2013 Middle School Handbook by Geelong Grammar School

MIDDLE SCHOOL

HANDBOOK 2013

Geelong Grammar School Middle School Tony Inkster Head of Middle School 50 Biddlecombe Avenue, Corio, Victoria, Australia 3142 T +61 3 5273 9231 F +61 3 5273 9356 E middleschool@ggs.vic.edu.au

www.ggs.vic.edu.au

CRICOS 00143G

CONTENTS 01

OUR PHILOSOPHY

LIFE AT MIDDLE SCHOOL

Our Purpose 6 A Positive Future 9 Kindness Catching 11 The Whole Student 13 The Edge of Adolescence 15 Our Campus 19 Chapel 19

Pastoral Care 21 Boarding 21 Weekly Boarding 21 Day Boarders and Day Students 21 Positive Education 22 School Policies 23 Forgiveness and Reparation 23 Relationship Management Policy 23 Drugs 24 Alcohol 24 Harassment and Bullying 25 School Rules 27 House Rules 28 Where to go for help 28 Heads of House 28 Health 29 Sun Exposure 29 Sleep 30 Telephone Use 30 Mobile Phones 30 Uniform 31 Hair 31 Earrings 31 Identification Cards 31

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ACADEMIC PROGRAMME

OTHER INFORMATION

Academic Programme 35 Catering for High Achievers 36 Student Support 36 Middle School Computing 36 Notebook Computer Programme 36 Computer Resource Centre 37 Email and Internet Use 38 Cybersafety and Student Use Agreement 38 Appropriate Use of Email System 38 Prep or Homework Fisher and Panckridge Libraries 39 Borrowing and Returning Items 39 Overdue Items 40 Reporting 40 Recognition of Academic Excellence 40 Co-Curriculum Programme 40 Sport 41 Community Service 41 Student School Council 42 Outdoor Education 42 Activities Programme 43 Performing Arts 44 Instrumental Tuition 44 Ensembles 44 Performances 45 Years 7 and 8 School Production 45

Friends of Middle School 49 Leave 49 School Policy 49 Application for Exeat 50 Travel 50 Expensive Equipment 51 Bicycles, Skateboards, Rollerblades and Scooters 51 Helmets 52 Duty of Care 52 Use of Equipment 52 Communication between Parents and School 52 Middle School Newsletter 52 Community Portal 52 Smartphone Application 53 Uniform 53 Uniform Shop 53 Name Tapes and Marking of Clothing 54 Uniform Regulations 54 General Items for Boarders 56 Casual Clothing 56 Tuck 59 Electrical Appliances 59 Pocket Money 59 Book Room 60 Term Dates 61 The Journey 63

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OUR PHILOSOPHY

The philosophy that underpins the Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s understanding of Exceptional Education is manifest in our purpose, spirit, focus, character and beliefs

OUR PURPOSE is to inspire our students and community to flourish and make a positive difference through our unique and transformational education adventures

OUR FOCUS is learning to flourish

OUR SPIRIT

- our rigorous a

- Positive E - our excep - partnerships betw

is making a positive difference

- in

OUR CHARACTER is to be authentic, courageous, dedicated, forgiving, inquiring, loving, optimistic, passionate, resilient and trusting

OUR CHALLENGE is to demonstrate that Positive Education enhances student wellbeing and to lead in establishing wellbeing as an essential component of a thriving educational system

WE BELIEVE

academic programmes create wonder, curiosity and a desire to learn -boarding and co-education provide valuable life skills Education enhances wellbeing and enables individuals to flourish ptional staff bring character and richness to the life of the School ween our parents, staff and students provide the best learning outcomes - in nurturing strong relationships fostering spirituality and celebrating our Anglican tradition - in serving others and building social responsibility - in growing our heritage through innovation

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A POSITIVE FUTURE An independent Anglican co-educational boarding and day school spread across five specialist campuses, Geelong Grammar School boasts an international reputation as a pioneer of modern education. From its origins in 1855, the School has a proud heritage of innovation; reinforced through the establishment of its remote Timbertop campus in 1953, becoming co-educational in the early 1970s, and the recent introduction of Positive Education in 2009. The School developed Positive Education from the science of Positive Psychology in collaboration with Professor Martin Seligman and his team from the University of Pennsylvania. Positive Education focuses on cultivating positive emotions and character traits, encouraging students to find purpose and lead engaged and meaningful lives. Implicit teaching of Positive Education occurs at each year level, at every campus and across all aspects of school life. Explicit teaching of Positive Education begins at Middle School, delivered through specific Positive Psychology programmes written by the world’s leading research psychologists and developed in collaboration with experienced classroom teachers. Studies over the past 20 years suggest that these explicit Positive Psychology programmes lead students to have increased levels of creativity, better critical thinking skills and increased levels of positive emotion. Positive Education improves wellbeing while equipping students with the skills to manage failure and to build from those life experiences found to be challenging – teaching confidence, resilience and optimism. Under the umbrella of ‘wellbeing’ Middle School students also learn about other significant life skills and concepts, including mindful meditation, the connection between emotional and physical wellbeing, nutrition and fitness. “Geelong Grammar School is the pioneer in the world in taking steps to introduce this type of learning through all aspects of an educational curriculum,” Professor Seligman said. “In doing so, I believe that Geelong Grammar students who go through the programme will be less likely to suffer from depression – which is increasing in epidemic proportions in many western countries, including Australia – and will lead more positive and fulfilling lives.”

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KINDNESS CATCHING Our Middle School students engage in a wide range of Positive Education activities that promote the principles of “authentic happiness”, the development and use of one’s character strengths and the learning of skills to enhance resilience. Our Year 5 students spend each week “catching kindness”. “When we did the Positive Education conference (in 2008) we talked about the benefits of kindness, not only to other people but also to yourself,” Middle School teacher Pam Barton explained. Ms Barton conceived the idea of “kindness catching”, using paper butterflies to recognise individual acts of kindness.

“Through the week if the students notice somebody doing a kindness, they just quietly get a butterfly and write on it – who they saw and what they saw them doing. Then, at the end of the week, we all sit around in a sharing circle, tip the butterflies out and share them.” The butterflies are then placed on the classroom window. “It’s a great end to the week. We do that and we do the ‘what went well’. The students talk about what went well, so if they have had a little hiccup, they’ll still leave the classroom at the end of the week on a positive note. I’ve noticed a definite change in the atmosphere in the classroom, in the students appreciating what others do. It’s good to notice those who possibly didn’t do it to start with getting ideas from what other people do. Sometimes it’s a simple thing, like picking up someone’s pencil case when it fell down, but at least they’re starting to notice that they’re part of a group.” Every single act of kindness helps bring our community closer together.

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THE WHOLE STUDENT Geelong Grammar School has always had a reputation for developing the whole student – we ask our young boys and girls to be active in their evolution, to explore and discover their own interests and passions. Our Activities and Co-curricular Programme is extensive. We foster public speaking, a literature club, a writer’s conference, community service and environmental projects. We offer tuition in over 20 instruments, with Middle School students taking over 300 music lessons each week as well as musical ensembles, orchestras and choirs, while the annual Middle School Production for Years 7 and 8 students in Term 4 is a highlight of the year.

“Geelong Grammar School is different from every other school because of the many opportunities presented,” current student Nick Langley reflected at the end of Year 8. “I have been involved in the Middle School Production, APS athletics, my studies and as a boarder in Barwon House. I am eager to face the challenges that Timbertop presents and I am especially looking forward to the outdoor activities and meeting new people, (but) I am going to be very sad to leave Middle School at the end of this year. There is no doubt how much it has prepared me for the years ahead.”

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THE EDGE OF ADOLESCENCE Our Middle School encapsulates our absolute faith in children to transform, respond, discover and grow. Early adolescence can be challenging, a test of character as much as of the mind, yet its power of illumination is wonderful and what is learned can last a lifetime. Our House system is intrinsic to the networks we create to enable our students to give and receive support, and to develop and sustain relationships within our community. We believe boarding and coeducation provide valuable life skills and offer a variety of boarding or day options for Middle School students with three Boarding Houses and two co-educational Day Houses.

Each House is a vibrant community, bringing together young people from different backgrounds, different cultures and different countries; teaching them to live and learn together. “Everyone comes from different backgrounds but those differences fade away,” Indigenous student Jodene Garstone explained. “You’re all one big community supporting one another. It is like having a second family.”

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Middle School creates an environment where all relationships flourish; strengthening relationships between teachers and students. “They are more than just classroom teachers,” current student Olivia Muir said. “They might be your swim coach or your tutor, so they help you a lot more, you’re closer to them and you think of them as a person.”

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OUR CAMPUS Our Middle School at Corio caters for girls and boys from Years 5 to 8 as full boarders, weekly boarders, day boarders or day students. In these middle years between primary and secondary education, the relationship between independence and interdependence is complex – there is the desire for space and exploration and, yet, the need for structure and support. We understand that this is a delicate balance and our Middle School campus is focussed specifically on these crucial years of growth, providing a stimulating environment in which our students can flourish. We believe that education is more than academic achievement. Offering our students diverse experiences is essential to nurturing a confidence in learning, an enthusiasm for a broad range of activities, respect for others and a desire to contribute to the community. Explicit teaching of our groundbreaking Positive Education programme begins at Middle School, which contributes powerfully to the development of the individual strengths of our young students, enabling them to build and sustain relationships. We believe that our Middle School students learn best in an environment that promotes strong connections, where relationships promote self-esteem and confidence. Vital to this is the House system, for it is in our Houses that our students first develop the relationships that will sustain them throughout their years at the School. CHAPEL The Chapel of All Saints is the spiritual heart of the School. It is a place of quiet beauty where our students and staff come together during the week to worship. Boarders also attend Sunday services, which are enriched by their talents as readers, choristers and as participants in the occasional dramatic presentation. Geelong Grammar is an Anglican school. However, the School community comprises students from many Christian denominations and from non-Christian faiths. The School motto, ‘Christus Nobis Factus Sapientia’ – For us, Christ was made wisdom – is the starting point for the Christian values taught and fostered in the School. The services in Chapel and Religious Education in the classroom encourage spiritual maturity and make an important contribution to the development of the spiritual life of each student. Counselling and conversations with the Chaplains are always available for students and parents. We encourage the students to participate in the journey of faith as a whole community through honest exchange and a willingness to listen to one another. Chaplain for Middle School Fr Howard Parkinson T +61 3 5273 9746 E howardp@ggs.vic.edu.au Middle School Chapel Service: - Tuesday 12.45pm - Sunday 9.00am or 10.00am (visitors welcome) 19

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LIFE AT MIDDLE SCHOOL

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PASTORAL CARE Pastoral care is the essence of Geelong Grammar School’s work with children. It is neither a programme nor a strategy, but a belief that nourishes everything we do. Every child is visible to us; we are prepared to speak and listen, to ask and to understand. At Geelong Grammar School we are proud of our reputation as a school that is caring, where our students can grow and feel free to express themselves. Understanding and meeting the individual needs of each child is a vital aspect of the GGS pastoral care philosophy. The most important source of support and care is the student’s House. If a student or parent needs to discuss any concern or issue, the Head of House should be the first point of contact.

BOARDING Our Corio campus is home to over 600 boarders. There are 10 full Boarding Houses, of which three are exclusively for Middle School students – two for boys and one for girls. Our Boarding Houses are intimate communities bursting with energy, each with their own personality, rhythm and warmth, like a family. They are homes away from home, and are open to students at any time of the day when there are no other school commitments. Each House has a Head of House (and his or her family), Assistant Head of House, Tutors (who are also teachers at the School), and a full-time House Assistant. Evening prep (homework) is supervised and weekend outings are arranged by the Head of House. The Head of House, Assistant Head of House and House Tutors are responsible for the immediate needs of each student and are therefore the first point of contact for any questions or concerns that students or parents may have. Weekly Boarding Weekly Boarding enables students to live in one of our Boarding Houses from four to six nights per week. Leave may be taken on Friday nights, but students must return for roll call at 7pm on Sunday evenings or before 8.30am on Monday mornings. All weekend leave must be finalised by Wednesday evenings and parents should discuss these details with the Head of House. Note: Saturday sport is compulsory for all Year 7 and 8 students, therefore weekend leave begins after sport. Day Boarders and Day Students Students in Middle School are also able to enrol as Day Students or as Day Boarders. Day students leave at 3.45pm, either by bus or with parents. Years 5 and 6 students stay after school on two nights per week to participate in our Co-curricular Programme, while Years 7 and 8 students stay three nights per week for the Co-curriculum Programme. Buses are available on these nights. Day Boarding provides students with the opportunity to have dinner and supervised study on campus on selected days during the week, from Monday to Thursday, with buses available at 8.30pm. Day Boarding is only recommended for Years 7 and 8 students. Parents should discuss all short-term day/day boarding/boarding arrangements with the Head of House. A flexible mix of day/day boarding is available while short-term boarding options will depend upon availability.

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Geelong Grammar School’s decision to introduce Positive Psychology in association with our innovative Wellbeing Centre is a move to develop a more positive outlook and environment where all students and staff can flourish further, where inspiration is enhanced, and where benefits, indicated by substantial world-wide research, can be achieved. The term ‘Positive Education’ has been adopted by Geelong Grammar School to describe all facets of its educational initiatives associated with the wellbeing/development of the young placed in its care. Research indicates the benefits from Positive Education promote engagement, increases learning and improves academic performance. Positive Education also promotes: - Individual and “corporate” (community) management of health and wellbeing - Hope and optimism - Creativity, healthy personality development and perspective in life - Personal and community growth, higher levels of empathy, engagement and greater acceptance of others - Problem solving and a sense of enquiry Primarily, Positive Education improves wellbeing while equipping all with the skills to manage failure, to understand the reasons for failure and to build from life experiences found to be challenging. Through explicit and implicit curriculum development, students will engage in activities that promote the principles of ‘authentic happiness’, the development and use of one’s ‘character strengths’ and the learning of skills to enhance one’s level of ‘resiliency’. Under the umbrella of ‘wellbeing’ students will also learn about other significant life skills and concepts including mindful meditation, the connection between emotional and physical wellbeing, nutrition, fitness and a balanced approach to life in general. Geelong Grammar School has always had a reputation for developing all individuals and equipping them to go into the world with confidence, a sense of purpose and a preparedness to make a meaningful contribution in whatever career they decide to engage in. The move by Geelong Grammar School to endorse Positive Education within the education context is based upon a confidence and a hope that we can further develop in students an even more positive and enabling approach to life. We are also endeavouring to ensure that Geelong Grammar School remains a “positive institution” and one where young people and staff can live and work together with an enabling and quality outlook, based upon hope and a sense of meaningful contribution. A community based upon kindness to others, respect, forgiveness and goodness. Positive Education is vital to our country’s future, and our own wellbeing.

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POSITIVE EDUCATION

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SCHOOL POLICIES The School has developed a number of policies to guide students’ behaviour at School. Full details of the following policies are available on the Community Portal that can be accessed through the Geelong Grammar School website: www.ggs.vic.edu.au FORGIVENESS AND REPARATION When people live and work together disputes are inevitable. When people are in dispute, relationships are tested. The intimacy of a school community is such that effective dispute resolution is essential if people are to live in harmony, and individuals and the community are to flourish. Disputes can be resolved if the disputing parties accept the need for resolution and if they believe the resolution process will be transparent, fair and provide an opportunity to develop a shared understanding of the issues. The process can succeed if the parties feel they have been well treated, there is no residual resentment and there is a mechanism for restoring trust. Geelong Grammar School wishes to foster a community based on trust. When harmful behaviour or conflict occurs, we emphasise repairing the damage caused to relationships and finding mutually acceptable ways forward. This practical philosophy can transform the way community members think, feel and act towards each other. Forgiveness underpins the School approach to dealing with mistakes. Many mistakes are made by young people through lack of careful attention to others or to rules. Often there is no intention to harm, and when harm is intended, the young involved may have little real understanding of the effects of their harmful actions. Actions have consequences and these consequences must be understood for the safety of all. Geelong Grammar School’s approach to relationships is based on moral precepts which value both the individual and the community. Our pastoral principles and behaviour management practice promote wholesome relationships and eschew intimidation, fear or overt exercise of authority. The restorative practices we use to resolve disputes encourage people to rethink, to learn, to appreciate, to understand, value and respect others. Our approach recognises and attends to difference, and is fundamentally educative. Parties grow through this approach to recognise mistakes, to understand that mistakes have to be addressed, and so better to understand life.

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RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT POLICY Through respect for ourselves and for others, we create a friendly, safe and welcoming school environment. Geelong Grammar School is committed to ensuring that the working and learning environment is fostering positive relationships free from unlawful discrimination, harassment and bullying. Our aims are to: - foster positive relationships within the School - foster an environment where all members of the School community are treated with kindness, dignity, courtesy and respect - create an atmosphere where students, teachers and others feel safe and are safe - promote appropriate standards of conduct at all times • encourage the reporting of inappropriate behaviour - provide an effective procedure for resolving complaints in a sensitive, fair and timely manner DRUGS The use and abuse of alcohol, cigarettes, other substances (such as performance enhancing drugs, prescription drugs when not taken pursuant to a medical practitioner’s prescribed regime) and illicit drugs is fairly common amongst adolescents in Australia. Geelong Grammar School, in common with other schools, has a particular responsibility in addressing the problem of drug use, especially as it takes responsibility for boarders on behalf of their parents, both within the classroom and outside of conventional school hours. The School has developed a policy designed to discourage students from using drugs, and, for those who are already doing so, to prevent them from becoming drug dependent. A full copy of the School’s Drug Policy can be obtained from the Director of Student Welfare, Mr John Hendry, or the Community Portal via our website: www.ggs.vic.edu.au ALCOHOL Alcohol can be a serious problem for young people in Australia because it is widely advertised, socially acceptable and readily available. Geelong Grammar School policy on alcohol takes a single clear line that avoids confusion to insist that students may not drink alcohol at school in any circumstances or in any company. It is also worth noting in this context that school rules apply during term time and while travelling to and from school, be that for exeats or holidays. Geelong Grammar School welcomes families at the School and encourages them to picnic in the grounds. However alcohol must not be made available to any students on school occasions, or at public occasions involving our school, such as the Head of the River.

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HARASSMENT AND BULLYING Harassment and bullying are forms of abuse. Bullying occurs when a person is subjected to unwelcome and uninvited behaviour, which is offensive, humiliating, embarrassing or intimidating and occurs more than once. A single incident will be dealt with seriously but is not bullying. Harassment and bullying complaints rely on the perception of the complainant, rather than the respondent. This behaviour may be planned or spontaneous. The School recognizes that: - bullying or any form of harassment is unacceptable and will not be tolerated - bullying and harassment result in an unhappy, unsafe and unproductive working environment - bullying and harassment can affect students, staff and other members of the School community including parents, visitors and workplace participants at the School - harassment may occur between student/student, student/staff, staff/student, staff/ staff, parent/student, student/parent, parent/staff and staff/parent The School aims to: - treat all reports of harassment and bullying seriously, promptly and discreetly - take all reasonable steps to prevent harassment and bullying from occurring in any context directly related to school, including behaviour that occurs while travelling to and from school, during co-curricular activities, camps and other school functions - ensure that complainants and those involved in the complaint process do not suffer further disadvantage, retaliation or threats – the School will not tolerate victimisation - offer support/counselling to complainant and respondent - raise awareness of the Harassment Policy and the effects of bullying via promotional material, curriculum and workshops/tutorials or seminars for staff, parents and students FORMS OF BULLYING AND HARASSMENT INCLUDE: Verbal - putting ‘people down’ through comments, jokes or mimicking - name calling - teasing about another’s appearance or beliefs - derogatory comments made on the basis of race, culture, sexuality, socio-economic status or any other individual difference - intimidation or verbal abuse directed towards a person with different abilities - intimidating or harassing telephone calls - practical jokes which may be hurtful Visual/Physical - non-verbal gestures which are designed to intimidate (e.g. negative body language) - displaying offensive materials, pictures or objects - writing offensive notes, letters and graffiti 25

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Relational - hurting others by damaging or manipulating relationships (e.g. spreading rumours that cause individuals to be rejected by others) - social exclusion by deliberately excluding another from a group of friends - writing, sending or delivering harassing notes - telling others not to associate with or like someone Involving Extortion - pressuring and intimidating others to act against their will (e.g. giving up possessions, money, buying food and drink for bribery purposes, doing work for others or committing minor offences for them) Geelong Grammar is committed to ensuring that all staff, students and members of the School community are treated with dignity, courtesy and respect. We therefore request that any person with a concern or complaint provides the School with an opportunity to resolve the matter. You are encouraged to take one of the following approaches: - speak directly to the person(s) causing the offence and inform them that it is unwelcome and that it should cease - talk to a friend or family member who is understanding for support or advice - inform a staff member or parent so that the unacceptable behaviour can be addressed - talk to the teacher, House tutor, Head of House, Director of Student Welfare or Head of Campus - talk to the Chaplain or School Counsellor - staff can speak to any of the above staff members and can also access the employee assistance programme through the HR department. Note: Parents should contact the relevant Head of House, Head of Campus or Director of Student Welfare (the Principal and parents may need to be involved.) What then? These support people, listed above, will take into consideration the nature of the situation and may respond as follows:

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- cyberbullying: offensive use of email, mobile phone, internet or other technology - pushing, hitting, pinching, kicking and other unwelcome physical contact used intentionally to intimidate or hurt someone - unwelcome touching or brushing against another - damaging, stealing, hiding or destroying another’s property or possessions - disrespect for, or invasion of, personal space and property (e.g. going through personal belongings, eating food purchased by an individual for their own consumption, borrowing without permission, listening into phone conversations, etc.)

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- listen and understand - help you to see if there is anything you can do yourself to help the situation - speak with people concerned and advise the offender/s that this behaviour is unacceptable (they may feel this is necessary, or you may want them to do this) - offer counselling and support to those involved - involve parents, students or other members of staff where appropriate - advise the offender of likely consequences should the harassment continue - take disciplinary action where it is deemed appropriate The School will deal with complaints promptly, confidentially and with discretion. Reports of harassment and bullying will be investigated and documented. The School will properly investigate any allegation of discrimination or harassment.

SCHOOL RULES In order to foster a secure and productive environment the school has adopted the following rules that reflect the School’s policy on behaviour: School rules apply during Term time and while students are travelling to and from school. 01. Students may not harass, victimise or bully others. 02. Students must respect the property of others and the School. 03. Students may not go beyond School bounds without the permission of their Head of House. Bounds are marked on the map in each House. 04. Students may not smoke or bring tobacco into the School. Students who are in the company of smokers, or who smell of smoke, are deemed to be smokers in the eyes of the School. 05. Students may not bring alcohol into the School, may not have it in their possession or consume it. 06. Students may not use or possess illicit drugs. A copy of the School’s policy on drugs has been sent to all parents and guardians. 07. Students may not break the limits of propriety or territory in the matter of sexual behaviour. This means, for example, that students may not enter the dormitory or sleeping areas of members of the opposite sex. 08. Students may not retain live ammunition or firearms. Only those with a current Victorian Shooter’s Licence or permit may fire on school shooting trips. There is to be no shooting on School property. 09. Boarders may not be outside the House between 7pm and 7am without the permission of the Head of House. 10. The only earrings that are permitted to be worn by girls are a single pair of studs or sleepers. Earrings are only to be worn in the ear lobe. Boys may not wear earrings at any time. Apart from a watch, no other jewellery may be worn. Tattoos are not permitted. 11. Hair must be clean, well-groomed and of natural colour.

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HOUSE RULES Heads of Houses will inform students of House rules.

WHERE TO GO FOR HELP Students come to Middle School at Corio from our Toorak Campus, from Bostock House and from a wide range of other educational institutions. This gives everyone a chance to make new friends and to face up to different challenges. Of course Corio is a large place and can take some time to know. Whilst the majority of students will enjoy and make a success of their time in Middle School, some problems may arise. It is much better for students to let someone know than to keep the trouble to themselves. Parents, teachers, student leaders and friends are all good places to start. The main contact for all parents and students is the Head of House, whose primary responsibility is the welfare of students, supported by House Tutors and House Assistants. All discussions of a personal nature are strictly confidential. Sometimes it may be appropriate and necessary to seek specialist help outside the House, which can be organised through the Head of House. The following resources are available to students and their parents. The Head of House should be the first contact: HEADS OF HOUSE Barrabool House Mr Simon Haigh tel: +61 3 5273 9214 email: shaigh@ggs.vic.edu.au

Highton House Ms Annabel Meek tel: +61 3 5273 9263 email: annabelm@ggs.vic.edu.au

Barwon House Mr Tony Green tel: +61 3 5273 9206 email: tonyg@ggs.vic.edu.au

Otway House Mr David Chaney tel: +61 3 5273 9266 email: davidch@ggs.vic.edu.au

Connewarre House Ms Mary-Anne Lewis tel: +61 3 5273 9210 email: mlewis@ggs.vic.edu.au

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Deputy Head of Middle School Ms Mary Burke tel: +61 3 5273 9883 email: maryb@ggs.vic.edu.au Head of Middle School Mr Tony Inkster tel: +61 3 5273 9231 email: tonyi@ggs.vic.edu.au Vice Principal and Head of Corio Mr Charlie Scudamore tel: + 61 3 5273 9808 email: charliesc@ggs.vic.edu.au Chaplain for Middle School Father Howard Parkinson tel: +61 3 5273 9746 email: howardp@ggs.vic.edu.au

Counsellors Mr Ian McIntosh tel: +61 3 5273 9302 Mrs Janet Stephens tel: +61 3 5273 9302 Appointments for Counsellors can be made through the Head of House or at the Kennedy Medical Centre. Kennedy Medical Centre Appointments can be made through the House Assistant or at the Kennedy desk with one of the Receptionists, tel: +61 3 5273 9302.

HEALTH If a student has been in contact with infection, the House Assistant or Head of House should be informed. If treatment has been given during the holidays, it is necessary to ensure that the student’s doctor sends a report to the Kennedy Medical Centre with details of any treatment. Any medicines that are brought back to school must be handed in to the House Assistant or Head of House, both for security reasons and to ensure they are taken as directed. Regular medical and dental appointments should be restricted to holidays or Wednesday afternoons so that interruption to schooling is kept to a minimum. For specific health and medical issues, there are a series of procedures that the School follows in a manner appropriate to the particular situation. Sun Exposure Sun exposure and consequent risk of skin cancer is a problem in our society. Exposure to the sun during childhood and adolescence significantly increases the risk of developing skin cancer in later life. Students must ensure that they avoid unnecessary harmful exposure to the sun and wear appropriate protection when exposed to the sun:

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Note: hats/caps, sunglasses and sunscreen are all available from the GGS Shop. Middle School students are encouraged to wear appropriate hats during Terms 1 and 4, this being compulsory for Years 5 and 6 (see uniform list). Sleep Sleep allows students to gather the physical and mental ‘re-charge’ needed to participate in a busy school life. On weekends and exeat students must be mindful of the need for sleep. Late nights establish a sleep debt which is difficult to overcome. The consequences of this do seriously reduce a student’s capacity to productively manage academic and cocurricular activities. If students are to get the most from their education at Corio, they must ensure that they get adequate sleep each night, even when they are not feeling particularly tired. There needs to be a general acceptance by students that having the right amount of sleep is important. For those in dorms and at home, there needs to be a determination not to talk for long periods after lights-out. Parents should discuss this with their children.

TELEPHONE USE Boarders may be contacted in the House on the student number. Students are not permitted to take calls during evening prep or after bedtime. Heads of Houses will make their individual requirements known. Phone cards are available from GGS Shop. Mobile Phones for Boarders Boarding students may bring mobile phones to school but they must be kept with their Head of House who will, with discretion, allow use at appropriate times: before prep, travelling to and from school, at weekends when on an exeat. Mobile Phones for Day Students We recommend and prefer that day students do not bring mobile phones to school, as there is the potential for misuse. Students may use a school telephone at any time once they have consulted with their Head of House. Parents often feel that their child needs to be able to contact them, particularly in regard to travel arrangements. It is most desirable that all travel arrangements are made before the student leaves home in the morning. Parents are asked to be supportive of the School in regard to student use of mobile phones. To do otherwise only places the child in conflict.

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- Shirt (long-sleeved if possible) - Hat (wide-brimmed) or cap (GGS) for specific sports - Sunglasses (close fitting) - Sunscreen

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UNIFORM The correct GGS school uniform is to be worn to and from school each day. This includes wearing the school blazer. Unless directed otherwise, students do not arrive at school or depart in sports uniform. Black polishable, lace-up shoes are a part of the school uniform. HAIR Students are expected to keep their hair well groomed each day. Girls are required to have their hair tied back using a light blue ribbon or head band. Boys are required to keep their hair in a neat and tidy manner. When hair is too long or too messy the student will be requested to get a hair cut. Note: All hair is to be of natural colour. EARRINGS Girls are permitted to wear one pair of earrings; either small stud or small sleeper in the earlobe.

IDENTIFICATION CARDS Identification cards, which include a photograph and individual barcode, are issued at the start of each year. These are used to borrow books from the libraries, to purchase items from the Bookroom or GGS Shop, and to use photocopiers.

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ACADEMIC PROGRAMME

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ACADEMIC PROGRAMME Middle School at Corio is a vibrant, creative place where a broad, liberal approach to education is at the heart of all learning. The natural flow from one year level to the next enables students to make a smooth transition from the junior years to the more complicated and challenging environment of the secondary years in Senior School. Those who teach at Middle School recognise the importance of these transitional years and are experienced in working with younger students. Our Middle School Curriculum is described in detail in the Corio and Timbertop Curriculum Guide, which is available on the Community Portal. The following is a brief overview. YEARS 5 AND 6 ACADEMIC PROGRAMME Each class in Years 5 and 6 is based in one well-equipped room with a classroom teacher for the majority of its lessons. In Years 5 and 6, students begin most days with an English lesson, demonstrating commitment to the acquisition of solid literacy skills. This is usually followed each day by a Mathematics lesson. English, Mathematics and Humanities are often taught by the classroom teacher, while specialist teachers deal with Japanese, Music/Choir, Technology, Art, Drama, Library, Science, Religious Education and Health and Physical Education. Additional Activities Offered at Years 5 and 6: - Inter-school Debating - Mathematics, Science and English Competitions - Geelong Grammar School Speakers’ Festival - Tournament of Minds YEARS 7 AND 8 ACADEMIC PROGRAMME Students in Years 7 and 8 are taught by specialist teachers in all subject areas. In Year 7, there will be core teachers who will teach students in two (or more) subjects. In addition, some subjects are semesterised to reduce the number of different teachers met by a student each day. Subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, Positive Education, LOTE (Japanese, Chinese or French, and German for Year 8), Health and Physical Education, Geography/History, Art/Technology, Drama/Religious Education, Music/Ensemble Music. Additional Activities which may be offered at Years 7 and 8 - Legacy Public Speaking Competition - Writers’ Conference - Debating - Dorothy Mackellar Poetry Competition - Geelong Grammar School Speakers’ Festival - Alliance Française Awards - Tournament of the Minds 35

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CATERING FOR HIGH ACHIEVERS Classroom teachers differentiate and extend the curriculum to meet the needs of students. Middle School recognises an inclusive definition of giftedness and encourages excellence in all forms of intellectual, academic and creative endeavour. In all areas of the curriculum, students are encouraged to reach their potential via extended open-ended assessment tasks and challenging work requirements. High achievers in other co-curricular domains are given the opportunity to expand their talents, whether they are in the areas of physical pursuits, artistic endeavour or community activities, through open-ended programming that allows for extension and enrichment to occur. STUDENT SUPPORT Assistance is available through the Academic Support Programme for those students who might be experiencing difficulties in grasping basic skills. At different stages, assessments and specific testing are carried out to evaluate students’ progress in areas of learning. The following are available to Middle School students: - Individual assessments - Individual advice to both students and parents - Individual and small group instruction

MIDDLE SCHOOL COMPUTING Each student and teacher uses his or her portable personal computer as an integral part of teaching and learning with the aim of successfully integrating the use of information technology into all curriculum areas. The classrooms in Middle School are well-equipped, allowing easy access to both the School’s Community Portal and the internet. It must be recognised that laptops are an educational tool. They are not a toy for playing games. NOTEBOOK COMPUTER PROGRAMME Geelong Grammar School is committed to providing young people with the skills to succeed at whatever they choose in life. The School considers that the use of information technology is a vital tool in the development of young people as the world embraces technology at an ever increasing rate. The School has had a compulsory Notebook Computer Programme in place for over 12 years, incorporating the use of computing technology in all facets of the curriculum. We are continually seeking innovative ways in which this technology can be utilised to expand the learning experience and be used as an effective support and learning tool for students. MIDDLE SCHOOL HANDBOOK - GEELONG GRAMMAR SCHOOL

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- da Vinci Decathlon - Cuthbertson, Sanderson and Isabel Henderson Essay Prize - Francis Hope Lascelles and Lady Robertson Prize for Reading - Middle School Prize for Poetry

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The School has invested heavily to establish a high level of support to the computer network and the Notebook Computer Programme by providing the following support facilities through Computer Services: - Help Desk facilities - support technicians - insurance and warranty repair facilities - a fully stocked workshop and loan notebook computer facilities All of these are geared to provide support for the School’s new Samsung Slate PC Programme. The Samsung Slate PC features the pen and detachable keyboard functionality, which provides the flexibility of a portable Slate device as well as a fully functional Notebook computer when docked with the keyboard. In the past, some parents have chosen not to purchase the designated Notebook computer. This has left these students without the required level of computer support. All new students entering the School are required to purchase the specified Samsung Slate PC through the School’s Notebook Computer Supplier. A separate complete computer information package is sent to all new students upon enrolment. COMPUTER RESOURCE CENTRE The Computer Resource Centre has one lab of Windows based desktop computers available for student and teacher use. This lab also includes laser and colour printers and scanning facilities. The Art Department also has one lab of Apple desktop computers, also with laser colour printers and scanning facilities. Both labs are available for student use during the school day and after school hours. All students wishing to use these facilities are encouraged to have their own USB memory/storage device to enable their work to be saved to it. The memory sticks are available for purchase through the School’s bookroom. Access to wireless network facilities is available throughout the School so students can use their notebook computers in most classrooms and Houses. In addition, there are network access points in a number of strategic locations. Notebook computers are not to be left unattended in any location as this will void the Insurance Policy. The Computer Services Department (1st floor, The Quadrangle, West wing) is the location for gaining technical assistance with student-owned computers. The technicians are available to assist students with problems they may encounter with their prescribed school computers. Students requiring this assistance are asked to contact the technicians either before school (8.30am - 9.00am), at lunch time (1.15pm - 1.45pm) or immediately after school (3.30pm 4.30pm). A technician regularly visits Middle School for Years 5 and 6 classes to assist with any problems.

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CYBERSAFETY AND STUDENT USE AGREEMENT It is expected that students will refer to and abide by the School’s Cybersafety Policy. This document outlines in detail student responsibilities in relation to the use of technology at Geelong Grammar School. While the School supports and encourages the use of technology it recognises an obligation to protect and provide safeguards for its community. The Cybersafety and Student Use Agreement states that use of school’s computer network at GGS is subject to the following: - Access to the internet is a privilege and not a right and, as such, can be withdrawn at the discretion of a member of the Geelong Grammar School staff. - At all times use of the internet will be in accordance with the guidelines of the School. - The internet shall not be used to transmit any communication in which the meaning of the message would violate any law or regulation or is obscene, abusive or otherwise likely to be offensive to the recipient. - Students will not provide any person’s name or contact details to others on the internet. - It is the student’s responsibility when considering downloading any materials from the internet to check for copyright or a licensing agreement. If there is any doubt, the material should not be copied. - Students must not utilise the internet for financial or commercial gain. - The School accepts no responsibility or liability for the results of a student’s actions with regard to the use of the internet. Appropriate Use of the Email System As usage of the system has increased so has the need to clarify the expectations of the School regarding appropriate use. Please take note of the following: - Strict adherence to the Cybersafety Policy and Use Agreements. - No student will share their username or password with anyone else or allow any other person to access the network with their details. - Students are not to use the electronic email system to globally broadcast mail to large numbers of users on the system. Students found doing this will be removed from the mail system for one month.

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EMAIL AND INTERNET USE Use of these facilities at Geelong Grammar School is generally for the purposes of education and research. Due to the nature of our boarding environment, it is reasonable that students are permitted, at appropriate times, to use the internet facilities for personal use. At all times students must adhere to the School’s policies on the use of the School’s computer network, incorporating but not limited to, email and internet facilities. All student users of the School’s network facilities, equipment and systems are bound by the Student Cybersafety Policy and Use Agreement.

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- Students are not to distribute any messages to any other person via email that are considered offensive in any way. Again, students found doing so will be removed from the mail system for one month and subject to the appropriate disciplinary procedures of the school. - Students must take great care to ensure that their password is known only to them and used only by them. If they are concerned at any time about the security of their password then they should go immediately to Computer Services and arrange for the password to be changed. - Students found using another person’s username and password will be removed from the mail system for one month and subject to the appropriate disciplinary procedures of the School. We trust that all students will understand that the guidelines for the use of the computer network will need to change from time to time to reflect issues of concern. At all times, however, it is the intention of the School to maintain access to the system for as many responsible users as possible and to ensure that all users of the system can do so in confidence. Students are encouraged to seek advice from staff if they are concerned about the use of the email and Internet system within the School. Prep or Homework It is important that each student accepts responsibility for his or her own learning and, in doing so, becomes a life-long learner. Homework is an integral part of the study programme for all students. Year 5: 30 minutes homework plus 20 minutes reading Year 6: 30 minutes homework plus 20 minutes reading Years 7 & 8: 75 minutes homework plus reading Middle School students are encouraged to develop to their full potential through their involvement in extension activities within the classroom, or within the School, and through an extensive Co-curriculum Programme. Middle School students display a marvellous enthusiasm for learning and participation.It is our aim to build on this by providing a wide range of experiences as well as preparing students academically and socially for their life at Timbertop, Senior School and beyond.

FISHER AND PANCKRIDGE LIBRARIES Borrowing and Returning Items Books, audio and video cassettes may be borrowed for two weeks (DVDs may be borrowed overnight). At the end of that time they must be returned or renewed. To renew items, borrowers must apply in person bringing the book with them. Items from the vertical file may be borrowed on the same basis as books, the conditions for their return or renewal being the same as those outlined above. Periodicals may be borrowed for use in the Library only. Reference books and other material on reserve may not be removed from the Library. Student ID cards are required for borrowing. 39

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Overdue item lists are issued every Monday. Borrowers with items overdue for longer than a week will be referred to Heads of Houses, and no further withdrawals will be allowed until the overdue items are returned. Any student who loses any library materials should report the loss directly to the Librarian. Borrowers must be prepared to accept responsibility for items borrowed in their names and are fully liable for them until they are directly returned to the Library. HOURS On weeknights, the Panckridge Library is open for Houses at allocated times. The Panckridge Library is open at lunchtime. The Fisher Library is open after hours: Monday - Thursday 6.30pm - 9.30pm Sunday 1.00pm - 5.00pm N.B. Additional times as notified on the Library Noticeboard.

REPORTING Information pertaining to the reporting system is contained in the Corio and Timbertop Curriculum Guide. It is expected that students will attend Parent/Student/Teacher Interview evenings. RECOGNITION OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE In Years 7 and 8, students who achieve a high standard across all learning areas may be awarded a Certificate of Academic Excellence at the end of each semester. Students in Years 5 to 8 may also receive a certificate acknowledging significant improvement in effort and attitude at the end of a semester.

CO-CURRICULUM PROGRAMME The Co-curriculum Programme at Geelong Grammar School is immensely rich and diverse. Experiences outside the classroom allow our students to learn, to have fun and to develop new and productive relationships with their peers, their teachers and other adults. Heads of House and Tutors will be able to advise students in considering each of the options. If students need more detailed information, they should speak to the teachers in charge of the activities. In the Middle School, we offer our students many opportunities to branch out, to explore, to relax, to make new friends, to have fun and to learn something different in an interesting way. Together, these activities help define us as a school, for what we do outside of the classroom enriches us all, helping us to make new connections and allowing us to expand

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our understanding of ourselves and others. Our Co-curriculum Programme is about giving students a chance to begin to make some of their own decisions. It is important for them to think about what they know and what they would like to know about what they can do already and what else they would love to do in the future. Middle School students are encouraged to speak to the Middle School Co-ordinator of the Co-curriculum Programme, Mr Rob French or their Head of House if they need help in planning their programme which they will do with their House Tutor. Sport Years 7 and 8 Students: Sport is compulsory. Training is after school on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday and matches are played on Saturday morning. Most sports are played competitively in the Associated Public Schools (APS), the Geelong Independent Schools Association and local Geelong sporting associations. Summer sports played in Term 1 and Term 4 are: Boys: Diving, Cricket, Rowing, Swimming, Tennis, Badminton and Table Tennis Girls: Diving, Rowing, Swimming, Softball, Badminton and Tennis Winter sports played in Term 2 and Term 3 are: Boys: Australian Rules Football, Hockey and Soccer Girls: Netball, Hockey and Soccer In Term 3, students may apply to do Snowsports as an option if they are experienced competitors. They may be exempted from Saturday morning sport if they agree to the conditions associated with this activity and meet set criteria for selection. In the final three weeks of Term 3 all students take part in Athletics. There is a Cross Country season during this term as well. Years 5 and 6 Students: Students have a specific sporting programme and are involved in the Victorian Primary Schools’ Sports Association (SSV) competition with other Geelong schools. Sport is held after school on Tuesday and Wednesday. COMMUNITY SERVICE The School is proud of its students’ involvement in a range of Community Service activities and their support of local charities. Many of the Community Service activities take place within the framework of the Activities Programme. It is not unusual, however, for Service activities to take place on Wednesday afternoons before sport or on another evening when students are not committed to other activities. Riding for the Disabled (RDA) Middle School students participate fortnightly in the Riding for the Disabled programme at Koombahla Park Equestrian Centre.

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Meals on Wheels Middle School students participate weekly in the Meals on Wheels programme under the supervision of volunteer parents. SAVE - Students Against the Violation of the Environment SAVE is a charitable organisation that focuses primarily on environmental issues - both school-based and global - attempting to raise awareness of environmental and energy conservation and recycling. Recent fundraising events have concentrated on helping victims of natural disasters. The SAVE Concerts are student-run fundraising events that provide a vehicle for exposing musical talent amongst the student body. The Wetlands Project The Wetlands Project aims to enhance the School grounds through creating natural vegetation and wetlands habitat for local animal species, particularly birds. Since the bulk of water run-off from the school grounds passes through the Wetlands, the quality of water draining into the Hovell’s Creek estuary - an important wildlife area - will also be improved. Students are engaged in a range of practical activities, including pest plant control, revegetation, and construction tasks. There are also field trips to learn about the local environment through visiting other revegetation sites and wildlife sanctuaries. Recycling Efforts are made to ensure that the Geelong Grammar School community thinks globally and acts locally so, where possible, recycling occurs throughout the week. STUDENT SCHOOL COUNCIL The SSC is made up of students from each House across the year levels. The group meets every few weeks to discuss a wide range of matters that impact on Middle School. The SSC is responsible for fundraising activities and takes on several charities each year to support. The Council consists of various sub committees, such as the Sustainability, Marketing and Fundraising committees. The Council offers students the opportunity to become actively involved in discussion, decision making and organisation.

OUTDOOR EDUCATION There is an Outdoor Education programme for each year level in Middle School. Year 5 The Year 5 Camp is based at Queenscliff. Students stay in purpose built accommodation and engage in a range of activities in and around the town. This includes time spent at the Marine Discovery Centre, Maritime Centre and if weather permits, time out on the bay. Students return to Middle School early Friday morning to reflect upon the trip and complete their activities. MIDDLE SCHOOL HANDBOOK - GEELONG GRAMMAR SCHOOL

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Year 6 The Year 6 Camp is held at Narmbool, near Ballarat. Students explore the magnificent bushland and pastures at Narmbool with a focus on environmental science. A highly creative program blends science and the Arts with a big measure of fun. Students discover life’s diversity in the bush and then make their own unique responses to their Narmbool experience. The overall aim of the program is to equip students with the skills to articulate a view about the importance of sustainability and protecting diversity. By visiting and examining some biodiversity hot spots across the property, students learn about healthy habitats, how all things are connected in ecosystems, and the impact of human decisions in maintaining a healthy environmental balance. Year 7 All Year 7 students attend the Adventure Camp, Anglesea. There they will undertake a range of aquatic and other adventure activities under the direction of three adventure education organisations: Great Ocean Road Adventure Tours, Go Ride A Wave and Ecologic. Go Ride a Wave provides full wetsuits (full arms and legs). If students wish to bring their own full wetsuit they may. Mobile phones, personal surfboards or boogie boards are not permitted. Students do not need to bring money. Before partaking in this activity, students must have passed their school swimming test. Year 8 In Year 8 students experience The Journey. This includes a Year 8 Conference in Term 1 and students selecting to join either a Bike Ride or a Paddle/Hike in Term 4.

ACTIVITIES PROGRAMME Years 7 and 8 students complete activities on Monday and Thursday. In Term 1, all Year 8 students undertake Lifesaving. All students must pass a swimming test. Swimming lessons are compulsory until the test is passed. Activities are compulsory for boarders and optional for day students, although there are no after school buses on these nights. Activities change from term to term and there are many activities that are offered throughout the year. This flexibility gives students the opportunity to experience a wide range of different activities. Students select their activities in the second last week of term for the subsequent term. Staff may offer additional activities throughout the year. These will be advertised via the student bulletin and will require students to make contact with the staff member in charge of the activity. 43

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Activities offered may include: Swimming Lessons, Tennis Coaching, Year 8 Lifesaving (Compulsory), Badminton, Fencing, Minor Games, Self Defence, Equestrian, Dance, Bike Riding, Golf, Sailing, Ten Pin Bowling, Band, Making Models, Painting or Drawing, Puppet Making, Cooking, Clay Figurines, Woodwork, Community Service, Necklace Making, Computer Programming and Drawing, Landcare, Wetlands, Geelong Grammar School Community Service, Horticulture, Market Garden and Debating. Attendance at Activities Students need to consider their activities choices very carefully, for they must remain committed to their chosen activity for the term. If they do have a valid reason for missing or changing an activity, they must speak to their Head of House or Tutor before the activity takes place.

PERFORMING ARTS The Performing Arts are a significant part of life at Geelong Grammar School, with over 510 students learning instruments at Corio. Middle School students enjoy a wide range of opportunities in the fields of music and drama. INSTRUMENTAL TUITION Students may learn an instrument or voice. Lessons are usually weekly and 30 or 50 minutes in duration. There is a Music staff of six full time teachers and 24 visiting teachers at Corio. Tuition can be arranged by contacting the Music Office and is available in the following instruments: Bass Guitar, Bassoon, Cello, Clarinet, Double Bass, Drum Kit, Euphonium, Flute, French Horn, Guitar, Harp, Oboe, Percussion, Piano, Pipe Organ, Saxophone, Trombone, Trumpet, Tuba, Violin, Viola, Voice. ENSEMBLES Brazier Strings The Brazier Strings is a small orchestra that gives all Middle School string players the great experience of playing together as a group, with expert tuition. Rehearsal: During the week Middle School Band The Middle School Band is made up of selected wind and percussion players, with some vacancies for guitarists and keyboard players. Under expert direction, instrumentalists have the experience of playing their instruments together. Rehearsal: During the week MIDDLE SCHOOL HANDBOOK - GEELONG GRAMMAR SCHOOL

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The list of activities changes frequently with the season. It is not always possible for a student to get his or her first choice, but normally a satisfactory selection can be made.

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Middle School Choir The Middle School Choir is open to all Middle School students. There is no audition. This is a popular activity with up to 100 students involved every year. Rehearsal: During the week Limeburner Singers The Limeburner Singers is an auditioned choir for girls and boys which aims to perform at a very high level of expertise. It performs in concerts, Chapel and at Assembly. Rehearsal: During the week Senior Orchestra A small number of advanced Middle School players may be invited to join this orchestra. GGS School Orchestra Each year students from Middle School and Senior School have the opportunity to join the Geelong Grammar School Orchestra. Rehearsals: During Term 3 Middle School Flute Ensemble Middle School Flute students enjoy playing in a small group and rehearse once a week at a mutually convenient time with a member of the music department. PERFORMANCES There are a variety of performances throughout the year, big and small, formal and informal. The Music Department works diligently to try and provide opportunities for all students to perform at their own level and in a comfortable environment. YEARS 7 AND 8 SCHOOL PRODUCTION The Years 7 and 8 Production takes place in Term 4 and is one of the major events of the Middle School calendar. This is a large-scale theatrical production involving a substantial cast and encouraging the involvement of as many students as possible in design and production work.

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FRIENDS OF MIDDLE SCHOOL Established in 1998, the Friends of Middle School (FoMS) charter two important roles within the broader Middle School community. Firstly, to act as a liaison, a connection point for all Middle School parents to meet other parents. Secondly, to raise funds to support Middle School programmes and students. In recent years the Friends of Middle School have provided support for a broad range of initiatives, from the erection of a colourful mural painted by our students and stunning animal strengths totem pole, to bright new House banners, new bicycles for the Great Victorian Bike Ride and Saturday morning sausage sizzles after sport. The Friends of Middle School committee hosts monthly meetings during Term time at the Ernest Clarke Pavilion. It also hosts a number of social gatherings during the year, including Welcome Drinks at the start of the school year, an Annual Dinner during Term 2, and a Melbourne-based Cocktail Party during Term 3. All parents are most warmly invited to play an active part in our Friends of Middle School.

LEAVE Exeat weekends are a time for students to be with their parents, their nominated guardians or with the families of other Geelong Grammar School students. Unless there are exceptional circumstances, Heads of House will not give permission for leave for other reasons, or for leave during the week. On particular occasions, determined by the Head of House, leave may begin on Friday night. Students must return for roll call at 7.00pm on Sunday evenings or before 8.30am on Monday mornings. In order for students to build strong relationships within their House community, we ask that they do not take leave during the first two weekends of Term or during weekdays in their first two weeks in residence. SCHOOL POLICY - All exeats MUST be arranged through the School. - The management of students while on exeats is the responsibility of parents once students leave the Boarding House. - Travel arrangements to and from exeat destinations are the responsibility of parents, and students are in the care of their parents while in transit. - Heads of House will only intervene if the exeat arrangements have the potential or real prospect of damaging the productive activities that students engage in at school. - Heads of Houses may deny exeats if they think that a break from school is not appropriate under the circumstances. - The Head of Middle School must approve early departures and/or late arrivals at the beginning and the end of term.

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TRAVEL Parents should be aware that, given the travel time from Corio campus to Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine), students need to leave Corio at least three hours before the departure time of international flights. Students can use the Gull Airport Shuttle service to and from Tullamarine for all flights. International flight tickets must be purchased by parents and sent to the Head of House as far ahead as possible. Domestic flights may also depart from Avalon Airport, which is approximately 20 minutes from Corio. In general, all travel bookings (air/rail/bus) need to be confirmed at least four weeks before the end of term. Parents and guardians are reminded that, whilst the School will provide reasonable assistance to ensure that satisfactory travel arrangements are made for all students travelling to and from the School, it is the responsibility of parents or guardians to ensure satisfactory travel arrangements are made. The School does not accept responsibility in any respect for those arrangements. Consequently, when making travel arrangements, parents or guardians should ensure that adequate arrangements are made not only for travel but, where necessary, for the supervision of students travelling to or from the School. Travel – Start and End of Term Students are allowed to depart from Thursday afternoon at the End of Term. Middle School programmes its timetable so that academic classes take place on Thursday morning, followed by an End of Term assembly. House events often take place earlier in the week, on Tuesday or Wednesday evenings. These final assemblies, House events and classes are deemed important by the School and are compulsory activities for all students. Students are also required to complete all academic work before they depart at the End of Term, which is supported through the Catch Up programme. When planning End of Term travel we ask that these factors be recognised. Requests for early departures will only be considered if there is a significant family event that must be attended. Heads of House need to receive all requests for early End of Term departures or late Start of Term returns well in advance where possible.

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APPLICATION FOR EXEAT - The application for an exeat, with the details of the arrangements being made for travel, is to be in place by Wednesday evening prior to the weekend of the proposed exeat. - Exeat procedures are clearly described on the School website. All parents and guardians should make exeat arrangements through the School’s website. - Please be very careful with exeat arrangements. Parents or students should not allow others to use their secure site password access to make arrangements for exeats. If a student makes a fraudulent application for an exeat, there is an immediate suspension incurred and the student is placed on probation. - For parents who are not able to access a computer, exeats can be arranged by telephoning the Head of House. - Should ‘special’ arrangements be sought, parents must contact the Head of House before arrangements are made.

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We ask all interstate and overseas parents to book flights and travel connections mindful of our End of Term/Start of Term programme. Boarding Houses are fully operational Thursday night and Friday mornings at the End of Term to accommodate students’ travel arrangements. Of course, many students spend time with their guardians. It is important for students to arrive back on time at the Start of Term. The School anticipates all boarding students will be back in their House before 7.00pm on the evening prior to classes commencing. It is expected that all students attend their first lessons of the Term or Semester. BUSES The School provides an extensive daily bus service with routes to Corio from Altona, Anglesea, Ceres, Drysdale, Highton, Newtown, Torquay and Williamstown. For details of bus routes or bus timetables please contact Mrs Janet O’Donnell on +61 3 5227 6211 (8.30am - 4.30pm weekdays). In the event of late bus arrivals (e.g. after 4.30pm) parents should contact the bus company: Benders tel: +61 3 5278 5955 Reilly’s U-Drive tel: +61 3 5275 1604. TAXIS No taxi is to be ordered from the School by students without the authority of either the Head of House or the issuer of a cab charge. Payment for the service will be by cash or cab charge which incurs a 20% accounting fee and is passed on to the user. Cab charges, which must be authorised by the issuer, are available only from Heads of Houses, or their deputies, and teachers in charge of sports and activities. Taxi companies will not accept any other form or docket/requisition. The School will not be responsible for the payment of any unauthorised taxi trips. Students must return any unused dockets to the person who issued them. They must not be altered or given to other students.

EXPENSIVE EQUIPMENT While every care is taken to help protect students’ belongings, it is strongly advised that expensive items are not brought to School. Serviceable rather than valuable gear is recommended. It is essential that all belongings are clearly named. This ensures that lost items are returned to their owner promptly. Expensive clothing and electrical equipment are not appropriate for a Boarding House. Computer equipment should be named and fully insured. Students’ belongings are not covered by the School’s insurance. If cover is needed, it must be arranged by parents. BICYCLES, SKATEBOARDS, ROLLERBLADES AND SCOOTERS Bicycles may be brought to Corio but they should be plain, without expensive accessories, and must have the owner’s surname clearly painted or engraved in a prominent position on the frame of the bicycle. All cyclists must wear helmets. The manufacturer’s frame number 51

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Helmets Helmets must be worn by students using bicycles, skateboards, scooters and rollerblades at all times. Duty of Care Students riding bicycles, skateboards, rollerblades and scooters have a duty of care to themselves and others to ride in a responsible manner. Insurance is the responsibility of the owner, not the School. Use of Equipment From Monday to Friday, students may ride bicycles, skateboards, rollerbaldes and scooters only between the end of classes and dinner. Over the weekend times are more extensive. Bicycles may not be ridden to meals, to the Rowing Shed (Lagoon), in the Quadrangles, on footpaths, on ovals or on the Melbourne Road. Skateboards are not to be used in Quadrangles, on paths around the Chapel, on School Road, Biddlecombe Avenue, Art School Road, Tower Road or Cuthbertson Road and are restricted to House areas.

COMMUNICATION BETWEEN PARENTS AND SCHOOL MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWSLETTER A Middle School Newsletter is published fortnightly. It regularly contains important information that parents need to know. It is our preference to send an electronic copy to each family and student. Please inform the Middle School office if we do not have your email address. COMMUNITY PORTAL The Community Portal is a dedicated section of the School’s website designed to provide parents, guardians and members of the wider School community with secure access to a range of important information and web-based functions, including online reports, exeat requests, fee payments, event bookings, calendars and contact lists. Each parent or guardian has a unique account with a username and password providing access to information specific to their child/children. The Portal also enables parents, students and staff to stay connected with the day-to-day life of the School through image galleries, blogs and podcasts.

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of bicycles kept at the School should be given to the relevant Head of House. Bicycles ridden at dusk must have front and rear lamps. A padlock and chain is recommended. All skateboards, rollerblades and scooters must be clearly labelled with the owner’s name and House.

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SMARTPHONE APPLICATION The School’s free Smartphone Application, GGS Mobile, is designed to keep our community connected with all of the latest news, events and sports results from the School via their mobile phones. Complementing our website, Community Portal and Campus Newsletters, the App reflects the dynamic nature of the life of our School. It features multi-media presentations from the Arts, Positive Education and Learning, which are regularly updated during the school year. It also includes image galleries, sports fixtures, an interactive map of our Corio campus and information from both the Old Geelong Grammarians and Geelong Grammar Foundation. GGS Mobile can be downloaded from both the iTunes Store and Android Market.

UNIFORM THE GGS UNIFORM SHOP The GGS Uniform Shop is situated upstairs in the Handbury Centre for Wellbeing. The shop is the only place where the Geelong Grammar School uniform can be purchased. It sells all School and Sports Uniforms, both new and second-hand, as well as a range of personal care items. When purchasing from the shop, payment may be made by cash, credit card, cheque or school account. Note: All Middle School students require authorisation from parents (a note in the diary), HOH or House Assistant to make purchases at the shop. Student ID cards must also be presented when purchasing. Second-hand Clothing Second-hand items are available at the shop. All are in good condition and are only a margin of the cost of new. Second-hand uniforms are given to the shop on a consignment basis and, when sold, the proceeds are credited to the student’s account. A 25% fee is retained by the school to cover operating costs. Please ensure that all items are clean and in good repair when given to the shop. Opening Hours During term hours: Monday - Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm Sport Saturdays: 8.00am. - 11.00am (Please check first) The shop will close Friday 16 December 2011 and re-open on Monday 16 January 2012. When shopping for a Full School uniform, please allow 45 minutes - 1 hour. Tel: +61 3 5273 9329, fax +61 3 5275 0180

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Where to place the name tapes? Name tags should be on trousers, kilts, shorts and underwear. Sew the name tapes on the inside of the middle-back of the waistband. For shirts, jumpers, blazers and tops, name tags should be taped in the middle of the back of the neck. Socks should have name tags sewn vertically on the inside of the top of each sock. Shoes should be named with marking ink. Parents are advised to name valued items with both sew on name tapes and marking ink. Name tapes should show: Given Name, Surname and House: JOHN SMITH, BB (Middle School House codes include BB: Barrabool, BW: Barwon, CN: Connewarre, HI: Highton, OT: Otway) MIDDLE SCHOOL UNIFORM REGULATIONS Girls: Summer Uniform (Terms 1 & 4) - GGS summer dress (length to the knee) - Grey Middle School jumper with blue trim - Grey blazer with blue trim - Black polishable lace-up shoes - Mid-calf white socks - Geelong Grammar School blue broad brim hat Note: In particularly hot weather, blazers may be declared by the Head of Middle School as optional. Girls: Winter Uniform (Terms 2 & 3) - GGS blue shirt (long or short sleeves) - Kilt (length to the knee) - Grey Middle School jumper with blue trim - Grey blazer with blue trim - Black polishable lace-up shoes - Black opaque tights or grey knee high GGS socks - Middle School tie (for formal occasions)

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NAME TAPES AND MARKING OF CLOTHING All pieces of uniform and personal clothing are clearly labelled with sewn on name tapes which can be ordered from the GGS Shop.

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Boys: Summer Uniform (Terms 1 & 4) - Blue shirt - long or short sleeve - Grey trousers or shorts with plain black leather belt - Grey jumper - Grey blazer - Black polishable lace-up shoes - Grey knee high GGS socks - GGS blue broad brim hat - Middle School tie (for formal occasions) Note: In particularly hot weather blazers may be declared by the Head of Middle School as optional. Boys: Winter Uniform (Terms 2 & 3 - known as ‘Number 1’s’) - Blue shirt - long or short sleeve - Grey trousers or shorts with plain black leather belt - Grey jumper - Grey blazer - Black polishable lace-up shoes - Grey knee high Geelong Grammar School socks - Middle School tie (for formal occasions) Formal Occasions (Boys & Girls) Formal occasions include Sunday Chapel, Combined Sports, A.P.S. Swimming relays, Speech Day, Founders’ Day Service and Dinner and any other occasion that is designated by the School as formal. Additional Laundry Tips Clothes should be machine washable or dry cleanable. Clothes will be tumble dried. Note: The School provides 1 pillow and pillowcase, sheets and 1 blanket (students can bring own pillow). Lost and Found Property Please check the Middle School Office and in House.

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ITEM

INFORMATION

QUANTITY

Mesh laundry bag

available from shop

Sleeping bag

Timbertop type from shop

Name tapes

available from shop

20 dozen (3 dozen extra for House Assistant)

Pyjamas Underwear

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GENERAL ITEMS FOR BOARDERS

3 bras/knickers/jocks/ singlets

Mug for supper

Thongs for shower

1 pair

Doona

double size recommended

Doona covers

double size recommended

Towels

available from shop

Tool box 46cm x 16cm

lockable (used for Tuck)

Weekend case/bag

Brush & comb

available from shop

Nail file & clippers

available from shop

Toothbrush & Toothpaste

available from shop

Shampoo & Conditioner

available from shop

Soap

available from shop

Deodorant

no aerosols

Wrist watch

Small alarm clock

*All clothing should be name taped CASUAL CLOTHING FOR BOARDERS Students should have 3 changes of tidy casual clothing for weekend wear, and 1 change of smart casual clothes for more formal occasions including theatre parties, travel to and from school and concerts. Students should have the appropriate dress for these events. All clothing should be name taped.

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TUCK Whilst it is acknowledged that ‘tuck’ or extra food is a nice treat for boarders, parents and family must realise that too much, or eaten too often, can only affect the overall health of the child. All students are required to attend all meals and to eat a healthy and substantial meal. The School asks that students are not given excess amounts of tuck. ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES All electrical appliances brought onto Campus are to be compliant with Australian Standards. Any electrical appliance brought onto Campus and used without going through the correct procedure will be confiscated. The following personal appliances may be used at the discretion of the Head of House: - Hair Dryers - Hair straightening wands (must be unplugged after use and stored in heat proof storage holster. Approved holsters are available from the GGS Uniform shop for $10). The following personal appliances are not permitted in boarding houses: - Cooking Appliances (kettles included) - Electric Blankets - Heaters - Refrigerators All personal appliances should be labelled with the owners name and fully insured. Students’ belongings are not covered by the School’s insurance. If cover is needed, it must be arranged by parents. POCKET MONEY Boarders deposit money with their Head of House at the School and withdraw it as the need arises. It is important that students do not have more than $10.00 in their possession. Approximately $80.00 – $100.00 each Term is considered appropriate to cover incidental expenses, including charities deemed important by the School. Large sums of money must not be kept by students in Houses. Travel money may be supplied if it is required. Arrangements for safe-keeping should be made with the Head of House. Cheques may be cashed only through a student’s Head of House and must be endorsed by the student’s Head of House. If parents want their child to have access to credit card facilities, these cards should be kept with the Head of House.

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BOOK ROOM Located in the Cook Quad, the Book Room sells a range of pens and pencils, general stationery and books and novels. Books must be ordered by the end of the year and are delivered to the School House at the commencement of the school year. Booklists are available online from early November. Visit www.campion.com.au

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TERM DATES TERM 1 uesday 29 January – Friday 1 February T Tuesday 5 February Wednesday 6 February Saturday 9 February Friday 22 February Saturday 23 February Sunday 24 February Sunday 3 March Tuesday 5 March – Friday 8 March Friday 8 March – Monday 11 March Monday 18 March Friday 22 March Saturday 23 March Thursday 28 March

Overseas Students’ Orientation Programme All Students new to Years 7 and 8 arrive Returning boarders arrive by 7pm. Classes commence APS Summer Season Fixtures resume for all teams Music and Choral Scholarship Auditions GGS Academic Scholarship Examinations GGS Family Day at Corio GGS Equestrian Dressage and Show Jumping Day Middle School Camps Corio Mid-term Exeat Years 5 and 6 Parent Teacher Evening Year 7 Parent Teacher Student Evening Final APS Summer Fixture End of Term

TERM 2

Monday 15 April Tuesday 16 Apri Saturday 20 April Thursday 25 April Friday 26 April Saturday 4 May Tuesday 14 May – Friday 17 May Saturday 18 May – Monday 20 May Saturday 1 June Wednesday 19 June Friday 21 June

Boarders return (by 7pm) Classes commence (Period 2) APS Winter Season Fixtures Commence Anzac Day Service (Period 1) Year 8 Parent Teacher Student Evening Corio Open Day NAPLAN Tests for Years 5 and 7 Corio Mid-term Exeat Friends of Middle School Dinner Founders’ Day Celebrations End of Term

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Monday 15 July Tuesday 16 July Monday 22 July Saturday 3 August Friday 16 August – Monday 19 August Friday 30 August Sunday 1 September Friday 6 September Saturday 14 September Sunday 15 September Friday 20 September

Boarders return (by 7pm) Classes commence (Period 2) Years 5 and 6 Parent Teacher Student Evening Final APS Winter Season Fixture Corio Mid-term Exeat Year 7 Parent Teacher Student Evening Middle School Parents’ Tour of Timbertop Spring Concert Year 8 Timbertop Information Evening at Corio GGS Athletics Carnival – Final Day End of Term

TERM 4 Monday 7 October Tuesday 8 October Friday 11 October Wednesday 16 October Saturday 19 October Sunday 20 October Saturday 9 November Saturday 9 November Thursday 12 December Friday 13 December

MIDDLE SCHOOL HANDBOOK - GEELONG GRAMMAR SCHOOL

Boarders return (by 7pm) Classes commence (Period 2) Year 8 Parent Teacher Student Evening Combined APS Athletic Sports - Heats (Boys) Combined APS Athletic Sports - Finals (Girls and Boys) Leavers’ Service, Speeches and Prize Giving APS Summer Season Fixtures Commence Corio Information Day Middle School Carol Service End of Term

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TERM 3

Spread across five specialist campuses, Geelong Grammar School offers a unique educational journey to meet the diverse needs of our students. We believe that learning is lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest adventure and every single step matters.

MIDDLE SCHOOL (YRS 5-8) CORIO Embedded in our 245-hectare site on the edge of Corio Bay, Middle School is a unique learning and living environment that allows students on the edge of adolescence to grow and flourish.

BOSTOCK HOUSE (ELC-YR 4) GEELONG Our heritage-listed campus located in the leafy Geelong suburb of Newtown, Bostock House provides the perfect environment for our students to explore, learn and play.

SENIOR SCHOOL (YRS 10-12) CORIO Australia’s largest co-educational boarding school campus, our Senior School offers the choice of the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma for entry into tertiary study.

TIMBERTOP (YR 9) MANSFIELD Our remote Year 9 campus located in the foothills of the Victorian Alps, Timbertop provides students with a transformational year of challenge and adventure.

TOORAK CAMPUS (ELC-YR 6) TOORAK A modern campus in the heart of Melbourne’s inner east, our Toorak Campus provides a positive environment where learning is celebrated and children are encouraged to reach their potential.