Airds Announcer“A place to learn, lead and achieve your personal best”Find us at: Airds High School, 2 Briar Road, Airds NSW 2560

airds-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Issue 1– Term 1 February 2014

DIARY DATES

Wed 26th Feb Yr 12 Biology & Senior Science excursion

Thurs 27th Feb Swimming CarnivalThurs 9th March Year 12 ‘Stress & the HSC’Wed 12th March Yr 7 ShowcaseMon 17th March Zone Swimming CarnivalMon 17th-21st March Year 7 CampFri 4th April Year 9 Woolwash excursionMon 7th – 11th April Year 12 half yearly examsFri 11th April End of Term 1Mon 28th April School Development DayTues 29th April Term 2 begins

School Captains and Vice Captains 2014

Vice Captains Tonga Fukofuka and Meaghan NoomCaptains Stephanie Naicori and Kira-Leigh Moore

Check our website: airds-h.schools@det.nsw.edu.au

P&C REPORTWelcome back to what I’m sure will be an exciting and challenging year for everyone here at Airds High School. It is great to hear that our Year 7 students have settled in well and seem to be adjusting quite readily to life at high school. Thank you to those parents who attended the morning tea we held on the first day of school. It was wonderful to meet you and we are looking forward to your involvement with Airds High School in the future.

Thank you to those who attended our first P&C meeting of the year on 5th February. We have a couple of new parents who have expressed interest in being involved with our P&C and that is wonderful to see. I would like to encourage all our parents and any interested community members to come to our meetings and gain a deeper insight into what is happening in our school. It is a great opportunity to express any concerns or issues, have your say in some of the decision making at the school, and get to know staff and other parents who can be a great support network for you and your children.

The P&C are hoping to hold a number of fundraising events this year in order to raise funds to assist the school to purchase resources and equipment. We are planning to hold a Mother’s Day stall to give all our students the opportunity to buy something special for their mums, grandmas, aunties or even big sisters. As with the Father’s Day stall last year, the gifts will be very affordable but good quality presents to help say a big ‘thank you’ to those special people in your lives. More information about the stall will be sent home when it is closer to Mother’s Day.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Airds High School and we are hoping to hold a number of special events to allow all our staff and students, both past and present, to celebrate the wonderful work our school has done over the years. If anyone has any memorabilia from their time here at the school that they would be happy for us to borrow for display purpose, that would be greatly appreciated. You might have old school uniforms, photgraphs, text books or reports that we would love to include in our celebration of Airds High School. If you have any items that you think we would be interested in please contact me at the school on 4625 5811. We would love as many people as possible to be involved in our celebrations this year and if you have any ideas for events or can spare some time to be involved in the organisation of these events, please come along to our P&C meetings or contact the school and express your interest in doing so. Our school is a wonderful and integral part of our community and we would really like to

NEXT P&C MEETINGWEDNESDAY 5th March 2014

AT 10:15 am IN THE STAFF COMMON ROOM

WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOU THERE!

showcase all our achievements throughout the last 40 years to the whole Campbelltown community. The more people we have involved in the organisation of our events, the bigger and better our celebrations can be.

We will be holding our annual P&C AGM on Wednesday 5th March in the staff common room at 10:15am. We would like to invite all our parents to attend this meeting and become involved in a number of aspects of our school. We will be electing our committee members at this meeting to the positions of President, Vice President, 2nd Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer. If you would like to stand for a position on our committee or be eligible to vote at this year’s AGM, please pay your $1.00 membership fee to the front office by the end of February. I am looking forward to seeing a number of our parents and community members at this meeting and working with you throughout the rest of the year.

I hope all our staff and students enjoy the rest of this term and really settle in to a year of exciting learning and rewarding challenges. As we all strive to achieve our best we will work together to make Airds High School a centre of excellence that we are all proud to be a part of.

Ms Melanie CuttsP&C President

CLO REPORTWelcome to 2014 at Airds High School. We are looking forward to an exciting and challenging year where all our students make the most of the opportunities they are given and achieve success in a wide range of areas. This year is the 40th anniversary of Airds High School and we are planning to have a number of events to celebrate all the wonderful achievements of our school. We look forward to seeing many of your at these events, as well as staff and students who have been involved with our school in the past. Please keep an eye out for information about these events in upcoming Airds Announcers and in any notes that may come home from school with your children.

I would like to extend my congratulations to Mr Steve McGuire who was successful in gaining the position of Principal of Airds High School at the end of last year. He has been a very effective Deputy Principal at our school for a number of years and has always been committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for every student at the school. I am sure that his knowledge of our school, the staff, our families and our community will be a great benefit as he takes on the new role of Principal and begins his leadership of Airds High School. I am looking forward to working with Mr McGuuire and being part of his team that is committed to providing the best opportunities possible for all our students.

Welcome to all our new families here at Airds High School this year. Many of you have students beginning Year 7 and starting the next step in their learning journey, and some of you have students starting in higher years. It is great to see that our new students are settling in well and already taking pride in themselves and our school. I hope that our parents and community members are keen to become involved in our school and all the wonderful activities and events we have

happening throughout the year. As Community Liaison Officer of our school, I am here to act as a link between our parents and the wider community and the school. If you have any issues or concerns, or suggestions for things you would like to see happening in our school, please do not hesitate to contact me through the front office on 4625 5811. I am always happy to listen to any concerns or suggestions and help you and your children in any way I can.

We have a number of new staff members at our school this year and I would like to welcome them all to Airds and I am looking forward to working with you during your time here at our school. I hope your time at Airds High School is enjoyable and rewarding and I’m sure you will be warmly welcomed by our diverse community.

Our Year 6 to Year 7 transition program for students at our local primary schoosl will be starting soon and continuing throughout the rest of the year. This program has run during previous years and it has proven very successful in assisting our students and their families to make a smooth, informed and stress-free transition from primary to high school. We will be visiting the local primary schools very soon in order to speak to as many parents as possible about all the wonderful opportunities Airds High School has to offer. We have great resources; quality, caring teaching staff; and welfare programs that make sure all our students’ needs are catered for. I would encourage all parents of Year 6 students to attend our information sessions and if you know anyone with a child in Year 6, please encourage them to attend these sessions and seriously consider sending their children to Airds High School. It is truly a great place where students are given amazing opportunities to reach their full potential.

I hope everyone has a productive and enjoyable first term full of exciting and rewarding challenges and experiences. I am looking forward to working with all our staff and students this year and hope that many of our parents and community members become involved with our school to ensure we make it the best learning environment possible for our children.

Ms M CuttsCLO

Year Advisers 2014

Year 7 – Ms N TateYear 8 – Mr S Rosete

Year 9 – Mr A ClementsYear 10 – Mr M BuckleyYear 11 – Ms K Taylor

Year 12 – Mr D Lightfoot

PICLO REPORT“Kia Ora” which means “May you live on “ in New Zealand Maori. New Zealanders celebrate Waitangi Day this month to commemorate the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840.

Welcome to all staff, students and their families as we take on another year at Airds High. I would like to welcome our new Year 7 and hope that your transition into high school has been a smooth and enjoyable one. We also have a number of new staff members and I particularly would like to congratulate Mr McGuire on becoming the new Principal for Airds High, we look forward to doing great things with you to benefit the students and staff of Airds High.

A few things happening this month within the community starting with a Diabetes Forum for Maori and Pacific Island communities on Wednesday the 19th of February at the Wests Leagues Club from 9am to 1pm hosted by MP Mr Bryan Doyle of Campbelltown, This a great opportunity for all our Maori and Pacific people to gain further knowledge on the effects of diabetes and how you can prevent and/ or manage this disease. So come along, bring your family and friends, this Diabetes Forum is surely going to be beneficial to all who attend. For enquiries call Bryan Doyle MP office Ph 46253344.

We would love to see more Maori and Pacific parents at P&C meetings which take place on the first Wednesday of every month, this is where you can have a say in what happens at school and contribute to your child’s learning. It’s a great way to get to know the Principal Mr McGuire, other parents and staff members who are committed to the betterment of the school; you will contribute to any planning of projects, programs and fundraisers in a friendly and informal environment. Studies have shown that students of parents who contribute in their child’s school in whatever capacity have a better attitude and connection and therefore a more positive experience at school. The next meeting will take place on Wednesday the 5th March 2014 at 10:15am.

School photos take place on Tuesday 18th February 2014 make sure your child/ren are in full school uniform and looking sharp and smart for their school photos, please write your child’s name and year and indicate your package preference on the photos envelope with the correct money. This makes the whole process a lot easier for the photographer staff and students.

Coming in March UWS PATHE Pacific Achievement to Higher Education will be doing workshops with Years 7-8, Andrew Kaleopa is the coordinator for these workshops and he does a fantastic job of getting students to realise their potential and dream big.

Nesian fest this year will take place on Saturday 5th July 2014 it is very important for parents to participate in this event and support the students during this time, the more parents we have on board the better, if parents have any skills in Maori and or Pacific cultural dancing whether that be music, dance, costume making etc and have the time to develop our young Polynesians into grand performers then feel free to be a part of it all. Practise times and dates in the next newsletter.

Kia Manuia

Mrs M VaruPICLO

FROM THE PASTORAL CARERS DESKWow… it’s 2014 and good to be back!Congratulations to Mr Steve McGuire on his appointment as Principal of Airds High School. It is important to acknowledge his previous outstanding service to the school; as Deputy Principal, and wish him continued success at this new level of leadership. I hope by now everyone is settled into the new school year. It is always an exciting time when we return after the holidays; although it can be a little hard, as we all get back into our routines.

I would especially like to welcome our new students and families to Airds High School, our best wishes for your future learning and development. Airds is a caring and supportive school community and we encourage parents and friends to get involved and participate. Being actively supportive of the school through programs, policies or the P&C will be of real benefit to your children. This partnership with the wonderful staff at Airds High School will provide great opportunities for all our students…we want it to be an enjoyable experience for all.

A tip in making your life a little less stressful at this time is to establish routines.Having predictable patterns and routines in our day; or over a week, can be very calming and reassuring. It’s also important for everyone’s health and wellbeing.Routines can include…

Regular bedtimes Regular waking Regular mealtimes Regular times for work, exercise and relaxation And planning and preparing ahead to do

routine jobs or activitiesEstablishing routines will also help to develop good organisation skills.

This term I will be at AHS on Wednesday & Thursday.If I can be of any assistance please do not hesitate to contact me.

Have a great year and until next time, cheers.

Mr R Hodgson JP

SLSO’s

We are: SafeRespectf

ulLearne

Welcome back students and, for our Year 7 cohort, welcome to Airds High School. After a well-deserved break everyone is back for a fresh start. The mainstream SLSO’s are responsible for student and teacher support in the classroom, Ms Addamo assisting Yrs 7, 9 and 11 and Ms Hopwood assisting Yrs 8, 10 and 12. They are both busy ensuring all our students are settled in their year groups.

The focus this term is to make sure our students are prepared and working towards their personal best. The long term plan is to improve literacy results this year. The new teaching and learning techniques, impressive technology and comprehensive assessment tools should enable the SLSO’s to extend their knowledge and add value to the students’ efforts.

Ms Addamo & Ms Hopwood

CAREERS Keep these newsletters on fileAs the year progresses, I will be receiving a lot of correspondence from employers, and training providers. It is important that you read this newsletter now, and then keep it! Collect each edition to browse through later in the year, when you might be further considering your options.

DEFENCE FORCE RECRUITING Parramatta Info Sessions are being held:

Venue: Defence Force RecruitingLevel 4/ 9 George Street Parramatta

Time: 6.30 pm

Engineering Session Monday 17th February 2014

Women in the Army Session Wednesday 19th February 2014

Navy SessionTuesday 25th February 2014

Trades Session Wednesday 26th February 2014

These information sessions will be attended by an ADF member who will give specific presentations on the night relating to the particular aspect of the Australian Defence Force.

Please RSVP to cptnsw@dfr.com.au specifying the NAME of the Information Session and the DATE they wish to attend, and they will be booked in. Phone: (02) 8831 2243 E: joking@dfr.com.au

SAIL YOUNG ENDEAVOUR

Are you between 16 and 23 years old?

Looking for a challenge?

A voyage aboard Young Endeavour is an awesome experience, and one which will give you skills for life. The Royal Australian Navy crew will teach you how to sail a square-rigged vessel, including how to navigate, keep watch, take the helm, cook in the galley, tie knots, work aloft and even take command. 

Not only that, you will develop teamwork, leadership and communication skills, work with disadvantaged youth and meet people from around the country.

Applications are currently being accepted for voyages sailing between March and August 2014. 

For more information, please visit: www.youngendeavour.gov.au

MG My GatewayCurrent Traineeship & Apprenticeship Vacancies

Apprenticeships 1st year Junior Landscaping Apprenticeship Location: Eastern Suburbs and North ShoreClosing Date: 28.2.14

1st Year Heavy Vehicle – Road Transport ApprenticeshipLocation: Campbelltown Closing Date: 28.2.14

Traineeships Manufacturer/ Installer of Outdoor Entertainment TraineeshipLocation: MoorebankClosing Date: 28.2.14

Junior Administration TraineeshipLocation: Hurstville Closing Date: 28.2.14

Junior Warehousing TraineeshipLocation: Ingleburn Closing Date: 28.2.14

Junior Horticulture TraineeshipLocation: RevesbyClosing Date: 28.2.14

Junior Customer Service / Administration Traineeship Location: Moorebank Closing Date: 28.2.14Drivers licence and own vehicle essential

Aboriginal Identified Administration Traineeship

Location: Revesby Closing Date: 28.2.14

For more information or to apply please visit: www.mygateway.org.auAnd click on ‘Job Vacancies’ 1800 993 200

Please have a read of the in depth careers newsletter that is placed in the foyer. I’m happy to provide emails of the full version of the careers newsletter to any interested parents or teachers each month.

RegardsMs FitasCareers Adviser

SUPPORT REPORT‘Together we can make a difference’

The Support Unit is well rested after a wonderful Christmas break and ready for an exciting new year! This year there have been a few changes in the Unit. We have welcomed a new class, a new teacher, a new School Learning Support Officer, as well as lots of new students. The new multi-categorical class now takes the Support Unit to a total of 6 classes. Miss Byrne has joined us as the new senior Support class teacher and Mrs Kearns is working with Mr Famer in the junior Support class. After only a few short weeks at school it is great to see that the new staff and students are settling in well.

The Support Unit is thrilled to announce that starting this year we will incorporate the use of iPads into our teaching and learning experiences. There are some fantastic educational apps available that will hopefully allow our students to access parts of the curriculum with more ease and in a variety of ways.

A number of our senior students were successful in obtaining placements in TAFE courses this year. We wish them all the best in their studies and hope they achieve success. The senior students have also begun work experience as part of their HSC studies. They are placed at various locations around Campbelltown and we hope they can gain some valuable skills from these experiences.

As the Unit settles back into routines and practices we ask that parents ensure they are returning Community Access notes for their child, as well as providing them with the appropriate equipment for lessons. This includes books, pens, a ruler, and glue sticks. It is also very important that the students are using their diaries and bringing them to school each day. This not only helps them keep track of what they need to do, but also provides the teachers with a way of communicating with parents.

The teachers in the Support Unit are in the process of holding Individual Education Plan meetings with parents. This is an opportunity for the teachers, parents and students to get together and discuss the learning goals for the year. These meetings are very important and it is

hoped that all parents will be able to attend. Students should be receiving notes with a list of times available from their classroom teachers and these can be returned to the classroom teacher.

The Support Unit is also selling chocolates for $1 to raise money for upcoming excursions throughout the year. Please feel free to visit the Unit to support the cause. We wish all the students the best for an exciting new school year!

Mrs B BasmanSupport Class Teacher ENGLISH REPORTWelcome back. We have an exciting year ahead and see the introduction of the new National Curriculum for Years 7 and 9 in English. This is a great opportunity to deliver more stimulating content to our students where we will be exploring more texts that are relevant to the real world.

We welcome Ms K Boyce, replacing Mr McDonnell whilst he is on leave this term, and greet the return of Mr M Buckley, Ms J Rix and Ms P Cruz.

The Premier’s Debating Challenge is on again for students in each stage and we need those of you with an opinion and who want to express it. If you would like to become a member of our debating team and compete against other high schools in the region, please see Mr Buckley in the English staffroom.

Also, budding writers! There are a few competitions happening this term. The Whitlam Institute’s annual What Matters? writing competition is on again and open to all students in NSW. Write a 400 – 600 word opinion piece on what matters to you and why, and you could be in the running for some great cash prizes and the opportunity to have your writing in print. See your English teacher for more details.

The 2014 Schools Writing Competition, run by Write4fun.net, is open for students all over Australia to enter their short stories or poems, and battle it out for great cash prizes. There is no theme, so entrants are encouraged to let their imaginations run wild and write on any topic and in any style. Entry is free and closes 30 March 2014. See your English teacher for more details on how to enter.

Have a great 2014Mrs N Barker (HT English)

PDHPE REPORTWelcome to the new school year from the PDHPE faculty: I will be continuing to be Head Teacher of PDHPE this year. The rest of the staff for 2014 will be:

Ms Tate Ms Simms Mr Halliburton Mr Bromley Mr Tyler Mr Latulipe Ms Radford

Mr Halliburton is the Sport Organiser again for 2014.

Students are well into their first unit of work for 2014. This term students will be completing the following units in Health:

Year 7 – Relationships Thematic UnitYear 8 – Its Your DecisionYear 9 – Safe PartyingYear 10 – Positive Choices

Each student has received an assessment policy and a guideline explaining what is required of him or her this year. The following assessment tasks have also been given out

Year 7 “Relationships and Power” assessment Task due Week 6 Term 1

Year 8 Its Your Decision – “Sexually transmitted infections” due Week 8/9 Term 1

Year 9 “Safe Partying” PowerPoint presentation due Week 8/9 Term 1

Year 10 “Positive Choices – Biographical Recount” due Week 8.

This term in practical lessons students will be doing the following:

Year 7 – Initiative and challenge activities Year 8 – Fundamental junior games Year 9 – Run, Rock & Roll – modified games Year 10 – Dynamic gamesStudents must bring and change into full PE uniform to all practical lessons and Sport, including the school sport polo shirt, shorts and joggers.

In PDHPE at Airds High School each student is expected to work to the best of their ability in all areas to achieve their PERSONAL BEST.

It is also pleasing to see the number of students choosing PDHPE electives. We are currently running the following electives: Year 9 Coaching, Year 9 & 10 Physical Activity and Sport Studies (PASS), Year 11 & 12 Sport, Lifestyle & Recreation (SLR) and Year 11 & 12 Personal Development, Health & Physical Education (PDHPE) and we are also running a VET Sports Coaching course in Years 11 and 12. We also wish our Year 12 classes all the best this year when they sit for their HSC.

The PDHPE faculty values the contributions made by all of the students at Airds High School but are especially appreciative of those that make an extra effort to do the very best that they can. The positive effort of individual students helps to make a more productive and happy learning environment for the teacher and the rest of the class.

Please don’t hesitate to call me for any further information regarding PDHPE and Sport.

Hope you all have a happy and healthy 2014.

Mr S WagnerHead Teacher PDHPE

SCIENCE REPORT

The beginning of this year has seen the Science department start the year with a bang. We have welcomed a new member of staff this year, with Cathie Sinclair as our Lab Assistant. The teaching staff members this year for Science includes:

Mrs J Fuller Mrs M Holmes

Ms E Radford Mrs S Stoddart

Classes have already started well and we hope that both the levels of participation and behaviour continue right throughout the year. Please be aware that students must be in leather enclosed shoes to participate in experiments, otherwise they will only be observing. If there are any issues that may arise please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s teacher. Year 7The class teachers for Year 7 are as follows:

Darwin RadfordAristotle HolmesFlorey RadfordMendel Stoddart

Year 7 are currently completing the unit ‘Move over Einstein’. They are becoming adjusted to the lifestyle and expectations of high school and what it has to offer. All students have received a homework book and should be aiming to complete it as instructed to by their teachers. Students have been or will be given in the coming days, an assessment task which they will complete in class and show at the Relationships Showcase.

Year 8The class teachers for Year 8 are as follows:

Pasteur StoddartAvogadro Drakefield

Curie Radford

Year 8 are currently completing the topic “Ecosystems”. They are working well in class and have completed a number of practical lessons. Pasteur and Avogadro have completed a practical looking at how penguin’s fur protects them in their environment. Curie has created their own ecosystem and is currently growing plants in a homemade greenhouse.

Year 9The class teachers for Year 9 are as follows:

Copernicus HolmesGalileo RadfordHubble Stoddart

Year 9 are currently completing the newly designed program “Sickly Cycles”. This program has been created to fit into the new syllabus from BOSTES which is implemented for Years 7 & 9 in 2014.

All classes have completed a brain dissection. Below are some photos from Ms Holmes’ class. There are a number of other dissections which will be taking place this term. If your child does not wish to participate, they will be required to bring a note in from a parent or guardian stating so.

Year 9 have an excursion planned for 4th April 2014 for the following topic “Living the Cycle”. Could parents/guardians please ensure that they sign and return these forms ASAP once students have received them.

Year 10The class teachers for Year 10 are as follows:

Einstein FullerNewton Holmes / Stoddart

Bell Radford

Year 10 are starting the year with a Chemistry topic. They are currently studying ionic compounds and the Law of Conservation of Mass. There are a large number of practicals for this topic and students are reminded that they need to remain safe when working in the lab.

Year 11The class teachers for Year 11 are as follows:

Senior Science StoddartBiology Holmes

Senior Science and Biology are both starting the year with the topic Local Ecosystems. For this reason, both classes have an excursion to Sydney Olympic Park on 21st

February 2014, to study this ecosystem. This excursion will allow students to gain a better understanding for both their class work and assessment task. Watch this space for photos from the excursion.

Year 12The class teachers for Year 12 are as follows:

Senior Science StoddartBiology Holmes

Chemistry Holmes

Year 12 have already completed a term of work for their HSC in 2013. They are currently completing the following topics:

Senior Science – Lifestyle Chemistry Biology – Search for Better Health Chemistry – The Acidic Environment

The time is going to fly by and they need to ensure that they maintain their concentration and focus on their learning. Senior Science and Biology have an excursion to the Museum of Human Disease on the 28th February 2014.

Ms RadfordScience

TAS/CAPA REPORTI would like to say a warm welcome to a new school year to all the students and parents of our Airds High School community for 2014. Firstly, allow me to introduce you to the staff in our faculty for those who are not aware of whom they are. Head Teacher: Ms Vongsouvanh. TAS teachers: Ms Coogan, Mrs Drakefield, Mr Lightfoot and Mr John. CAPA teachers: Ms Adair, Mrs Bateman, Ms Taylor, Mr Wallace and Ms Green. If you have any concerns regarding any TAS or CAPA subjects then feel free to contact your child’s respective teacher and they would be more than happy to answer your questions.

As you may already be aware, there are subject fees for each of our subjects. Your child should have already been issued with a note outlining the fees for each subject. If fees have not been paid then it would be greatly appreciated if they could be paid promptly to the

front office and the receipt shown to your child’s teacher. Additional equipment may be required for each of our subjects and this will be advised by your child’s class teacher.

It has been pleasing to see our students settle in nicely to school and into their subjects. I will have plenty to report next issue so stay tuned until next time.

Ms N VongsouvanhHead Teacher TAS/CAPA

YEAR 12 REPORTWell we are on the home stretch now, within the final year and only three more terms left of the HSC, and what an action packed year it will be!

We have a very busy term one and there are many upcoming events planned. Firstly our students will be blessed with a timely workshop in Week 6. This workshop is called “Stress and the HSC” and it will be an essential survival tool for students to aid them with assessments and examinations. This is a workshop that is meant to assist our students to self regulate and self manage their anxiety levels throughout the HSC year. They will learn important stress management techniques which will hopefully alleviate the demands that accompany a student throughout the HSC year. It will also be free of charge as it is being funded by the school so please show your appreciation and encourage our students to come along for some much needed education.

In Week 11, Year 12 have their half yearly examinations, yes you read correctly their half yearly’s! I strongly advise all parents and students to begin to plan out a study pattern in preparation for these. It is far easier to plan now and be prepared going in to examinations than it is to do a last minute cram session which only heightens stress and anxiety.

On a lighter note we will be continuing to fundraise this term starting with the “Slave For a Day” during the swimming carnival. This is where students volunteer themselves to assist staff and students on a fun and enjoyable day at the pools. We also will be doing a fundraising BBQ on the day selling shish kebabs, a big thank you goes out to all who have helped and will be helping on the day. Without you this could not happen, so cheers. It would be fantastic to see all of our students there even if they are not participating as this will be officially their last school swimming carnival of all.

We will also be hoping to sell chocolates within the next 2 weeks to enable our students to put away some money for their senior jackets. Students will receive $15 per box sold to go directly towards their Jacket/Formal. If students sell enough boxes which equates to the total price of the jacket, their jacket is completely free. We have all but decided on a design and will be asking for deposits over the coming weeks to secure a jacket. It is imperative whether or not you are selling chocolates that your deposit is in by the due date. The jacket will be in the vicinity of $100 depending on final designs, brands, numbers and accessories so please start putting coins

in the kitty, I know I am. The more we buy the cheaper it is so jump on board and stay tuned for due dates.

We have our formal booked in for the 28/11/14. Times, menus and all of the night’s proceedings will be decided by our dedicated formal committee. This promises to be a fantastic Friday night down in the Gong at City Beach.

Our graduation will be upon us before we know it so time for both parents and students to strap in, sit down and hang on as this year will test all of our temperaments. We all need to band together and support one another so all of our students can do their very best. I ask that all parents please encourage students to revise, revise, revise and put in the time required to fully understand their content. Please utilise all staff and their expertise to gain the edge needed to successfully complete a lucrative and worthwhile HSC.

That’s all for now, cheers & catch you soon.

Year 12 Student Adviser Mr Lightfoot

Year 12 Flex Leave students can not come back on to school grounds once they have left

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL’S REPORT YR 8, 10 & 12

Welcome back to Airds High School for 2014. I extend a special welcome to all new families to our school and hope that you and your children have settled in well to the new school year.With the holidays a distant memory, Airds High School has hit the ground running with not only a busy calendar but with lots of changes – at the school and department level.

Just to fill you in on a few of these: The Board of Studies (which governs what we

teach and when we teach it) has merged with the NSW Institute of Teachers and is now called the Board of Studies Teaching and Educational Standards (BOSTES).

We no longer have a District office in Campbelltown and a lot of staff who were once in positions at our District office, are no longer in these positions. All enquiries relating to Campbelltown schools now go to Glenfield

Office, where our relieving Director of Public Schools, Ms Kathy Powzun, is located

The new National Curriculum has been implemented for Year 7 and 9 students this year in English, Mathematics, Science and History. There will be more subjects due for implementation in 2015. Our staff have been working very hard and have spent considerable time during their holidays to plan for the new curriculum and the demands of learning and teaching in the 21st century. Your children will certainly benefit from their hard work.

With a number of staff changes, a number of Head Teachers will be taking on new responsibilities. These include: Mrs Robinson – School Values, Ms Vongsouvanh – Student Wellbeing, Mr Wagner – Senior Academic Reviews, Ms Barker – Teaching and Learning, Mr O’Neill – Middle School and Transition, Mr Hennessy – Timetable and Administration.

Senior Academic Reviews – Mr Wagner and his team will oversee the achievement and N-Determination process for Year 11 and 12 students throughout 2014. Should your child be causing issue in terms of their attendance or completion of course work or assessment work, then you may be called to attend an interview with Mr Wagner and his team. Part of this interview will be contributing to an action plan to help get your child back on track or to look at alternative pathways for them.

Attendance will continue to be a high priority in 2014. Mr Rosete and myself have been working closely with our HSLO (Home School Liaison Officer), Mr Andrew Smith and our ASLO (Aboriginal Student Liaison Officer), Mr Kevin McGuiness, to address some of our worst attending students of 2013. Attendance rates of 85% and above are critical to the success of your child at school. Please support your child by ensuring that they are at school every day, on time, prepared with all of their equipment. If they are sick, all you need to do is call the Office on 4625 5811, or send a note the next day they are at school, to explain the absence. There is always an expectation that students will catch up on missed work when they are away.

Already we have had a number of students in Sick Bay who are not following the correct procedure and we need your help. If your child is sick, they need to tell their teacher and get a note from that teacher to the Sick Bay. Your child will then be assessed by our trained Sick Bay co-ordinators, either Mrs Mackie or Mrs Williamson. After this, a call will be made to parents / carers to inform them and make a decision. Please support us by ensuring that your child follows the correct procedure and insist that they not call you in the first instance.

Thanks to all parents and carers who have ensured that their children are prepared with all of their equipment and the correct uniform. Certainly the uniform standard has been very high and we look forward to maintaining this throughout the year. We have been having a blitz

on shirts being buttoned up (rather than the t-shirt underneath being exposed) and uniform being on when students leave the school grounds.

One of my main areas of supervision this year will be Aboriginal Education. We were lucky enough to strike a deal with Briar Rd and share the expertise of Jason Sampson between our two schools as our AEO (Aboriginal Education Officer) whilst Bobby-Ann Trindall is on Maternity Leave. Jason has already started a number of initiatives that are going to be of tremendous benefit to our entire student body, but particularly beneficial for our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. I look forward to working closely with this team. As in 2013, we are also fortunate enough to have Mr Leon Latulipe back working in his capacity as Norta Norta tutor for our senior students and Mrs Nance Hooley who is in classrooms supporting our students to meet and exceed the national benchmarks in literacy and numeracy.

Finally, Year 12 Graduation 2014. We have trialled a few different formats over the last few years. This year we are going back to a December Graduation but would like feedback from the parents and carers of this year’s Year 12 – would you prefer a morning or night ceremony? Please call the Office, or send a note with your child, indicating your preference. Students will be surveyed for their thoughts next week in year meetings and I will report on the time in our next edition.

I look forward to working with you all for another exciting year and if you have any questions –please don’t hesitate to contact the relevant personnel.

Mrs J FullerDeputy Principal

Flex Leave for Year 12 students only at the start and end of the day

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL REPORT 7, 9, 11

I would like to welcome all students, parents and staff to the start of an exciting 2014.

It has been a busy start to the year with a lot happening already. I have been impressed with the way Year 7 have settled into life at Airds High School they have

taken on board the new structures to their schooling. Ms Tate has been instrumental in this occurring making sure all of her Year 7 students are happy.

It is also with great pleasure that I introduce Mr Bromley who will be the Year 6 Transition coordinator for 2014 & Year 7 Adviser in 2015 and therefore will be working closely with the Year 6 students in 2014. We are in the process of visiting all of our feeder primary schools to discuss with Year 5 & 6 students their local high school and provide information for Year 6 students as to what it will be like next year.

Airds Community of Schools – What we are doing?Student Activities Airds High School science faculty will develop

lessons/activities with the primary schools. Airds HS staff visit primary school and students visit high school to have the opportunity to explore the use of scientific methods in the science labs.

Year 5, 6 & 7 Gifted and Talented Challenge involving students selected from the primary school, 6 students are nominated from each school. The challenge will take place one day each term at AHS & will be run by the Year 9 G & T students under the supervision of AHS G & T teachers. These students will participate in set challenges rotating their way through KLA based quiz questions, problem solving activities & team building experiences. Each school group will be given points for each challenge & these will be collated after each day. At the end of the year, the school group who has the most number of points will win the annual G & T Middle School Challenge. A cross school blog will also be established for this group to communicate & set challenges during the year.

Aboriginal Numeracy Challenge Gala Days each Term. Stage 3 focus with the inclusion of Year 10 mentors to assist on the day.

Year 10 selected students are trained as mentors to deliver the Boys Own & Girl zone program currently run at Airds HS.

A Peer Support program will be delivered to Year 5 with Year 8 as mentors, so they already have relationships with peer support leaders when they attend Year 7 (i.e. Year 7 and Year 10 peer support program).

Transition visits to high school, this would involve the primary school students attending Airds High school for “taster lessons” and other activities. Use of video conference for some activities.

School Visits Airds HS to coordinate a 2015 Year 7 YA to start to

work with Year 6 (2014).

Year 5 & 6 transition advisers visit primary schools on a regular basis which allows the building of rapport necessary for the smooth transition process as well as establishing a relationship between the student and YA’s.

DP T & L and Year 5 & 6 transition advisers visit feeder primary schools early in Term 1 to discuss Airds HS and starting high school.

High school staff visit primary school to observe lessons and PS teachers observe lessons in the high school. Teacher exchange to enhance a professional relationship between the communities of schools there could be team teaching and classroom visits across KLA’s in Year 7 & 6. Professional dialogue as well as discussions of teaching and behavioural strategies.

Year 7 Showcase evening which allows the Year 7 students to demonstrate their achievements to date. Every faculty displays students work as well as work samples and performances. Year 5 & 6 students from the primary schools are invited to contribute displays by providing work samples and displays.

Orientation Day 3rd December – What to expect and getting to know high school.

Involve Parents & Community

High School Expo where each KLA will present material to the parents & students of Year 7, Year 6 & Year 5 & show case what happens in that KLA at high school. These activities will provide information to parents about the nature of secondary education and the options available. There will also be tours of classrooms & facilities. A parent and carer Information Session will also be conducted to provide you with more thorough information on topics pertaining to the transition of your child into Year 7, such as: the curriculum offered, programs and resources of the school as well as an opportunity for you to ask any questions you might have regarding your child’s education with us at Airds High School.

Airds High School staff conducts generic “parent meetings” to inform parents of starting high school, high school curriculum & how high schools cater for the needs of students. Parent meetings linked into primary school meet the teacher sessions/parent teacher, P & C meetings.

Airds High School staff to conduct “parent meetings” to inform parents of use of ICT, being safe(e.g. cyber bullying)

Produce CD to inform parents of starting high school, high school curriculum & how high schools cater for the needs of students.

Continuation of the COS Koori Newsletter each term.

YEAR 10, 11 & 12 LAPTOP STOCKTAKEAs part of the Digital Education Revolution program a state-wide stocktake of all Year 10, 11 & 12 laptops will be undertaken. This means you will be required to present the laptop to your TSO (Michael Peppernell). Between the 17th February and the 21st March, you will need to bring your laptop to school and show it to the TSO. He will then record that you have your laptop and it is in working order. It is important to note that the data on the laptops will not be erased this is only a stocktake of the laptops in the school.

Should there be any issues relating to the laptop such as damage or loss, the student should still bring the laptop in for stocktake or see the Deputy Principal who will arrange for correct procedures to be followed and ultimately repairs or a replacement laptop.

At end of the stocktake process, I am required by policy to treat laptops that have not been brought in as required as stolen property and to make a police report and request that it be closed down. The Digital Education - NSW Program aims to improve student learning experiences both in and out of the classroom. The NSW Department of Education and Communities is providing students with a personal laptop on the expectation that they will make good decisions with regard to their personal use of technology.

Thus it is important to bring the laptop in for stocktake as soon as possible.

School Expectations of Senior StudentsCongratulations on reaching this milestone in your education. You are now working towards the highest

secondary school achievement, the HSC. The schoolcommunity supports and encourages you, but also reminds you that with your senior studies comes an increased level of responsibility. It is expected that oursenior students consistently demonstrate their commitment towards being safe, respectful learners through:

Students have the right to learn. You demonstrate that you understand your responsibilities when you: bring equipment and are prepared accept the challenge and ‘have a go’ strive to do our personal best co-operate and work well with others

Students have the right to be safe. You demonstrate that you understand your responsibilities when you: listen carefully and follow instructions are in the right place at the right time use equipment appropriately say “no” to bullying and harassment

Students have the right to be respected. You demonstrate that you understand your

responsibilities when you: care for others and the environment use manners and appropriate language value other cultures take pride in ourselves, school and community

Mr J Miezio Deputy Principal

If your child is absent from school, we need a note to explain the absence WITHIN 7 DAYS – this is a legal requirement otherwise the absence will be marked as unjustified. Thank you for your co-operation.

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

I am extremely proud to be addressing you, as Principal of Airds High School. The support, encouragement and congratulations I have received from staff, students,

parents and the community has been both overwhelming and humbling. I am looking forward to working with our parents and our community members to provide the best possible education for our students.I have been extremely fortunate, in inheriting an absolutely fantastic staff. Their dedication, enthusiasm and commitment never ceases to amaze me. Many of our staff, travel huge distances to work at Airds High School not only because they enjoy working here but more importantly because they know that they are making a difference to the lives of our students. It is with great pleasure that I introduce our newest member of staff, Mrs Narelle Barker. Mrs Barker has joined our team as Relieving Head Teacher English; she is an experienced teacher who will further strengthen our staff.

This year sees the 40th anniversary of Airds High School. He will be holding a number of events throughout the year as part of our celebrations. It would be fantastic to have some input from the community. If you have an idea that you would like to share feel free to contact the school. Or perhaps, you could join our small but dynamic Parents and Citizen’s Association (P&C) at one of our monthly meetings. New members are always welcome and it’s a great way to make new friends.

Our school has agreed to work in collaboration with Campbelltown Arts Centre and Campbelltown City Council on a C3West project. Our project called Transforma has been specifically devised to raise local awareness of the links between river health and behaviours such as arson, dumping and littering. Artist Michael Tuffery will be working with members from our school/community to transform dumped cars into a modern sculpture and the finished product will be presented to our school. This seven week project will commence on 22nd February, at Airds Shopping Centre carpark.

Airds High School promotes the core values of; Safe, Respectful, Learners. These values apply not just to students but to all members of our community. Most of our students have made an outstanding start to the year, especially in regards to their learning. Unfortunately, a few students have caused concern in regards to safety and respect. As adults we need to model appropriate behaviour to our students and this is especially so when using social media. It is disappointing to see negative and hurtful messages about our students and school posted on the internet. Once it is placed out there it can’t be withdrawn and this often results in someone being offended. Please think carefully before posting!

I look forward to working in partnership with you all to improve the learning outcomes for our students. If you have any suggestions, comments or concerns please feel free to contact the school via the phone and we can arrange a time to meet.

Mr S McGuirePrincipal

School starts at 8:30am EVERY day. Please ensure your child arrives to school at this time EVERY day.

If they are late, they MUST bring a note from you explaining the lateness. Thank you for your co-operation