as we can’t win all the time (and wouldn’t want to); and we learn great lessons from occasional defeats and falls in sport, as uncomfortable as those experiences can be at the time! So these activities contribute significantly to both a healthy body and a healthy and developed mind.

At Tintern one of the fundamental goals of the Tintern 2020 Strategic Plan is educating the whole child. This means we are preparing young people to lives these fulfilling lives. Significant involvement in physical activity, sport, outdoor activity, and the growth and education that arises from these, all form a part of this. We are currently focusing significantly on our Sport program under the oversight of Mr Adam Kenny and through the leadership of the Head of Sport, Mr Ross Jurey.

By the end of 2017, Mr Jurey will have led the school Sport program for seven years, first at Southwood, and then for both boys and girls at Tintern. He has worked effectively to engage our students, ensuring excellent participation and we have achieved consistently impressive results in the major EISM carnivals and Champions’ Meets. Mr Jurey has indicated that he will relinquish this role at the year’s end and I thank him for his commitment to the role, his hard work and sound management of our Sport program under his stewardship.

As one door closes, another opens and it is with pleasure that I announce the appointment of Ashley Viney as Head of Sport. Ash will be known to both Junior Schools and secondary students and families through his involvement with PE, Secondary Science teaching and of course sport. Ash is still a very successful sportsman himself, a State Representative in AFL football and a keen proponent of the importance of always doing the things that allow you to perform your best in everything. A fundamental of the Tintern Grammar philosophy!

I’m sure you will join with me in both thanking Ross Jurey for his work and wishing Ash the best as he takes up this new role. In it, he will be making a significant contribution to both aspects of the mens sana in corpore sano of our students!

Factis non verbis

Bradley Fry
Principal

Curriculum Matters

Welcome back to another semester of school life at Tintern Grammar. The second half of the year is an important one in the life of a school. It gives students the opportunity to consolidate what they have learnt in Semester 1 and to use the feedback from teachers contained in their Semester Reports to set goals and see them through within the same year. And for senior students, they have the opportunity to rise to the challenges of end of year assessment.

In the first few weeks of this Term class teachers in Years 5 and 6 and Pastoral Mentors in the secondary school have been receiving self-reflections on their reports from their students in which they set goals based on this feedback. John Hattie of Melbourne University has consistently ranked feedback as one of the most powerful strategies for learning. Effective feedback is descriptive and identifies information about the learning process and this is what we are asking students to look for in their reports. The other side of feedback is from the student to the teacher. By completing self-reflections and setting goals the student also provides feedback to the teacher on how they can be supported to achieve their goals. (http://visible-learning.org/glossary Accessed 270717)

This year all of our teaching staff undertook a similar process whereby they worked in a team with partners under the guidance of a trained coach, to reflect, set Knowledge and Practice goals, devise actions to progress towards them and gather evidence of this progress to review at the end of the year. These Professional Growth Partnerships are part of an annual process which has been refined with a series of pilots over a number of years and aims to systemise a cycle of professional learning for our teachers with an emphasis on collaboration and coaching.

In a macro sense, the whole school is also partaking in this process. This week students in Years 5, 7, 9, 10 and 12 and their parents have been asked by email to complete a comprehensive feedback survey on their experiences of Tintern Grammar. The results of this survey, as they are every year, are analysed as evidence of our progress towards our Strategic Goals and KPIs, and to provide data for reflection and new goals for the future. I would like to urge parents of these year levels to respond to this invitation, as your voice and opinions matter to us and help us grow as a school.

So to finish, can I thank all students, staff and families for participating in our continuous learning cycles so openly, positively, collaboratively and diligently. It is by examining what we do and striving to improve together that ensures that we are the best school we can be.

Music Matters

Piano Concert

Last Thursday we held our annual Tintern Grammar Senior Piano Concert (which followed on from the delightful Junior Piano Concert) in the Southwood Centre. This concert showcased students from Years 7 to 12 playing a wide range of styles, and concluded with a performance of Moritz Moszkowski’s Spanish Dance by Ms McKenzie, Ms Lok, Mrs Thomspon and Mrs Wilson, playing two pianos with eight hands! We also had the pleasure of hearing a couple of piano duets played by Holly Whitfield and Hannah Murray (Year 8), as well as a trio performed by Ada Chen, Morgan Li and Sherry Wang. The award for “most popular composer” goes to Christopher Norton, as many pianists decided to play a variety of his often-jazzy pieces during the evening. This concert was a fantastic opportunity to practise performance skills and have our work heard by a larger audience. A big thank you to Mrs Bezaire, our parents, and especially the piano teachers both at school and outside of school for supporting our piano studies.

by Molly Fleming, School Pianist 2017

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Excursion

Last Thursday a group of our Tintern music students took a bus trip to the Melbourne Town Hall to observe a Melbourne Symphony Orchestra rehearsal. We enjoyed watching the orchestra rehearsing two unique pieces. The first piece was Bizet’s Carmen Suite No.1; the second piece was Saint-Saëns’ Piano Concerto No.2 with Kristian Chong (pictured) as the soloist. We were very excited and pleased to hear him play this concerto. Saint-Saëns’ Second Piano Concerto is a sparkling and vibrant work full of virtuosity, and is yet lyrical with so many beautiful melodies throughout. Our own symphony orchestra performed the second movement of the Saint-Saëns last year, with Alan Wu as soloist. During the rehearsal, we also had the opportunity to see the Associate Conductor of the MSO, Mr Ben Northey, in action. Mr Northey came to Tintern in June when he ran a workshop session with our own orchestra. Overall, this was an excursion worth remembering, as it not only demonstrated how a professional orchestra rehearses under an experienced conductor, but also, as a School Pianist, I enjoyed being able to see how the solo pianist interacted with the orchestra in an incredibly difficult and dazzling work.

 by Steven Zhang, School Pianist 2017

Music Camp

From Friday 21 to Sunday 23 July, the Music Department came together to learn the massed singing item for the Annual Music Concert: a medley from Les Misérables. Every year the music students from Years 7-12 look forward to this weekend, as it is always full of music making, smiling and, most of all, hard work. A feeling of fulfilment and accomplishment is felt throughout the CM Wood Centre at 3:15pm on Sunday, as the sound and quality of the music is truly impressive. As well as the medley rehearsals, additional individual ensemble rehearsals took place in preparation for the Annual Concert on Friday 4 August. The teachers brought their enthusiasm, which definitely inspired the students during rehearsals and breaks. In my opinion, the music concert will be, once again, of a very high standard this year, especially the Les Misérables medley, which includes solos from many of our very talented singers. A huge thank you to all of the music staff who supported us at Music Camp; to Mrs Feenane for feeding us with the help of the Friends of Music committee and to all of the Tintern music campers. It was a great way to spend the first weekend back from school holidays. 

by Tiana McAsey, Instrumental Music Captain

Upcoming Annual Concert

Don’t miss our Annual Concert, this Friday night at 7.30pm in the CM Wood Centre. The concert will showcase our larger instrumental ensembles and choirs and is filled with delightful musical offerings in a range of styles. This free-entry event will conclude with an uplifting rendition of a medley from ‘Les Misérables’, arranged by our own former Director of Music, Mr Ron Trigg. Click here for further information.

by Alison Bezaire, Director of Music

Sport Matters

Waverley International Schools’ Netball Competition

During the second week of the holidays, eleven of our Senior College students spent four days competing in the Waverley International Schools’ Netball Competition. This tournament attracts elite netball teams for all over Australia, as well as New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Pakistan. The team played some hard fought matches and finished 12^th out of 31 very competitive schools. Their determination, good sportsmanship and skill level was on a par with the very best schools and they should be extremely proud of their efforts. A special thank you to Jamie O’Hare and Bella Wright for all their organisation and enthusiasm for this event and to Mrs Jurey for giving up her time to coach the team.

Year 8 Girls EISM Sport Champions 2017

Congratulations to our Year 8 Girls on a fantastic winter season of EISM Sport. Three of our five teams finished on top of the ladder and hence won premierships.

Touch Rugby were undefeated throughout the season, whilst Volleyball A and Volleyball B teams each lost only one game. Thanks to Mr Viney, Mrs Jurey and Ms Thomas as the respective coaches of these teams.

by Ross Jurey, Head of Sport

Equestrian News

During the July school holidays, Ella and Lilly Trevorrow and alumna Keely McGovern (YG 2016) attended a week long intensive Tetrathlon (Run, Swim, Shoot, Ride) training camp in Geelong at Cardinia International College.  Additionally, the girls spent some time each day refining their fencing skills.

From this work, the girls have been selected to represent Victoria at the Pony Club Nationals in Toowoomba in September in the following categories:

Keely McGovern – Senior Tetrathlon

Ella Trevorrow – Junior Tetrathlon

Lilly Trevorrow – 1^st reserve for the Junior team

This is a great outcome for all of the girls, but especially for Ella as she could not walk 6 months ago and, in testimony to her determination, is now to don the Victorian uniform for Tetrathlon.

Further to this exciting news, the 2017 Australian National Championships for Pony Club and Interschools Championships will be held in Toowoomba (Qld) this year and Tintern will be well represented with five athletes who have worked very hard to qualify as among the best in our state.

As well as the Tetrathletes mentioned above, Eliza Harvey (Equestrian Captain 2017) will be riding her beautiful horse, Sea Student and competing in Eventing. This is a three-phase event comprised of Dressage, Show Jumping and Cross Country. Year 7 student, Keeley Thomas, also has qualified.

The following week, Lilly Trevorrow will represent Tintern and Victoria at the Interschool Nationals with her horse Ocean Coast in Combined Training.

We congratulate all the riders on this prestigious honour and commend them on all their hard work and training to get this far. All the best to you all for the Nationals.

A big ‘well done’ also goes to Darcee McCallum on her 3^rd placing in the 105 class at the recent Jump Squad Competition conducted by Jumping Victoria. It’s great to hear about all of the different riding activities in which our Equestrian Team members are participating out of school hours.

by Alison Bezaire, Equestrian Coordinator

Community Matters

Welcome to Term 3. The Community Relations team hope you all enjoyed a break from the usual routine. Term 3 is already shaping up to be a very busy term for our Community Groups; Presentation Ball classes, Spring Celebration, reunions for our past students and of course, Father’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.

Community Group Fundraising

Photo Album

The TPG is also continuing to offer beautiful quality made customised ‘buckram’ binders for only $70. A saving of $20 as they normally retail for $90. The albums are available in both Navy and Burgundy and feature the school crest and name printed in silver on the front cover and come complete with 10 transparent sheet inserts.

The albums are great for storing:
– The official school photos
– Certificates
– Naplan and ICAS results
– Sports and performer ribbons
– Artwork
– Programs from concerts, sports days and special assemblies
– Photos
– Newsletter clippings
– Your own scrapbook creations (as the pages are 30cm x 30cm standard scrapbook size)

In fact, if you think of it like a filing cabinet of memories, over the years it builds up into quite a treasure! Samples can be viewed in the uniform shop and all orders are now taken at this link through trybooking. 

Entertainment Books

The Entertainment books are once again offered for purchase through the School. The Entertainment™ Book, and the Entertainment™ Digital Membership, are your guide to the most popular restaurants, attractions, shopping, travel and more, all with valuable up to 50% off and 2-for-1 offers. The book is current from purchase until the end of May 2018.

Please click here to order your 2017/2018 Entertainment book. 

Community Group News

Father’s Day Stall

The Tintern Parents Group would like to invite you to assist on the following days in preparation for the Father’s Day Stall:

• Tuesday 15 August from 9.30 to 11.30am – Father’s Day Craft Making Morning

Come along to Kennedy Cottage and learn to make bookmarks.

• Wednesday 30 August – Father’s Day Stall Wrapping Day

This fun day is an opportunity to meet other parents whilst helping to prepare the wonderful gifts for Father’s Day.

If you have any questions or would like further information on this or any other aspect of the Tintern Parent’s Group please contact Haidee, TPG Co-President on 0417 052 273 or email to hmallett@optusnet.com.au.

2017 Garden Tour save the date Friday 27 October 2017

The 2017 Spring Garden tour will once again be running on Friday 27 October – mark this date in your calendars now. Please contact the Community Relations office if you have any venue ideas or would like to assist our volunteer coordinator, Lisa Vecchio.

Friends of Equestrian

Our next Friends of Equestrian Parents’ Meeting will be held in Kennedy Cottage (near the Tintern pool complex) on Tuesday 15 August at 7.30pm. We would like to invite all parents of riders to consider joining the committee and supporting our riders and the hardworking parents already in this group. Those of you who attend our Horse Trials know what a huge event it is, and the committee is in need of further support from the parents of current riders to ensure that the students continue to benefit from the Equestrian activities at Tintern. At the meeting on 15 August, all committee positions for 2017/2018 will be open for re-election and there will be discussions around forming sub-committees for the Horse Trials. Please make a note of this date in your diary. We would love to see some new faces, which we hope will translate into extra hands to share the load in 2018!

Please RSVP to the Equestrian Coordinator Mrs Alison Bezaire, abezaire@tintern.vic.edu.au to let us know if you are planning to attend.

Year Level Functions

The Year 3 boy parents had a great time on Saturday 17 June at Mythos House in Doncaster; fantastic food, plenty of wine and awesome company.
by Mel Bowey, Boys’ Year 3 Parent Representative

Community Committee dates

• Tintern Parent Group (TPG) –Next meeting: Thursday 10 August 7.30pm Kennedy Cottage Co-Presidents: Haidee Wallace and Leeze Crowe
• Friends of Music (FOM) – Next Meeting: Monday 4 September 7pm CM Wood Common Room President: Tim Oldmeadow
• Friends of Young Farmers (FOYF) – Next meeting: Monday 7 August 7.30pm Kennedy Cottage, Community services. President: Joy Ashfield    
• Friends of Equestrian (FOE) – Next Meeting: Tuesday 15 August 7.30pm Kennedy Cottage, Community Services. Vice president: Kevin Jones      

Past Students

Congratulations Fiona Eagger (YG 1979) on winning one of the 2017 Film Victoria-Natalie Miller Fellowship Women in Leadership Development Initiative awards. Fiona will engage in the tailored development opportunity to build her leadership skills and professional expertise. You can read the full article here: http://www.everycloudproductions.com.au/news/every-cloud-receives-film-victoria-business-leadership-funding/p/128 Fiona Eagger along with Deb Cox created and produced the ABC series Miss Fisher and is building quite a reputation in the Victorian film industry. Congratulations Fiona.

Reunions

Our Year Groups 1992 and 1997 enjoyed a twilight tour of the campus by our very able senior and middle school students on Friday 21 July, before heading off to Rosebank North for dinner.

Avenue of Excellence – Special Guest Performer

We are extremely pleased to announce that alumnus TJ Lacey (YG 2011) will be performing at the Avenue of Excellence Celebration Dinner on Saturday 9 September. Since graduating in 2011, TJ has worked as an actor, singer, and dancer, most recently starring as Scott Hastings in the stage production of Baz Luhrmann’s Strictly Ballroom The Musical; as well as reprising his role as Benjamin “Ben” Tickle, a dance student, on the ABC television series Dance Academy. 

We are so pleased to welcome TJ back to Tintern to help us celebrate this special event. 

Celebration Dinner Tickets

With less than six weeks to go, have you booked your tickets to the Celebration Dinner?

WHEN
Saturday 9 September, 7PM

WHERE
Tintern Grammar, CM Wood Performance Centre

DRESS
Cocktail/Lounge 

TICKETS
Book your tickets or a table here.

CONTACT DETAILS
For more information please contact Di Lacey or Tegan Martin in Community Relations, communityrelations@tintern.vic.edu.au or 9845 7877.

Learn about our inaugural inductees…

Each week we are sharing a short biography about one of the inductees so you can learn more about them. Follow the journey on Facebook or on our website to learn more about these remarkable Tintern Alumni.

Avenue of Excellence Celebration Dinner Announcement!

Special Guest Performer

We are extremely pleased to announce that alumnus TJ Lacey (YG 2011) will be performing at the Avenue of Excellence Celebration Dinner on Saturday 9 September. Since graduating in 2011, TJ has worked as an actor, singer, and dancer, most recently starring as Scott Hastings in the stage production of Baz Luhrmann’s Strictly Ballroom The Musical; as well as reprising his role as Benjamin “Ben” Tickle, a dance student, on the ABC television series Dance Academy. 

We are so pleased to welcome TJ back to Tintern to help us celebrate this special event. 

Celebration Dinner Tickets

With less than six weeks to go, have you booked your tickets to the Celebration Dinner?

WHEN
Saturday 9 September, 7PM

WHERE
Tintern Grammar, CM Wood Performance Centre

DRESS
Cocktail/Lounge 

TICKETS
Book your tickets or a table here.

CONTACT DETAILS
For more information please contact Di Lacey or Tegan Martin in Community Relations, communityrelations@tintern.vic.edu.au or 9845 7877.

Learn about our inaugural inductees…

Each week we are sharing a short biography about one of the inductees so you can learn more about them. Follow the journey on Facebook or on our website to learn more about these remarkable Tintern Alumni.

Sibling Photos Tuesday 8 August

Sibling Photo Day is coming!

SCHOOLPIX will be here on Tuesday 8 August.

Photo Day tips

Dress: Clean and tidy as per school uniform guidelines ensure blazers are worn

Hair:  Neat and swept off face

Online Orders:  To pre-order online, take your personal Order and ID Numbers found on your order form and go to www.schoolpix.com.au.

Orders need to be placed by Friday 4 August.  You do not need to return the order form if you order online. 

Remember: All orders placed online before midnight on Friday 4 August will receive a free 20cm x 25cm black and white portrait print.

Manual Orders: Complete your order form and return with payment to school by Friday 4 August

Ph: 1300 766 055 or  Email: enquiries@schoolpix.com.au

Bugs, Bugs and More Bugs

Within the classroom, last term and again this term, there has been a strong interest in the insect world.

We have supported this learning in a variety of ways. We put bugs in a set-up environment for the children to explore. By adding magnifying glasses, the children could look closely at the bugs. We classified them simply by colour and then in more complicated ways such as by number of legs or if they had wings. The children went on bug hunts in our garden collecting earwigs, snails and slaters. We dug into our worm farm and observed the worms that live there. The children have drawn bugs and made their own bug creations with play dough and our construction sets. We have read stories and books to the children both fictional and factual.

Continuing to foster this interest, we invited Darren to school. Darren is a presenter from Wildlife Xposure. He brought some bugs for the children to see close up. As he presented the different bugs, he talked to the children about what they eat, who eats them, where they live and their special features. He discussed invertebrate, skeletons, and the parts of the body. Who has six legs and who has eight. He told the children about their special jobs in the environment and how they are all linked together. We discussed life cycles, adaptations, the food chain, ecosystems and ecology. Darren handed the animals around the circle so each child was able to see them close up, as well as touch them. They were also allowed to handle the “safe” insects and have their photo taken.

We hope you enjoy all the photos.

Connections to Early Years Framework:

• demonstrate an increasing knowledge of and respect for natural and constructed environments
• explore, infer, predict and hypothesise in order to develop an increased understanding of the interdependence between land, people, plants and animals
• show growing appreciation and care for natural and constructed environments
• explore relationships with other living and non-living things and observe, notice and respond to change
• develop an awareness of the impact of human activity on environments and the interdependence of living things

by Kristin De Vos, ELC Coordinator

100 days of School!

Today the Prep-Year 2 girls took part in special activities to celebrate the 100 days, including 100 fitness exercises, making 100s and 1000s fairy bread, making snacks with 1 carrot stick and 2 pieces of cucumber to make the number 100 before recess.  After recess, the girls all participated in 6 multi-age groups to explore 100 centimetres, to make a special 100 days bookmark, played race to 100 with a partner, dressed up as if they were 100 years old and went in a special photo booth, built a tower using 100 paper cups and filled a 100s grid with their name to make patterns. We completed our special activities by guessing how long 100 seconds was: Our clever counting winners were Ruby Chen, Mayah Dass and Jessica Stuchbery, who received special certificates and then we sang our favourite Big Numbers song – celebrating 100 and beyond today.

by Christine Campbell, Girls’ Year 2 Teacher

Healthy Eating!

Learning about Nutrition education is an important part of growing up.  Schools can do a lot to promote and encourage healthy eating.  Here at Tintern, we take this very seriously.  It is fabulous to see the Prep girls embracing all the delicious and wonderfully healthy food provided by our Prep Parents. The girls were super excited and to their credit, they were all keen to try some new foods.

Year 3A Update

A sincere thank you to Mrs Winter for her wonderful teaching of Year 3 in Semester 1.  We are delighted to also welcome back Ms Dang from her long service leave. The girls have been doing exceptionally well since returning this term and it is a real credit to them for the very warm welcome they have given Ms Dang. Ms Dang is just loving her class!

Farm Delight!

Thursday lunchtimes are an opportunity for girls from Years 3 – 6 to visit the Tinternwood Farm and enjoy all the myriad of learning opportunities it has to offer. A very interested group stroll down the hill while still munching their lunch. The casual conversation usually involves what we may see or do when we arrive, as well as taking in the glorious surrounds and views along the way.

Last Semester we enjoyed picking and eating thornless blackberries which have a most magnificent taste, heightened by the warmth of the midday sun. Learning a little more about rhubarb and picking some stalks to take home was a favourite for some. Some girls even tried eating the figs and feijoas, although most agreed they must be an acquired taste. Collecting eggs and gaining more confidence in handling chooks is always a popular activity. Saying hello to Ollie, the Maremma Sheepdog who guards the flock is usually the first stop at the farm. Patting the sheep and wondering about their ever increasing size is an option each visit. With assistance from the older secondary girls, some of the younger girls have volunteered to lead the sheep on a halter. We were also fortunate to be at the farm on the day the shearer was shearing and were able to give great encouragement for his skill in handling the sheep so deftly while removing its fleece.

by  Helen Kirkland, Lunchtime Farm Coordinator

Year 5A & 5B Science Fair

If you’d been in the Colebrook Wing on Wednesday 14 June, you’d have been agog at the frenzy of scientific action taking place. Year 5 girls have been Scientists for a term, firstly embarking on the CSIRO CREST program, learning how to conduct experiments according to the scientific method, then culminating with self-directed research and demonstration of their choice of an experiment. The range of science explored was diverse; from Chemical Reaction to Inertia and Force, from Electromagnetics to Sound Vibration, from the Human Body to Weather and properties of Water. Visitors to the student stalls included the ELC children, students from both Junior Schools, some Middle School students as well as mums, dads, grandparents, friends and of course Mrs Riddell and Mr Fry! They were astounded by the level of knowledge, the depth of research and the fluency with which the girls articulated their understanding. A few adults came away learning a few new facts too!

By the end of the day, the students were exhausted but proud of their improved abilities to speak confidently and teach others about science. A HUGE thank you to Mrs Shearer for donating an entire day to designing our stalls – the venue looked stunning.

by Kelli Green and Jayde Thompson, Girls’ Year 5 Teachers

What is Friendship?

What is friendship? Is it a special bond you may have with someone special? Or maybe the power to get along with whoever comes by? The meaning of friendship is nothing compared to what friendship really is, but I want to share with you my thoughts and feelings on this topic.

Being a friend means sticking to your partner through thick and thin. Being a true blue friend and being there for him or her whenever they need you, not whenever you can. Having the power to understand how they feel, what they need and when they need it. As well as being able to be there for your friend, you need to know when they want to be alone. Or play with different people, and learn to not be hurt by that.

Creating a bond with someone special takes time and trust, you need to be able to feel that you can open up to them about anything and make them feel the same. Signs that someone wants to be your friend could be as simple as saving a seat for you, inviting you to a party or playing with you at lunch. You can help by doing these things in return.

To keep a friendship going you must be committed. If you only show to play or help when you feel like it, this is called being a fair-weathered friend. It’s like you and that person are on a pair of scales and if you don’t have enough weight (or in this case commitment) the scales will become unbalanced.

Overall, friendship is the special bond you may have with one or many people. It is one-of-a-kind and no one can take it away from you.

by Charlotte du Blêt, 5B

Community Work in After School Care

In After School Care we love being able to engage with the wider school community. Over the last couple of years, we have been fortunate enough to be able to do this through the volunteer work that the middle school students are doing in After School Care.

As part of their Duke of Edinburgh Award we have had the pleasure of being joined by some wonderful students: Lachlan, Natalie, Zoe and Lauren. After School Care caters for students ranging from the Early Learners to Year 6. It is also a very popular program. Therefore, both the staff and the students really appreciate the volunteer work that these students are doing. For our little ones it is fabulous to have someone to join them in a games, help with craft, read them a book or just spend time chatting. Our older students appreciate the mentoring, conversations and the sports games the Duke of Ed volunteers engage in.

If any students are looking to contribute some volunteer time to After School Care as a part of their Duke of Edinburgh Award, please contact Anna Riddell ariddell@tintern.vic.edu.au .

by Karen Woosley, ASC Coordinator

SAIL v.2

SAIL v.2

In our Assemblies this term we have introduced the boys to our SAIL version 2.

STRONG: the importance of being strong mentally… dealing with adversity, maintaining a positive approach, forging ahead… We have discussed people such as Mike Tyson and OJ Simpson who may appear to be strong, yet in reality, have character ‘weaknesses’ that have led to inappropriate choices and behaviour.

ACCEPTING: the importance of diversity, the need to accept differences amongst people, accepting that we are all different (but NOT accepting disrespect or inappropriate behaviour).

INSPIRE: self and others, through work and action.

LANGUAGE: I have spoken with the boys previously about the power of words, both negative and positive, in self-talk and in communication with others. This will be a focus for us this semester. I also introduced the boys to the concept of the 5 Love Languages, as developed by Gary Chapman.

According to Gary Chapman we all have an avenue of ‘love’ to which we respond best; this may be a hug, a high five, a ruffle of the head (Physical touch); having someone do a positive deed (Act of Service); being given a gift, a sticker (Receiving Gifts); sitting side by side, just ‘being’ with a significant other (Quality Time); or receiving a note, being the recipient of kind words (Words of Affirmation). By knowing our children’s Love Language, and by knowing our own, it helps us develop a sense of love and care. Identifying this language is a strong concept.

We’ll be looking at the 5 Love Languages as a part of our LANGUAGE in SAIL throughout the semester.

Prep – Life Cycles

Term 3 in the Prep Boys’ class is all about Life Cycles. We specifically look at Plants, Chickens, Frogs and Butterflies. In conjunction with our Literature Unit on The Very Hungry Caterpillar, by Eric Carle, we have been lucky enough to be able to observe the life cycle of a butterfly first hand. We began the term with 6 Monarch Butterfly caterpillars munching on the leaves of a Swan plant. By 8.30am on the first day, the boys noticed that one of the caterpillars had curled its’ tail up and attached to a branch and another had attached to the glass wall of the terrarium. We went off to assembly and were absolutely amazed when we got back to see one of the caterpillars developing into a cocoon, right before our very eyes! The boys thought it looked like he was crawling into a sleeping bag! Within a couple of minutes the caterpillar was completely encased in his green cocoon. Needless to say, I was delighted that the timing of this incredible process occurred during class time and not in the middle of the night! The boys were very eager to share the caterpillars’ development with Mr Fry and invited him to pop in and have a look. The boys have used their observations as a springboard for their own books based on The Very Hungry Caterpillar, where they had to replace the word ‘caterpillar’ with their own character. We have everything from The Very Hungry Dimetrodon to The Very Hungry Pug! We are now all keenly watching and waiting for the next step in our caterpillars’ life cycle. If you are passing through the Boys’ Junior School feel free to call in and have a look.

by Claire MacDonald, Boys’ Prep Classroom Teacher

Science Science Science!

Robots are taking over the class in Year 4!  As part of our Scientriffic Unit the boys are having a great time with Expedition Atlantis and our Lego Mindstorms kits. 

Expedition Atlantis is a program that ‘presents mobile robot math problems in a highly scaffolded and contextualized manner’.  It encourages the boys to use math rather than guesswork and focuses on proportional reasoning in particular.  Our early experiments with the program have been incredibly popular and the boys’ level of concentration and enthusiasm has been really pleasing 

We are also fortunate enough to have 2 Lego Mindstorms EV3 Robotics kits in our classroom and are progressing through the very detailed course provided.  Understanding gears, levers, cogs and pulleys are all part of the course which also includes a coding component to move the final robots.

We are going to be busy!

by John Bonnyman, Boys’ Year 4 Teacher

Year 5 Business Expo

Meet our entrepreneurial Year 5 boys! Last term they have developed their very own businesses and just like real-world businesses there was lots to do before they launched. In groups of two or three, the boys conducted market research, product development and testing, secured finances, created marketing collateral, developed sales pitches and more! Their businesses were launched at a Business Expo held in the last week of Term 2, which was attended by Junior School students, teachers and families. It was a great success with product sales raising over $400 for MND Australia and Diabetes Australia. Well done, boys! What a fantastic achievement and learning experience!

by Jenny Steffens, Year 5 Classroom Teacher

Year 6 Boys’ Canberra Experience

Towards the end of last term, our Year 6 boys visited Canberra, where they spent three days participating in a variety of educational programs to complement their class unit on Government.

Amidst some cold and foggy mornings yet sunny afternoons, the boys took advantage of every opportunity offered and fully immersed themselves with energy and respect. Whilst visiting the well-known landmarks of our Nation’s capital, the boys enjoyed all the fun of being ‘on camp’ with friends whilst participating in activities that extended and challenged their understandings about government and our History.

At the War Memorial, each boy placed a poppy against the name of a Serviceman whom they had researched earlier in class, and we spent a most reflective three hours learning about and experiencing the awesome sacrifice and terrible toll that forms such a poignant part of our History. Our boys were fortunate to lead a moving wreath laying Ceremony at the War Memorial. It was spine tingling when Kanhai read the Ode and the Last Post was played. The boys were wonderful ambassadors of the school, and we received endless comments about their behaviour and demeanour wherever we went.

In what was an engaging and valuable three days, other highlights included catching up with Old Girls Senator Bridgett Mckenzie, and Federal MP Michael Sukkar at Parliament House, a scientific visit to Questacon, debating the damming of the Franklin at the Museum of Democracy (Old Parliament House), whilst on our final day we took part in a tour and interactive sports experience at the Australian Institute of Sport. A bus tour of the embassies and lunch at Mt. Ainslie was enjoyed on the way to the airport.  

The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit the National Capital as part of their Civics and Citizenship education. To assist families in meeting the cost of the excursion the Australian Government is contributing funding for each student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate program towards those costs. The rebate is paid directly to the school upon completion of the excursion.

Finally to top it all off our wonderful boys enjoyed being welcomed aboard our flight home by second officer Mark Di Felice (father of Matt in Prep) and the comments of thanks we received from the Flight Attendants about the boys’ behaviour were a highlight in themselves. Well done to all the Year 6 boys and many thanks to Mr Kenny for his leadership and Mrs McDonald for her care and assistance throughout the experience. It certainly was an informative, busy, yet incredibly enjoyable three days.

by Ros Neilson, Year 6 Classroom Teacher

Boys’ Junior School Cabaret Reflections

On the 22nd of June was Cabaret night. I played in the Orchestra which we played Uptown Funk, Paganini, Blackberry Blossom with Mrs Bezaire accompanying me and the Grand Finale was the Wizard Of Oz. I was In the Lollipop Guild. We sung many Wizard Of Oz songs and had lots of fun performing. There were a lot of performances and many popular songs played on the night. Cabaret was an amazing night. – Theo Lam

On Thursday 22nd of June it was Cabaret Night. The first performance was the Orchestra and we performed Uptown Funk. The Paganini Strings group played and I would say we were quite decent. Then the Junior strings followed and also the Guitar Ensemble. My solo Cello piece was called On The Prowl and Mrs Bezaire accompanied me on the piano.  After interval the Percussion Troop came to the stage and played. They were loud! After many musical items we then changed into our costumes to prepare for the finale which was a medley of songs from The Wizard Of Oz. I was part of the Lollipop Guild and I would say that we performed quite well. Everybody was mostly in time. We praised the main cast and then we headed off the stage. Although I was a bit nervous I felt really proud that I went up on stage and performed. – Casper Pang

Yesterday it was Cabaret. I was in two items. They were called The Percussion Troop and The Wizard Of Oz. In The Wizard of Oz I was The Wicked Witch! I enjoyed being the Witch because everybody laughed at me and thought I was funny. I really enjoyed that! My family said that I spoke clearly, didn’t rush and did really well! – Kye Betram

I enjoyed Cabaret much more than I thought I would. I was really nervous about my Double Bass performance and my Piano performance. On the Double Bass I played The Great Gate Of Kiev and on the Piano I played Sherlock Holmes. I also played in Paganini Strings. We played Cripple Creek and Cowboy Chorus. Another ensemble I played in was Orchestra and we played Uptown Funk. In the Wizard of Oz medley performed by all 3 – 6 boys, I was in the lullaby league and I had to wear a tu-tu and a footy jumper! It was a great night! – Will Kenny

Cabaret was really good this year. I played a Cello solo and a Piano solo for piano. I played Malagueña on the piano and on the Cello I played Air. My Mum and Dad said I was really good. I play in the Paganini strings and I think we performed really well. We played Cripple Creek and Cowboy Chorus. It’s really good to get together and have a really fun time playing music. One of my favourite items was the Orchestra and I think we played really well. I would like to thank Mrs Bezaire for accompanying me for the Cello. The finale was really, really awesome! We performed a medley of songs from The Wizard Of Oz. I was in the lollipop Guild. We performed really well and all of the main characters and solos were very good. – Jack Gale

by Jacquie Casey, Boys’ Junior School Music Teacher

Community Work in After School Care

In After School Care we love being able to engage with the wider school community. Over the last couple of years, we have been fortunate enough to be able to do this through the volunteer work that the Middle School students are doing in After School Care.

As part of their Duke of Edinburgh Award, we have had the pleasure of being joined by some wonderful students: Lachlan, Natalie, Zoe and Lauren. After School Care caters for students ranging from the Early Learners to Year 6. It is also a very popular program. Therefore, both the staff and the students really appreciate the volunteer work that these students are doing. For our little ones, it is fabulous to have someone to join them in games, help with crafts, read them a book or just spend time chatting. Our older students appreciate the mentoring, conversations and the sports games the Duke of Ed volunteers engage in.

If any students are looking to contribute some volunteer time to After School Care as a part of their Duke of Edinburgh Award, please contact Anna Riddell ariddell@tintern.vic.edu.au .

by Karen Woosley, ASC Coordinator

Save the date Club Tinwood #4 – Amazing Race Monday 14 August

Join your friends for our very first Amazing Race. Teams will complete a Tintern Trivia tournament before exploring the Tintern Campus for clues to help them find the Treasure.

Each Team will then receive a Sweet Surprise at completion. 

Enrolment forms will be coming home this week.

Girls’ Middle School News

There has been plenty happening in the Middle School as students have returned refreshed following the three-week break. Students have begun new subjects and are further involving themselves in the co-curricular and sport programs. In two short weeks we have already seen our Young Farmers successfully compete at the Bendigo Show, our Year 7/12 Buddy Program continues and all Year 7-9 students have begun interschool sport matches. I am greatly looking forward to our Annual Music Concert this coming Friday 4 August and am excited to see students perform and see the rewards of their efforts.

In the coming weeks, we have quite a few opportunities to come together as a community to support student initiatives with the aim of raising awareness and funds for people in need. The Poverty Project is running a ‘Comedy for a Cause’ Night on Friday 18 August, tickets are $15 for children U18 and $20 for adults. Proceeds go to The Sunflower Foundation, an organisation that believes in the power of educating girls. You can book your tickets here. Our Antipodeans Vietnam students are planning several fundraising events to raise money for the community project they will be undertaking in September. I hope these events are a great success!

On Friday 25 August we will be holding our inaugural Girls’ Middle School ‘Big Day In’. The theme for the day is our 2017 Middle School theme ‘Aspire and Inspire’ and throughout the day girls will be participating in workshops and hearing from guest speakers and presenters while focusing on creativity, mindfulness, gratitude and community. It’s sure to be a valuable and engaging day for our girls.

Boys’ Middle School News

Welcome back to all families from the mid-year break to what promises to be a fantastic Term 3. A special welcome to our new boys who have begun their Tintern journey this Semester: Austen and Atich in Year 7, Marcus in Year 8 and James in Year 9.

The boys seem refreshed, rejuvenated and excited for the semester ahead of them and I would like to take the opportunity to thank all families who spent time with their boy(s) reflecting on his Semester 1 school reports and setting goals for Semester 2. Please continue to remind your son of these goals as the year progresses, and keep in contact with his subject/pastoral teacher(s) whenever you need to.

In the first week of this term, Mr McManus (Vice-Principal) spoke to all students around subject selection for 2018. He went through the process of selecting and the timeline associated with it, whilst also having staff members from each of the faculties give a brief explanation as to what their elective subject was about. The process is currently open and you have until Sunday 6 August to lock in the desired preferences. A reminder that you need to print off two copies of the receipt, one for your reference, the other needs to be signed and returned to your son’s Pastoral Mentor. Our Year 9 boys have the option of considering a VCE/VET subject as part of their course for next year and I would encourage any family who has questions on this to please get in contact to confirm your thoughts.

This term we will have a number of key events occurring: ICAS English and Maths, Cross-Country, Parent/Teacher/Student Conferences and House Showdown to name just a few. I look forward to a great term with the boys.

Year 8 Performing Arts Night

On Monday 19 June our 8E boys joined the 8B and 8C girls for their Year 8 Performing Arts Night. This was an opportunity for our boys to show some of the skills they had developed throughout the semester in both Music and Drama. It included dance routines, dramatic improvisation, musical performances and much more.

One of the most satisfying things about this night is that the boys have not elected to be part of it as they are compulsory subjects at school. This has the result of pushing a number of boys outside their comfort zone by placing them up on stage and having them act, sing and dance. It was fantastic to see all boys having fun and being challenged, and certainly great to see particular boys have their time to shine.

From the Vice Principal – Administration & Students & Head of Senior College

Subject Selections for 2018

Year 10 and Year 11 students are currently making decision s about what subjects they will be studying next year. All students have received training and advice on making their online selections and daily reminders have been given that the process closes on Sunday 6 August at 6pm so that our school timetabler can commence the intricate process of developing the 2018 secondary timetable. A reminder is given that, in addition to the online subject selections, all students need to submit a printout of their 2018 subject selections signed by a parent or guardian by Monday 7 August to Senior College Reception or to their Pastoral Mentor.

Celebration Evening 2017

It is timely to remind all families that our 2017 Celebration Evening is scheduled for Wednesday 18 October in The Robert Blackwood Hall, at Monash University – with a 7.30pm start. Please note Celebration Evening is scheduled for a Wednesday this year; we have been trying for several years to move the evening away from a Monday due to the number of Mondays we lose from our teaching programs.

Celebration Evening is a very special event that enables us to celebrate all of the wonderful achievements of our secondary students and also provides an opportunity for the School Community to farewell our Year 12 Class of 2017, before their final examinations commence.

Ticket bookings will shortly commence for Year 12 families and will become available for Years 7 – 11 families in the last week of this term. Closer to the actual date we will advise all secondary students and families which year levels and which particular students will be involved in rehearsals on the day of Wednesday 18 October. In the next couple of weeks, we will be commencing whole secondary school practices for our Massed Singing items, which alongside with our various Music performances is an annual highlight of a Tintern Grammar Celebration Evening.

I would like to remind all families that Celebration Evening is a compulsory school event for all Tintern Grammar secondary students.

Practice Examinations for Year 12 Subjects

Another early, but timely, reminder for students undertaking Year 12 subject studies is the upcoming practice examinations which annually are scheduled for the second week of our Term 3 holiday break: Monday 2 – Friday 6 October.

Year 12 VCE students, Year 11 VCE students who are undertaking a Unit 3/4 subject, and our Year 12 IB students will all be undertaking their practice examinations before their final written examinations that commence on Monday 30 October (IB) and Wednesday 1 November (VCE).

Our Senior Students will, in the next few weeks, receive their practice examination schedules and I ask all families to be aware of the dates of the practice examination week and to ensure that students are available to undertake these examinations that prove to be vital practice for their final examinations. VCE and IB practice examinations are supervised by external supervisors and thus provide good practice for working under final examination conditions.

During the recent semester break, all students and families received the Semester 1 reports and, as part of their reflection on performance and individual goals, many of our senior students are likely to have listed the need to improve their study habits. In the interest of promoting good study habits in the lead up to the practice and final examinations, I am providing the following Study Hints which are contained in the Senior College Course Handbook under the heading of ‘Practical Study Suggestions for all Students’:

Conditions for Study

• Adequate light, ventilation, heat and space
• Use a consistent workplace
• Sit on a comfortable chair at a desk or table
• Keep both noise and visual distractions to a minimum
• Work while you are fresh

Fitness              

• Physical fitness is important in order to work well
• Proper food, exercise and leisure are essential
• Adequate sleep is a must

Organisation

• Plan your study time; not only WHEN you will study, but WHAT and HOW you will study
• Do not sit down to study and then try to decide what you will do – this is a sure way of wasting valuable time
• Work out a study timetable, allotting time fairly so that each subject is well covered – this will overcome the tendency to spend too much time on any one subject at the expense of others
• Break study time into blocks allowing for 5–10 minutes break after each hour
• Use an efficient reading method, for example the SQ3R -survey, question, read, recall, and review

Parent-Teacher Interviews

Our Semester 2 interim reports and Parent-Student-Teacher Conferences (interviews) are scheduled for later this month. Hence, to assist all families I would like to give early advice that we are holding our Term 3 Parent-Student-Teacher Conferences across the following dates: Tuesday 22 August; Wednesday 23 August; and Wednesday 30 August. Each of these sessions will run from 4 – 8pm in the CM Wood Centre. More information will be provided regarding Interim Reports and how and when to book interviews closer to the dates.

School Uniform

Finally a reminder to students and parents/guardians that students are required to wear full school Winter Uniform at this time of the year. With the only exception being EISM Sports Fixture days when complete correct sports uniform can be worn by those students who are participating in team events/practices or are officially involved in Senior College Recreation activities. The School Blazer must be worn to and from school with full school Winter Uniform. Full Winter Uniform is required to be worn until September 1 when either full Summer Uniform OR full Winter Uniform can be worn – but not a mixture of the two. From the commencement of Term 4, Tuesday 10 October, full Summer Uniform must be worn with the exception of Celebration Evening, a formal event to which students are required to wear full Winter Uniform.

With kind regards to all,

News from the Careers Department

Post-Secondary Information Night – Tuesday 8 August

There will be an information evening for Year 12 Parents and Guardians on Tuesday 8 August to provide specific information about the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC) application process and the Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS), Scholarships and includes a presentation relating to transition into tertiary study from a member of the Admissions team at Deakin University. The evening commences at 7.30pm in the CM Wood Centre Staffroom. Reply slips should be returned to the Senior College Reception. Applications via VTAC open on Monday 7 August.

Maroondah Careers Group Expo (Years 9 to 12)

Tintern Grammar is once again involved in the Maroondah Careers Group Expo at the Box Hill Institute’s Lilydale Lake campus tonight (Tuesday 1 August) from 3.30 to 7.30pm and this is an excellent opportunity to speak with representatives from Universities, the TAFE sector plus other organisations such as The Australian Taxation Office and the International Hotel School.

Publication of Pre-requisites for Tertiary Courses in Victoria

The documents list pre-requisites for Year 11s (VICTER 2019) and for Year 10s (VICTER 2020) and they have both been saved on the Careers Portal page at http://portal.tintern.vic.edu.au/homepage/7966

Tertiary Open Days

August is a busy month for the tertiary sector and most institutions hold their Open Days during this time. It is becoming increasingly common for students to pre-register online and to download an App to assist their preparation and to gain maximum value from their visit.

Open Day Tips

• Check registration requirements prior to Open Days
• Plan the day using the institution’s Open Day Guide or App which is available beforehand from their website noting the timing of information sessions
• If a course includes an interview/folio presentation as part of the selection process (e.g. Design related courses), students may well be asked about experiences or impressions gained at Open Day.
• Prepare questions for staff and students such as course requirements, industry placements, employment opportunities or study abroad opportunities
• Consider the general environment, for example, rural or urban, city or suburban, large or small, range of clubs or societies, student support services and transport

A comprehensive list of Open Days can be found on the VTAC website or a summary list can be found on the Careers Portal page.

Year 12 Tertiary Scholarships: Further information about applying for Scholarships via VTAC can be found at http://www.vtac.edu.au/scholarships.html and a range of other scholarships often with direct applications to institutions can be found on the Careers Portal page at: http://portal.tintern.vic.edu.au/homepage/16318/

Career News

The latest edition of Career News Number 14 is now available on the Portal at http://portal.tintern.vic.edu.au/homepage/14962/ and includes the following items:

Dates for Diaries in Term 3

• What is VET in the VCE?
• VTACMag 2018
• The ABC of Applying for 2018
• Key Dates for Tertiary Applications for 2018 Entry
• Why Study Science at Monash University?
• Defence Jobs: Job Finder Website
• UAC Schools Recommendation Scheme (SRS)
• Visual Merchandising at Kangan Institute
• The Bachelor of Pre-Medicine, Science and Health at the University of Wollongong
• Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences Courses in Victoria
• Open Days 2017
• Getting the most out of an Open Day
• CASPer Entry Requirements for Teacher Qualifications
• News from RMIT University

o             Certificate III in Individual Support

o             Diploma of Community Service (Case Management)

o             Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology)/Bachelor of Biomedical Science

• GAP Medics
• Career in Project Management

by Heather Ruckert, Careers Consultant

News from Year 10

The Year 10 students have returned to school with their usual energy. In pastoral sessions, we have been busy providing the background information to assist students with the subject selection process that closes on Sunday 6 August at 6pm and students need to submit a signed printout by a parent or guardian of their options by Monday 7 August.

Students have been supported by the Careers Department in terms of subject selection interviews and the Subject Showcase night on Wednesday 26 July was an important opportunity for students and their families to discuss programs for the final years of school. Year 10 students have also received a copy of the Year 10 Supplement in the Herald Sun that publishes the pre-requisite subjects for tertiary entrance in 2020 that can be found at http://portal.tintern.vic.edu.au/homepage/16317/ and they have been exploring both the ‘Prerequisite and Course Explorer’ from the VTAC (Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre) website. http://delta.vtac.edu.au/CourseSearch/prerequisiteplanner.htm

Work Experience

The employer Work Experience evaluation forms are still currently being received by the Careers Department and students will be given this feedback during the week.

Snapshot – Rose Russell

Rose completed her initial Work Experience at Aughtersons Solicitors. This company has been supportive of Tintern Grammar students over a number of years and provide a well-structured and diverse program to assist students understand the legal profession. Rose also accepted the challenge of completing a second placement at the Herald Sun during the holidays and she featured on the front cover of the Year 10 Supplement referred to above.

Rose was able to learn about the changing nature of Journalism as a career and attended workshops, assisted with site interview visits including post production while also writing her own material that was published and identified with her own by-line in the Herald Sun. Examples of her involvement included being interviewed for Nine News about the reading habits of children aged between 12 and 17 years and she co-wrote a segment for the Confidential section of the Herald Sun relating to the actor Jake Ryan.

Work Experience provides valuable insights into an occupational environment. While at times this can be a challenging, the reflections indicate that it is these life experiences that are useful for further career exploration or even some modifications to initial plans.

Congratulations to Mitchell Casey

Mitchell has been training in Kyu Shin Ryu Ninjutsu for over four years at the Kevin Hawthorne Ninja School and he recently was awarded the prestigious black belt grading. This is a significant achievement and requires the participant to commit to long term training requiring great physical endurance. He needed to show competence when working with younger children and the actual grading requirements included two 3-hour sessions, so this is a tremendous effort. Mitchell also trains in boxing and he has not only learnt many self-defence skills and self-discipline but the general wellbeing benefits that are associated with the martial arts. Ninjutsu also specialises in various weapons such as the shinai (sword) and rope darts that enhance skills of co-ordination and Mitchell acknowledges the positive role that his instructor has played in his life.

Rose was able to learn about the changing nature of Journalism as a career and attended workshops, assisted with site interview visits including post production while also writing her own material that was published and identified with her own by-line in the Herald Sun.  Examples of her involvement included being interviewed for Nine News about the reading habits of children aged between 12 and 17 years and she co-wrote a segment for the Confidential section of the Herald Sun relating to the actor Jake Ryan.

Work Experience provides valuable insights into an occupational environment. While at times this can be a challenging, the reflections indicate that it is these life experiences that are useful for further career exploration or even some modifications to their initial plans.

by Heather Ruckert, Year 10 Coordinator and Careers Consultant

News from Year 11

Over the holidays, Year 11 student Peter Cobb flew to Perth where he competed in the Australian Under 17 Fencing Championships. The competition included the best from Australia plus strong contingents from Singapore and New Zealand. Peter won bronze individually and the Victorian team won gold.

After a day’s rest, Peter continued on to Manilla and represented Australia in the South East Asia Pacific (SEAP) U17 and U20 Championships. He won another bronze in the Under 17 section and finished 6th in the Under 20 section.

These strong finishes put him in a good position to represent Australia at the World Under 17 Championships in Verona, Italy next year. We congratulate Peter on his truly amazing efforts and wish him the best of luck as he continues his impressive development in this challenging sport.

 Year 11 Pastoral Group Leaders Semester 2 2017

We congratulate the following students on being elected as Mentor Leaders:

by Mr Nick Stefanac, Year 11 Co-ordinator

Year 12 News

On Friday 23 June, the Year 12 cohort attended their formal at Bram Leigh Estate. It was a wonderful way for staff and students to celebrate the end of Semester 1.

The students have returned to Term 3 reinvigorated and ready to continue their progress towards the completion of their IB and VCE studies.

The Year 12s are reminded of the importance of maintaining a balance between their studies, social life and physical activity throughout this term to aid them in reaching their potential.  

The University Open Day season has commenced with La Trobe University and Monash University holding events this weekend on Sunday 6 August. For further information regarding this please check the Careers page on the portal.

Year 12 Parents and Guardians are reminded of the Post-Secondary Information Evening that is scheduled for Tuesday 8 August. This evening will provide specific information about the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC) application process and the Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS), Scholarships and also includes a presentation relating to transition into tertiary study from a member of the Admissions team at Deakin University. The evening commences at 7.30pm in the CM Wood Centre Common Room. Reply slips should be returned to the Senior College Reception. University applications via VTAC open on Monday 7 August.

by Nicole Morphett, Year 12 Co-ordinator

Tintern Governance Matters

New Board Member

Each year at its annual meeting the Tintern Board farewells outgoing directors and welcomes new directors.  This year we farewelled Sumitra Rudra (mother to Jayan in Year 12 and Vishnu in Year 10) and welcomed Rosemary Bennett (mother to Georgina in Year 11). 

Sumitra is an expert corporate risk management consultant, and has helped take Tintern from good to great in this area, both as a member of the Board’s Governance Committee and as a member of the Board.  We are grateful to Sumitra for her significant contribution over her three years as a Board member.

Rosemary Bennett

Rosemary has also been a member of the Governance Committee, and retains that role whilst taking on membership of the Board.

Rosemary lectures at Monash University across Early Childhood and Primary Education in the area of Physical Education, Health and Wellbeing. She has supported the development of a program in the Cook Islands and regularly lectures in Singapore. Her research is in the field of early childhood creativity through music, movement and dance. Rosemary has a strong commitment to experiential learning, education for sustainability and arts-based education.

New Committee Members

The Board has three committees: House and Grounds; Finance and Risk; and Governance. Each of these has external (non-Board) members alongside members of senior staff and Board members. 

The Board has recently appointed four new external members to its committees: Robert Dark, Simon Scherer, Alexander Danne and Andrew Wilcox. You can learn more about these new committee members below.

The Chair, Greg Hoxley, and the whole Board are very grateful for the expert contributions of the external members of the committees.

You may note that the four new committee members are male.  Unfortunately, the three women we spoke to were not able to continue to membership.

Robert Dark

Robert (father of Oliver in Year 7) believes that strong schools are the cornerstone of healthy communities, and has spent the last seven years working towards this goal for his community. Over those years he has been lucky to serve as a school councillor for a local primary school – five of those years as school council president. During that time Robert was involved in the process of rebuilding the entire school: from design to budgeting to lobbying for government funding, and finally construction. During this time he was also involved in the process of sourcing and securing a new principal (twice).

Robert is looking forward to being one of the many dedicated people who make Tintern such a great school and great community. 

Simon Scherer

Simon is the General Manager of a national health service provider specialising in Physiotherapy, Aged Care, OH&S, and Employee Wellness. He is a Fellow of the Australian Marketing Institute and an Advisor for a New York Medical Research and Marketing firm. Over the last 15 years, Simon has worked in the Medical Device Industry working in Sales and Marketing Management and brings a wealth of knowledge of Strategic Planning, Marketing, Business Development and Leadership. 

Simon is passionate about Tintern Grammar, its students and staff and is looking forward to contributing to the Finance and Risk committee. Simon is married to Nicole (YG 1990) and has two children studying at Tintern, Amelie in Year 3 and Aston in Year 2.

Alexander Danne

Alexander is a Partner at top tier law firm Gilbert + Tobin, practicing in the Banking + Infrastructure group in Melbourne.  Prior to joining the Gilbert + Tobin partnership, he practiced as a Senior Associate at Allens in Sydney. Alexander primarily works with leading Australian corporates and financial institutions on market defining projects within the infrastructure sector.

Alexander has a Master of Laws (International) from Monash University, an Applied Finance Graduate Diploma from FINSIA/Kaplan and recently completed the Infrastructure in a Market Economy course at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government.

Alexander has a 5 year old son. He believes passionately in private education and the values of Tintern, and is also a member of the Dean’s Advisory Council at Melbourne Law School.

Andrew Wilcox

Andrew Wilcox is a finance manager with a career history spanning Deloitte, ANZ and Downer Group, with whom he currently works.  Andrew has honed his skills in the areas of strategy, governance, risk analysis, and driving continuous improvement.  Andrew has degrees in politics and Commerce/Economics and Graduate qualifications in Accounting.  He belongs to the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia. 

Alongside his family, Andrew has interests in triathlon, football, golf and film-making.

For more information

If you have an interest in being involved in the governance of Tintern Grammar, please email board@tintern.vic.edu.au  to talk further or to put your name on the list for the next governance information session.

by John Capper, Deputy Chair of Board and Chair of Governance Committee

Duke of Edinburgh Award Presentation at Senior School Assembly

On Thursday 15 June, nine Year 10 students received their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Awards certificates and badges. The bronze award is the first level of the program and involves a 3-6 month commitment plus 4 days of an adventurous journey.

The Duke of Edinburgh program is an internationally recognised award that invites young people aged 14-25 to realise their ambitions and to change their world.

Young people challenge themselves by choosing activities that spark their interest in the three sections of the award – service, physical and skill. They set their own goals and work towards achieving them over the given time period.

Eliza Allen, for her skills section, constructed a fiberglass seat for her father’s go-cart and built an amazing metal fire pit for her uncle. Her physical goal was to improve her cycling to the point where she could achieve a 5 km bike ride. Eliza completed two service projects. She volunteered one afternoon a week at Ainslie Parklands Primary School aftercare program. On top of this commitment, she volunteered through the Maroondah division of the St John Ambulance at local events on the weekends, completing an amazing 72 hours of service in total. For her adventurous journey, she took part in the sea kayaking expedition to the Gippsland Lakes.

Olivia Adkins chose guitar as her skill and used the 13 weeks to learn a series of scales and to improve her soloing ability. For her physical activity, she worked on her decision-making and defence skills in netball. Her service was to the Ferntree Gully Days for Girls where she contributed by sewing drawstring bags and hygiene products. Olivia took part in the Mitchell River rafting expedition for her Adventurous Journey.

Gemma Bettess chose gardening for her skill with the goal of learning how to establish and maintain a winter vegetable garden. She produced delicious vegetables and herbs, which could then be used in cooking for her family. Gemma trained and competed with the Melbourne Cheer Academy Level 2 All Girls Junior Cheerleading team and a Level 2 All Girls Junior Stunt team for her physical activity and, for service, she volunteered at the Tintern Junior School aftercare program on a weekly basis. Like Eliza, Gemma completed her Adventurous Journey on the Gippsland Lakes as part of the sea kayaking expedition.

Olivia Cross chose to learn how to clip/hand shear sheep for her skill and used this skill when participating at the Bendigo, Geelong and Royal Melbourne Shows. For her service, she was a buddy coach for an Under 11 and Under 13 netball team and for her physical activity she undertook gym and personal training programs to improve her strength and fitness, as well as playing netball at an elite competitive level. For her Adventurous Journey component, she chose an exploration activity and spent 4 days at the Australian Wool and Sheep Show with the Tintern Young Farmers. During these 4 days, she was active in preparing and showing sheep as well as participating in the junior judging and helping other breeders with the presentation of their animals.

Molly Fleming chose music for her skill development and particularly focused on improving her tone production and vibrato playing on cello. For physical, her goal was to be an enthusiastic and encouraging team member of the Whitehorse Mustangs, and improve her basketball skills through trainings and Saturday matches. Molly’s service contribution was at Inala Village (part of Regis aged care facilities) where she used her considerable musical talent to perform to the elderly residents. Molly was part of the Mitchell River rafting expedition and loved learning new skills, developing independence and working as a team.

Madeleine Howell was one of five students who chose cooking as their skill and her goal was to be able to cook a three-course meal for her family. At the end of last year, she took part in a Master Chef style session where the students had one hour to bake a favourite dish to serve to the Maintenance team for afternoon tea. For physical activity, Madeleine worked on her dance routines with the view to performing them as well as possible and for service, she was the assistant coach for the Rangeview Rangers Under 11 Netball team. Unfortunately, Madeleine broke her finger and was, therefore, unable to attend the summer expedition last year. She had to find another Adventurous Journey to fulfil this requirement of her award. She did this by spending 4 days on a farm in Geeveston, Tasmania learning about all manner of farm activities.

Meaghan Hynson sought to improve her reading music fluency on guitar, playing jazz music and developing her improvisation skills. For her physical activity, she undertook weekly 2 hour karate lessons and her goal was to improve her Kata as well as helping other students at her club. For her service contribution, Meaghan helped at aftercare at Ainslie Parklands Primary School where she enjoyed bonding with the children and becoming more connected with her local community. Meaghan took part in the Mitchell River rafting expedition for the Adventurous Journey component of her award.

Jasmin Liew, like many Tintern students, is a very busy young person. She chose a skill that she could fit in around her many commitments and complete in her own time, at her own pace. Jasmin learnt to crochet and ended up completing both an attractive and practical scarf and beanie. For her physical activity, she wisely chose to use her dancing which she studies at a high level for many hours a week. Jasmin combined her love of dance with her service contribution and became an assistant teacher for junior students helping them in their weekly class. For her Adventurous Journey, Jasmin took part in the Sea Kayaking expedition on the Gippsland Lakes.

Rose Russell took part in the 2016 Year 9/10 production to fulfil the skill section of her Bronze Award. Those of you who saw her in this production will remember that she was an excellent cast member and an accomplished performer. Rose used her basketball commitments for her physical activity and was awarded the ‘Most Improved Player’ award at the end of the season. She also combined her love of sport with service and coached an Under 12 basketball team at her club. For her Adventurous Journey, Rose took part in the Mitchell River rafting expedition,

In addition to these 9 students, one student achieved her Silver Award which involves a 6 -12 month time commitment.

Karly Rosenbrock played netball for Norwood Heights Netball Club in the open age group. Her goal for netball was to improve her netball skills and, in particular, her ball skills as she wanted to be able to use her speed more effectively on court in order to become more competitive. For her skill, Karly worked on developing her singing skills and technique with a goal of increasing the range of her voice and the breadth of her repertoire. Karly’s community service contribution was to the Tintern Poverty Project and Social Justice group. She attended weekly meetings and helped run a number of fundraising events, for example, the Trivia Night which raised funds for ‘The Sunflower Foundation’. Her goal was to become further educated on poverty around the world and, with the development of her own knowledge, she wanted to teach younger students about the same issues.

Currently, there are 76 students in Years 9-12 enrolled in the Duke of Edinburgh program at all 3 levels of the award. The Duke of Ed journey for each of these students is a personal one and only the students themselves know how much they have challenged themselves and just what they have achieved throughout the course of their award. We congratulate these senior students on their wonderful achievements.

by Anne Bortolussi, Coordinator Duke of Edinburgh Awards Program

Bloody Legend – Milestone Donors’ Award Ceremony

When Robbie Poeme lost almost all his blood from a motorcycle accident, it was thanks to the blood donors that he survived and is now living more inspirationally than ever. The young motivational speaker can’t be more grateful for the generous donors who are saving lives every time they donate. Especially the donors who have donated hundreds of times, like those we met at the Milestone Donors’ Award ceremony hosted by Australia Red Cross Blood Service at the Regent Plaza Ballroom on June 18th. The Tintern Grammar Chamber Choir was fortunate to be asked to sing at this ceremony and were greatly appreciated for their beautiful singing. The M.C. called on to stage the people who have had their 50^th donation, and then those who have had their 100th, 150^th… My eyes were watery when the donor who has donated more than 700 times got on the stage. 700 donations, that is a lifetime of commitment. But 700 donations also means that he has readily saved 2100 lives. He is truly a ‘bloody legend’. If he can donate 700 times, surely, each of us are capable of donating once a year?

Donating blood is such a simple thing, anyone over the age of 16 can do it, it only takes up an hour, and it does not hurt. I remember the first time I donated; I got a text message the week after, informing that my blood has already saved the lives of a patient in Box Hill Hospital. That level of fulfilment and accomplishment was something that I never experienced before, something that cannot be experienced without knowing that I have made a huge difference to the lives of others.

The incredible commitment of all those ‘bloody legends’ and Robbie’s personal story encourages us all to go out there, and help those who are in need in the simple ways such as donating blood or plasma whenever we can. One day, like Robbie, we might find ourselves in need of the help and we will then appreciate those who generous donors who sacrifice an hour of their lives saving the lives of three others. When we help others, we are spreading love, and ultimately, we are helping ourselves too.

If you are interested in donating, please check out the Australia Red Cross Blood Service website (http://www.donateblood.com.au) to check for eligibility or book an appointment. The school also runs group donations regularly during the school year. The next donation date is on Wednesday 6 September. Spots are limited, so if you are interested in donating with the school, please contact the Blood Bank Ambassadors Sabrina Wang, Emma Maynard, Meg Swain and Joel Williams or Mrs Derry.

by Sabrina Wang, Year 12 Blood Bank Ambassador

Creative Space @ Headspace

by Catie McNamara, Director Student Welfare Services

Sexuality & Gender Information Night presented by Rotary Club of Knox

Key Dates 2017

School events for Term 3

School events for Term 4