enews issue 3

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8 March 2013

IN THIS ISSUE

Wardle House

News

Senior

School News

Principal

Retail

Events

School Calendar

Student Exchange

Learning,

Teaching and

Innovation

Sports News Joan Ansett

Hall

School News

Music News

Arts News

Career

News


TERM 1, 2013

Labour Day (Public Holiday) 11 March

Year 7 & 8 Science Family Night 14 March

Senior School House Athletics Competition 12 March

Autumn Concert 19 March

Rowing Presentation Dinner 22 March

Classes Conclude 28 March

Boarding House closes (5:00pm) 28 March

TERM 2, 2013

Boarding House opens 14 April

Classes commence 16 April


On Monday this week I had the pleasure of attending the Alliance of Girls Schools’ International Women’s Day breakfast at Parliament House. This was an opportunity for some of our Senior School leaders form the Student Representative Council (SRC) to meet girls from Independent, Catholic and Government girls’ schools to celebrate International Women’s day. Toorak College is a member of the Alliance of Girls Schools The Alliance is a vibrant and vital body within the Australasian education sector. Its support for ‘variety, quality and choice,’ and the improvement of education offered in girls' schools has led to its recognition and endorsement within the education community. This Friday we will also invite two inspirational women from our Old Girl Community back to Toorak College to address Year 12, mothers and staff. Jacque Ross, who graduated in 1991 has a background in educational leadership and also joined the computer revolution in the late 1980s. Jacque’s current focus is on the development of apps for mobile devices. We also welcome Sarah Bryant who graduated in 1992. Sarah studied architecture at Melbourne University. She went on to become a principal in Bryant Alsop Architecture. Her practice is design focused and committed to providing creative, positive, flexible workplaces for women and families. Staff News: Mrs Julia Williams, Head of Wardle House will be taking long service leave in Term 2. Mrs Mandy Whitworth will take on the role of Head of Wardle House during this time. Mr Andrew Williams will be taking long service leave in Term 2. Ms Lisa Hamilton-Smith will take over the role of Head of Year 10 in Andrew’s absence. Mrs Sylvia Deuschle will also take long service leave during Term 2. Ms Satomi Harikawa will take over the role of Head of Languages during this time. Helen Carmody Principal


Open Day Last Saturday our school looked its best for Open Day. It was delightful to see families enjoying Bob the Builder and the sausage sizzle. Many visitors to the school took a tour and loved visiting the classrooms. Students who acted as tour guides or performed in the Music Centre did an outstanding job. Our students are always wonderful ambassadors for the school. They happily gave up most of Saturday to undertake this role. Beach Picnic On Friday Wardle House Prep, Year 1,2,3,5 and 6 are attending the annual Beach Picnic. This year the school’s association with Mornington Life Saving Club has enabled us to take advantage of Mills Beach and the Club facilities.

Anyone who has attended the annual Wardle House Beach Picnic has lasting memories of digging in the sand, swimming, playing with their buddies and receiving an icy pole. I often hear senior students talk with fond memories of the day. This annual event has been part of Wardle House culture since the 1960’s when it commenced at the Ansett property and is very much a special tradition looked forward to each year. Year 6 – Canberra Tour - 2013 In week three of Term One, the Toorak College Year 6 students undertook their educational tour of the National Capital. They participated in a variety of educational programs to assist them to gain a better understanding of our history, culture, heritage and democracy. The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit their National Capital as part of their civics and citizenship education. To assist in meeting the cost of the excursion the Australian Government is contributing funding under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate (PACER) program toward the travel expenses incurred. This contribution is paid directly to the school upon completion of the program. We would like to thank the Australian Government for their support of this program. This excursion was a rewarding experience for all students. Teacher Visit Next week two teachers will be visiting Wardle House as part of our teacher exchange between Toorak College and Sekolah Buin Batu School, on Sumbawa Island, in Indonesia. This program offers teachers and students from both schools a wonderful cross cultural link as well as sharing good teaching practice in the PYP. Ibu Fardiana Utami and Ibu Dinny Rachmawati will arrive on 16th March spending time in all areas of the school. Bullying. NO WAY! On Friday 15th March the school is responding to the government ‘Bullying No Way!’ initiative. Boys will be given an orange bandana and girls orange hair ribbons to wear. This annual day provides a focus for schools who want to say ‘Bullying. No Way!’ And to strengthen their everyday messages that bullying at school is not okay at any time. The annual National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence occurs on the third Friday in March each year and is organised by all Australian education authorities through the Safe and Supportive School Communities Project.


Harmony Day On Friday 22nd we be having a Harmony Day disco and karaoke in the MacLean Hall at lunchtime to also support building resilience and getting along with others in a respectful way. This is being run by Sam Paterson the Community Liaison Prefect. Student Achievements Charlotte Baker in Year 6 has a role in the July 2013 Peoples' Playhouse Production of BUGSY MALONE. She has a speaking part, as well as playing several different roles in the ensemble. It will be lots of fun. Tegan Backx, Year 4, competed at the All Junior Swimming Competition, made the finals and placed in Breaststroke 7th , Freestyle 3rd and Butterfly 9th . She now swims in the Metropolitan finals hoping to go to Sate. Sailing Success Chloe Harper and Ella Sayers Harper have been competing regularly over the summer in Optimist dinghies. Jess recently won the Schnapper Point Regatta, despite very poor winds and has a great trophy. Wardle House Parents Association Last week at the WHPA Annual General Meeting the following office bearers and committee members were elected. Plans are in progress for an exciting year with a blend of friend and fund raising. Currently beanie bears sales are great with half of any profit being sent to the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal. Please note the dates for Term 2 Trivia Night on June 15th and the new Pancake Day for the students on 14th June. President: Vanessa Doody Vice President: Prue Lines-Perrier Secretary: Dominic Bruehwiler Treasurer: Greg Grigarius interim Committee Kylie Dewsnap Heidi Speksnyder Sarah Bailey Felicity O’Brien Emma Nickson Catherin McKenna Tanya Wilson Julia Williams Head of Wardle House

Meetings for the year are as follows, any parents are most welcome to come along: WHPA Meeting Dates 2013 15th April 7:30pm Monday 27th May 7:30pm Monday 22nd July 7:30 Monday 26th August Monday 14th October Monday 21st November Thursday


Proposed Events 2013 Term 1 Easter Beanie Kids Fundraiser and Royal Children’s Hospital Appeal- orders close 15th March Wardle House Hot Dog Day - Thursday 28th March Term 2 Mothers’ Day Stall - May 7th 8:30-12:30 May 9th 8:30-9:30am Whole School Mothers’ Day Lunch - Friday 10th May Pancake Day - Friday 14th June Trivia Night - Saturday 15th June Term 3 Black and White Ball - August or September Ranelagh Club date TBC Book Week - Tuesday 20th August Bring a Book Sale Fathers’ Day - Apron & Mug student art work Whole School Fathers’ Day Breakfast - Friday 30th August Hot Dog Day - Friday 20th September Winter Market - Term 3 TBC Term 4 Oaks Day Lunch - Thursdays 7th November Christmas Stall - 26th and 28th November Christmas Disco – Student Action What Makes Me, Me? Charlize Thomas in Year 3 loves living on her farm. She has two guinea pigs and two dogs. Unfortunately foxes ate the chickens. She loves horse riding and she did have a special horse named Stormy. Now she has riding lessons on a Saturday. She is very proud of her horse riding ribbons. Charlize really enjoyed her holiday to Queensland and liked the theme parks, especially Wet and Wild and going to the Australian Outback show. Charlize enjoys going to Drama lessons and Maths and Spelling at school. Her special items memories are on display in Reception.


Hot Cross Buns! As part of the Year One Cooking Program, Year One made delicious Hot Cross Buns this week. Thanks to wonderful parent support from Sarah Nicholls (Charlie Allan’s mum ) and Natalie Davie ( Ella Skewe’s mum) each child was able to work in a small group and be really involved in each step. During our cooking days the children are developing skills for measuring capacity and writing recipes as we work together to produce delicious, wholesome foods. Thanks to Mrs Melville’s amazing creative vision and some parents who sew, each child has their own, self-designed apron so we look very professional too! So far we have made Lemon Barley Water, Canned Peaches and Zucchini Cake as well. Easter Eggs next!

Brooke Pitschlitz, Stella Shaw and Winston McArthur kneading the Hot Cross Bun Dough.


Year 3H Jessica Telfer Anna Franklin Year 4L Elliot Doody Amelia Musgrave Year 4T Charlie Watts Ella McKenna Year 5D Cordelia Sweeney Claudia Zampatti Year 5B Victoria Syme Scarlett Anwender Year 6C William Meldrum Madeleine Jones Year 6S Annabelle Canny Elizabeth Jacob

CLASS CAPTAINS – MARCH 2013 The following students have been selected as Class Captains during March.

Class Captains

Prep E Isabella Carroll Kylah Schuwalow Prep C Zara McFarlane Isabel Avendano Year 1A Toby Herring Jasmine Smith Year 1M Brooke Pitschlitz Archie Baker Year 2S Siena Makris Alex Le Brocq-North Olivia Kitchen (March Captain) Year 2U Declan Ryan Patrick Otten Year 3D Ryanti Coles-Janess Maison Degg


Assembly monitor Isabella Djokic 6S Tyler Wilson 6S Charlotte Baker 6C Serene Vudiniabola 6C House Captain Awards Isabella Djokic 6S Red House Captain Amaleh Elks 6C Blue House Vice Captain Phoebe Hewson 6C Blue House Captain Matilda Lacey 6S Gold House Vice Captain Georgia Musgrave 6C Red House Vice Captain Tyler Wilson 6S Gold House Captain Junior School Council Nicola Bradbury 6C Chloe Dennison 6C Isabella Djokic 6S Georgia Godfrey 6S Bella Hall 6S Gabrielle Hanson 6C Alexia Kirchmann 6S Millicent Meldrum 6C Georgia Musgrave 6C Ebony Phillips 6S Learner Profile Award Caspar Baker 2S for caring for a friend Jackson Vidakovic 3H for being a principled learner in Music Georgia Morgan 1M for taking action Making a difference Award Brenton Elks 4T Lui Oberman-Watkins 4T Charlie Watts 4T Isabella Baker 2U for raising money for Haiti Jazi French 2S for fundraising for the Royal Children’s Hospital Zoe Luttrell 2U for fundraising for the Royal Children’s Hospital Music Captain Awards Nicola Bradbury 6C Chloe Dennison 6C

AWARDS – MARCH 2013 The following students have been selected to receive Awards.

Awards


Year 3H Hope Backx Elouise Jarman Year 4L Danielle Kent Lauren Bessey Year 4T Tahlee Ferguson Brenton Elks Year 5D Hanna Rosser Alessandra German Year 5D Ella Sayers Ella Smith Year 6C Gabrielle Hanson Charlotte Swift Year 6S Tiarne Dawson Matilda Lacey

CLASS CAPTAIN AWARDS – FEBRUARY 2013 The following students have been selected to receive awards for their work as Class Captains during February.

Awards

Prep C Ruby Watts Harriet Smith Prep E Robson Brereton Kokoda Dunstone Year 1A Isabella Bruehwiler Charles Allan Year 1M George McKenna Sophie Teleskivi Year 2S Jorgia Mellon Olivia Kitchen Year 2U Ruby Lines-Perrier Poppy Hunt Year 3D Katharine Baker Ruby Caldwell


Our teachers ensure the children have explicit instruction in reading by using assessment. Teaching reading involves more than determining a reading level and moving students onto the next. We use the CAFE Menu to help students understand and master different strategies used by successful readers.

Personalised Learning

Parent Participation Training Sessions We welcome and value parent participation in our school program and research tells us that parental involvement helps children achieve the best possible learning outcomes. On Wednesday thirty-two parents participated in the first of three information sessions designed to augment parent understanding of our Literacy program. The learning intention of session one was: * To explore how children learn. * Recognise and value differences and explore the role of classroom helpers when assisting with reading. * To consider how children learn to read. * To explore the reading environment at home and in the classroom. •To explore how home and school can support readers.

CAFE is an acronym for Comprehension, Accuracy, Fluency, and Expanding Vocabulary, and includes goal-setting with students in individual conferences, developing small group instruction based on clusters of students with similar goals, and targeting whole-class instruction based on emerging student needs and fine tuning one on one by conferring with students. On Wednesday March 13th at 9am we will explore all aspects of writing and our final session will cover spelling. If you wish to join any of these sessions contact Wardle House Reception or email [email protected] Mandy Whitworth Wardle House Deputy Head/PYP Coordinator

mailto:[email protected]


Toorak College welcomed many visitors to the school on Saturday March the 2nd for Open Day. Blessed with lovely weather the school could not have looked more beautiful and it was wonderful to showcase all that we do in such a lovely setting. There were many activities run by staff and students for visitors to enjoy and I would like to thank everyone who came to school on Saturday to make it such a success. In particular, the senior school students demonstrated their commitment and leadership by volunteering to be a tour guide and share with our visitors their experiences as a Toorak girl. We received terrific feedback on how wonderfully well the girls undertook these duties and I especially thank them as ambassadors for Toorak College.

We also welcomed Lyn Sharratt to Toorak College as she ran two days of seminars for staff on February 26 and 27. Lyn is a professor at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto in Canada. A world leader recognised for her work in improving literacy and numeracy from the early learning years to young adult, Lyn shared practical strategies that have been proved to be the most effective in improving student outcomes. At a time when we as educators have more and more data to hand on how students learn, the next step is to build in good practices to effectively use that data to help students improve their learning outcomes. Lyn’s seminar was called ‘putting faces on the data’ which underscored the personal, individual approach required to support young learners. At Toorak College we are committed to knowing each girl as a learner and as a person and Lyn will be continuing her association with our school as a consultant as we build on the work done to date. Year 9 had a most successful week at City Cite, demonstrating high level skills in Inquiry Learning. It culminated in an impressive presentation to parents in the city on the final Friday night of their week. I particularly thank Mrs Linda Howey as Head of Year 9 and the Year 9 teachers for all that they did to make this a most valuable learning opportunity for our girls. As this newsletter is being distributed, Year 7 girls are concluding their Orientation camp, having enjoyed a week of wonderful weather and camping at Shoreham. Learning how to live co-operatively, as well as learning bush skills and how to surf, the girls have had a terrific week together with their teachers. I would like to thank the Head of Year 7 Ms Faith Lucas and all the teachers who have helped to make this a wonderful experience for the Year 7 girls. Thursday March 7 saw the girls in the senior school celebrate International Women’s Day by dressing as a woman they admire. At Assembly, we heard from Care Australia representative Lyrian Fleming of her many experiences and the ways in which we can show leadership and serve others. The money raised by the girls donating for the right to come to school dressed up on that day will go to Care Australia to support their work with women. Lois Dwyer Deputy Principal / Head of Senior School


International Women’s Day Assembly


The Year 9 girls attended the City Cite program last week, 25th February – 1st March. They had a very busy week visiting lots of places around Melbourne as a group and also conducting their own research. It has been wonderful to watch these students grow in confidence and develop their independence over the week. I was very proud of the way they represented Toorak College and there were many positive comments about their behaviour, their interaction and questioning within the group activities and the way they have worked together to prepare and present their research. It was not all smooth sailing, but they have learnt from the difficulties they faced. I would like to thank all of the parents, grandparents and friends of the students who made their way up to Melbourne for the Presentation evening, it was a wonderful night and the girls really appreciated showing those nearest to them what they had achieved throughout the week. I have included some of the student reflections below. Linda Howey Head of Year 9

Year 9 City Cite

Chessie Oswald-Jacobs: City Cite has been an amazing experience. I have learnt so much in such little time! I think I have got the concept of trams under my belt, with a lot of help from Mr Barker… I have also learnt a lot from our numerous tours. I loved learning about the homeless and how they have to live, how we can help them and how other people are helping them right now. I loved listening to Zoe talk about all the different types of street art (which was our focus); she took us down some really cool alley ways and streets where we saw some amazing art pieces. I can’t describe how amazing this whole experience has been, I have learnt so much more about the city but there is so much more to learn still. Holly Roysmith: The last week has been fantastic. I have been to so many different places and learnt lots of different things. I think that my favourites were the Magistrates court and the heritage walk. The magistrate’s court was interesting and I really enjoyed watching the whole process, and the different people in there were really interesting. I have found that I really don’t like lifts that much because they make me feel like the floor is going to drop out from under me after. I have had my share of disasters, going the wrong way on a tram and ending up at the other end of the line, though surprisingly I didn’t feel worried or stressed. It wasn’t frightening and it really didn’t bother me. I like the trains more now because of it though. They only go in one direction to one place, otherwise they are not the Frankston train, and they are a different one. The heritage walk was really fantastic and I really liked the guide. I thought that the smoking ceremony was a really interesting experience and loved learning about the different uses for the plants. It was really nice to go somewhere that was green instead of all the city blocks. I have really enjoyed the whole experience and feel comfortable in Melbourne.


Year 9 City Cite

Hannah Lack: My week at City Cite has been challenging in a number of ways. It has also been eye opening. I have learnt so many new things about the city and it’s people. The talks and excursions have been engaging and provided me with information and insight about many aspects of Melbourne that I previously had no knowledge of. Josephine Dalstead – presented this poem as a Rap song! I found myself in CBD, With a lot to do, and a lot to see. Millions of people all buzzing around. There is nothing near me like that sound. The sound of rushing traffic, and blinking lights Of wide-eyed tourists seeing sights. The sound of positive magazine sellers, Of over-enthusiastic storytellers. The sight of millions sharing a place, Of humans from every different race. Many streets and shops I saw, Food and fashion and music galore. The smells of Melbourne aren’t always fine, Especially when people are squished in a line. You can smell the food, the culture, the sensation, Each place seen today, it’s own wondrous creation. Federation Square, with its unique design, Its shops and its vibe are simply divine. We saw chocolate shops and a grand arcade, Melbourne’s sensory atmosphere will never fade.

Public transport, we did use, We successfully travelled, not even a bruise. I feel very safe travelling in the city, With people from every workplace and committee. We saw uni-students who weren’t very meek, Experiencing all that they can in O-Week. They were confident, strong and even loud, And of their identity they were very proud. To homelessness, I’ve a new point of view, It’s a horrible thing for someone to go through. How can someone survive in a place so busy? And with no proper home, it makes me dizzy. Today’s exploration has made it quite clear, That Melbourne is certainly not something to fear. If you make wise decisions and clever choices, There will be no need for panic in young people’s voices. Not a single person should be a nonentity, They together create the urban identity. How is Melbourne safe for young people? We may not know. But through experience, our knowledge will grow.


Year 9 City Cite


The Year 10 Executive and Tutorial Leaders were presented with their leadership badges at a Level Assembly on Monday 25th February. Congratulations to the following girls: YEAR 10 EXECUTIVE COMMON ROOM Erin Price Marlya Sammann Sinead Waterson ARTS PORTFOLIO Emma Collins PUBLICATIONS PORTFOLIO Ruby Stocker HEALTH/RECREATION PORTFOLIO Tess Rolley INTERNATIONAL/CULTURAL AWARENESS Emma Wiggins FUNDRAISING Lydia Watt TUTORIAL LEADERS – SEMESTER 1 BUDZISZ Tute Julia Carbery Tori Edwards-Poulton CAREW Tute Adelaide Johnson Abby Rose Buckley Davies Tute Zoe Summers Bec Patrickson DUKE Tute Holly O’Neil Marlya Sammann SLATER Tute Tess Rolley Anysley Mitchell

Year 10 Leadership


Year 10 Tute Volleyball & Gumboot Throw Competitions Year 10 tutes, all lined up, Who will win the volleyball cup? First serves start, scream and shout, Smiling girls show what it’s about. Rallies, digs, sets, misses, Winning teams are looking vicious. Cheering from side of court, Some big hits, some a little short. Five rounds down, challenge done, And the Davies Tute clearly won! Next up: the Gumboot Throw, Which tute would let their muscles show? Backwards, forwards, side on, Warm up was a big marathon! 2 chosen from each tute, Who could throw the furthest gumboot? Some went far, some went wide, The physics was soon pushed aside. Georgie tried, the boot flew, And the trophy went to Tute Carew! Ruby Stocker Year 10 Executive

Year 10 Poem


Learning, Teaching and Innovation

What type of future will be our young women be facing? Toorak staff and parents who attended the information night for Years 8-10 pondered this question as Erica McWilliams delivered an engaging presentation focused on ‘High flying futures for today’s young women’. Our young women will enter a work force in which there will be definitely more chances to be connected and to harness their creativity via smarter technology. However, the amount of information or ‘big data’ available at their fingertips will be phenomenal and it will be vital that they are highly discerning as they seek to identify the minuscule amount of data or knowledge that is actually authentic and useful. Erica emphasised that with a global job market students will confronted by a high level of competition and required competencies. Kindness and ethical behaviour will still be important in their future. They will need to value their abilities and the capacity to learn. The most critical skill required of a student will be the ability to know what to do when they don’t know what to do. Erica also highlighted the danger that if people are too self-focused, they become vulnerable when things don’t go well. Research referred to by Erica indicated that a student’s self efficacy is sourced from a sense of achievement rather than a stream of compliments or an avoidance of failure. This last point really resonated with me as I referred to the work of Guy Claxton in my last eNews column and the importance of building persistence and resilience by ensuring that our young people feel safe to make errors and understand that learning is hard and may feel uncomfortable at times – a very normal feeling as they experience challenge. Erica also highlighted that students will have to become self managing learners who can monitor and reflect upon their own learning and who do not constantly require constant constructive affirmations. They will also need to work well in a team as ‘flockmates’ in which they may behave as leaders and followers as well as individuals. ‘Flockmates’ are highly attuned to the abilities of others with whom they work closely, to align their practices to build on the variety of the group’s strengths as they problem solve and co-create together. As high flying ‘flockmates’ they are top level performers who are able to embrace error and see these instances as learning opportunities. The skill of collaboration is, and will continue to be so essential for the learners of today and the future. The practice of developing these ideal attributes of ‘flockmates’ can begin at an early age. For example, I was delighted to recently discover the routines being established in Year One in which teachers are encouraging students to observe the good actions of their peers as they enter the classroom or begin activities so they too can align their actions to benefit the overall group. On another note, in 2012, as part of my five year reflection of the Academic Endeavour awards process, I conducted a student survey to identify their thoughts and ideas. I was very impressed by the high degree of thought and reflections presented by students and have modified some aspects or practices of the process as a result of their voice. The awards have always been about the development of the attributes which build strong learners and to emphasise this. To avoid any confusion that the awards are about grades, the title has been changed to “Learning Endeavour Awards”. The award process occurs towards the end of each semester. The ‘enthusiastic’ column has been slightly amended to allow students who may exhibit at least one of the specified actions to a high degree to be considered. Years 7-9 students who obtain 1-2 nominations during a semester will receive a certificate whilst students who have obtained at least 3 nominations in one semester will receive a year colour. Students who receive 1-2 nominations in the first semester and then receive at least another one nomination in Semester 2 (a total of at least 3 nominations for the whole year) will qualify to receive a year level colour and will be acknowledged at the semester 2 assembly. Liana Gooch


WARDLE HOUSE PARENTS ASSOCIATION YOGA Yoga is being offered on Tuesday nights. Just bring your water bottle, blanket & yoga mat! Time: 7.30 – 8.45pm. Cost: $12 per session or $90 for a term (payment required up front for discounted price) Where: At Wardle House in the MacLean Hall. 2013 Classes will be every Tuesday starting from 8th January through to the 26th March. There is a public holiday on 2nd April, so no class will run on this date.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SESSION – FRIDAY 22 MARCH Are you wondering what it means when we talk about the necessity for your children to become mindful digital citizens? If you are, or would just like to have a chat about technology and its role in your children's lives, then join us on Friday the 22nd of March for our first Technology information session of the year. Meet with our Director of ICT and eLearning, Jenny Luca, in the Senior School Library at 9.00am for morning tea and an informal chat. RSVP to Jenny on 9788 7283, or reply by email to [email protected]

International Women’s Day Breakfast On Friday 8th March Toorak College hosted an International Women’s Day Breakfast in the Cloisters. We were fortunate enough to hear from Old Girls Jacque Ross, Sarah Bryant and TCOGA President Cara Litterick as our guest speakers. What a fantastic way to start the day to hear from such inspirational women. Thank you to all who attended.



‘I AM ELEVEN’ In Tuesday 26th February we were very fortunate to have had a viewing of the documentary ‘I am eleven’ followed by a question and answer session by the Melbourne based film maker Genevieve Bailey. It was mainly organised for the Unit 1 Health and Human Development students as they are studying youth and the changes associated with moving into adolescence. Viewing ‘I am eleven’ shows children at the end of childhood and on the edge of moving towards adulthood and independence. The Unit 1 Media students were also invited as were our grade six students, whom are eleven! There were lots of interesting questions and Genevieve was so warm and honest in her responses. It was a fabulous experience that students and staff found inspiring and heart warming. ‘I AM ELEVEN is a life-affirming global portrait of humanity at a crucial age – no longer children, not quite adults, preparing to inherit a world changing as quickly and dramatically as they are. This documentary focuses on a series of eleven-year-olds from 15 countries, each speaking in their own words and revealing the private obsessions and public concerns that animate their lives. It is simultaneously an epic survey of the similarities and distinctions between cultures and an intimate account of these young personalities finding their way in the world today’. (www.iameleven.com ). Genevieve was recently named as one of Australia’s ‘Top Film and TV of directors of 2012′ in the Encore and Mumbrella Annual. Genevieve’s films have screened internationally at festivals and have picked up over 25 awards to date. I AM ELEVEN is her first feature documentary. Co-producer Henrik Nordstrom re-located to Australia and established Proud Mother Pictures with Genevieve Bailey to produce award-winning international stories that connect with global audiences.

http://www.iameleven.com/

http://mumbrella.com.au/the-biggest-directors-of-2012-129076




Daily Reports Daily reports for the following school day are posted on TConline at 3pm. Daily reports are also emailed out to all students. Parents can access the reports via TConline home page, or via the following link: https://tconline.toorakcollege.vic.edu.au/News/Daily%20Notices/DailyNotices.aspx

Erica McWilliam - Presentation The powerpoint presentation from Erica McWilliam’s presentation to parents is now available on TC Online: https://tconline.toorakcollege.vic.edu.au/Notices/parents/Shared%20Documents/Erica%20McWilliams_Toorak_20Feb_2013.pptx

What’s Going On? That ‘s the question many girls wanted the answer to when they spied a group of teachers assembled on the grass in the Cloisters, recently. What do YOU think is going on? Stay tuned, there’s more to come!

School Photos The formal and casual versions of the year 12 group photos for 2013 are now online and ready for ordering from the National Photography website: www.nationalphotography.com.au Password for 2013 = TOC3

https://tconline.toorakcollege.vic.edu.au/News/Daily Notices/DailyNotices.aspx

https://tconline.toorakcollege.vic.edu.au/News/Daily Notices/DailyNotices.aspx

https://tconline.toorakcollege.vic.edu.au/Notices/parents/Shared Documents/Erica McWilliams_Toorak_20Feb_2013.pptx



http://www.nationalphotography.com.au/


Exchange to Japan On Australia day of last month, Maddie Orton and I returned from seven weeks of exchange in Japan. I have to say, those seven weeks were the most exciting, sometimes overwhelming, but the most valuable seven weeks of my life. I had to admit, in the few weeks leading up to leaving, I was terrified. What if they don’t understand me? What if I get lost? But I soon found out I was putting the cart before the horse, everything went fine, and I enjoyed myself along the way. I can now say I have made a deep connection with my host family and met some interesting people whilst on exchange. It was an amazing experience and I don’t regret it one day of my life. To experience the culture, to eat all the food, and to gain a little self-confidence and independence was worth every minute. Delaney Gray Exchange to Germany (October 2012-Jan 2013) Over the last three months, I have been enjoying my time in Snowy Germany on Exchange. To begin, it was really hard to settle in, trying to work out how the Germans did things, and having to overcome many misunderstandings only being able to speak in German! School was of course very overwhelming, and I was surprised at how advanced the students are there. At times I almost felt like they could speak better English than I could! After a few weeks though, I was living like a local. Already I found it easier to converse with all the new people I was meeting in German, and I was getting on well with my host family. They gave me the opportunity to travel to many cities, and we even took a holiday to Austria, where I learnt to ski amongst the most picturesque snow capped mountains and blue sea. My highlight of the three months though would have had to have been simply experiencing a German Christmas and getting to know the whole extended family as if they were my own. The celebrations start months before, and I think I went to almost every Christmas market in the state, trying typical German food, and freezing through my millions of layers. My German has improved out of sight and I would definitely recommend and exchange to anyone who is looking for a challenge and an adventure! After a while though, there was something about waking up to fresh snow every morning that made me crave our beautiful Australian beaches, so I am happy to be home! Chloe Kerlidis

Student Exchange


Exchange to Germany Towards the end of 2012 I was fortunate enough to be selected to participate in the Southern Cross Cultural Exchange three-month exchange to Germany. When I first heard that I was accepted a mixture of excitement and nervousness landed upon me, as if it had only just hit me that I would be speaking a completely different language, living with total strangers and having complete minimal contact with my family in Australia for a quarter of a year. When I first arrived in Germany, to be honest it was a bit of a shock. It was as though all of what I had learned in German had slipped away from my mind! Though after around the first week I rapidly felt my German language skills getting better, after the first month I could understand most people, by the second I was contributing to conversations, and by the end of my trip I barely recognised myself, I was thinking, talking and even dreaming in German! Learning the language was just one of the amazing experiences that came with exchange. On top of gaining this skill I travelled to amazing parts of Germany, such as Cologne and Berlin, made an indescribable connection with my host family and friends and was even was lucky enough to learn how to ski whilst on a holiday with my host family in the Austrian Alps! Going on exchange was the most unbelievable experience of my life, even though there were challenging, difficult situations, I’m glad I went as I know now that it is an opportunity like no other. I would strongly recommend anyone who is offered the option to travel on exchange to grasp it with both hands; I guarantee it is an experience that you will never want to forget! Anna Durham Year 11

Student Exchange


The Toorak College Open day was highly successful for the Visual Arts Department and all the students who’s work was on display throughout the school and Visual Arts building. All the Visual Arts staff attended the day and supervised a number of students who came in to work in the Art rooms on the day. Many reports came back of positive comments and discussions with parents and prospective students about the Artwork on display, the wonderful facilities and the creative and open vibe that was present throughout the building. Perhaps the most pleasing comment I received was from a parent who said that of all the schools she had visited over the last few years, the Art works and images at Toorak College were by far the most interesting and professional. This is a credit to the staff and most importantly the girls making the works. The girls in the Food Technology area excelled yet again and we had repeat visitors tasting the wonderful food that was all made on premises by students and overseen by the ever hard working Mrs Panetta. Art Club started last week and this years’ prefect, Alex Race-Lyons, can celebrate in the knowledge that it was the biggest turn out of students in a number of years. Alex is very excited by the prospect of having so many students engage in some of the activities she has planned throughout the year. Stay tuned for up coming competitions and activities to promote Art and explore your inner creative self. Toorak College is moving forward at a great pace in the area of Art promotion and our new relationship with the Frankston Arts Centre is destined to bring more of our students work to the public in the near future. Dailan Hatherley Head of Visual Arts.


The Music Department will round off Term 1 with three big performances. Please mark these in your diary – we would love to see you there! Autumn Concert Tuesday March 19 7pm MC1 Our annual Autumn Concert will feature all our large ensembles. Ensemble playing is such an important skill for musicians to learn and refine – it is what playing music is all about. It is also lots of fun ands very musically satisfying, rather like a sports team enjoying a win. Everyone shares in that feeling of accomplishment and joy. It is a fitting end to our first term of lessons and rehearsals. Cruden Farm Family Picnic Sunday March 24 On Sunday March 24 musicians of Toorak College will entertain at the Cruden Farm Family Picnic. What a privilege to be invited to perform for the crowds on this open day! . Our Jazz group “Sisters of Swing” with selected vocal soloists will perform. It is a lovely way to spend a sunny Autumn Sunday afternoon. Come along and enjoy our music as well as the Tommy Carter Jazz Band, in the beautiful surrounds of the home of the late Dame Elizabeth Murdoch at Langwarrin. (Invitation on following page Soiree Tuesday March 26 7pm MC Term 1 will conclude with our first Soiree for 2013. Come along and hear our musicians in a smorgasbord of solos!! Would you like to learn to play the drum kit? Would you like to learn to play the harp? We currently have vacancies for these instruments. If you are interested please contact the Music Office.


OoA/TWN

THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA ASSOCIATION MORNINGTON PENINSULA REGIONAL GROUP

PICNIC AT CRUDEN FARM

Home of the late Dame Elisabeth Murdoch AC DBE

Cranhaven Road, Langwarrin (Melway 103-G6)

Featuring entertainment from

TOMMY CARTER OAM & HIS CELEBRATED JAZZ BAND Sunday, March 24th, 2013

12 Noon to 4.30 pm

Fundraiser for our Secondary Schools Award Programme BYO PICNIC, TABLES AND CHAIRS

Donation: $10.00 per Person, School-Children: Free

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC - ALL WELCOME,

NO NEED TO BOOK – JUST ARRIVE. SAUSAGE SIZZLE; RAFFLE PRIZES

MAGNIFICENT GARDENS, TREES AND LAKE

COFFEE AND TEA PROVIDED; SOFT DRINKS FOR SALE

Further information from Brian Stahl OAM JP: Ph 0407 683 525

Email: [email protected]

or Tom Newman OAM: Ph 9017 0904 Email: [email protected]


As I write this I really should be packing my bags as I head of to China tomorrow to meet with parents and agents of our Chinese girls. This is going to be a great opportunity for me to speak personally with these families and to get an insight into where many of our girls come from. It will be pleasing to tell the families that all of the girls have settled down well to their studies and are all working very diligently and conscientiously. The biggest change is of course for our Year 11 girls, who really see the big transition from Year 10 into full VCE classes. However many are taking full advantage of the tutoring services that are provided to them and are grateful for the support their teachers are providing to them. The hot weather we have been experiencing has taken its toll on some and many are enjoying the use of the school pool for a quick dip before dinner. One of the student supervisors, Sue Jones, took her girls to Mornington Beach last week and they paddled in the ocean and had fish and chips on the beach. The girls all had a lovely time as you can see from their happy faces. Each month we celebrate with a wonderful birthday dinner and last Sunday we celebrated with all the girls who had birthdays in January and February. Each girl received her own birthday cake and handmade card from her friends in the Boarding House and a fun night was had by all. I look forward to giving you all the exciting news from China on my return. Celia Mara Head of Boarding


SWIMMING AND DIVING The Senior School Swimming and Diving Teams travelled to the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre for the GSV Preliminary Competition at on Friday the 1st of March. The swimmers performed extremely well. The Senior Team finished in 4th place; the Intermediate Team in 5th place and the Junior Team in 3rd place. The Swimming Team overall finished the meet in 4th place which means that the team will contest the Division 2 Championship event at MSAC on Tuesday the 19th of March. The final meet for the season is the Finals Evening for the Top 10 swimmers across the three Championship Carnivals. The Finals Evening will be held at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre on Tuesday the 26th of March. Well done to all swimmers who recorded personal best times in the outdoor pool.

Term One Results

The Senior Diving Team – Lorren Chiodo, Molly Morrison and Jess Hosking finished 2nd to Firbank. The Intermediates – Jess Bottomley and Lily Orton finished 5th and the Juniors – Elise Unmack, Zoe Blochlinger, Mae Cuming, Siena Scott and Holly Williams finished 6th. Thank you to coaches Martin Harrison (Swimming) and Georgie Chambers (Diving) and Team Managers Ms Danielle Smith and Elonie Morris (Captain) for all the work that they have put into preparing the team for the Preliminary Competition. I wish everyone all the very best for the Championship competition. GSV GOLF Toorak College entered a team of eight students to compete in the GSV 9-hole Stroke event played at the Metropolitan Golf Course on Tuesday the 19th of February. The Toorak College golfers always put in a very strong show at this event. Betine Hartley (Year 8) finished 2nd and Lydia Watt (Year 10) finished 3rd in the competition for students without a registered golf handicap. In the category for students with a recognised golf handicap, Lorinda Harltey(Year 12) finished 2nd and Alex White (Year 12) finished 3rd. Both Lorinda and Alex were within one shot of the leader. Stephanie Patchett-Walsh (Year 12) won the competition for closest to the pin. Well done to Bettine, Lydia, Lorinda, Alex, Jamie Burton (Year 8),Jemima Stocker (Year 9), and Maddy Patchett-Walsh for their performances at the Metropolitan. Thank you to coach, Mr Brendon Underwood as well as Sonia Hartley and Allan Burton for their support on the course.


GSV TRIATHLON Toorak entered three teams and two individual competitors in the XO Size Triathlon at Sandringham on Sunday the 24th of February. Girls Sport Victoria has worked with the event managers to have a GSV Wave start at this event. It is a very early morning for those involved as the mini distance event starting at 7.00am. It was a spectacular morning down at the beach and all swim competitors were very happy to see the bay conditions very flat for the swim. There were over 250 competitors from the Girls Sport Victoria schools and it was very exciting to watch the Toorak College team compete. The mini triathlon was involved a 300m swim, 10 km bike ride along beach road and finished with a 2km run. Baylie McGain (Year 8) finished in 15th placed in the 12-13 years individual event. Sarah Hosking (Year 12) finished 7th in the 16-18 individual event. Louise (Year 8) and Meg Lambie (Year 10) have been competing in the Triathlon series.Louise finished 28th in the Female 12-13 age group. Meg was unable to compete in the Sandringham event. In the teams event – Team One Matilda Hellier-Lovick (Year 7) and Karli Rookes (Year 7) placed 23rd; Team Two – Phoebe Parker (Year 7), Camryn Johnstone (Year 7) Maddy Gaff-Larsen (Year 7) finished in 20th place; Team Three – Vanessa Bradbury (Year 9), Maggie Dick (Year 9) and Saasha Whitworth (Year 9) finished first in the GSV Competition and 1st overall in the U19 Division. Vanessa, Maggie and Saasha posted the 49th fastest time of the day. ‘Team Whitworth’ finished 1st in the over 19 teams event. You may wish to ask around Wardle House to find out which Whitworths competed as part of this team! Congratulations to all involved.

Term One Results


The final rounds of Term One Weekly sport will be played over the next two weeks. In order to make finals it means that the team needs to finish on top of the ladder. Tennis Finals are played at Melbourne Park, Softball Finals are at Jells Park in Waverley and Indoor Cricket Finals are played at Oakleigh Indoor Sports Centre.

Term One Weekly Sports

Senior Softball Rd 1 Toorak loss to SMS Rd 2 Game cancelled - heat

Rd 3 Toorak win against Siena

Rd 4 Toorak draw with MLC

Senior Tennis Rd 1 Toorak A and B Team win against MGGS

Rd 2 Game cancelled - heat

Rd 3 Toorak A and B Team win against MLC;

Rd 4 A loss and B win against Genazzano

Senior Indoor Cricket Rd 1 Toorak loss to Sacre Coeur

Rd 2 Toorak loss to PLC Rd 3 Toorak loss to MGGS

Rd 4 Toorak loss to Siena

Inter Tennis Rd 1 Toorak A and B Team loss to Korowa

Rd 2 Toorak A and B

Team win against Mentone

Rd 3 Toorak A washout

against Firbank; B Team forfeit

Inter Indoor Cricket Rd 1 Toorak loss to Shelford

Rd 2 Toorak loss to Sacre Coeur

Rd 3 Toorak loss to Mentone

Junior Softball Rd 1 Toorak win against Camberwell

Rd 2 Toorak win against St Caths

Rd 3 Toorak loss to MLC Rd 4 Bye

Junior Tennis Rd 1 Toorak A and B win against St Margs

Rd 2 Toorak A win against Mentone; B Team Bye

Rd 3 Toorak A and B Team win Genazzano

Junior Indoor Cricket

Rd 1 Toorak loss to Lauriston

Rd 2 Toorak win against Sacre Coeur

Rd 3 Toorak win against Mentone

Rd 4 Toorak win PLC


TERM TWO SPORTS Sports on offer in Term Two include Cross-Country Running, Netball, Hockey, AFL (Years 9-12) and Waterpolo (Years 9-12). Hockey, Water Polo Training and Netball grading games will commence in the last week of term one. AFL Training will be held at lunchtime commencing the week of the 18th of March. We will enter teams in the Frankston Basketball Association Winter Competition and the Term 2 Frankston Netball Association Competition. At this stage it looks like we don’t have the numbers for teams in the Mornington Netball Competition. Please let me know if your daughter is interested in playing netball or basketball in the community program. GOOD LUCK TO: The Rowing Team as they complete their final preparations for the Head of Schoolgirls Regatta on the weekend of the 16th of March. The National Water Sports Centre has been closed due to poor water quality so the girls have worked hard with dry land rowing ergometers as well as Fitness Training. This week the crews are back on the water up on the Yarra River. Thank you to Wesley College for their help with use of their boat shed. The Rowers would welcome spectators at the Barwon River on the 17th of March. Please see Ms Thomson for further details. The Sailing Team as they prepare for Girlsail 2013 on the 8th of March. The Sailing Team have been working hard with Teams Racing Training and Competition where they often compete against teams of male sailors. The team are looking forward to the competition out of Daveys Bay Yacht club against other schools across Melbourne. The Human Powered Vehicle Team who compete in their final event for the 2012-2013 season. The teams will be competing in the Wonthaggi Human Powered Vehicle Grand Prix Event. The event is a 24hr race.

CONGRATULATIONS TO: Jessica Bean (Year 8) who was nominated to trial for the U16 Victorian Basketball Team. If you know of students who are doing exciting things in their community sport, please feel free to pass on the information [email protected] Kirsten Thomson Director of Sport



There were some great results for the Toorak Equestrian Team at the recent Inter School Show Jumping event. Eighteen Toorak riders entered the event and included Gemma Dennison, Year 3, Bella Warner, Year 5, Stephanie Ivanovic, Year 6 and Courtney Allison, Year 8 in their first ISJ competition representing Toorak College. Congratulations to the riders listed below who all earned placings- ISJ Stars Level – Jasmine Dennison riding Bubble & Squeak, Two Phase 1st, Grand Prix 1st Overall 1st Jasmine Dennison riding Fosby Flop, Two Phase 5th Grand Prix 7th Overall 7th Matilda Alexander riding SH Smokey Quartz, Two Phase 7th Grand Prix 2nd Overall 3rd Matilda Alexander riding Eliza Jane, Two Phase 2nd Grand Prix 5th Overall 4th ISJ Advanced Level –Holly Roysmith riding Mitre 10 Missy, Grand Prix 8th Overall 11th ISJ Progressive Level – Georgia Wozny riding Grace Kelly, Two Phase 7th Grand Prix 5th Overall 5th Chloe Dennison riding Lakevale Stylish Century, Two Phase 6th Grand Prix 7th Overall 6th Belle Thomson riding Anzac, Grand Prix 6th Overall 7th Molly Morrison riding Bobby, Two Phase 1st Overall 8th ISJ Improvers Level – Stephanie Ivanovic riding Pentref Olympia, Two Phase 1st Overall 7th ISJ Encourage Level – Natasha Moody riding Tantalus, Grand Prix 10th Overall 14th Overall, Toorak won on the day!!! Scoring 31 points - 3 points ahead of Flinders CCC, 4 points ahead of St. Margarets, and 8 points ahead of Hillcrest CC. The winning team members were Jasmine Dennison, Georgia Wozny and Matilda Alexander. Currently for the Victorian Equestrian Inter School Series we closed the gap on Hillcrest who are at the top of the table - we remain in 2nd place on 88 points, 7 behind Hillcrest who are sitting on 95.Thanks to Magenta, senior riders and parents who supported the Team at this event. The strong team spirit was certainly present under our Toorak marquee and was well rewarded with an overall win on the day. The next event is the Inter School Dressage Competition on Saturday 9th March. Jazi French, Natasha Moody, Stephanie Ivanovic, Amelia Walker, Hannah Shippen, Ella Smith, Charlotte Sinclair-Stanley and Nat Lamb are competing for the Toorak team and are entered in a range of sections, which is great. We wish these riders well and look forward to hearing the results from this event. This term the team has had some great training opportunities; enabling riders to fine tune their skills leading up to their competitions. The after school sessions with Olympian, Laurie Lever have been most worthwhile and there are dressage training sessions scheduled with Reiner Kramer that team riders are looking forward to. Lynda Sharp Equestrian Team Co-ordinator

Equestrian Team


Equestrian Team


Sailing

Sailing is off to a great start this year with both the beginners and intermediate groups training on a Monday night at Davey’s Bay Yacht Club. The addition of an intermediate group has allowed a more structured pathway through the sailing curriculum in the school and should enhance the skills so that the girls can achieve greater success in the Schools Team Sailing Regattas. The program has enabled girls with previous sailing experience to learn the tactics of racing, rules, start sequences and team racing before moving on to the Toorak Squad Sailing Team. The Squad Team has begun training at Albert Park on Tuesday nights this term and has been competing at Black Rock Yacht Club Wednesday afternoons. Under the guidance of two highly accomplished Internationally acclaimed Irish coaches, the girls are developing better skills in performing tactical manoeuvres to outsmart the opposition and are looking forward to putting these skills into practice at the Victorian School Team Championships on 22nd and 23rd March. On Friday March 8th Toorak College ‘girlsail’ regatta will be held at Daveys Bay Yacht Club. This event is a highlight of the girls’ sailing calendar and has been instrumental in raising the profile and participation of girls in sailing. Every year the regatta attracts girls from schools across the state with students of varying ability. We again have the support of Yachting Victoria who, this year, are sponsoring coaches to support the bronze fleet with their racing skills. We have been generously supported by local organisations who have donated and supported the event with prizes for each category. These are: Helly Hansen, Ronstan, Sport Phillip Marine, Quantum, Geomatic Racing, Peninsula Life Medispa, Curve ,L’Oreal and Keep Resin These organisations have all contributed to making this event possible. We thank them for their generosity. We wait in anticipation for the weather on Friday as it contributes greatly to the success of the event. We encourage anyone with an interest in sailing to contact Mrs. Keep on [email protected] and for registration for the Term 4 sailing program. Anastasia Lewis Sailing Captain



TOORAK COLLEGE RETAIL CENTRE NEWS 2013 UNIFORM CHANGEOVER DATES.

The wearing of Summer uniform is compulsory for Term 1. It is optional to wear either Summer or Winter uniform from the start of Term 2 until Monday, 6 May 2013. After this date Winter Uniform is compulsory until the end of term 3. In Term 4 Winter or Summer uniform may be worn until Melbourne Cup weekend (Friday, 1 November). After this date it is compulsory to wear Summer Uniform.

RETAIL INFORMATION - 2013 Toorak College Retail provides uniforms for all students at Toorak College from the Early Learning Centre to VCE years. It is located at the back of Mary Herring Hall near the Senior School Library. NEW HOURS & DAYS FOR 2013 During term times Retail is open as follows in 2013: Mondays & Wednesdays - 8.30 am to 4.00 pm (closed for lunch 12 noon to 12.30 pm) PAYMENT OPTIONS Students are permitted to make Retail purchases to a maximum value of $30 on their parents’ accounts for occasional emergency purchases such as socks, swim caps, etc. Parents purchasing uniforms must pay for their purchases by cheque, cash, EFT, Mastercard or Visa. You are welcome to place phone orders on 9788 7226 and pay by credit card on the days that Retail is open. Alternatively email the Retail Sales Officer, Gayle Brooks-Lacco on [email protected] with your order details.

For further information contact Gayle Brooks-Lacco

9788 7226 or email her on [email protected]

Volunteers Needed! Where: Toorak College Cafe Pavilion When: Weekly/Fortnightly/Monthly: you choose. Hours: 10.30am-1.30pm Experience: Not necessary. Everything you need to know will be learnt within a short space of time. Salary: Homemade cake, gourmet sandwiches, plenty of tea/coffee and best of all friendship. Bonus: Your children are happy to see you in their favourite place - school. You get to spoil them by spending a little extra money (all for a good cause) and you get to meet new people and make new friends within the school community. Applications close: NEVER! Please fill in the form below and return using the enclosed pre-paid envelope. Your roster and an orientation pack will be forwarded prior to the start of each term. Thank you for your support.