Friday 25 May 2012
Four years ago the Centre for Pedagogy was created with an absolute focus on the continual improvement of the quality of teaching that occurs here at Christ Church. The centre’s inaugural Director, Julie Harris, has been remarkable in her capacity to coach diverse staff members on an individual basis to an improved performance in the classroom. Julie has also informed leadership practice (especially of our Heads of Departments in the Senior School and Co-ordinators in the Preparatory School) and has influenced professional development. There is no doubt that our signature Christ Church Pedagogy is also a significant part of Julie’s legacy. She leaves us at the end of this term to take up the position of Director of Studies at our brother school, Guildford Grammar School. She leaves us with our very best wishes to take on new challenges and opportunities. There is a great sense here that Guildford’s gain is very much our loss.
Four years on from its creation, the Centre for Pedagogy has grown in size, reflecting its increased scope and influence. It now includes Barbara Bosich as Assistant Director of Pedagogy in the LW Parry Preparatory School and Daniel Budd who is currently acting in the role of E-Learning Facilitator for the year, replacing Shane McGurk who is on leave.
It is my pleasure to announce to parents and the wider community the appointment of Sharyn Bana as our next Director of Pedagogy. Sharyn joined the School in 1995 teaching in the Science and Mathematics departments. Since then she has served as a Head of Department, Residential Year Group Co-ordinator, Assistant Head of House, a ‘Venturer’ and as a highly valued and much respected colleague. It is her exemplary teaching that brings her this new responsibility to assist and guide colleagues to best practice in the classroom. I know that you will join me in wishing Sharyn well in this significant role which impacts upon every class and every teacher here at Christ Church.
As always, should you have any concerns about any aspect of the School and would like to make contact with me, please do not hesitate to do so by email gwynne@ccgs.wa.edu.au or by telephoning my Executive Assistant, Wendy Macdougall, on 9442 1502.
This week we hosted the annual Independent Primary School Head’s Association (IPSHA) Ecumenical Service in the Chapel. The Ecumenical Service is an opportunity for students from independent schools from Bunbury to Mindarie to join together in fellowship. More than 800 students and staff attended the service which included a reflection from Brother James that focused on the difference one individual can make to the lives of others. We were also treated to an exceptional performance from our Yahoos. My thanks to Sarah Seaman and Luke Hyne for their work with the musical performances, Brother James for his reflection and Wayne Revitt for his work in organising the whole event. We also thank the Parents’ Auxiliary supporters Jill Elias and Trish Connell, and their team of helpers, who served morning tea to the gathered congregation.
Next week we will send off eight boys to represent the School in the IPSHA Chess Competition. I wish the boys all the best for their games.
Let me conclude by drawing your attention to the timely information in the Health Centre notice (under Whole School Notices) about Winter illnesses.
Richard Wright
Head of LW Parry Preparatory School
Farewell Morning Tea
For Rita Willard - Friday 6 July
The Head of the LW Parry Preparatory School, Richard Wright, invites you to Rita's Farewell Morning Tea on Friday 6 July at approximately 9.30am until 10.30am (following Assembly) on Walter's Lawn. Parking will be available on the Prep Oval until 10.30am.
Mrs Willard made a significant contribution to the life of the Prep School assisting three Heads of the Prep School, co-ordinating the successful Anglicare Christmas Hampers and always being there for boys and parents alike.
If you wish to attend the morning tea, RSVP via www.trybooking.com/BLTU. For more information, contact Sandra Conway at sconway@ccgs.wa.edu.au or 9442 1666.
Years 1 to 6
After School Co-curricular Activities – there's still time to book!
A reminder to parents that co-curricular activities are available to your son(s) in Years 1 to 6. Below you will find a list of the various activities which still have room, each with a link to the online booking system:
• Fitness for Kids – Years 1 to 3 – www.trybooking.com/BEZA
• Lego and Box Construction – Years 1 to 3 – www.trybooking.com/BISU
• Dance – Years 3 to 6 – www.trybooking.com/BFAM
Please note:
• Each boy can participate in a maximum of two activities.
• Please ensure you provide afternoon tea for your son(s).
• At the conclusion of the activity, the boys will be taken to the roundabout, ready to be picked up.
• Once you have registered online, further information will be forwarded by the teacher(s) of each activity.
• Most activities will take place directly after school and run for one hour.
• All activities are run by teachers here at the LW Parry Preparatory School.
• When an activity is full, the following message will be displayed: The event has no dates available for booking. Please contact the event organiser.
For further information please contact Sandra Conway at the Preparatory School reception on 9442 1666 or sconway@ccgs.wa.edu.au.
Year 2
After School Play Date
Date: Friday 8 June
Time: Straight after school
Where: Freshwater Bay Playground/Keanes Point Reserve, Peppermint Grove
Bring a picnic blanket and snack!
Last Friday the House Teams Carnival was held in perfect conditions and saw boys from all levels of the senior school battle in their House teams for bragging rights in the various codes played: football, touch rugby, soccer, handball and cross country. The end result, which is derived from the accumulation of the places gained in each code, saw Queenslea victorious by just one point, ahead of Jupp, and followed by Craigie House in third place.
From the sports field to the stage, there has been action aplenty at the Drama Centre this week. John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men opened the week with polished performances from the Year 9 cast and crew. This was followed by The Messenger, directed by Kalika Duck and performed by our Year 10s, which opened on Thursday night. I encourage you to catch the last performances of these shows this weekend (see details in the notices).
Our Year 9 boys have had the opportunity to listen to talks from Celia Lashlie, best selling author of the book He’ll Be OK: Growing Gorgeous Boys Into Good Men, during the week and yesterday leading physician and psychologist, Dr Leonard Sax spoke to our Year 10 boys and warned them of the traps associated with video games and social networking.
The short week ahead provides an opportunity to finish the first half of term on a high note, while the mid-term break will give us all a chance to catch our breath.
Roger Bayly
Deputy Headmaster
Head of Senior School
Year 7
Curry Night for Parents - Saturday 26 May
Invitation to all Year 7 parents to come to a Curry Night on Saturday 26 May at the Baxter residence, 53 Loch Street, Claremont.
BYO drinks and food. Please RSVP to steve.baxter@westnet.com.au so we can be organised for the night.
Call to Arms - Assistance Required
Year 7 parent volunteers are sought to assist with the final set-up and service at the Year 8 Father/Son breakfast to be held in the School Refectory on Wednesday 6 June.
Assistance is required from 6.15am until 8.30am that morning. Your time will be greatly appreciated.
Please contact either Trish Hawkins on vnw4322@gmail.com or Sarah Baxter on info@sarahmay.com.au if you are able to help out on the morning.
Year 8
Year 8 Father/Son Breakfast - Wednesday 6 June
All Year 8 fathers (or other significant mentors) are warmly invited to attend the annual Father and Son Breakfast which will be held in the School Refectory from 7.00am until 8.15am on Wednesday 6 June.
One of Christ Church's most adventurous old boys, Matt Gabriele, who has conquered the great Mt Everest, will share with you the highs and lows of his greatest achievement to date!
Please book a ticket for both the adult and son via this Trybooking link www.trybooking.com/26098 by Sunday 3 June.
Call to Arms - Assistance Required
On the afternoon of Tuesday 5 June from 3.15pm until 4.15pm, Year 8 parent volunteers are required to assist with the setting up for the Year 8 Father/Son Breakfast which is being held the following morning, Wednesday 6 June.
Would all interested parents please contact Karen Oakley on karenpoakley@hotmail.com as soon as possible. Your help will be greatly appreciated.
Years 9 and 10
The Science Experience
Students interested in science and technology would love The Science Experience - a 2/3 day programme of science activities at one of WA's universities during January 2013. Details can be found on the Science noticeboard or by visiting www.scienceexperience.com.au.
Application forms and possible arrangements for sponsorship through a local Rotary group are available from Mr Masterton.
Year 10
Year 11 Subject Selection Process Begins
Year 10 parents will shortly be receiving an information pack containing Recommendations from teachers, an Initial Course Selection Booklet and Form, and a WACE leaflet, as well as a letter that gives details of the process and of an individual subject counselling interview for your son and yourself, if you are able to attend.
The Year 10 Parent Information Evening takes place at 7.30pm on Tuesday 5 June in the Senior Staff Common Room (upstairs in Q block of the Senior School). The Director and Assistant Director of Studies, along with the Careers Counsellor, will be presenting information about the process of choosing subjects for Year 11. We will help you explore and understand the mysteries of WACE, TAFE, TISC, ATAR, TEA, WPL, and Lists A & B, amongst other considerations. The Year 10 boys have already had a similar presentation in their PSD classes so there is no necessity for them to attend. We look forward to seeing you on the night and will be happy to answer your questions then.
Year 10 Parent-Teacher-Student Interviews will be held on Monday 2 July from 3.45pm to 7.00pm. Bookings will open on Friday 15 June. Reminders will be issued in the e-newsletter and via text message.
Year 10 Exchange Programmes
An exchange opportunity exists for a Year 10 student to go to Scotland in Term 3. Interested students should see Mr Neil Saggers, Director of Activities, on nsaggers@ccgs.wa.edu.au as soon as possible.
Host families – Beyond Queenslea Drive
Christ Church has a vibrant exchange programme with approximately 15 international schools. From time to time we look for a Christ Church family to host a young man from the UK, USA, NZ, South Africa, Canada or India. This would be for approximately five weeks during a school term. Please contact Mr Neil Saggers, Director of Activities, on nsaggers@ccgs.wa.edu.au if you think your family may be able to assist.
Years 10 to 12
Eastern States University Information Session - 6 June
On Wednesday 6 June we will hold an information session for boys (and their parents) who are interested in knowing more about the application process for Eastern states, UK and US universities. Mr Neil Walker, our new Head of English, has extensive experience in guiding boys through the process of applications for UK universities, including Oxbridge. In addition, Ms Clarke has considerable experience with Eastern State and US universities. The talk will be held at lunchtime in L2.
China Service Trip Opportunities - July 2012
Only four boys from Years 10 to 12 have the fantastic opportunity to take part in a Community Awareness Project run by St Paul’s College in Hong Kong. This visit will include a preparation period in Hong Kong and five days working with disadvantaged and disabled children in the Qinghai Provence of China.
Below is a message from St Paul's College in Hong Kong:
We are busy preparing for this huge project. It is very encouraging to see that the overall responses are positive. About 500 local students, 25 overseas delegates, 30 St. Paul's delegates and 200 officials will be involved in the Youth Service Learning Conference and the Guangxi Visit.
We also consider the conference and the project a wonderful chance for students to develop their leadership. There are over 15 subcommittees to help run the youth conference. They will take charge of the transportation, meal arrangements, youth service learning conference, the local service projects, the opening and closing ceremony etc.
The total project will be of 12 days duration and is run during the July school holidays, from 8 July until 19 July.
For more information, please view this letter (inclusive of a brief itinerary) or contact Drew McDonald on 9442 1637 or on dmcdonald@ccgs.wa.edu.au.
Year 11
National Youth Science Forum
Applications are now being accepted for the National Youth Science Forum. This forum is a unique 12 day programme hosted at a variety of universities in Canberra and Perth during January 2013. The forum is designed for students to be able to test drive careers and find out about study options in the fields of science, engineering and technology. Details can be found on the Science noticeboard or by visiting www.nysf.edu.au.
Application forms and possible arrangements for sponsorship through a local Rotary group are available from Mr Masterton.
Years 11 and 12
Year 11 and 12 WACE Private Candidates
Any Year 11 or 12 student who has the intention of sitting a WACE exam at the end of the year as a Private Candidate needs to complete this form (6.6.1) for this purpose and return in to the Schools Curriculum and Standards Authority (formerly the Curriculum Council) with the required payment by Wednesday 4 July.
For more information, click here.
Year 11 and 12 Mid-year Examination Timetables
Year 11 and 12 mid-year examinations commenced on Monday and conclude next Thursday 31 May.
To view the examination timetables, click on the year below.
*Year 11 German Orals have been moved to the afternoon of Wednesday 30 May.
**Year 12 French Exam has been moved to the morning of Thursday May 31.
Year 12
School Ball Photographs
Photographs taken at the Year 12 School Ball on Saturday 5 May are available for purchase from the photographer’s website. Please access Maverick Photography at www.maverickphoto.com.au. The login details are as follows:
ID: ccyr12
Password: ccgs5512
Sport
First Football Newsletter published for the season
The first Football Newsletter for the season has been published today and is available on the football page of the website, here.
Ellingtons Jazz Night
Change of Date
Please be informed the Ellingtons Jazz Night has been postponed to Monday 3 September to enable more Year 12 students to be involved.
Opportunities to book will be available closer to the date.
Careers
Gap Year Opportunities Information Session - 29 May
Lattitude Global Volunteering will be holding an Information Session in Perth on Tuesday 29 May for interested students and parents to find out more about their volunteer programmes for 2013.
Lattitue staff will provide an overview of their international volunteering programme and returned volunteers and parents of returned volunteers will share their experiences and be available to answer questions.
Date: Tuesday 29 May
Time: 7.00pm
Venue: The Palms Community Centre, cnr Nicholson and Rokeby Rds, Subiaco
To register your interest to attend the Information Session, click here.
The University of Notre Dame Course Information Evenings - 29 May
The University of Notre Dame is holding a Course Information Evening on Tuesday 29 May. Courses expo starts at 5.30pm and at 6.00pm a presentation in Tannock Hall of Education, corner of Cliff and Croke Streets, Fremantle (follow the signs along Mouat Street). Parking available off Croke Street.
This evening is an ideal opportunity to speak with University staff and gather the most up-to-date information on courses, alternative pathways and admission into Notre Dame. For more information visit www.nd.edu.au or call 9433 0533.
Search for Australia's Best and Brightest Students
The 2013 Bond University Scholarship Programme is currently open for applications. The programme offers a large number of full fee and part fee scholarships as well as cash bursaries to Australia’s best and brightest students. Most scholarships can be used for any single or combined program (with the exception of Bachelor of Medicine Bachelor of Surgery) including our Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarships, Corporate Scholarships and Deans’ Scholarships. For more information go to www.bond.edu.au/scholarships.
Of Mice and (Young) Men
Dads pull on the boots for Prep Father-Son Games
Combined efforts create nights to remember
PMC camp an adventure for Prep boys
Boys in red win Winter Sports Carnival
Author’s messages resonate with boys and single mums
Cadets environmental service impresses at Lake Claremont
Musicians perform at St George’s Cathedral in ‘Concerts at One’
More News
Midnite Youth Theatre Company
The Messenger - 25 and 26 May
Health Centre
Winter Viruses
The common cold, caused by an upper respiratory tract infection, is one of the most common illnesses for children and adults in Australia. Colds are more common in winter months as people spend more time indoors, in close contact, and can be more likely to pass on viruses that cause the common cold.
A ‘cold’ is often called the ‘flu’, but they are different infections. Flu symptoms usually start suddenly with a high fever and you may feel unwell enough to need rest. Symptoms can also include irritation in the throat or lungs, a dry cough, shivering, sweating and severe muscle aches. The flu tends to make the whole body ache, whereas colds usually affect the nose and throat only.
Ensure students reduce the risk of passing on coughs and colds by avoiding coughing or sneezing on, or near other people and that they wash their hands appropriately after blowing or handling used tissues. Coughing or sneezing onto the inside of their elbow instead of their hands can also prevent the transmissions of infection.
If students are very unwell, they should be encouraged to stay home and rest to reduce the chance of spreading infections and to give them a better chance of recovering quickly.
Colds can be a trigger for asthma, and asthma management can be more difficult for students attending school when they have a cold or a cough.
With the onset of winter and cooler weather it is a good idea to see your doctor, have your asthma reviewed and ensure your Asthma Action Plan is up to date.
Joanna Simpson
Clinical Nurse Manager
Uniform Shop
Volunteers Required for Stocktake
The Uniform Shop requires assistance with pre-counting stock in preparation for Stocktake on Thursday 28 June. We need volunteers for the rest of May and throughout June to help us complete this task. Parents can volunteer on any day the Uniform Shop is open for as little or as long as you choose. The Uniform Shop opening hours are as follows:
Monday - 7.45am to 5.00pm
Tuesday - Closed
Wednesday - 12.45pm to 5.00pm
Thursday - 2.30pm to 5.00pm
Friday - 7.45am to 11.30am
We also need volunteers to help us with Stocktake on Thursday 28 June at 9.00am.
If you can lend some time, please contact the Uniform Shop at uniformshopvolunteers@ccgs.wa.edu.au or call Diana on 0417 130 681.
Parents' Auxiliary
Year 8 Father/Son Breakfast - Wednesday 6 June
All Year 8 fathers (or other significant mentors) are warmly invited to attend the annual Father and Son Breakfast which will be held in the School Refectory from 7.00am until 8.15am on Wednesday 6 June.
One of Christ Church's most adventurous old boys, Matt Gabriele, who has conquered the great Mt Everest, will share with you the highs and lows of his greatest achievement to date!
Please book a ticket for both the adult and son via this Trybooking link www.trybooking.com/26098 by Sunday 3 June.
Call to Arms - Assistance Required
On the afternoon of Tuesday 5 June from 3.15pm until 4.15pm, Year 8 parent volunteers are required to assist with the setting up for the Year 8 Father/Son Breakfast which is being held the following morning, Wednesday 6 June.
Would all interested parents please contact Karen Oakley on karenpoakley@hotmail.com as soon as possible. Your help will be greatly appreciated.
Music
Written Notice of Cessation or Change of Instrument
Please be informed that written notice of cessation of lessons or change of instrument is required from parents to the Music Department (ksim@ccgs.wa.edu.au) by Friday 1 June if lessons are not going to be continued or are to be changed in the next term. (Please note that initial enrolment is for a minimum of two terms per instrument).
Students ceasing their lessons at the end of this term who are currently hiring a school instrument must return the instrument in person to Miss Podbury in the Music Library at the end of the term.
Please note that late notice will not be accepted.
Canteen
Volunteer Roster
There are many days available this term for parents to volunteer in the canteen. To view the available dates, click here.
If you would like to volunteer, please email your available dates to Ann Carr at canteen@ccgs.wa.edu.au. You will receive a response within 48 hours.
Community
Sleeping bags needed
We are raising awareness for homeless people living out on the streets in Perth. For our Year 6 Challenge at MLC we are collecting sleeping bags and donations for these disadvantaged people. We will give any donations to Homeless Connect Perth 2012, which is held every year for homeless citizens of Perth to get sufficient resources for them to use. Health checks are also available to them so they can have a better chance of surviving this cold winter.
We kindly ask if you could donate good quality sleeping bags to help these people, so please ask family and friends. Donations can be left with Mr Bacon in the Physics Department or at the Main School Office.
We appreciate your support for this worthy cause.
Amelia Morley and Naomi Brough 6H
MLC
Parent Evening - Fed Up Roadshow – 19 June
Ever wondered if someone in your family reacts to particular foods or food additives? Whether behaviours or physical symptoms may be related to diet? Sue Dengate, well-known author of the Fed Up series about reducing food chemicals for calm, happy families, will be speaking in Perth as part of her Australian tour. Attendees will get a science-based understanding of the effects of food and additives on their children’s health, behaviour and learning, and a free magnifying cardwith numbers and names of additives to avoid.
Date: Tuesday 19 June
Time: 7.00pm to 9.00pm
Where: Hadley Hall, Methodist Ladies College, 356 Stirling Highway, Claremont
Cost: $15 per ticket - available through www.events-made-easy.com/fedup2012
For further information, visit www.fedup.com.au.
Parent Evening - The Power of Outdoor Play - 20 June
Why free-play will make your child happier and smarter!
The WA Primary Prinicipal's Association invites parents, educators and community members to register for this outstanding event presented by Griffin Longley.
Date: Wednesday 20 June
Time: 7.30pm
Where: Grand Ballroom 2, Burswood Entertainment Complex, Great Eastern Highway, Burswood
Cost: $18 per ticket - all proceeds go to the Smart Future Foundation
To view the flyer, click here. For more information or to register, click here.
Volunteers Needed for 2012 Chevron City to Surf for Activ
All Year 11 and 12 students are invited to volunteer at this year’s City to Surf which will be held on Sunday 26 August. It is a great opportunity to get out, get involved in the community and have fun by doing it together. Please see the Volunteer Registration form for more details.