Airds Announcer“A place to learn, lead and achieve your personal best”

Find us at: Airds High School, Briar Road, Airds NSW 2560

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

Issue 4–Term 3 August 2010

Year 11 Hospitality students were preparing food for the unit of work “Organise and Prepare Food”. Students were working on a roux, the base for the sauce used in the vol-au-vents. Students making the minestrone soup were being assessed on precision vegetable cuts such as julienne and paysanne.

Alyssa Bolton

– Year 11

Hospitality

Alyssa’s Minestrone

Fiti

Apulu – Year 11 hospitality

Fiti’s Chicken Vol au vent

DIARY DATESAUGUSTWednesday 4th - P&C, School CouncilWednesday 4th - SSW Regional Athletics CarnivalThursday 5th - SSW Regional Athletics CarnivalMonday 9th - Culture of the TermTuesday 24th - Multicultural Parents Meeting

CAREERS NEWSTeacher Education Scholarship Program

The NSW Department of Education and Training teacher education scholarship can be worth up to $23,000 in financial assistance over four years of study, including a $5,000 annual training allowance and a one-off $3,000 grant when students begin teaching. Students will have the guarantee of a permanent job when they graduate, and as teachers, they will also be eligible for the HECS-HELP benefit from the Commonwealth Government. To find out more about the DET teaching scholarships go to www.det.nsw.edu.au/employment/teachnsw/scholarships.htm

My Gateway has the following traineeship and apprenticeship vacancies at the moment. For more information or to apply please visit www.mygateway.org.au and click on Job Seekers.

Apprenticeships Qualification Location

1st/2nd/3rd Year Carpentry & Joinery

Carpentry Certificate III Sydney

Sheetmetal Worker 1st/2nd Yr

Engineering (Fabrication) Certificate III

Huntingwood

1st or 2nd Jnr Bricklaying

Bricklaying & General Construction

CBD & Pymble

4TH Yr Electrical Apprenticeship All over Sydney

1st,2nd & 3rd Year Chef x 3

Commercial Cookery Certificate III

Campbelltown

Traineeship Qualification Location

Junior Events Traineeship

Events Certificate III Hurstville

UNSW Scholarships Information DaysDate: Thursday July 22

Venue: Sir John Clancy Auditorium, UNSW Kensington Campus

This evening is aimed at Year 11 and 12 students and their parents and will consist of a general talk about scholarships at UNSW including the UNSW Co-op Program and Commonwealth Funded Scholarships. This will be followed by a general session followed by rotating smaller talk/question breakout sessions; there will also be information booths for one-on-one discussions. The program can be viewed on the event website www.scholarshipsevening.unsw.edu.au

Registration is required as space is limited, and will open from June 2, 2010. Registration can be completed at www.scholarshipsevening.unsw.edu.au.

Macquarie University Macquarie University's Parent Information Evening will be held on Wednesday 30th June, 6:00pm - 8:00pm. Students and their parents can attend to hear more about Macquarie University's degree programs, bonus point schemes, scholarships and the transition from high school to university.For catering purposes, registration is compulsory and can be completed online at www.mq.edu.au/parentinfonight/ .  Macquarie University will also be holding HSC Enrichment Programs to assist high school students in preparing for their HSC examinations. These programs will be presented by Macquarie University academics on core and elective subject areas of the HSC Chemistry and Physics syllabus. Students can register online at www.futurestudents.mq.edu.au/hscenrichment .

"Smart Study: How to Study Less and Get More" Graphics and speech bubbles tell the story of Jane Genovese’s own personal experience of grappling with studies through high school and university to achieve great results.

As well as explaining healthy eating and the importance of regular sleep, the comic book shows how to use mind mapping – a particularly effective technique for teenagers – and offers advice on managing stress levels through exercise and deep breathing.For a "Smart Study" information pack please send an email to jane@learningfundamentals.com.au or contact Jane on 0422 460 598

Airds high SchoolThank you to the Year 12 students that attended the UWS Open day on the 7th June and the Year 10-12 students who attended the MACE Expo at Minto. A big thank you to Ms Vongsouvanh who assisted the students on this excursion.

Congratulations to Anastasia Stewart who was accepted into the University of NSW Indigenous Winter School Program during the July holidays. Anastasia will be experiencing university life on campus and attending various lectures and activities.

Selected Year 10 students will be attending the University of Sydney Open Day on the 12 th of August 2010. There are 15 spaces available. Students are to see Ms Fitas Week 1 Term 3 in order to register for this event before the 22nd July 2010.

Careers Newsletter continues to be sent to all Year 11 and 12 students via email.

Up to date information is provided for senior students in the study centre.

A careers noticeboard is also available in the main foyer for other year groups.

Tax file forms can be obtained from the Careers Advisor.

Year 10 students will be out on Work Experience from the 21st June – 25th of June.

Apply First Aid Certificate $55.00 (half price)High School students can complete this course atNarellan. It is nationally recognised and requires students to attend class for 1 day and to complete a workbook prior to attendance.Call 4647 4999 for bookings or visit www.wavelearning.com.au

Electrical Apprenticeships at Integral EnergyIf you are good at maths then Integral Energy have 60 apprenticeships available for students in years 10-12.Applications open 5th of July 2010.www.integral.com.au/apprenticeships

Careers Advisor

SUPPORT NEWSThe support unit have had some engaging Life Skills Education excursions happen last term. Recently our students spent the day challenging their senses whilst having lunch in the International Food Court in Sydney. Ty Allen was one of the standout students on the day, trying dish number 35 for lunch; a meal so different and unusual that he couldn’t pronounce its name!

The TVet access courses at Campbelltown TAFE have been very successful this term. Senior students are involved in the courses, which encompass Retail, Automotive and Hair and Beauty studies. Robert Ropati and Corey Harrison are undertaking the Automotive / Car Detailing course. Both students are working very hard as two of approximately thirty students in the course.

The exceptional students who represent Airds High School on a weekly basis through participating in the Work Experience program are also receiving glowing feedback from their workplace. Mrs Bowen has worked very hard assisting in travel arrangements, enrolments, and supporting students. We thank her for all of her hard work.

Mrs Tailby and Mrs Sargent-Smith have also enabled the POWER program to go ahead again this term. Several students are benefiting from the opportunity to access out of school learning and enrichment experiences. We also thank all of our SLSO’s for all their hard work and support.

Late in Term 1, the unit also had students from Acacia participate successfully in the Combined High School Swimming Carnival held at Concord. Kristopher Paton took out the silver medal in the 50m Freestyle and our group of students won in every novelty event that they entered. A special Thank You to Wayne Sneddon, for driving the school bus and encouraging the kids on the day.

Other exciting programs occurred last term in the unit as well, Rob Hodgson is running an invaluable boys education course in partnership with Burnside once a week. This course covered a range of topics associated with being an adolescent male.

The Airds Accoustics group performed at the Flag Ceremony in Week 6 Term 2 and their performance at Bradbury P S for Harmony Day was sensational. The choir is always a crowd pleaser and once again did not disappoint.

Support Unit

PDHPE REPORTWell done to all students who have completed their assignments and half yearly exams to the best of their ability this semester for PDHPE. It is very pleasing to see students achieve such high results. The following students have produced excellent results for assignments, exams and performances in Health and PE this semester. The students have come in the top 3 places in their class for Year 7 and 8, and in their year groups for Years 9, 10, 11 and 12:

Year 7Duchamp 1st Christina Lilomaiava, 2nd Amy McDonald, 3rd Killara Bell-StewartEsher 1st Thomas Simpson, 2nd Gavin Sempel, 3rd Monique AlguernoUnsworth 1st John Ratavou, 2nd Loata Peter, 3rd Sinai NauerVaro 1st Peter Saamauga, 2nd Sitai Burogolevu, 3rd Al-Harraz Hudaja

Year 8Confucious 1st Kira-Leigh Moore, 2nd Jason Zeballas, 3rd Tyson Riordan Voltaire1st Alicia Loli, 2nd Alex Oloaga, 3rd Tayler-Lee Devine-Litson

Plato 1st Catherine Tofilau, 2nd Cheyanne Muddle, 3rd Benjamin Ling

Year 9 PDHPE 1st Cynthia Alguerno, 2nd Katelyn Federer, 3rd Adi TuraganivoloPASS 1st Jarod Marshall, 2nd Alexander Thornton, 3rd Mitchel DelbouxCoaching 1st Cynthia Alguerno, 2nd Mitchel Delboux, 3rd Adi Turaganivolo

Year 10 PDHPE 1st Elijah Lilomaiava, 2nd Joshua Andrews, 3rd Matthew ChardPASS – 1st Walid Mousalli, 2nd Elijah Lilomaiava, 3rd

Adam Akbas

Year 11PDHPE 1st Taiba Rezaie, 2nd Kathryn O’Hare, 3rd Chantelle PriceSLR 1st Fiti Apulu, 2nd Jeffrey Waechtler, 3rd Andrew Phoumivong

Year 12PDHPE1st William Srey, 2nd Brett Hesky, 3rd Henrietta NauerSLR 1st Varu Varu, 2nd Raven Nicholls, 3rd Jarrah Rutledge

Well done to all those students! Keep up the superb effort!

All students in Year 7 – 10 should have received an assessment task before the holidays to complete. These assignments are to be handed in during their Health lesson in Week 2 of Term 3. Please ensure your child completes their assignment to the best of their ability as their marks will contribute towards their yearly mark for PDHPE. If there are any problems regarding the assignment or handing it in, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s Health teacher by letter or phone call.

Mrs Fleur WilliamsHead Teacher PDHPE

FROM THE PASTORAL CARER’S DESKWelcome back for Term 3,I hope everyone had a safe & happy holiday.

Last term was a busy time for all and there is no doubt this term will continue in this way, with many improvements planned for AHS. The improvements have an underpinning focus and that is to encourage and support our teaching and learning of students, which is always worth considering and appreciate.

Recently the school celebrated “Reconciliation Day” with an assembly and presentation of outstanding artwork produced by students with the support of Greg Chatfield (AEO). This occasion is a significant opportunity to recognise and work together with Aboriginal students to strengthen mutual understanding, trust and respect. The theme for 2010 Reconciliation: Let’s see it through!

- essential to achieve a vision for reconciliation.

It acknowledges there is a way to go, but with good intentions and actions to pave the way forward, we can achieve a stronger and fairer Australia for all Australians.

Also, later this term we intend to offer a “Money Matters” parent course for parents and carers. It will be held over 5 weeks on Tuesdays at John Warby Public School (starting August 24) if you are interested in finding out more please contact me.

I would like to remind everyone that I am at Airds High School on Wednesday and every second Thursday (Week B) this term. If I can be of any assistance please do not hesitate to contact me through the office.

Have a great 3rd Term.

Rob Hodgson JP

CLO REPORTWelcome back to Term 3. Hard to believe how quickly this year has flown.

First of all a huge thank you to the P&C team who organised the catering for Staff Development Day. Well done for a fantastic meal! Special thanks to Theresa & Lyn Clark for all their organisation prior to the day.

Thank you to the parents who attended last term’s Parent/ Teacher Interviews. It is a great opportunity to discuss progress and build communication with home and school while showing support for your student.

Last term several teachers requested assistance from P&C for special programs. Once again many thanks to Lyn & Theresa Clark, Wayne Sneddon, Judith Ferderer, Carolyn Peagam, Silvia Leary, Claudia Zeballos and Monica Zaglas who donated their time and effort for catering, driving and providing care and assistance at vaccination days.

TRIVIA NIGHT

Friday 6th August , 6:30pm in the school hall. Don’t miss this great fun and fundraising event. Fantastic prizes on offer, $10 admission per person (over 18’s only) Details in this issue.

Reminder that our next Multi-Cultural Parents’ Meeting is Tuesday 24th August 10am. ALL PARENTS WELCOME!I’m looking forward to meeting you at school during this term,

Robyn CulbertCommunity Liaison Officer

AIRDS OUTLOUD – AIRDS BRADBURY RENEWAL WORKSHOPThroughout the Year, a number of Year 10 students have been working on the Airds Outloud community project run by Housing NSW. These students have been a part of this project since last year, as a joint venture between Housing NSW and Airds High School, and it enabled them to participate in practical activities while meeting syllabus outcomes.

This year Libby Bushe, James Peagam, Mele Fetui, Crystal Nauer, Emily Dean, Melissa Le, Carly Chesterfield, Sharon Srey, Mahdi Saleh, Rebekah Noom and Billy Delboux-Fermour took part in a 2 day Enquiry by Design Workshop.

There were many outside agencies involved in these activities and our students conducted themselves in such a responsible and mature manner, that they were highly praised by all involved. They were truly great ambassadors for Airds High school and the Airds community.

HIGH RESOLVES FOR YEAR 8

On Wednesday 16th June, Year 8 and a select group of senior leaders were involved in a community awareness program called High Resolves. High Resolves is a program that aims to motivate students as purposeful global citizens and also to acquire skills they will need to lead their communities and the world, to a brighter future.

The students had a wonderful and productive time participating in workshops that involved them in connecting relationships between human beings from

different countries. They also examined media images that create divisions within our society. At the end of the program, students reflected on the day’s workshops and the messages that were conveyed. They then developed their own unifying symbols.

Fun was had by all, with lots of positive feedback given by the coordinators about our student’s participation and behaviour and the strong leadership qualities of our senior students.

The next workshop will be held on the 28th July 2010.

Reun MakYear 8 Advisor

SPORT REPORTThis term has been a busy term for sport which has really highlighted our gifted and talented students. We have had some disruption with the weather this term and I must thank all the students and parents for their patience with the change of carnival dates. Fingers crossed that next term all goes to plan.

Fisher Zone Cross Country

On the 8th of June 26 students represented Airds High School at the Zone Cross Country carnival held at Mount Annan Botanical Gardens. The Gardens offered a variety of courses with some beautiful scenery and native wildlife.

Congratulations to the following students for their achievements and progress through to the Regional Cross Country Carnival.

Name Age Group

Distance Place

Aidan Ferderer

12 years 3km 1st place and age champion

Kimberley Gimbert

12 years 3km 7th place

Leah Richardson

13 years 3km 8th place

Dylan Mahon 14 years 4km 5th place Zachary Jessen

14 years 4km 6th place

Katelyn Ferderer

14 years 4km 4th place

Adam Akbas 16 years 6km 1st place and age champion

Mahdi Saleh 16 years 6km 6th place John Alley 17+

years 6km 4th place

Jarrah Rutledge

17+ years

6km 9th place

Emma Jean Nash

17+ years

4km 6th place

A big

thankyou to all the parents who transported and supported all the students on the day.

Fisher Zone Athletics

On the 17th May and 25th of June, a variety of selected students competed at the Fisher Zone Athletics Carnival held at Campbelltown Sports Stadium. Some standout performers on both days were Jason Phoumivong, Aidan Ferderer, Kayla Coleman, Iesha Wright, Adi Turaganivolo, Jarrah Rutledge, Adam Akbas, Madhi Saleh and John Alley.

The day could not have run smoothly without the help of the seniors boys. They included Trendal Boyce, Josaia Turaganivolo, Fiti Apulu, Andrew Phoumivong, Junior Leatigaga and George Leatigaga. Thank you for all your hard work on both days, it is very much appreciated. I would like to remind students and parents that for futureevents students are not permitted on the stadium ground if they are not competing. We had a number of students attend on the day who weren’t invited to participate at the Zone Athletics Carnival on either day. This is disappointing and puts a dampener on what should be a great day. These students need to be at school and in their appropriate classes. The Sydney South West Regional Athletics Carnival is on the 4th and 5th of August at Campbelltown Sports Stadium.

Girls Knockout HockeyOn the 15th June, the Airds Knockout Hockey Team went to Moorebank Hockey Complex to play at the central venue where 7 other schools were competing for a place in the Sydney South West Final Knockout Round.

Congratulations to all the girls who played some fantastic hockey showing pride and commitment all day. The team

won 2 out of their 3 games with Katelyn Ferderer scoring 2 goals and Mele Fetui scoring 1 goal. The team consisted of Kimberley Gimbert, Faith Trevithick, Amy Jones, Aimee Burke, Katelyn Ferderer, Teuila Tuagalu, Mele Fetui, Juliana Oloaga, Crystal Nauer, Katelyn White and Sharon Srey.

Thanks to all the parents who helped with transport on the day. The day would not have been a success without your time and support. Well done girls, you have much to be proud of this year with the development of your hockey skills and team work abilities. Looking forward to the 2011 Knockout Hockey Competition.

Boy’s Knockout Hockey Team On the 18th June the Boy’s Knockout Hockey Team went to Moorebank Hockey Complex where they competed in the first round three rounds of the Knockout Hockey Competition. The boy’s first round was against Leumeah High School who went on to be victorious in all their games throughout the day. This was a high quality match between both teams, unfortunately Airds lost 4 - 0.

The boy’s next game was against Cecil Hills High School. The end score was 6 – 1 with some beautiful team work up the field to Mitchel Delboux-Fermor who put the ball into the goal. Some great defence was shown from Logan George who put in some great tackles and hits up the field.

Our final game of the day was against Elizabeth Macarthur High School. The team gave one hundred percent to the final whistle. Adam Akbas played goalie and made some tremendous saves where he put his body on the line. In the end, Elizabeth Macarthur came out on top. I would personally like to congratulate all the boys who were fantastic all day and Judith Ferderer for all her help and support on the day.

The team consisted of Aidan Ferderer, Robert Clark-Hirka, Michel Delboux-Fermor, Nathan Coghlan, Cory Selfe, Adam Akbas, Stuart Riordan, Logan George, Jeffrey Waechtler, Kyle McKenzie, Andrew Phoumivong, Matt Dent and John Kearins.

Senior Rugby League BoysThe Open Rugby League Squad started their University Shield campaign well with a forfeit from Ambarvale High School. This took the team to a cluster day against

Leumeah High School who at one stage where ready to forfeit as well.

As for the match against Leumeah it didn’t go to plan for Airds. Players arriving to the match 10 minutes into the game made it difficult to gain some form of cohesion on the field. Ross Leifi, Paul Vaai, Raven Nicholls all played hard for their school colours. Ngara Ganci and Corey Ross both showed guts and determination on the field.

In the end Leumeah showed they wanted to win the game more than Airds and comfortably ran away with a 26 – 14 win.

Mr Rosete

Girls Volleyball TeamCongratulations girls on winning the Regional Knockout Championships for the second year in a row. We wish you all the best of luck for the upcoming State Knockout competition.

On Saturday 12th of June, Jackie Faiaoga departed Sydney and travelled to Napier,

New Zealand where she competed in the Trans Tasman Championships representing New South Wales for volleyball. At the championships Jackie played against Queensland, North Island NZ and South Island NZ. Congratulations Jackie, what an awesome experience and achievement.

Netball

On 8th June the Girls’ Knockout Netball Team attended the Regional Competition held at Endeavour Park in Fairfield. Our girls played a Round Robin Competition of four games against various schools throughout the day.

This year’s Girls’ Knockout Netball Team consisted of Mekita Loli, Serita Sa, Jasmine Tusiupu, Ashleigh Vidovic-McCarthy, Juilana Oloaga, Maggie Ta’uo-Maile, Teuila Tuagalu, Mareta Varu, Adi Turaganivolo and Millie Turaganivolo. It was a strenuous day for our girls as they only had a ten minute break in between each game. The first game was against Ashcroft High School which was a draw with the score being 11-11. We lost the second game against Mount Annan High School by only one point with the score being 14-15 Our third game was lost to Thomas Reddall and the score was 10-25. But our last game was played extremely well against Ambarvale beating them with a score of 16-10.

I would like to thank Mrs V Williamson for the superb umpiring she endured for the day. I would also like to congratulate all the girls on the team for their excellent effort and sportsmanship. They are to be commended on how well they behaved on the day as they were fine ambassadors for the school and it was a great team effort. Well done girls!

For those students who missed out on this year’s Girls’ Knockout Netball Team remember to tryout next year.

Girls’ Knockout Netball CoachMs N Vongsouvanh

School SportThe following students have shown a high level of participation and commitment towards their school sport. Well done and congratulations, keep up the great work up.

Year 7 Peter Saamauga Syd Nauer Christina Lilomaiava Chloe Staveley

Year 8 Riggot Varu Seru Tamani Teuila Fetui Amy Jones

Year 9 Holly Reed Augustina Tautalafua Ali Khalil Jarrod Marshall

Year 10

Maggie Ta’ui Mailei Consuela Tevaga Ryen Huges Adam Akbas

Year 11 Taiba Rezai Alisha White Fiti Apulu John Kearins

Upcoming sporting events 23rd July – CHS Cross country at Eastern Creek 4th and 5th August - SSW Regional Athletics

Carnival to be held at Campbelltown Sports Stadium

20th August – Eat It Work It Move It Gala Day for Year 8 students.

15th September - Fisher Zone Presentation at Ambarvale High School

N.TateSports Organiser

MULTI-CULTURAL PARENTS’ REPORTAt our last meeting, the parents present discussed Culture of the Term presentations for the remainder of the year. It was decided that Ha Nguyen, who is the Community Information Officer for Campbelltown schools would make a presentation about refugees to recognise National Refugee Week. A film, produced by Lismore High School students would be shown followed by Ha’s own story of her experience as a refugee. (Due to technical difficulties this presentation will now be made in Term 3.) Suggestions were made about including extra information in next year’s Flag Ceremony.

Parents from the Aboriginal community suggested forming a group of interested students and parents to learn contemporary Aboriginal dances.

One of our parents has volunteered to talk about the many cultures that make up her family background.

We are still hoping to make a banner, showing the many backgrounds of the families at our school and would like more parents to come along to our next meeting to help us to decide how to make this.

Please feel welcome to join us at our next meeting – Tuesday 24th August at 10.00am in the Meeting Room (main office block).

“PHYSICS IS FUN” – SCIENCE EXCURSION TO LUNA PARK

On June 28, a group of very excited Airds High School students attended Luna Park in search of science applications in fun parks. All of the students had lots of fun on the rides and they also learned lots about science. We learned about gravity and that we can dance on fast rides that squash you! All of the students

that attended had lots and lots of fun and we all enjoyed ourselves very much. Thank you to Mrs Holmes and Ms Temple.

Victoria Endicott & Chelsea NauerYear 11 Senior Science

P & C PRESIDENT’S REPORTHello,Firstly, I would like to discuss uniforms. It is wonderful to see that most students are in uniform but there is still a small minority who feel it is not necessary. There is a reason that the School Council and P&C have endorsed the wearing of school uniform. They are for the safety of both staff and students - to identify outsiders who should not be on the school grounds and also for equality.

I know these are financially hard times and that some families may have more than one student. We only ask that the clothes that students wear are the colours of the uniform – green, black and white – not blue, pink or yellow.

This term we are holding our Trivia Night on 6th August. Please ring the school to book your table on 4625 5811. Tables of 8 – 10 at $10 per person.

At our next meeting our special guest will be Natalee Bonnell, from Community Change makers. It will be on 4th August at 10.15am in the Common room in the Administration Block. Please feel free to come and discuss the many good things that are happening at Airds High School and within the Airds community itself.

There have been many improvements at our school; we should feel extremely proud of the school and its surroundings. Congratulations to our Principal, Max Foord and the fantastic staff for all they do!

Till the next newsletterTheresa ClarkPresident

LEARNING AND ENRICHMENT REPORT

Oxygen FactoryAs reported in the last edition of the Airds Announcer, we had the pleasure of Mr Glen Gerreyn appearing at our school to host his “Study Smart” workshopwith Years 9, 10, 11 and 12. Student surveys highlighted the positive effect of this presentation, with many comments detailing how motivated they felt, how they learnt anything is possible with hard work and a dream, and how to de-stress and get organised by “chunking down” their work into small achievable goals. Glen also spoke about being pro-active and taking P.R.I.D.E (Personal Responsibility for Delivering Excellence.) Glen outlined his own extraordinary story, as well as reminding us of other amazing people such as Nelson Mandela and the Wright Brothers, who have overcome the odds to do amazing and previously unthinkable things! This helped our students to believe they can be anything, and go anywhere, if they set goals and have a positive attitude to life!

Senior Study Glen’s Study Guide is now available in our Senior Study for all students on every desk, along with the “Exam Intelligence” guide purchased earlier this year. Seniors can certainly feel confident in setting high targets with the Senior Study providing an excellent opportunity to each and every student to work hard and achieve their goals!

Teaching and Learning TeamI would like to acknowledge all the hard work of the STLA Teachers (Ms Naomi Green and Ms Melanie Alden) and our SLSO’s (Ms Louise Rodriguez; Ms Julie Hopwood and Ms Marie Addamo) who work hard to assist students with their learning needs, in the full range of subjects, across all year groups. This work makes a huge difference for our students. Thank you- it is appreciated!

Student Achievement, Welfare and Engagement Activities - New Notice Board Students will have observed the brand new notice board in the foyer of the school which highlights messages about positive engagement. Mr Foord’s “Principal’s Puzzle” has already proven a hit, with some students cracking the lateral thinking puzzle to claim the prize! This is where you can find information on youth support and help agencies; health and well-being; competitions and also reminders about important school values and initiatives… so if you haven’t had a look yet, check it out!

Achievement Week - Fantastic Engagement activitiesAll year groups have had activities arranged for them during Achievement Week, including excursions and welfare activity days. The most consistent and most improved participants in each year group will be rewarded with a pizza lunch, movie and games afternoon on Friday Week 11. All year groups will be hosting a Formal Assembly on Thursday this week to acknowledge the positives and hard work achieved by

their cohort this term. A special congratulation to the Year Advisors who have worked hard these last few weeks on organising tremendous activities, as well as wading through reports for their entire year group!

Student of the Semester These awards will be celebrated as the high point of the Formal Assemblies. Student of the Semester is a very prestigious award which is given to exemplar students who demonstrate positive behaviours across the full range of school activities and pursuits. A new category has been established for those students who have demonstrated. Parents can expect positive COMMENDATION letters to arrive in the mail for the recipients!

STUDENT OF THE SEMESTER - SEMESTER 1, 2010Group Outstanding Most Improved12 Henrietta Nauer; Chris

Thornton; Serife Uzal; ~

11 Martin Letteri-Yeadon; Iesha Wright

Andrew Phoumivong

10 Matthew Chard. Rebekah Noom;

Joshua Andrews

9 Katelyn Ferderer; Kane Walsh;

Benteh Jalloh

8 Catherine Tofilau Jade Baker; Jesse Philipsen.

7 Al-Harraz Hudaja; Katherine Vanu

Blayke Bugatto

Support Tyrelle Connolly; Tiphanie-Jayne Rowlands

~

SRC Emily Dean Meaghan Noom

WOW! FANTASTIC NEW PRIZE RAFFLE for MERIT CARD EARNERSThank you to “Pamper Parlour” Jacaranda Ave Bradbury (ph 46 209786) and Bunnings Warehouse - off Kellicar Road, Campbelltown, who have donated prizes for our new Achievers raffle which will begin next term in another fun initiative to increase positive student engagement! BE IN IT TO WIN IT by demonstrating the three key behaviours of PBL: taking personal responsibility for SAFETY; LEARNING and RESPECT and giving your merit awards to your Year Adviser!

Prizes so far include- a Kettle BBQ (Bunnings) and BBQ pack

including a meat tray, apron, heat beads and tongs!

- a haircut, style and blow-dry at Pamper Parlour Bradbury

- a limited edition “Blues” Steeden Football- a V8 Racing Car 4GB USB Thumb Drive- A Macarthur Square gift voucher.

In closing, remember; our PBL rules are compulsory here at school, but they are also good guidelines for how to act in the community – Take personal responsibility for safety, respect and learning when out and about.

In addition, keep in mind the Oxygen Factory message…Be proactive; Make the most of your local youth centres and youth groups to get involved in positive activities as much as you can this holiday!

I wish everyone a positive, fun, relaxing and safe break!

Kind Regards Ms Walsh Head Teacher Learning and Enrichment

NEWS FROM TASOn the 31st May, Senior Hospitality and Food Technology students accompanied by Ms Coogan, Ms Cumines and Mr Sneddon went to see the filming of ‘Ready Steady Cook’ at the Channel 10 studios at Pyrmont.

Students saw 2 episodes being produced. The first episode we saw will air on Channel 10 on the 26th July 2010. The screening of the second episode has not been scheduled yet.

The first episode had two celebrity contestants from “Bondi Vet’, Dr Chris Brown who cooked with Alex Herbert, the executive chef and Co Owner of Bird Cow Fish, Surry Hills, Sydney. His ‘Bondi Vet’ partner Dr. Lisa Chimes, worked with Frederic Barreau, the head chef of Piato Restaurant at McMahons Point.

The second episode featured chefs Alex Herbert and Matt Golinski.

Students were able to see the chefs and the contestants prepare amazing dishes using a variety of ingredients. The plating of each dish was impressive.

Students were able to have a group photo taken with the host Peter Everett.

PBL REPORT

“Positive Behaviour for Learning”

Each Tuesday, students participate in PBL workshops for 20 minutes at the end of period 2. The focus for most of Term 2 has been on attendance. Students have been discussing why it is important to come to school on time every day. They recognise that they are missing out on valuable learning time and that their lateness disrupts the flow of the lesson. Students have also discussed that when they are late or absent, they often miss out on classwork and when they don’t catch up on this work, they have gaps in their learning.

Roll Teachers have been making calls to parents to discuss the lateness of some students and there has been a blitz on lateness to period 1, where students have to make up the time they are late.

On the positive side, we have been having raffles with movie vouchers for students that have been attending every day on time. Congratulations to the following students:

Week 9 Week 10Year 7 Namiro Puia Elizabeth LilomaiavaYear 8 Rhian Homann Dylan MahonYear 9 Kane Walsh Emily George-CoxYear 10 Stuart Riordan Work ExperienceYear 11 Stephen Lardner Emma-Jean NashYear 12 Corey Harrison Jasmine Tusiupu

We will also be having a BBQ early next term for the Roll Class with the best attendance – 7R1 and 7R3 were the winners for weeks 9 & 10.

Please support your child by ensuring that they are at school, every day, on time. We do understand that there are times when they cannot be at school and we ask that you send a note explaining the absence or lateness when they return to school.

Some students are coming late because they are dropping their younger brothers and sisters off to school at Briar Rd Public School. We have spoken to the staff at Briar Rd and have been advised that staff are on duty from 8:30am to supervise primary students. Please encourage your children to drop their younger siblings off at the Briar Rd gates at 8:30am and go directly across to their school and straight into Roll Call. This will ensure that they are not marked late for the day.

Please support your child by ensuring that they are at school, every day, on time. We do understand that there are times when they cannot be at school and we ask that you send a note explaining the absence or lateness when they return to school.

Many thanks for your support,

Mrs J Fuller PBL Co-ordinator

SRC NEWS

Term 2 has been another very busy term for the Airds High School SRC. All students were busy this term involving themselves in the organisation of the School Disco. This was held on Wednesday 23rd June in the School Hall with an excellent turn out of students having an enjoyable night of dancing with their friends and teachers.

A lot of organisation went into putting the School Disco together. From making posters, to selling tickets at recess, to helping out on the night. All SRC members took on these roles and many more to ensure that the night ran smoothly.

Special mention must go to Emily Dean (Yr 10) who kept everyone on task and ensured that everyone had a job and was completing it by the designated timeline. She was a positive and motivating role model for the rest of the SRC and the school with her commitment to making the disco a successful fundraiser. Other students who deserve a special mention for their efforts in helping organise the School Disco are: Amy McDonald (Yr 7), Christina Lilomaiava (Yr 7), Aidan Ferderer (Yr 7), Zac Dunn (Yr 7), Timothy Toro (Yr 8), Damien Manu (Yr 8), Rebel Delboux-Fermor (Yr 8), Meaghan Noom (Yr 8), Caroline Masunu-Leatuafi (Yr 11), Rebecca Wignall (Yr 11), Laura Hunt (Yr 12) and Henrietta Nauer (Yr 12).

A last thank you to all the teachers who gave up their time to help supervise on the night. These include Mr Foord, Mr McGuire, Mr Adams, Ms Walsh, Ms Viravong, Ms Green, Ms Owens, Ms Radford, Ms Fuller, Ms Tate, Mrs Robinson, Ms Kennedy, Mrs Addamo, Ms Cumines, Ms Mak, Ms Atlagic, Mr O’Neill, Mr Rosete, Ms Dikhil, Mr Ta, Ms Saenz and Ms Aryton.

Just a reminder to the existing SRC representatives that meetings are held in 7.2 on Mondays and Thursdays at recess. Your attendance is monitored and you are your year group’s voice!!!!

Thanks for your efforts this term SRC.

Mr Buckley and Miss SimmsSRC Co-ordinators

Miss Simms organising everyone for the Nutbush and Macarena

Mr Foord teaching everyone a few moves

COMMUNITY NOTICES

Separation is a difficult time for everyone in the family

A decision to separate is one of the hardest choices you may ever make, and it has consequences for everyone in your family. Both you and your children may feel confused about what is happening, and be unsettled about the impact of such change.

Separation can evoke strong feelings for everyone – you, your partner, your children, and even extended family members like grandparents, aunts and uncles. Your family is undergoing significant change - separation usually means that the family is dividing, and that one parent will be leaving the household.

With change comes emotion. You may feel sad or lonely, angry, guilty, or like you have failed in some way. Many parents have experiences of depression and anxiety. In fact, you may feel all these emotions at different times.

It is important to remember that your child also has strong feelings. They may feel grief, shock, insecurity and worry whether the remaining parent will leave them as well. Some may feel that they are to blame for the situation, while others may feel angry.

As a parent it’s important to understand that your children are also going through a distressing time, and to do what you can to reduce the impact on them. Here are some basic tips to assist with that:

Prepare children as best as you can. Give them a simple explanation of why you are separating.

Let your children know that both parents love them very much.

FreeProfessionalCounselling

24 hours a day

Remind children that it is not their fault – it is a decision that you as parents are making about your relationship.

Focus on the positives. Give lots of love and attention. Try to avoid conflict in front of your children, and avoid blame.

Try to minimise the change to your children’s environment and routine.

Acknowledge how your children are feeling, and that these feelings are okay.

Issue 4– Term 3 August 2010

For more information on separation or any parenting issue, call our professional counsellors for the cost of a local call from a land line, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 1300 1300 52 or read our information sheets on separation on www.parentline.org.au

RELIEVING DEPUTY PRINCIPAL’SREPORT YRS 7, 9 & 11With Mr. Kennedy taking a well earned Long Service Leave break, it has been my pleasure to sit in his office for the past few weeks, and observe all the good things our students and staff are doing in the school.

We have had many students going out for sporting competitions: Rugby League, Hockey, Soccer, with our Volleyball teams doing exceptionally well; and many students contributing to Art, Music and Cultural performances. Of particular note here is the success of Year 12 student Rachel Fiafia in reaching the next stage of the X Factor competition – keep your eye on the screen, and we wish her the best of luck.

It is classroom performance, however, that we are most concerned with and, whilst relieving for Mr. Kennedy, I have had a great insight into what is happening in classes around the school by observing lessons and reading all of the Year 8 and 10 reports. I have been impressed by the engagement of our students in various classes and the quality of the lessons staff are preparing, and report comments reveal that the vast majority of students, day in day out, are trying to achieve their personal best and are making very good progress.

For Year 12, Term 3 is a most important term. Trial HSC Examinations are in Week 6 and Major Works and Performance Tasks are due in many subjects. These tasks are part of the HSC, marked by independent markers, so students need to be focusing now, polishing off their final performances and ensuring that they give their best. I also cannot emphasize enough, there is no excuse for missing the deadlines on any of these tasks, and students still need to come to school for their performances, even if they are feeling ill. I wish Year 12 the very best of luck as they move towards the culmination of 13 years of schooling.

Wednesday 28th July, is Parent Teacher Night, when reports will be distributed. I look forward to seeing you all there.

Thank-youMr. Adams

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL’SREPORT YRS 8, 10 & 12

Welcome to all the parents and friends of Airds High School. I hope you all had a restful, relaxing and enjoyable holiday with family and friends. By now you would have had the opportunity to read your child’s Half Yearly Report. I hope that your child’s progress has met with your expectations. I, along with all staff look forward to discussing your child’s progress and ways to improve their learning at our Parent Teacher Night early in Term 3.

As mentioned in previous Airds Announcers regular attendance is crucial to your child’s development as a responsible member of our learning community. When your child misses school or arrives late it causes them to lose valuable learning time and therefore opportunities. This also has a negative impact upon their classmates and staff. It also teaches them bad habits in regards to punctuality, which will be hard to break once they enter the workforce.

Recently we have implemented a “Phone Intervention Program”, with the intention to improve our students’ attendance patterns. All Year Advisors regularly review the attendance of the students in their care to ensure that they are meeting both school and department standards. If your child’s attendance falls below an acceptable level, their Year advisor will contact you by phone. We hope that you will assist us by reinforcing the importance of attending school every day on time.

It is fantastic to see so many of our students wearing their school uniform with pride. The wearing of a school uniform makes it easy for all staff to identify our students and therefore any outsiders trying to enter our school are quickly identified and asked to leave. Should you need any financial help paying for your child’s uniform please contact the school and we will be happy to provide assistance.

As I am writing this report most of Year 10 has just completed their Work Experience Assignments. A number of staff including myself will be visiting our students to check up on their progress so far. It is important that our students know and understand that they are representing not just themselves but also their families and our school when they are out working in the local community. So please take the time to ask how they day went. This unique and invaluable experience would not have been possible except for the tireless work by our Careers Advisor Ms. Adrianna Fitas.

Our Year Advisors have been extremely busy organising various Welfare Days for all of our students. These days provide invaluable opportunities for our students to work

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on their social skills within their year group and to take ownership of their learning. I was lucky enough to be invited to spend some time with Year 7 during their Welfare Day and I can say what a positive, productive and fun day it was for all involved. Well done to Ms Taylor and her team.

On behalf of the school I would like to thank Downes Nusery for their very generous donation of a trailer load of plants. These plants will be used to beautify our school grounds and provide much needed shade over the coming years. This company has demonstrated a long term commitment to our school by regularly providing us with beautiful native flora which in turn brings native fauna into our school.

That’s all I have at the moment, except to say that we can only achieve the best possible outcomes for your child by working together. I look forward to seeing or hearing from you soon. Hopefully at Parent/Teacher night!

Steve McGuireDeputy Principal

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL’S REPORT – TEACHING & LEARNING

I am pleased to report that Year 9 students received their laptops on Monday 21st

June. It was an exciting time for all and I would like to thank Michael Peppernell (Technical Support Officer) for his work in making sure the allocation of the laptops went smoothly. In Week 11 of Term 2 all Year 9 students participated in workshops for the Educational use of the laptops. The purpose of these workshops was to ensure that students are using the laptops to their full potential to access technology for use in lessons.

I would like to acknowledge the successful Year 7 2011 scholarship applicants. The selection panel was very impressed with the applications and the supporting documentation from the Primary School teachers. Congratulations to the following Year 6 2010 students: Emma Walsh and Jai Harding from Briar Rd PS, Dounia Baklaje and Jade Simpson from John Warby PS.

I will be offering a Technology Workshop for parents. The areas that will be covered in the workshop include: i) How schools use computers, ii) Computer terminology and iii) Tutorials for a range of abilities in the use of Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Excel. I will be offering 2 workshop Sessions: Wednesday 18th August 10am – 12pm and from 4.30pm – 6.30pm. The workshops will be conducted in one of the computer labs so numbers will be limited. You will need to contact Mr Jeff Miezio as soon as possible if

you wish to attend the Technology Workshop. Numbers need to be finalised by 5th August. If you have any queries contact Mr Jeff Miezio at school.

I have had a meeting with Mr Buckley and representatives from our feeder primary schools to discuss our transition program for Year 6 students attending Airds HS in 2011. It was a very productive meeting with a lot of programs proposed and discussed. These included: Buddy Program, Primary/secondary Teacher Partnerships, development of a Middle School Curriculum, Students’ Blog, Taster Lessons, Indigenous Transition Program and Support Unit transition Program. We look forward to working with the students and teachers of our local primary schools to ensure a smooth transition to high school.

Finally I would like to acknowledge the work of our Teaching and Learning Faculty. It has been a very busy and productive semester for Teaching and Learning. The Head Teacher Curriculum (Ms Sumana Viravong) and Head Teacher Learning Support & Enrichment (Ms Lara Walsh) have been working on a number of programs to enhance the Teaching and Learning at Airds HS. They have been ably supported by STLA’s Naomi Green and Melanie Alden and our SLSO’s Maree Addamo, Julie Hopwood and Louise Rodriguez.

Mr Jeff Miezio Deputy Principal Teaching & Learning

FROM THEPRINCIPAL’S DESK

I would like to thank all staff for their professionalism and commitment to the ongoing provision of quality education for all of our students at Airds High School. Last term was a particularly long term for staff, who gave up time from their families in the Term 1 holiday break to participate in ongoing training in Accelerated Literacy. This training had continued throughout Term 2 and once again staff gave up time in the holidays to continue with this quality program. I would like to thank Ms Angel and Mr Buckley for their ongoing leadership in this program and all staff for their full support.

There had been many challenges, opportunities and highlights for students, staff and parents throughout the last term. The administration of the NAPLAN tests certainly created a stressful situation in many schools and across the Nation. The students; however, faired well and

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made a concerted effort to perform to the best of their ability during all aspects of the examination.

Students sat Half Yearly Exams, competed in debates, Master Mind and Chess competitions, excelled at a number of sports, including: Volleyball, Soccer, Hockey, Rugby League, Athletics and Cross Country. A number of students have been selected to represent the school at zone and regional level.

The annual Flag Ceremony, highlighting and recognising the cultural diversity of Airds High was a huge success and once again drew the community closer together. To Mrs Jones and her dedicated team, congratulations on a job well done.

Reconciliation was celebrated with the development of a project that culminated in an art work displaying the Australian and Aboriginal Flags, the Tharawal emblem, the ‘Lyre bird’ and student hand prints in the Olympic ring colours representing all nations and a united front. I would like to thank Ms Bateman and Mr Chatfield and all Aboriginal students and non Aboriginal students for their involvement in the program.

Design Out Loud – a community and government based initiative to redesign the Airds local community was undertaken over a three day period. A number of Year 10 students were active participants and had a say in the future of their local community.

The SRC organised a high successful school dance and this was well supported by students and staff. It was so popular that students have requested another in Term 3.

A large number of excursion were undertaken to supplement the mandatory school programs. Stream Watch, Midannabu Garden Group visit to Mt Annan Botanical Gardens, Careers Expos and visits to the theatre and local organisations were well received by students.

M. Foord

PRICIPAL’S CHALLENGE #4FUNNY FACEStudy this face carefully Which of the world’s great cities does he hail from?

The answer is written all over his face.

PRINCIPAL’S CHALLENGE ANSWERS

CHALLENGE #1Your challenge was to connect all nine (9) dots using only four (4) straight lines without your pen leaving the paper.

CHALLENGE #2The Robinson family have a square swimming pool in their garden. At the corners of the pool were four trees. The Robinsons wanted their pool to be twice as big, and still square.

However, they weren’t allowed to cut down the trees. How did they solve the problem?

Old Pool

New Pool

CHALLENGE #3“How old are you Sally?” asked Stan.Sally’s response: “A couple of days ago I was 12, next year I will be 15.

Answer:Sally was asked this question on 1st January 2010.A couple of days ago (30th December 2009), she was 12.Yesterday, (31st December 2009), Sally had her 13th

birthday.

This year on 31st December 2010, Sally will be 14 and next year on 31st December 2011, Sally will be 15.

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