term 1 week 10, 31 march 2021 - figtree high school

of 24

Term 1 Week 10 (B) Week 10 Starting 29 March 2021

Wednesday 31/03/21

Year 12 - Mid-course Examinations Year 11 – Biology and Legal Studies Assessment Tasks – P1/2; School Cross Country – P4, P5 and P6

Thursday 01/04/21

Year 12 - Mid-course Examinations Year 9 – Visual Arts Assessment Task (VA1)-P4 Years 7-9 Basketball Competition at Snakepit GRIP Leadership Conference Merit Excursion - Easter Show

Friday 02/04/21

Good Friday

Term 2 Week 1 (A) Week 1 Starting 19 April 2021

Monday 19/04/21

Staff Development Day

Tuesday 20/04/21

Year 11 – Physics Assessment Task - P1/2 Year 9 – Links to Learning - PCYC All Students return Round 2 Puma Girls Football Game - Goulburn

Wednesday 21/04/21

Year 11 – Earth and Environmental Studies Assessment Task - P2 Year 7 – Technology Mandatory Assessment Task – P1, P3 and P4 South Coast Futsal Championships 14 Boys and Girls

Thursday 22/04/21

Year 11 – French Assessment Task - P3 Year 7 - Peer Support P1; Visual Arts Assessment Task (7VSA1, 7VSA2, 7VSA3) - P3; South Coast Futsal Championships 16 Boys and Girls

Friday 23/04/21

Year 12 - Music Assessment Task - P2/3; PDHPE Assessment Task - P2/6 Year 11 – Photography Assessment Task - P4 Year 10 – History Assessment Task - P1/4; Geography Assessment Task – P3/5 South Coast Futsal Championships Open Boys and Girls U15s AFL Boys Knockout – Woonona HS

Term 2 Week 2 (B) Week 2 Starting 26 April 2021

Monday 26/04/21

Year 12 - Society and Culture Assessment Task - P1 Year 11 – Economics Assessment Task – P1 Year 10 – Marine Studies Assessment Task – P5 Year 8 – Visual Arts Assessment Task (8VSA1/2/3) - P4 Year 7 – Mathematics Assessment Task – P2/4/5; Visual Arts Assessment Task (7VSA6) - P1 Junior Band Rehearsal 3:00pm – 4:15pm Year 11 and 12 Visual Arts Afternoon Workshop 3:00pm-5:00pm

Tuesday 27/04/21

Year 12 - Society and Culture Assessment Task -P6; Biology Assessment Task - P4/P5 Year 10 – Geography Excursion - Warilla Year 9 – Visual Arts Assessment Task (9VA1) - P1, (9VA2) -P2; Links to Learning - PCYC Year 8 – Science Assessment Task P1/2/5/6 Year 7 - Visual Arts Assessment Task (7VSA4, 7VSA5) - P6

Wednesday 28/04/21

Year 7 - Visual Arts Assessment Task (7VSA7, 7VSA8, 7VSA9) - P1

Thursday 29/04/21

Year 12 – Mathematics Extension 2 Assessment Task – 8:30am Year 10 – Mathematics Assessment Task - P2 Year 8 – Visual Arts Assessment Task (8VSA8/9/10) - P2 Year 7 - Geography Assessment Task - P3/4/5

Friday 30/04/21

Year 12-Society & Culture Assessment Task - P2 Year 11 – Visual Arts Assessment Task - P6, Maths Extension 1 Assessment Task – 3pm Year 10 – Photography, Digital Media Assessment Task - P3 Year 9 –Photography, Digital Media Assessment Task - P6; Science Practical Task P1/5; Year 8 –Visual Arts Assessment Task (8VSA 4, 5, 6 ,7) - P2 Year 7 - Science Assessment Task - P1/3/4/6 South Coast Table Tennis Gala Day - Dapto HS

Term 2 Week 3 (A) Week 3 Starting 3 May 2021

Monday 03/05/21

Year 10 – Commerce Excursion - NSW State Parliament; PDHPE Assessment Task (10.4, 10.5, 10.6) - P2 Year 8 – History Assessment Task (8N) - P4 Year 7 - Camp @ Yarramundi Junior Band Rehearsal - 3pm – 4 :15pm Year 11 and 12 Visual Arts Afternoon Workshop 3:00pm-5:00pm

Tuesday 04/05/21

Year 12 - Chemistry Assessment Task - P4/5 Year 10 – Visual Arts Assessment Task - P3; PDHPE Assessment Task (10.1, 10.3) - P1 Year 9 – Links to Learning - PCYC; Geography Assessment Task - P5 Year 8 – History Assessment Task (8Q) - P1 Year 7 - Camp @Yarramundi

Wednesday 05/05/21

Year 10 – Year 10 PDHPE Assessment Task (10.2) - P3; Year 10 Science Assessment Task P5/6 Year 9 – Geography Assessment Task - P3 Year 8 - History Assessment Task (8C, 80) - P1, (8R) - P2, (8E) – P4 Year 7 - Camp @ Yarramundi Illawarra Schools Careers Expo

Thursday 06/05/21

Year 12 -Visual Arts Assessment Task - P 3 Year 11 – Construction White Card Course Cluster 3 Assessment Police School Liaison Officer Year Talks

SCHOOL NEWSLETTER Term 1 Week 10, 31 March 2021

Address: 2 Gibsons Road, Figtree NSW 2525 Phone: 02 4271 2787 Email: [email protected] Fax: 02 4271 6626

of 24

Friday 07/05/21

Year 12 - English Extension 2 Assessment Task - P5 Year 10 – Visual Arts Assessment Task - P5 Year 9 – History Assessment Task – (9HSI2, 3) - P5, (9HIS6) - P3 Year 8 – Technology Mandatory Assessment Task P2/3/4 Zone Cross Country Carnival

Year 12 Purple Year 11 Olive Year 10 Blue Year 9 Red Year 8 Green Year 7 Orange

Thoughts from the Principal

The team at Figtree High School hope this newsletter finds you and your family healthy and filled with hope at this time. As restrictions begin to lift, the staff at Figtree High School are looking forward to the time when we can meet again in person and share a story and a smile. It has been a very successful term, Year 12 are now half way though their HSC coursework and are working hard. Teachers are very proud of them as we are of our students in all years. Year 7 have adapted to having so many more teachers than when they were in Year 6 and I hear so many teachers say ‘What a great Year 7.’ Thank you to all of our amazing staff who returned full of energy and optimism after such a tough 2020. I am also so fortunate to be supported by such high-quality hard-working Deputy Principals, Head Teachers and School Administration staff. Visit from Dept of Education leaders to ‘A HIDDEN GEM IN THE ILLAWARRA’ Key figureheads from within the NSW Department of Education came to meet with students and staff at Figtree High School on Friday 19 March. Our distinguished guests included Mr Murat Dizdar (Deputy Secretary, School Operations and Performance), Mr Mark Barraket (Executive Director, School Performance Regional South), Mr Bill Field (Director Educational Leadership, Lake Illawarra North Network) and Ms Yvonne Webb (Officer, School Operations and Performance).

The focal point of their visit was to learn about our Strategic Improvement Plan 2021-2024, encompassing the exciting future directions of our great school. Of particular interest was our school’s deep analysis and zeroing-in-on student growth and attainment and, as always, providing the best quality public education and opportunities for students. Our student leaders passionately steered the educational conversation, sharing dialogue around their academic learning and extra-curricular experiences as well as what they like most about Figtree High School - the most common response being that they like all of the people who make up the school, namely, the students, staff, parents and the wider Figtree High School community. Written below is a highly complementary extract taken from Mr Dizdar’s twitter account, following his visit to our amazing school;

Ask principal, Daniel Ovens or any of his students and they’ll tell you that Figtree High School is a hidden gem in the Illawarra and they’re not wrong! Great to visit

classes, speak with staff, visit faculties and squeeze in a game of handball. A top day!

Above: The Deputy Secretary’s handball skills

Pictured above are Bill Field (left, front row), Murat Dizdar (centre, back row) and Mark Barraket (centre, back row, 3rd from the end) seen with some of our Figtree HS Executive Team.

of 24

Above: Our students performing a musical piece during the visit

Try Year 7 for a Day During Weeks 7 and 8 of this term, 189 Year 6 students from our seven Community of Schools took part in our 2021 'Try Year 7 for a Day’ program. The Year 6 students engaged in a range of appealing and interactive lessons designed by our Figtree High School teachers and Head Teachers. These classes enabled each student to get an appreciation of our curriculum areas, extending to cooking, woodwork, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), Physical Education, Geography, Languages, History and Science. Across all of these days, the positive outlook of the primary school students was extremely encouraging - they were truly such a credit to their primary school teachers and families. We very much look forward to them choosing Figtree High School as their local school of choice in 2022. We did really miss the Figtree Lions Club representatives who always cook the BBQ at our Try Year 7 events. Unfortunately, due to COVID restrictions they were unable to be with us during the running of these occasions this year.

of 24

Brick and Block We had 17 Year 10 boys participating in a Brick and Block laying course across Week 8 of this term. Under the instruction of TAFE Illawarra teachers, the students built a marvellous BBQ area out in the front area of the school, adjacent to the Food Technology rooms. In very challenging weather conditions, the students did an exceptional job and picked up some high-value trade skills along the way. We owe a huge debt of gratitude to both Mr Brenden Hepper and Mr Colin Woolmer from TAFE Illawarra who mentored the boys throughout the week. They were patient and understanding and they shared a great deal of knowledge, tips and ideas about bricklaying. Only through their wherewithal was this scheme a success. Much credit too must go to Mr Ken Tugrul from City Bricklaying and TAFE Illawarra teacher ‘Mick the brickie’ who both came in specially to discuss their own career journey, the occupation itself, the typical expectations of employers and what it takes to make the most of work experience and apprenticeship opportunities in this field. An enormous thank you to Mr Sargent-Wilson for providing this exceptional learning opportunity for our students. My sincere thanks as well to all of the students involved in the program, who successfully built a phenomenal BBQ area for our school community to make use of during special occasions.

of 24

Aboriginal Education - Morning Tea On Thursday 4 March, our Aboriginal students together with the Aboriginal Education Staff Team gathered for morning tea at the school. It was a chance for our Aboriginal community to build on friendships and strengthen their relationship within the school. Two staff from Woolyungah Indigenous Centre at the University of Wollongong also attended to engage with our students. In collaboration, staff and students had a robust discussion and made small suggestions for adjustments to our goals for 2021 and our Strategic Improvement Plan 2021-2024. Homework Centre Homework is seen as a vital part of learning and students can expect to have either assignments or homework in each of their subjects. Homework is the time students spend outside the classroom in assigned activities to practice, reinforce or apply newly-acquired skills and knowledge and to learn necessary skills of independent study. It serves as an intellectual discipline and establishes positive study habits. To assist our students with their school work and assignments, the Homework Centre is available every Monday after school. This additional educational instruction and individualised support for students is a wonderful initiative. We had a record number of students attend on Monday afternoon of Week 8. It was heart-warming for me to see so many of our students taking advantage of this great opportunity. A huge thank you to all of our wonderful teachers bestowing their time in support of our amazing students. South Coast Regional Swimming Carnival Congratulations to all of the students who represented our school at the South Coast Regional Swimming Carnival held at Dapto Pool on Tuesday 10 March. We had a very strong team representing Figtree High School, each of whom competed at their very best in every event they took part in. Special mention must go to Jessica Buffet and Regan Smith, who yet again shone in the water, with both

being named Age Champions on the day. Well done to all competitors and good luck to those who will now progress to the CHS championships at Homebush in a month’s time.

Teacher Accreditation Teacher accreditation provides a tremendous opportunity to celebrate the wonderful work of teachers as well as to honour this significant milestone for those new to the profession. The process of teacher accreditation enables beginning teachers to reflect on their teaching craft and experiences in the classroom and also to consider how they can best make an inimitable and lasting impact on students and the wider school community. It is with great pride that I announce Ms Helen Gibson has achieved her accreditation at the Proficient Teacher level. My congratulations to Ms Gibson. I remain majorly comforted to know that the future of this superb profession is in the hands of such passionate and inspirational teachers.

Pictured here is Ms Angela Mintzas (HT English) presenting Ms Gibson (on the left) with her teacher accreditation certificate.

of 24

Here’s hoping everyone enjoys the upcoming Easter holiday period. We look forward to seeing you all again in Term 2. Stay safe, stay strong! Dan Ovens Principal of ‘a hidden gem in the Illawarra’

Expectation of the Week

WEEK 10: BE SAFE – Entering and Leaving the School

Obey all road rules

WEEK 1: BE RESPECTFUL - All Settings Wear correct uniform

WEEK 2: BE RESPECTFUL - Canteen Leave immediately after purchase

WEEK 3: BE RESPONSIBLE - Assembly Right place, right time in line

CANTEEN NEWS Please note that the Canteen will only be open for Lunch 1 on the last day of term Thursday 1 April.

Deputy Principal’s Report

Year 7 Year 7 students should be starting to get excited about their camp in Week 3 of next term. It is important that all notes have been returned, payments finalised and equipment organised. This is a wonderful opportunity for students – can we please encourage all students to attend. There are lots of different physical activities and team building challenges. If you have concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the school and ask to speak to Mrs Tanya Markham, Head Teacher Wellbeing.

Year 8 Year 8 students will have opportunities to be involved in a number of programs, such as Shine Girls group, Boys group and grade sport. This term has seen the trial of a Year 8 girls’ group with our Student Support Officer – Megan Lee. This was a fantastic opportunity for students to create new friendships and learn about positive self-image. A new group of girls will be offered this opportunity next term. I would like to personally thank all of the Year 8 students who have been involved in being junior clerk over the last 12 months. It has been fabulous to see every student grow and mature, and find their way around the school. It is a way that students can give back to the school by assisting the Deputies and School Administration staff with jobs around the school. Next term will see Year 7 take on this role. Year 9 Most Year 9 students are to be congratulated on their organisation and application towards their studies at the moment. There have been a significant number of assessment tasks spread across most subjects that have been due or will be due soon. Students need to remember that school work can be difficult and that planning and seeking feedback and assistance is important. Year 10 A huge congratulations is extended to Year 10 for their effort and commitment throughout this past term. They have dived into a very busy assessment period over the past 5 weeks and remained focused in their determination to complete assessment tasks to the best of their ability. This has been acknowledged by teachers with a large number of students being recognised in our Sentral Wellbeing system for their positive efforts this term. It is important that students maintain this effort and diligence throughout Term 2 as they work towards achieving the best grades they can for their Year 10 ROSA. It was fabulous to see the number of students select to participate in the two career based activities on offer from Mr Sargent-Wilson this term; the Brick and Block course, and the Girls in Trades day. This enthusiasm is fantastic!!

of 24

Year 11 Students in Year 11 would have just completed their first assessment tasks. Students are reminded that the Preliminary Course Assessment Procedures and Schedules 2021 booklet is available on the school’s website. This booklet contains all assessment schedules and due dates for each task. Unfortunately, some students have missed assessment tasks and have received a zero as they have not followed the correct procedures. This is particularly important when students have an assessment task on a TAFE day or they are representing the school in an activity. They must see their teacher to negotiate an alternate day and, if required, see the Deputy Principal for an Illness/Misadventure form. Students have signed to say that they have received this booklet. Students are encouraged to review these procedures regularly to ensure that they follow the correct procedures, especially when illness or misadventure occurs. Year 12 Congratulations to Year 12, who are almost at the end of their Mid-course examination period. This has been a valuable opportunity for students to develop study habits, practice their examination technique and find out about their current knowledge and understanding of course content prior to the Trial HSC examination period in Term 3 and the actual HSC examination period in Term 4. Students will gain valuable feedback from these exams in the first few weeks of Term 2. NAPLAN Both Year 7 and 9 students have now completed their practice tests for NAPLAN Online. Remember that NAPLAN is on from 11 May to 21 May, 2021 and encompasses 4 tests. Students need to bring their own headphones or ear buds for the tests. There is information from a federal level – ACARA and state level – NESA about NAPLAN Online. This information has been given to students to take home and has been included in this newsletter. Attendance Attendance is vital for achievement. If students have an attendance of 90% that still means they are, on average, having one day off per fortnight – 20 days a year. If a student’s attendance falls to 80% that means they are, on average, having one day off per week – 40 days a year. This type of attendance makes consistent learning

difficult. Whilst it is important that students are not at school when they are sick, they need to catch up on missed work and seek assistance from their teachers. If parents/carers need advice about what their student’s attendance rate is for Term 1, they can contact the administration office for the percentage. Parents/carers will be asked for identifying information so that student confidentiality is maintained. Safety outside the school This is a reminder that there are various signs outside of the school that are designed to ensure the safety of students both Figtree High School and Figtree Primary School. We have three designated bus zones and there are parents who are regularly parking in these areas. It is illegal to do this, but also a significant safety issue for our students. This can result in a fine of $349. We are fortunate to have lights outside the school and all students should be crossing the road at this point as it is the safest point. A reminder that O’Briens Rd Figtree, located at the rear of the school, is an ideal drop off and pick up zone as there are minimal parking restrictions in this area. School Photographs Students who ordered and paid for the school photographs taken earlier this term were issued with their photographs today. All students should also have received their new Figtree HS Student Identification card. This can be provided as evidence for student concession prices and should be kept in a safe place. School Uniform With the cooler weather arriving we want to remind parents and students about the school uniform requirements. All uniform jumpers, jackets and long pants have the Figtree High School branding. Lowes at Figtree Grove is the only supplier of our school uniform. Jemma Lawson – Years 8 and 11 Trish Morgan – Years 7 and 9 Ellie Donovan – Years 10 and 12 Deputy Principals

of 24

CAPAL Faculty Report

MUSIC CAFÉ CAPAL and TAS were excited to present Music Café number 2. The Café was as bustling as it could be under COVID guidelines and yet still managed to serve hundreds of satisfied customers with cookies, milkshakes and hot beverages. Inclement weather meant that we held our performances in the Gym and that meant we could spread out and use some staging and a larger PA system. Students from Years 8 to 12 performed on the day and the music was enthusiastically received by staff and students. Hospitality students have trained all 2020 to be industry ready and performed seamlessly, selling chocolate milkshakes, sunrise mocktails, sweet treats and espresso style coffees, during both lunch breaks over the day. Rosters were drawn up and duties were allocated. Students ran the event so all the teachers had to do was to enjoy the show. Congratulations and well done to all involved - we are planning another Music Café event for Term 2.

of 24

ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY – I.P.A.C BACKSTAGE TOUR Entertainment Industry students from Year 12 were fortunate to be taken on a comprehensive backstage tour of the Illawarra Performing Arts Centre (IPAC) as part of their Certificate III in Live Production and Services course. Students explored the technical areas of the theatre, the orchestra pit, the fly-system, lighting grid, production booths and more. Expertly guided by technical staff from Merrigong Theatre company, they enjoyed the opportunity to learn about potential careers in the Entertainment Industry - particularly the theatre and events sector. Some of our students will return to Merrigong Theatre Company later this year for work placement.

of 24

CREATIVE CUPCAKE FUNDRAISER

On Friday 26 March, the Creative and Performing Arts Committee (CAPA Co) baked and sold creative themed cupcakes. This was a huge success, raising $579.65 and this money will go towards enhancing our gallery space in the front area of the school. Take a look at the fantastic posters designed by our CAPA Co students to promote the event and some of the very creative cupcakes sold on the day.

Ing Inyang

Samarah Gibson

of 24

Amelia Kokkin

Ella Scott

CAPA CO: ARTEXPRESS REWARD EXCURSION As a reward for CAPA Co students who provide assistance at numerous school events, students were invited to attend the ArtExpress excursion to the Art

Gallery of New South Wales and Hazelhurst Gallery. Here is a recount of the excursion from CAPA Co member Leila Brown (Year 8):

“As a member of the Creative and Performing’s Arts Committee, I had the opportunity to travel to the Art Gallery of New South Wales and the Hazelhurst gallery in Sydney to see the Art Express exhibition and the student works created. As we walked around, it was interesting to see the artworks and read about the ideas behind them. I especially liked a collection of shoe drawings called Sole Expression. I enjoyed socialising with my peer and discussing the artworks.

CAPA CO INVOLVEMENT TERM 1: This term, CAPA Co have assisted with numerous school events by offering their services as photographers, designers and artists. We would like to acknowledge these students for their efforts: • Staff Faculty Photographers:

Alex Dawson and Leila Brown; • SRC induction photographers:

Emily Stephens and Tobias Moore; • Swimming Carnival Photographers:

Tobias Moore and Alex Dawson; • Principal and Leadership Team photograph for the

Illawarra Mercury: Tobias Moore;

• School Bell: Samarah Gibson and Alexander Dawson

TIGUIDOU! Tiguidou is a French-Canadian word that is the Aussie equivalent of “it’s all good”. Year 8 French had the good fortune to experience a drama performance, presented by the Canadian High Commission, here at Figtree High School in Week 7. Shaun Murphy, a one-man drama performance, came to present his production of Tiguidou! to all of Year 8. This show has been specifically written to show French language students the differences between Canadian French, as spoken in Québec, and French that is spoken in France. The show was very entertaining and Shaun was very funny. Thanks to Mr Malouf and his Entertainment crew for their technical support. Congratulations to our Language Champions and winners of Le Fromage!

of 24

ARTEXPRESS EXCURSION On Friday of Week 8 students from Years 11 and 12, as well as a variety of students from CAPA Co. had the opportunity to travel to both the Art Gallery of New South Wales and Hazlehurst Gallery to see the ongoing Art Express exhibitions. These exhibitions showcase the high-level of achievement set by the previous HSC cohort, while allowing present and future HSC Visual Art students to gain a better understanding of the hard work that goes into creating an HSC Body of Work. Students also took the time to walk through the various other exhibitions on display at both galleries, gathering ideas and inspiration for their own future artworks.

Peter Hewitt Head Teacher CAPAL

LINKS TO LEARNING

Year 9 students from Figtree High School commenced the Links to Learning Program on Tuesday 9 March, which will be running every Tuesday at the Lake Illawarra PCYC. Students participating in the program are Kerem Ongel, Brayden McGee, Riya Viradia, Ti Reh, Bu Reh, Mamdouh Ouda, Mohamed Aode, Grace Umutoniwase, Charlie Sun, Jonathon Turner and Jeremy Stiner. The Links to Learning program is funded by the NSW Department of Education and aims to provide students coming from non-English backgrounds with additional assistance, opportunity and support to remain and excel in education and training, overcoming any barriers they may face. The program focuses on communication skills, developing self-esteem, language and living skills, career and educational pathways through a range of highly sought after courses and opportunities for personal growth.

of 24

Wollongong City Council’s Road Safety Initiatives After having to postpone last weeks planned Wollongong City Council - Bike Skills Workshop #2 due to poor conditions, we bring you some exciting news! The Workshop will now run on Wednesday 31st of March 2021 at Lakeside Reserve, Lakeside Drive Koonawarra

Twilight Training Bike Workshops Youth 8 to 14 years. Learn and perfect your riding skills. Includes a short cycleway ride. Wednesday March 31 from 4.30 to 6.00pm. Lakeside Reserve, Lakeside Drive Koonawarra. FREE Workshop delivered by Ride Nation – Aus Cycling

• Participants must be able to ride independently to participate (no training wheels). • Participants must be accompanied by an adult. • BYO Bike in good working condition, covered shoes & helmet.

FREE giveaways included. BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL WORKSHOP 2 Rescheduled. Register here: Lakeside Reserve, Lakeside Drive Koonawarra 31 March 2021 For more info contact Wollongong City Council’s Road Safety Officer on (02) 4227 7111 or [email protected].

https://www.facebook.com/events/461639591707360/

mailto:[email protected]

term 1 week 10, 31 march 2021 - figtree high school

Documents