Factis 2012 by Tintern Schools

FACTIS

celebrating 135 years

2012

In this issue

Principal & Board Welcome Anniversary Celebrations Outstanding Results Tintern 2020 Campus Update: Your School Tintern Goes Global Sports Performing Arts Community

Discover

how tintern students engage in life

Welcome from the Principal

From the Chair of the Board

2012: a year for change & progress

Mrs Jenny Collins

Change is a feature of these times

Principal, Tintern Schools

2011 and 2012 have certainly reflected that in the history of Tintern Schools. by Andrew Hutchinson

“Whosoever desires constant success must change his conduct with the times.” – Niccolo Machiavelli

intern Schools has always understood the need for change and embraced it. From the entrepreneurial spirit of Mrs Emma Cook, who started our school in 1877, to the courage, resourcefulness and vision of Miss Wood, who moved Tintern from Hawthorn to Ringwood East in 1946 and to Mrs Sylvia Walton, who in 1999 returned the school to one that educated girls and boys, Tintern has never stood still. I am sure that many in our community have been delighted to watch the development of the Tintern Schools Heritage Centre on the Tintern campus. The collection of gathered artefacts and records gives life and meaning to 135 years of continuous history at Tintern Schools. The collection documents co-existing threads of continuity and change. There have been changes of name, logo, school motto, enrolment

tintern schools factis 2012

base, buildings, teaching programs, leadership, uniforms, hair-styles and of location. These changes have been supported by, and on occasion been made necessary by, an unswerving commitment to a constantly held set of values and principles. Tintern has always had the ability to adapt, to reinvent itself, to make bold decisions and to look confidently to the future whilst respecting and honouring the past. In 2011, the school embarked on another period of great change with the announcement of the Tintern 2020 vision. At the heart of this vision was the recommitment to our parallel learning model which involves gender separate learning from Prep – Year 9 and a Senior College that caters equally for young men and young women. In 2012, we began the work necessary to fulfil the Tintern 2020

vision – the results of which you will see in more detail on pages 5 to 7. Tintern 2020 is not just about the physical buildings on our campus or the learning spaces; it is about the excellent education on offer and the individual care and dedication we show our students on a daily basis. It is about what we want for each and every boy and girl in our school, that they be: Confident, happy, resilient and ready to embrace life; and Morally grounded and respectful with a generous spirit. In particular, of late we have had a focus on connection and engagement in our Middle Schools.

Our Middle School boys have experienced ‘Futures Day’ which

gave them the opportunity to reflect on their current passions and interests, provided them with role models and the opportunity to look at the many different pathways into adulthood.

Our Middle School girls will experience a ‘Festival of Ideas’ where staff will present workshops in their area of interest. Students will sign up for a number of different sessions which will help to build understanding, connectedness and a sense of belonging within the school. The format is deliberately different for the boys and the girls to ensure that we meet the particular needs of each gender. In Semester 2 we will hold a student-directed day for the entire Middle School. Our Middle School Leaders have been liaising with Andrew Fuller to plan a day that is fun, full of activities, engaging and provides the opportunity to meet students from other year levels and the other campus. The leaders have visited each year level and discussed the day with students, asking for ideas and suggestions. Students have been empowered to take responsibility for

planning a special event with close guidance and support from staff. We are also working with our Year 9 students by running workshops on building healthy relationships and decision making. These activities are over and above our regular pastoral programs, which were substantially re-invigorated in 2011. Our boys’ Portfolio program and girls’ Passport program have both been highly successful in engaging the students and guiding self-reflection, challenging students to take up new opportunities and to build their selfconfidence. I believe that as you read through this issue of Factis you will gain an appreciation of the many wonderful opportunities that are available to our students each and every day, and of the opportunities that lie ahead for Tintern Schools with the realisation of the Tintern 2020 vision.

e recognise that some people find change disconcerting and challenging. The Executive and the Board have sought to alleviate potential anxiety by maintaining a clear vision for the future, and by keeping the community informed of progress towards that vision’s realisation. For this article in Factis, I felt it worthwhile to share an insight into the Board and our role in Tintern Schools. It is the Board’s role to govern Tintern Schools. “Governance” derives from the ancient Greek word κυβερνάω (“kubernao”) meaning to steer. It was first used in the metaphorical sense by Plato around 400BC. In our more contemporary setting, as Directors of Tintern Schools, the Board, have some specific duties including: Fiduciary duties to ensure that Board members act in the best interests of the school; and Statutory duties under the Corporations Law, such as OH&S legislation. In fulfilling these duties, the Board is accountable to ASIC and other regulators. Other responsibilities are articulated in the School’s Constitution. The Board comprises eleven Directors, including the Principal. The ten Non-Executive Directors, including me as Chair, are volunteers who contribute considerable time to the Board and its various Committee meetings. Of the eleven Directors, four are female, five are parents of current students, four are parents of past students, and one is a former student. Recent events in the education community remind us that in schools the role of the Board is critical. One of the legacies of Haydn Park’s time as Chairman was the recruitment of the breadth and depth > factis 2012 tintern schools 3

From the Chair of the Board

Our Campus Redevelopments Following the sale of the Canterbury Road site earlier this year, the Tintern Schools Board and Executive are pleased to announce that plans for the realisation of the Tintern 2020 vision are well underway. To prepare for the arrival of our Prep – Year 9 boys in 2014, we are in the midst of a significant campus redevelopment that will see changes right throughout the school.

Southwood Boys Junior School at Tintern Proposed 2014

Architect’s impression only Plans are subject to change

n 2011 the Board announced a Growth Strategy that was to drive the vision of Tintern Schools going forward: a distinct path for every girl and every boy. We will meet this vision through our unique parallel learning model, our individual dedication to each student and by providing broader life experience. For the school to achieve this vision, we need to build enrolments, provide outstanding facilities, retain and attract excellent staff, and build a sustainable financial base to fund infrastructure. Behind this Growth Strategy are a number of action plans that the School Board and Executive are working with on a daily basis.

tintern schools factis 2012

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THE HAMILTON BUILDING

d for

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Our Growth Strategy

Visit http://www.tinternschools.vic.edu.au/tintern2020/ our-growth-strategy to find out more

connection between community, Executive and Board. It is a key part of ensuring that we are working well as one combined community. Tintern Schools will always seek to provide the very best possible education in the outer East. Since change is a constant in society and in our competitor schools, the Board will continue to provide Tintern Schools with the strongest possible competitive advantage. The Board’s key intent over the past twelve months has been to articulate a clear and constant vision that builds certainty and confidence in our future. This certainty will help us ensure that the whole student (mind, body and spirit) is educated in the best possible way. The Board join me in thanking all our staff, volunteers and Executive for their exceptional service to our great schools. We also thank you, the parents of our students, for your ongoing partnership with staff in your children’s education and in the life of Tintern Schools. Together we can work together to continue to position Tintern Schools as number one in Melbourne’s Outer East. We have a powerful vision, a clear strategy to achieve it, a competent and committed Executive and staff, a supportive community and a talented student cohort. We look forward to maintaining the momentum in building and sustaining our outstanding future.

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Teaching and learning excellence with the goal of a “personal best” for all learners; Providing supportive and engaging pastoral care programs where all students feel valued and recognised as individuals; Offering broader life experience, through growth in leadership, creativity, sustainability and community life. Whilst not all Board members have expertise in these areas, it is our role to ensure that staff are resourced and supported as they engage in these areas and work towards continuous improvement in the quality of educational experience for our students and the outcomes they achieve. To ensure we do this to the best of our abilities, we work through a separate Family Board and three Committees: Governance – which ensures the strategic and governance processes are appropriate and working effectively; House & Grounds – which oversees the renewal and maintenance of our facilities, and ensures compliance with building standards and regulations; and Finance, Risk & Compliance – which monitors and reports as necessary to the Board on financial, risk and compliance management. The Family Board is the formal

of professional skills on the Board commensurate with a comparable publically listed corporation. A major part of the Board’s role is to articulate a clear strategic plan, and to resource this so that the schools can achieve the best possible outcomes. Last year, the Board, staff and parents invested time and energy in the five work streams to ensure a strong connection and engagement with the whole school community. The product of this collaborative and creative effort was a re-envisioned future: Tintern 2020. Of course, a vision is only valuable if followed by action. In the short time since the announcement of Tintern 2020, the Board, Executive and staff have been hard at work, and many of the achievements have been announced, including the commencement of construction in our Girls Junior School and Junior Music and Administration, commencement of design of the Boys Junior and the Middle Schools, and the sale of the Canterbury Road Site. In the governance area, we have developed a growth strategy and implemented measures to ensure ongoing assessment of performance against key strategy areas. The Board is actively engaging staff in conversations on key elements of our strategic plan – namely:

As the future home of our Junior boys, the Hamilton Building will shortly undergo renovation work that will take the number of classrooms up to seven as well as an IT Lab. The proposed floor plan provides for a spacious entry foyer, meeting rooms and a large community space at the heart of the building that will allow for informal assemblies, meetings and community activities. This will be a light filled area that will provide plenty of flexibility of use and space for our Junior boys.

Southwood Boys Junior School at Tintern Proposed floorplan factis 2012 tintern schools 5

Plans are subject to change

OUR JUNIOR SCHOOLs ADMINISTRATION AND MUSIC SCHOOL

the planning and design process continues. Watch out for updates and details in the next few weeks! 6

tintern schools factis 2012

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OUR MIDDLE SCHOOL

The home of our Year 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6 Junior girls has been undergoing a major makeover in 2012. The Colebrook Wing is being refurbished by our talented Maintenance staff and will see extensive updates to the classrooms as well as the shared facilities in the building. This will be a vibrant and inviting space for our Upper Primary girls. We are creating a formal entrance to the building and an open learning environment, similar to what the girls are currently experiencing in the Hamilton Building.

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Work on our Junior Schools Administration and Music School building has already commenced. MelbCon will be re-energising this building with significant structural improvements and landscaping. It will be the future home of our Junior Schools Administration as well as an exciting music facility for our boys and girls. Integral to the design is the wonderful landscaping that will allow the opportunity for outside concerts for our students.

THE COLEBROOK WING

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Architectus, who also designed our much admired Early Learning Centre, have been charged with designing our Middle Schools which reflect and make possible delivery of the educational and social model of the school. The brief requires them to create separate learning spaces for our boys and girls, as well as zoned social areas that also provide the opportunity for shared spaces when required. The design must fit in with the physical environment and engage students on their journey through Tintern Schools. The team is working towards delivering dynamic learning environments that will create a central focus for the campus. factis 2012 tintern schools 7

1912 The playing of hockey is replaced by basketball

Anniversary

1912 The school motto is changed to ‘Factis Non Verbis’

In 2012 Tintern Schools is thrilled to be celebrating its 135th year, cementing its place in history as one of Australia’s oldest schools. Established in 1877 by Mrs Emma Cook, the school was named after Tintern Abbey in Wales. Originally established to educate Mrs Cook’s four youngest daughters and five youngest sons, it was not long before neighbours pressed Mrs Cook to allow their children to attend. Even in its infancy, Tintern’s reputation for excellence grew rapidly. Tintern is still known for that same excellence in education, and as we look towards the future with the Tintern 2020 vision, it appears that the school’s future is set to be as exciting as its past.

celebrating

135 years

1914 The school song is composed by Miss Cross and first performed 1918 Miss Agnes Cross retires after the school is purchased by the Church of England

tintern schools factis 2012

1977 The C M Wood Centre is opened

1999 Southwood Boys Grammar opens

1982 Miss Margaret Hamilton retires

2000 The Friends of Music group is started 2001 The Friends of Equestrian group is started and the first Horse Trials event is held

1950 The Junior School building is opened at Ringwood East

2002 The Performing Arts Centre is opened

1953 The Senior School moves to Ringwood East

1930 A new Science block is built 1878 There are 14 boys and 16 girls enrolled

2004 The first Year 12 class graduates from Southwood

1931 A debating club is introduced

2005 Mrs Syliva Walton retires

1880 May Wallen is the first student to matriculate

1933 Miss Anne Peterson retires

1882 The school moves to 313 Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn 1890 Tennis is introduced and the first matches played against nearby schools

1956 The Boarding house opens at Ringwood East

1918

1958 The Junior School at Hawthorn is closed

Miss Hilda Ball joins the school as Headmistress

1901 The first issue of the Brook is published

1959 The entire school is first accommodated on the Ringwood East site

1982 Mrs Sylvia Walton joins the school as Principal 1991 Reception (Pre-Prep) was introduced 1992 The Physical Education and Sports Centre is officially opened

2006

1933

Mrs Jenny Collins joins the school as Principal

Miss Ethel Colebrook joins the school as Headmistress 1904 The first hockey matches are played

1919 A new block of classrooms is built

1937 Two craft work rooms are opened

1961 The first farm animals were introduced on site

1906 The Tintern Old Collegians Association is established (its name was later changed to Tintern Old Girls’ Association or TOGA, as it is still known)

1920 The school is renamed Tintern Church of England Girls Grammar School

1938 A new library is opened, funded by Mr Cullen in memory of his wife

1965 Physics is introduced to the school and new science blocks are opened

1922 The Tintern Association is established with the objective of improving material conditions at the school

1939 Miss Ethel Colebrook retires

1910 Mrs Emma Cook retires

1911 Miss Agnes Cross joins the school as Headmistress 1911 The school is renamed Tintern Girls Grammar School

1926 Tintern is the champion in basketball, tennis, athletics and baseball in the Church of England Sports Association 1926 The first school library is established. It also doubles as a science laboratory 1928 Miss Hilda Ball retires

1993 The new House Watt is added, named after Kathy Watt, an Olympic Gold Medal cyclist and former student

1968 Miss Constance Wood retires

2006 TOGA celebrates 100 years

1993 The school is renamed Tintern Anglican Girls Grammar School 1994 IB classes are introduced at Tintern Schools and boys are enrolled

1924 The House system is adopted: two houses were named after its first headmistresses Mansfield (Mrs Cook’s maiden name) and Cross, one for the Somner sisters (key teaching staff at the school) and one for the three Gordon girls (all recent head prefects at the school)

1912 Mrs Emma Cook passes away 8

Miss Anne Peterson joins the school as Headmistress

Tintern Ladies College is founded by Mrs Emma Cook

of excellence in education

To celebrate our 135th year, we will be holding a Foundation Assembly on Friday 31 August at 1.30pm in the CM Wood Centre. Please contact Community Relations on 9845 7893 to attend.

1946 The current school site at Ringwood East is purchased for a sum of £3,113

1929

1877

1977 Tintern celebrates its centenary

1999 The school is renamed Tintern Schools, with two campuses: Tintern Girls Grammar School and Southwood Boys Grammar School

1976 The Young Farmers group is started

1994 The Visual Arts building is opened 1995 The Anderson Centre Senior College is opened

2009 Southwood wins its first football premiership 2010 Tintern Schools Senior College is formed 2011 The school opens the Tintern Schools Early Learning Centre

1939

2011 The Tintern 2020 vision is announced

Miss Constance Wood joins the school as Principal

2012 Tintern celebrates 135 years

1939 Miss Wood famously declares “We must move out of this slum!” 1945 The school changes from an Anglican Diocesan school to a council school

1996 The I J Day Building is opened in the Junior School

1968 Miss Margaret Hamilton joins the school as Principal factis 2012 tintern schools 9

Early Learning Centre

Junior Schools by mrS ANNA RIDDELl

Our Early Learning Centre is now into its second year and has proven itself to be an extremely popular choice with our families. We recently reviewed our Early Learning Centre (ELC) and Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) philosophy, which emphasises that

a fresh start

Head of Tintern Junior School & Early Learning Centre

‘Every boy and girl is important every day’.

’ s day r e h t o m st a f k a e r b by mr adam kenny

Head of Campus, Southwood

by MRS ANNA RIDDELL Head of Tintern Junior School & Early Learning Centre

his philosophy, ‘Every boy and girl is important every day’, lives and breathes daily in our ELC. The Tintern Schools ELC and OSHC provide a unique balance of rich

child-initiated experiences and teacher-led learning. Our

program holds high expectations for our learners and incorporates explicit teaching of literacy and numeracy while also using play as a vehicle for exploration, learning and discovery. There are daily opportunities for the children to extend their understanding through the Letterland program, a prominent feature of our teacher-led learning. This includes phonemic awareness lessons, while staff incorporate the common language of Letterland in all classes. For example, in Music Mrs Wagner identifies the notes on the Xylophone by the Letterland characters. Child-initiated experiences which promote exploration and discovery are plentiful. Outside playground activities enable exciting discoveries: the cubby house set up as a hospital, or digging in the veggie patch. Tintern Schools seeks to discover a distinct pathway for each child based on the individual child’s strengths, interests and family culture. The ELC and OSHC service 10 tintern schools factis 2012

aims to provide strong support in all aspects of learning and promotes smooth transitions between the various settings within the school environment. Speech Pathologist and Occupational Therapist (OT) services are available as part of the ELC program. These allow us to support students in their language, communication skills, fine and gross motor development and social interactions. Tintern Schools promotes positive

behaviour for all students and instils values such as

respect, independence, confidence and commitment. The imparting of good values occurs through various mediums: the school vision and philosophy statement; our Compass (one of the core teaching and learning tools); the modelling of good values by our staff; and structured classroom guidelines such as learning to listen to others. The children experience a weekly story-time lesson with the Chaplain and Head of Junior School which focuses on values. Values education also occurs during class time or in the school yard where they are taught in context, providing relevance and meaning for the children.

Through daily interactions, topic investigations and exploring the wider school environment, staff support our students to recognise that they are active participants in our immediate and wider community. Family-school communication is highly valued. This communication is active, personal and frequent; it involves not only an exchange of information, but also the building of real relationships. We hold topic investigations for all students on topics such as ‘Healthy Food’, where we spend time promoting life-long habits. Every day in our Early Learning Centre is fun and educational, and children are encouraged to explore, create and to develop both socially and academically. We instil a sense of excitement and wonder about the world, giving children the courage to explore, investigate and experiment.

The Year 6 annual Tintern pilgrimage to Canberra complements the compulsory Integration Studies topic on the ‘Civics Study of Government and Decision Making’ for Term 2. The camp experiences provide a wonderful insight into the workings of our Government by visiting the Federal Parliament and the Parliamentary Education Office. The team spirit among the girls was evident as they worked co-operatively on a large number of tasks during the camp. It was fantastic to witness the personal growth in the girls. This was an experience which will be cherished by the girls and teachers for many years to come.

WORK HARD, PLAY HARD! A common motto, promoting the virtues of hard work (or a work ethic) by adding a counterbalancing focus on play.

Our girls and their families have worked to promote the theme of sustainability. Lunches in plastic containers (rather than glad wrap) and re-useable drink bottles are the name of the game for most students; switching off lights and turning off the computers at the end of the day are very much part of our routine. We have also been collecting corks diverted from landfill that can be used to manufacture products such as floor tiles and gaskets.

At Tintern schools we are committed to enhancing our teachers’ skills and professional practice. Tintern Junior School has recently received an Invergowrie Foundation Grant that will enable the implementation of a Mathematics Enhancement Project involving extensive professional development for the staff as well as the employment of additional parttime staff to support a variety of mathematical learning needs of the girls in the Junior School. The Invergowrie Foundation is a public charitable trust. The primary focus of the Foundation is to advance the education of the girls and women within Victoria. We are very grateful to the Invergowrie Foundation and anticipate our mathematics program across the Tintern Junior School being enhanced enormously by this opportunity.

riday 11 May was a very special morning for us all in the Junior School, with our annual Mother’s Day Breakfast. The highlight is seeing mums and sons sitting together and enjoying breakfast amongst a lovely, warm atmosphere of togetherness (and yummy croissants). The boys’ comments about their mums are always insightful, whilst the choir performance was again wonderfully arranged by our Music Teacher, Jacquie Casey. Renowned ‘boys development author’, Stephen Biddulph, highlights the need for us to show boys as much affection as we do for girls, and in the vitality and energy that surrounds boys, we can sometimes forget that they do indeed need the warmth of a mum’s love around them. I hope our Mother’s Day Breakfast provided a special memory for all who attended. On the same evening, 94 mums and sons joined together for our annual Middle School Mother and Son evening, with dinner, followed by bowling. After a most convivial meal, the night became competitive. Mums and sons competed for the coveted honour of having the highest combined total. High fives and laughter were accompanied by groans of gutter balls and missed strikes. In a very fierce and high quality competition, the eventual winners were Dillon Bettes and his mum Allanna, both scoring over 100, a tremendous effort. factis 2012 tintern schools 11

OUR Bullying Policy

Middle Schools

The Middle School Passport

by Mr Geoff Connor Head of Campus, Tintern

he Middle School Passport was introduced in 2011. It has enabled our girls to celebrate their Middle School journey by giving recognition to the myriad of achievements and milestones that all students accomplish academically, socially and in various co-curricular and community events. Each girl is asked to identify and then seek to achieve goals that are focussed on their own personal development; their contribution to the school community; their commitment to social service activities; and their efforts and achievements in academic and co-curricular areas. Regular time is allocated each

term for our girls to reflect on their goals, report on their achievements and to complete their Middle School Passport. Students and staff then discuss their reflections on excursions and camps; academic progress; and commitments to involvement and achievements in sport and other co-curricular areas. We view the Middle School Passport as a key tool for developing self-confidence, maintaining commitment to goals and developing independent young women who graduate from the Middle School into our Senior College with the requisite self-knowledge and sound skills that will enable them to achieve success in their final years of schooling.

The Middle School Portfolio O ur Middle School boys have each received a Portfolio which offers the opportunity to document learning over a period of time. It enables students, teachers and families to focus on strengths and strategies for underdeveloped areas, and to reflect upon learning and co-curricular activities. Students are actively involved in taking responsibility for their own learning. Key to the Portfolio is reflection; giving careful consideration to work and self, and to honestly assess learning and growth.

12 tintern schools factis 2012

uring 2011, Middle School students from each Campus were actively involved in discussing and formulating a whole school Bullying Policy. Through discussions with the renowned Dr Michael Carr-Gregg, a regular guest presenter to students, parents and staff of Tintern Schools, we established that this process was the best way to go about building a policy that all members of the community would own and support. In Pastoral sessions throughout 2011, Middle School students discussed key matters such as what actions constitute bullying and what consequences they would like to include for actions that are deemed bullying behaviour. By the end of 2011, with additional input from key advisors such as cyber-safety expert Susan McLean, and feedback from senior students and secondary staff, we were ready for the final stage of our whole school policy on bullying: compilation into one comprehensive document. The Tintern Schools Bullying Policy was launched at the beginning of 2012 and was distributed to all secondary students, families and secondary staff. Each family was asked to ensure that the policy was read at home and a signed reply slip has been required from each family to ensure that the policy has been understood. The Tintern Schools Bullying Policy covers interactions between all members of the School Community and can be found on the Schools’ website. Our Junior Schools have received copies of the Bullying Policy and are currently undergoing modifications to suit their environment.

Every five years, all International Baccalaureate Schools undergo a review of their procedures and practices. This report must contain evidence of good practice in a self-study report with detailed questionnaires that are completed under the following headings: Philosophy; Organisation; Curriculum.

Senior College

glowing reports

by Mr Geoff Connor Head of Campus, Tintern

from the ib asia pacific and from the vcaa

nder the careful guidance and strong leadership of our IB Co-ordinator, Mrs Nola Brotchie, our five-year review, which included input from IB students, their parents, teaching staff, and the School’s administration, has come back with glowing assessments from the International Baccalaureate Organisation. Alongside many commendations throughout the report, the Review Panel stated: The Panel commends

Tintern Schools on its continued commitment to the principles of international education and, in particular, to the mission and the aims of the IB and the Diploma programme. It is clear from the evidence that Tintern Schools has worked collaboratively to embed the Learner Profile into all aspects of the school and has developed a range of ways in which international mindedness is given emphasis. Whilst the VCAA (The Victorian

Curriculum and Assessment Authority) does not have a similar written review process, we were also delighted to have received a glowing report from VCAA when we were recently audited to check our examination procedures and practices. Our VCE examination processes, as delivered by our Year 12 and VCE & VET Coordinator, Mrs Maria Connor, and our Senior College and VASS Secretary, Ms Annette Behrendt, were found to be exemplary.

In May, a group of Year 11 and 12 Art students took a trip “overseas”. Our destination was Hobart and the Museum of Old and New Art. MONA is one of the most contemporary art museums in the world. It houses a 2,000-year-old mummy with its hidden

contents revealed by modern MRI scans, and even a poo machine. There are no labels next to the art works; just interactive iPods to plot your underground journey. MONA seeks to challenge the viewer, provoke and entertain, and often offend.

Most students found themselves taken aback with the spiral staircase and glass lift that transports you underground. We were also amazed by the views, and slightly disturbed by some of the items for sale in the gift shop!

by mr adam kenny Head of Campus, Southwood Sections include: A Self Reflection that is linked to our eight Compass Points; A Learner Profile Self Assessment; Individual Reflections of Interim and Mid Year Reports; Reflections on excursions and co-curricular events; Comments and Reflections based on chats with form teachers. Our Portfolios are providing our boys with a wonderful opportunity to provide us with feedback, whilst taking the time to reflect upon their own efforts and achievements.

OUR trip to Tassie by Chayani Stevens

factis 2012 tintern schools 13

Teaching and Learning

O u r ing d n a t s t O u lt s R e su

Results

practice makes perfect The recent focus on education in the media shows an encouraging trend to look beyond funding debates and the Australian Curriculum, important as these both are, and into the critical importance of teachers. All the evidence says that if you are talking student achievement, you are talking teaching practice.

by mr jason mcmanus

Director of Curriculum, Reporting and Assessment

the opportunity for reflection, survey data collection and feedback on how we can continue our process of continuous improvement. From this, a decision was made to use the Southwood Compass and its values across all parts of the school. We also created a Learner Profile that the entire school has adopted, and all areas of the curriculum ensure we connect with the objectives of this profile. To support these underlying values and goals, an agenda for the next five years was formulated. The first phase focuses on processes that will further build our capacity for continuous improvement in teaching and learning.

n 2011, Tintern Schools began a curriculum review process as part of our normal cycle of review and our work to implement the Australian Curriculum. Given the rapid changes in education at the moment, the time was ripe. It is most important that the Tintern Schoolsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 2020 vision is grounded on the innovative educational practice for which our 135 years is renowned. Our curriculum review started with surveying staff and reviewing student feedback. Teaching staff right across the school engaged in a range of discussions around teaching and learning and what we value at Tintern Schools. This has been an invigorating experience for all staff, as it provided

Compass

Learner Profile

Students of Tintern Schools strive to be:

commitment

INQ UIR ERS knowledgeable

rit

sp on

sib

t in

ili

The values Tintern Schools are guided by:

io n

confidence

independence

re fulfilment

14 tintern schools factis 2012

communicators

bal anced resilient ethical

reflective

coll abor ative

The key items that make up this phase are all well under way. They provide improved opportunities for teachers to enhance our excellent culture of collaboration and mutual support through structured teacher collaboration, peer observations and teacher-led research. Our Heads of Department are working closely together to ensure collaboration continues and that we recruit and retain the very best of staff. We are also in the process of moving our curriculum into an online management system which will allow our teams to more efficiently analyse, review and improve our curriculum each year. The second and third phases aim to embed these initiatives and also develop our in-house action and literature research and use of data tracking of student progress. All of this will give our staff even more opportunities to investigate how to better engage and excite our students and improve their learning. We are in exciting times at Tintern Schools. Staying still is never an option as the world and our students are always changing. We must always seek to find a better way to ensure we will never fall into complacency. We have a responsibility to the school, ourselves and our students not to let this occur. These plans will help us to honour these responsibilities.

intern Schools class of 2011 achieved exceptional academic results for the International Baccalaureate and VCE. These results firmly place Tintern Schools as one of the top performing schools in Victoria. These results demonstrate our commitment to small classes, the Tintern parallel learning model, the success of the Tintern Schools Senior College and the range of pathways on offer to our students. Tintern Schools is an open entry school and achieved a 100 per cent pass rate in both the VCE and IB. We are incredibly proud of all our 2011 Year 12 students and wish them the best of luck for the future.

Combined data of VCE and IB results

3.5%

of students received an ATAR of 99+

Placing them in the top 1% of students in the state

20.7%

of students received an ATAR of 95+

Placing them in the top 5% of students in the state

34.5%

of students received an ATAR of 90+

Early in 2012 we invited our Duces back to the school for assembly, where those who were able to attend let the students know what they had gone on to study and pass on their tips for surviving Year 12.

VCE Dux & Overall Dux

Rachel Fung (ATAR = 99.50)

Joint IB Dux

Christina Kaig (ATAR = 98.05) Ashlee Maywald (ATAR = 98.05)

Placing them in the top 10% of students in the state

56.9%

of students received an ATAR of 80+

Placing them in the top 20% of students in the state

Median ATAR: 86.30

Tintern Schools Duces

Joint Maths & Science Dux Nicola Hogan Jessica Batton

Humanities Dux

Sarah Akom

Commerce Dux / Southwood Dux Peter Jane Arts Dux

Julia Nance

Continued Excellence in the NAPLAN O ur 2011 NAPLAN results indicated that Tintern Schools is leading the way when it comes to well-rounded, holistic education for the whole family. Our results across Reading, Writing, Spelling, Numeracy and Grammar and Punctuation indicate a high level of understanding in all areas of the school, positioning Tintern Schools

as one of the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top-ranking schools. Our results show that our percentage of students at or above the national benchmark is higher than those across the state and the nation. Our staff continue to encourage all the students to work to their full potential in whichever area they choose. We recognise

that all students have different interests and passions, and we whole-heartedly encourage them in the pursuit of those passions. When combined with the solid base of numeracy and literacy that the whole school community demonstrates, we can see that Tintern Schools offers a truly fantastic learning environment. factis 2012 tintern schools 15

Leaders

by Ashley Mallett and David Moskovic

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Two wise School Captains once said,

“2012 will be an incredible year for all!”

by Blake Haydon and Connor Vaughan

Those two School Captains were us, and how right we were!

his year has seen Tintern Schools exciting atmosphere leap into its 135th year. Not only has it seen its previous events recurring but also the creation of many new initiatives. Semester 1 has provided countless memories. To start the new year, the school was immediately immersed with our first major fundraiser: Valentine’s Day. The Senior College was transformed into our very own love shack with an explosion of red balloons, hearts, and roses. The love song dedications, featuring Tintern’s very own Daniel Schulz, was a new and successful addition to the day, along with a huge cake stall. We raised $430 and donated to The Heart Foundation. With no time to rest, the next day the students abandoned the red and pink hearts and donned their House colours for the Athletics carnival. The costumes were extravagant and the competition was fierce. Seeing every person enter an event and House spirit being richer than ever was definitely a highlight. Somner/Stuart were victorious and won the overall house trophy. It was wonderful to see the school community come together for our Cathedral Service, celebrating the theme: ‘Together we forge a future’. We welcomed guest speaker Jane Trigg, a past Tintern School’s student, and also recognised the work for the Australian Indigenous Mentoring Experience. AIME provides educational mentoring to Indigenous students to encourage an increase in Year 10 and Year 12 completion rates.

Together we raised $2,000 for this well-deserving organisation. In Term 2, the school gathered to support the world’s greatest shave. The Senior Boy’s Football Team demonstrated their support by waxing their legs. We also had three Year 12 boys, a Year 10 boy and maths teacher Mr Thompson, shave their heads. The school community raised over $600, which will go directly to the Leukaemia foundation. The School Leaders have proudly created many new initiatives this year. To welcome the Year 7s to the school we held a ‘surprise fun day’. They were surprised with decorations in their locker area as they came to school in the morning. A Year 7 assembly was run by the leaders, full of various games and afternoon tea. This year being the National Year of Reading, the leaders and Mrs McCrane have organised moments for the school to pause and read anything they wish. A collection of Year 12s have been visiting the Prep classroom once a fortnight to assist the Preps in learning to read. The new initiatives continued with the Easter day celebrations; the leaders visited each classroom and the staff, dressed as Easter bunnies and sharing Easter eggs. We were certainly correct in saying that 2012 will be an incredible year. Already the school has accomplished a great deal, the list extending a lot further than written.

As the year continues, we are sure many more experiences will come our way and more memories will be made. We look forward to continuing the enthusiasm next semester, already having a few surprises up our sleeve!

southwood middle school captains by Alfred Kouris and Joel Ritchie

Tintern middle School captains

rn e t n i t r O u ns i a t p a c sch o o l

southwood junior school captains

e accepted our appointment as Junior School Captains with great pride and pleasure. We have participated in weekly assemblies and been a part of a team of Year 6 boys that organised, led and presented our annual ANZAC Assembly. We collected donations at Eastland for the Good Friday Appeal and visited Millward Aged Care Facility as part of their ANZAC Service. This was a moving experience for us and we were honoured to share this time with them. We attend SRC meetings, and work with class captains to ensure that we are doing all we can to make Southwood Junior a great place. On our Canberra experience we represented Southwood by giving speeches at the War Memorial and Parliament House. We are looking forward to hosting the Junior School Speech night later in the year.

eing School Captains has been challenging, enjoyable and exciting. Stepping into the position was at first daunting, as we were not sure what jobs we would be assigned. But we soon became comfortable speaking at assemblies, organising lunch time activities, attending committee meetings and arranging House activities. We have also had the chance to work closely with the Junior School staff and students. For example, holding lunch time activities with the Junior boys as well as working closely with them during our Leadership lessons. We faced challenges such as motivating students to participate in activities that they were not comfortable with, then calling on the expertise of other kids in these areas to involve them in exciting events such as House Showdown. The rest of the leadership team have supported us throughout the year. We have held SRC meetings, spoke at the Millward Aged Care Facility for their ANZAC day service, organised sausage sizzles and fundraisers. We have also received continuous support from Mr Kenny and Mr Trollope. It has been a very rewarding year so far and we are looking forward to life at Tintern next year.

by Georgia Hayden and Rachael Sheehan

e have been honoured to be elected as the Middle School Captains. This role allows us to enhance our public speaking and leadership skills and to represent Tintern at various functions. We are well supported by Mr Connor, Miss De Vos and the staff, as well as by the Year 12 Student Leaders. All three year levels of the Tintern Middle School have experienced a year level camp: with Year 7 attending an exciting aquatic-based experience at Merricks; Year 8 visiting Valley Homestead in Myrtleford; and Year 9 experiencing their bushwalks. Year 9 still has the Winter Camp in August and the Summer Expedition in November to look forward to. We have assisted in organising special events, including planning for an exciting day to be held very soon for students and staff to enjoy. We are looking forward to hosting the combined Year 7 CheerSports and Year 9 House Dancing competition. We also are preparing to host our first Middle School Assembly. These events should be ideal preparation for our address at the Tintern Schools Celebration Evening.

Leaders

Tintern Junior School Captains Daniella Cosentino: I was proud, yet humbled, when I found out I had been selected

Tintern’s Junior

School Captain by my fellow students. It has been an amazing privilege and responsibility. The role has taught me a great deal about working towards a common goal with other students. I enjoyed meeting residents at the Olivett Nursing Home and presenting them with Easter eggs. It encouraged me to always be prepared, well organised, and it inspired me to be more confident and always have fun with what l am doing. As Junior School Captain it was very satisfying to be contributing to the Junior School and being a role-model to younger children.

Ruby Wensor: I was honoured to be chosen as Tintern

Junior School Vice-

Captain. I have learnt many important things, such as how to be a good role model, to improve my public speaking skills and to be an even better leader. As a leader you have to display qualities such as: responsibility, resilience, cheerfulness, good sports womanship and many more. My favourite part of this role is reading the Bible in Assembly and welcoming new people to the school. The ViceCaptain position at Tintern Junior School brings many challenges and new experiences! factis 2012 tintern schools 17

Careers

Q o U

resi a new r l ien e approach co f t to career l

d uni g

E e R

ca ab S n c torsle

managing e l e th e l a life, development: c b o t ica d learning ra i v l ti e v e work and

news

Including: charitable acts topping the arts our exchange programs in europe tour of china olympic achievements

from around the campus

by Mrs Heather Ruckert Year 10 Girls Co-ordinator

“The trouble with always knowing where you are going is that you’ll never end up anywhere else.” – H.B.Gellatt

Year 12

I apply Year 11

I decide

Year 7

I Discover

the victorian careers curriculum framework

Year 8

I explore

Year 10

I plan

Year 9

I focus

The focus this year has been at Year 10 (I-Plan) in terms of integrating the 3 core themes:

he rapid and rather complex changes in educational and work environments will require our students to take an active and enduring role in their career development. The Victorian Careers Curriculum Framework represents a State Government initiative to enhance key learnability and employability skills. It provides a foundation to help students self-manage their career in a more holistic manner, rather than perceiving their career as limited to paid work. It also reassures students that uncertainties

allow positive opportunities during the lifelong process of constructing their preferred futures. These issues highlight the importance of broadening perspectives and fostering transferable skills in a world where change is the constant. The Careers Department is using the guiding values of the Compass combined with the new Learner Profile to implement this initiative in a sequential and integrated manner. Each stage in the cycle includes ageappropriate guidelines that are being addressed through the pastoral and subject teachings within the school.

Self-Development

Career Exploration

Career Management

We encourage students to seek a greater personal understanding and identify the influences that shape their experiences through our City Experience and House Community Action Project.

Students learn to investigate alternate pathways plus their education and training options to assist in their decision making. Students also participate in the work experience program.

Our students create a career action plan with the support of an individual interview prior to subject selection. This initial planning provides a basis for further exploration and review.

on the horizon

by Anthea Watkins Horizons Centre Co-ordinator

intern Schools is proudly an open entry school which caters for the needs of all students. In particular, we are able to cater for the academic needs of gifted students through our unique program: the Horizon Centre. Horizon manages and delivers enhancement activities for all students and enrichment opportunities for those requiring a challenge. These include co-curricular activities and outside competitions, guest speakers and events. So far this year, students have participated in events across the curriculum incorporating Art, English, Drama, Geography, Mathematics, Science, and History. Specifically, these events have included the da Vinci Decathlon for a team of Year 7 students, author talks and writer’s

workshops. Invitations to the Melbourne Writers Festival were sent and students were invited to a performance of Franz Lehár’s sparkling operetta, The Merry Widow as part of the From Pen To Stage program. This program spans the disciplines of English, drama, history, geography, music and design. Poems and stories were entered into national competitions, Year 9 students participated in the Aurecon Bridge Building competition and teams of enthusiastic students were entered into Tournament of Minds. Solar cars for the Victorian Model Solar Vehicle Challenge were designed and built for entry into the state-wide race. Students across the Junior and Middle schools were awarded a BRONZE CREST award from the CSIRO and the first students attempting the SILVER CREST award were

registered. The Melbourne University Mathematics competition was organised through the Horizon Program, as was Asia Wise for Year 7 and 8 students. There are art extension opportunities for students throughout the school. Our talented artists have the opportunity to enter their creations into competitions or make artworks that are permanently displayed throughout the school. There will also be an author/illustrator presentation to the Year 7 students in Term 4. Talent in individuals develops over time, and schools have a vital role to play in nurturing that talent. The Horizon Centre has all the elements of a successful plan: a total-school approach offering enrichment for all and the ability to offer extension opportunities for gifted students.

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factis 2012 tintern schools 19

Annual Cathedral Service 2012

news charitable acts and top arts

Australian Junior Athletics Track and Field Championships

hree Tintern students recently represented Victoria at the 2012 Australian Junior Athletics Track and Field Championships. Corey Robinson (Year 8) competed in the U15 200 metre hurdles, finishing in tenth position, narrowly missing out on a place in the finals. Natasha McDowell (Year 11) competed in the U18 long jump and placed fourth, and the U18 pole vault, coming fifth. Cameron Moss (Year 12) was part of the Victorian relay team which placed second. Congratulations to all our students on their wonderful results!

he Tintern Schools annual Cathedral Service on Sunday 26 February was a wonderful event as students, families and staff gathered at Melbourne’s St Paul’s Cathedral to celebrate and herald in 2012 underscored by this year’s theme: ‘Together we forge a future’. Guests included the Reverend Jane Trigg, a past student of Tintern Schools (YG 1985), who shared her story of finding confidence, and finding herself, at Tintern. Music was provided by the Tintern Senior Chamber Choir and Tintern Schools Concert Choir conducted by Mrs Alison Bezaire, Southwood Intermediate Choir and Male Chamber Choir conducted by Mr Rowan Kidd; the Tintern Schools Cathedral Band led by Mrs Jenni Campbell; and

Live Below the Line T

here are over 1.4 billion people throughout the world living in extreme poverty – 63 times the total population of Australia. The poverty line is defined by the World Bank as having the equivalent of AU$2 a day to cover the cost of all daily expenses. In 2010 The Oaktree Foundation began an annual campaign called ‘Live Below the Line’ which involved taking on the challenge of five days of living below the poverty line by spending only $2 a day on all food and drink expenses, excluding water. This year the ‘Live Below the Line’ campaign was promoted throughout the school by the Oaktree

the Tintern Schools Senior String Orchestra conducted by Mr Tim Veldman, rang throughout the cathedral, setting the atmosphere for the proceedings. Every year the service supports a chosen charity. This year the chosen charity was the AIME foundation. This wonderful organisation strives to provide the opportunity for all Indigenous Australian students with the best possible chance for success through their schooling or in pursuit of their passion. The 2012 leadership team displayed true commitment and teamwork, proving themselves to be a truly dedicated team of young people to guide us forward in the year ahead. Overall, it was a fantastic event and a very thoughtful service which will be remembered by all.

by Alexandra Wakeley and Nicolette Tan Oaktree Captains

Seed Group, encouraging students to sign up and take on the challenge of living below the poverty line. The campaign was an overwhelming success with 30 students participating and over $7,000 raised. We found the week extremely challenging and thought provoking – $2 will certainly never look the same again! It has given us a far greater appreciation for the lives of those who live below the line every day. As the Oaktree Captains for 2012, we would like to congratulate everyone who participated in the challenge and those who so generously donated towards this worthy cause.

2011 O MONASH Jennifer Gao PRIZE WINNERS

n Friday 24 February we welcomed Dr Wendy Stubbs, Senior Lecturer in the School of Geography and Environmental Science at Monash University, to present the prestigious Monash Prize to our two top performers of Year 11 in 2011. and Maddison Sutton were presented the Prize for excellence in study. Monash University provides these scholarships to schools that it deems provide ‘Excellence in Education’. We are delighted to have this opportunity for our Year 11 students and thank Monash University for their ongoing support.

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by Emily Mignot Tintern Choral Captain & Cantor at the Cathedral Service

MIDDLE SCHOOL FUTURES DAY

by mr adam kenny Head of Campus, Southwood

Our Calisthenic Champion Paige Anderson, Year 3, started calisthenics when she was almost three years old and is currently in the Sub-Junior team of her club, Jeaden Calisthenic College. In 2011 Paige was selected for the Victorian Sub-Junior team and went to the Gold Coast for the National Championships where her team was runner up. This year Paige decided against standing for State Team to compete in the solo competitions. In her first ever Physical Culture Solo she won first place. She completed the season with two first places, one second and two fourths. Paige also learns ballet, jazz and tap dancing to enhance her calisthenic skills. She will be competing in her first Classical Ballet Solo later this year. Paige likes the discipline of her chosen sport and works very hard to perfect every performance, with the dance items amongst her favourite. She is now looking forward to being able to participate in the ‘Graceful Girl’ solo section when she turns 11 and may choose to represent Victoria again in the future.

ur Middle School Futures Day was held in May. The aim was to provide our Year 7-9 boys with an opportunity to discuss, ponder, question and reflect upon adolescence and the exciting and challenging journey that lies ahead of them. Child Psychologist Andrew Fuller joined us for the day, starting with an infectious, engaging and invaluable presentation on ‘Masculinity and Goal Setting’. With ideas ranging from “Adolescent boys are the masters of minimisation and practitioners of just-intime management” through to his mantra of “You can’t get extraordinary outcomes from ordinary actions” he provided a terrific start to our day. The next session of our Futures Day involved nine guest workshops about a career or interest, featuring: A doctor; A games programmer; An engineer specialising in developing airports; A rockclimber, snowskier and winemaker talking about balancing work and leisure; A black belt in Judo who combines a career in IT with calming of the mind and spirit; A passionate scuba diver who turned this interest into a successful leak detecting business; A winemaker and artist; A film location expert; And a policeman and armed services expert. We were so fortunate to have such a range of guests! One of Andrew Fuller’s key messages to our boys was

‘Passion beats brains … you have to commit!’

After lunch, our boys had a wonderful session with ‘The Panel’. Questions ranged from “Is It hard to get a licence?” and “What was your first part-time job?” through to “What did you do if your parents were driving you crazy?”, “What do girls look for in a boy?” and “Did you ever feel like quitting school?” Our panel consisted of Andrew Fuller, our Deputy Head of Campus Mr Brett Trollope, our School Counsellor Catie McNamara, our 2011 Tintern Schools Co-Captain Cass Hoskins, and our 2011 Sports Co-Captain and Southwood boy, Nathan Mills. The panel answered questions honestly, and in a manner that had our boys engaged and reflective. I have no doubt that our Middle School boys left our Futures Day with a greater understanding of what lies ahead for them, and how to face the excitement and challenges of adolescence and beyond. I thank everyone who was involved in our Middle Schools Futures Day. factis 2012 tintern schools 21

Touring China Our German Exchange

by Anna Church and Amy Cunningham

The German exchange would have to be the highlight of our year; the six weeks we spent over there went far too quickly and none of us wanted to come home. Spending Christmas and New Year’s Eve with our host families was one of the best experiences for us, as it was so interesting to experience the different culture. The friendships we made with our host brothers and sisters we hope will last forever and learning the language is something none of us could forget. It was quite difficult to understand at the beginning, but by the end we were all speaking excellent German, which was something we thought we wouldn’t be able to accomplish at the start. Whilst we were there we visited Berlin, Dusseldorf, Cologne and Aachen. Cologne was a favourite because of the spectacular Lindt chocolate museum which is one thing not to miss if you ever visit Germany. The shopping in Berlin was great fun and some of the cathedrals, Aachen being a standout, were the most incredible buildings we had ever seen. We also stayed in Paris for three nights in total after flying into the Paris airport before we left. This just added to our enjoyment of the trip, with the climb of the Eiffel Tower being such a wonderful experience. 22 tintern schools factis 2012

by Mr Peter Buckingham Deputy Principal

news

My personal highlight of the trip was the Great Wall of China and being able to see for miles. It was well worth the strain of climbing the steep hill to get there. Some of the other highlights were the Terracotta Warriors, riding around the wall of Xi’an on a bike, going to the highest building in Shanghai, the World Finance Centre and the Forbidden City in Beijing. The thing that amazed me most about these ancient buildings was the thought that thousands of years ago, emperors of China, who were thought of as gods, once walked the same path as I did only a few weeks ago! – Rhys Bennett, Year 10

tintern goes global

This year 34 boys and girls from Years 10 and 11 and four staff members spent 12 days in China visiting Beijing, Xi’an, Nanjing, Suzhou and Shanghai. Highlights of time spent in Beijing included tours of Tian An Men Square, The Great Wall of China, The Ming Tombs, a pedicab ride with a visit to a traditional hutong home, the Forbidden City, Summer Palace and the Temple of Heaven.

fter the novelty of an overnight sleeper train trip to Xi’an, the group rode bikes around the ancient city walls and visited the Greater Wild Goose Pavilion and an historic Moslem Temple. For most, a visit to the Terracotta Warriors was a stand-out experience. A visit to Nanjing was a must for students studying 19th and 20th Century Chinese history with time spent at the Taiping Rebellion Museum and the Mausoleum of Sun Yat-Sen. Shanghai provided two unique learning opportunities. Economics and Business Management students visited Austrade to get a first-hand

account of the flourishing business relationship between China and Australia. Whilst all students and staff thoroughly enjoyed time spent at Tongi University No. 2 Secondary School. This was an opportunity for students of Chinese language to practise their language skills, except that most of the Chinese students wanted to practise their English.

My highlights were the Great Wall: you would never know that it was so steep! Tiger Hill was the most beautiful out of all the gardens and temples that we saw, and going to the Chinese School where we learnt how the Chinese students learn English and learnt about the different cultures. – Kate Pritchard, Year 10

Our 2011 Oaktree Ambassador In late 2011, our School Captain Ashley Mallett visited Cambodia as part of Oaktree Ambassador Challenge.

aktree and their Schools4Schools program chose seven students from across Australia to travel to Cambodia on an educational trip for a month. I was lucky enough to be chosen and gained so much knowledge. We travelled from Phnom Penh, to the Kirirom National Park, Kratie, Koh P’dao, Kampong Cham, and lastly Siem Reap. Every day we managed to do something active, educational and of course fun! Our homestay at the Kirirom National Park was a new experience. I stayed with a family who spoke no English

The optimism, confidence and mutual acceptance of all these young people left no doubt that the future of the world is in capable hands. Apart from the mesmerising vistas of new development and construction in Shanghai, we were all impressed with the beautifully maintained streets and gardens. Sites of historic interest that were visited included the Bund, recalling the days of western influence and trade in Shanghai, and the classical Chinese Yu Gardens. Shoppers were catered for with an

The Oaktree Foundation aim to fight extreme poverty through fundraising for education in developing countries. Their Schools4Schools program educates students about issues of developing nations. Tintern has been an active member of this program for many years. and I could speak no Khmer. The local children performed traditional Cambodian dances and we taught them some games. The Community Chief taught us about their push to respect the environment, beginning with creating a water pipe from the waterfall to the homes.

extended visit to the Yu Market where a number of traders met their match! A day trip to the ancient city of Suzhou included visits to Tiger Hill and the “leaning tower” of China, the 1000 year old Yunyan Pagoda, and a visit to a silk factory and a cruise on the Grand Canal. Wherever the group went, people commented on the friendliness and courtesy of the Tintern Schools students and their willingness to engage with new cultures and experiences. All in all, the China Study Tour was an enjoyable, informative and enriching experience, with an estimated 40,000 images to record it all!!

We travelled to Kampong Cham where we met representatives from KAPE (The Kampuchean Action for Primary Education). They aim to increase the education level in Cambodia. We headed to Koh P’dao, a beautiful island full of friendly locals. During our time there we created a fish pond, built a fence and prepared for monsoon season. It was hard work but very fulfilling. I hope to continue to raise awareness of the issues surrounding extreme poverty and to educate others about what I have learnt. Development is a big issue, eradication of extreme poverty certainly isn’t easy, but I do believe it can be done if we all give our support.

Six Semaines en France by Nick D’Arcy

In November 2011, seven students along with Monsieur Florent, set out for the French exchange. After a 22-hour flight, we finally arrived in France. Over the next few days we explored the wonderful city that is Paris, taking a cruise along the river Seine, visiting the Basilica de Sacre Coeur and Montmartre, seeing the Champs Elysees and the Arc de Triomphe and climbing the Eiffel Tower. We were able to try lots of delicious food, and speak French with locals – who mostly spoke back to us in English. We travelled to Bordeaux to meet our host families and settled into life with a French family. I really enjoyed getting to know the family and spending time with them and their friends. We also accompanied our host students to school. I spent two weeks at boarding school and was the only non-French person. I made lots of new friends and my French improved enormously. After the school term had finished, I went to Paris and I got to do things I could never do in Australia, such as ice skating in the rain on the Eiffel Tower. We spent Christmas with our host families and experienced local customs and delicacies. It was eventually time to leave our host families and soon we were back at home with the six weeks of good memories of our adventures in France. factis 2012 tintern schools 23

road to the olympics

Drama

by Gabby Paige and Michaela Glass

Hot Mikado T

erm 1 saw Tintern Schools stage our production of the Hot Mikado. East meets West in the hilarious 1940s-style updating of the perennial Gilbert and Sullivan classic. With the music transmuted into blues, Cab Calloway swing, hot gospel, scorching torch songs and ‘Three Little Maids’ turned into an Andrew Sisters’ show-stopper, this zootsuited, tap-dancing colourful show was a fun evening out for the whole family. Congratulations to our Tintern Schools students who made up the cast and crew and our amazing production staff who battled all adversity to bring this production to life!

oth Matt and Kimberley Gilling have had a successful year in a number of swimming championships. Kimberly (Year 4) competed in the Victorian Schools State Swimming Championships in the 9/10 years 50 metre breaststroke. She did an amazing job and came third. She also competed at the All Junior Semi Finals at MSAC and took out the silver medal in the breaststroke. Matt (Year 10) was selected in the Under 16 Victorian Pool Life Saving Team to compete at the Nationals in Adelaide in January. He brought home 5 medals including a gold medal as part of the 4 x 50m Manikin Carry. He then competed in the Australian Open Age Water Championships. Matt competed in the 5km event for 15 year olds and was one of only three Victorians who qualified for the event. Matt posted his second best time for the event, just outside his PB. Matt also completed a marathon 11.2km solo swim from Frankston to Mornington in the Bloody Big Swim. He won the 15-19 year old category, finishing as the fifth overall male competitor.

by Miss Jodi Evans Head of Outdoor Education

utdoor Education provides students with an opportunity to take a step back from their normal routine and examine who they are, who they want to be and what choices they need to make in order to get there. Students at Tintern and Southwood are provided with Outdoor Education experiences during camps in Years 7, 8 and 9. These allow students to develop camp craft skills as well as participate in challenging and adventurous activities that work towards extending the students’ comfort zones and building self-confidence and independence. Students in Year 9 are able to choose an Outdoor Education elective in which they build their repertoire of outdoor skills and extend their knowledge in the safety aspects of each activity. These skills are put to use in the Year 10 Outdoor and Environmental Studies elective in which students explore a range of natural environments through different modes of adventure travel. Older students have outdoor leadership opportunities in which they return to the camps of younger

24 tintern schools factis 2012

Outdoor Education

“From the easy to the most difficult tasks, outdoor ed has really inspired me to take on new challenges, which helps me explore my strengths and weaknesses while creating memories I will keep forever.” – Alex O’Shaughnessy, Year 9 year levels to help inspire students by acting as mentors. It becomes extremely evident, watching the students and leaders interact, that in a few short years they have all matured in their approach to challenging tasks. The school offers an extensive range of outdoor education activities, such as canoeing, rock climbing, mountain bike riding, caving, abseiling, skiing, white water rafting, sea kayaking, snorkelling, surfing, hiking and high ropes. It is through these activities that students come to know themselves, their personal strengths, the environment and each other.

The 2012 Tintern Schools Victorian Inter-school Horse Trials were held in April at Wandin Park Equestrian Centre. The competition comprised three stages – Dressage, Showjumping and Cross Country. Riders entered individually and as a team. We hosted 246 competitors from seventy primary and secondary schools across Victoria. Congratulations to all riders. The effort and dedication they demonstrated was brilliant. Once again, members of the Tintern Schools community represented our school with pride, and the organisation, friendly atmosphere and helpful nature of all involved was frequently commended. We would like to thank the Friends of Equestrian for their dedication, commitment and support. Thank you to the Anker family for kindly letting us use their grounds and to our generous sponsors, especially Horseland and Equissage.

individual & team results Grade

Name (place)

Grade 1

Evie Alexander (3rd)

Grade 2

Anna Church (4th)

Grade 4

Kate Ross (1st) Amber Shiel Jones (5th) Evie Alexander (6th)

Grade 5

Amelia Williams (2nd)

tintern team results Tintern Team 4 (3rd)

Tintern Team 1 (7th)

Kaitlin Bakken Evie Alexander Amelia Williams Grace Garland

Evie Alexander Anna Church Gabrielle Paige Cassie Jones

The winning team was Ringwood Secondary College and second place went to Catholic College Woodonga.

DAGS

“A celebration of survival... an expression of joy, self-reliance and self-respect.”

by Ms Patrizia Jakovljevic and Mr Vince Di Mitrio

he Tintern Schools Year 9 & 10 co-production has been cast and rehearsals begin in July. A comedy by Debra Oswald, Dags is a story about sixteen-year-old Gillian who is a dag, a nerd, a misfit, totally uncool who sees herself as fat, ugly and a social cripple. Gillian takes us on a funny, excruciating journey through the world of adolescent anguish and awkwardness. She finds it hard to cope with her bright “gungho “sister, who is not only totally together physically, but also has a bouncy, positive mental attitude; her gossipy girlfriends; her addiction to chocolate; and her desperate quest to be beautiful and popular. Performances will be held on 25 and 26 October.

Anatomy of Power

news

Our top swimmers

Tintern Schools Horse Trials

by Ms Patrizia Jakovljevic

his year’s VCE Drama and IB Theatre Ensemble Performance ‘Anatomy of Power’ was group-devised, scripted and student directed. We can understand Weber’s concept of power by seeing that there is only ever a fixed amount of power in any society – those who are powerful are powerful at the expense of others. Since power is seen as a quality of social relationships, then it is also a quality of the ability to control one’s social resources. The performance used the construct of The Seven Deadly Sins for a powerfully lyrical and symbolic presentation. By using movement and dramatic images, each non-sequitur scene satirised the influence of inheritance on individual success and human fallibility. Dramatic montages were both confronting and moving in recreating key events from each character’s life. Students used Physical Theatre to visually heighten stereotypes such as “The Good Nurse”, “Happy Family” and “Judging Eye” in scenes “Mirror, Mirror”, “Baby Drowning” and “The Power of Food”. Pure stereotypes of those character traits were added in gesture and a change in pose so that each image became a true archetype of itself. Meaning was built through exposed lighting, projected statistics and voice-overs that exaggerated and ridiculed the diverse range of characters paraded before us. We were taken on a fantastical visual journey of rigid edges and sinuous streams. factis 2012 tintern schools 25

ANZAC DAY

Music

e r to c n o C c a se w o h S erts c n o C by Moya Zhang School Pianist

n April, the Tintern Brass Ensemble attended the Maroondah Schools ANZAC Service at Ringwood Lake. The group consisted of Joy Xi (trumpet), Maya Watt (trombone), Zoe Bolto (euphonium) and Robert Pywell (French horn) along with their tutor Maria Pisani (trumpet), and they provided musical accompaniment for the singing of the National Anthem and a hymn. This service was convened by the Rotary Clubs of Ringwood and Croydon and was poignant and quite moving at times. The MC explained to over 300 gathered primary and secondary school students that the purpose of the event was not to glorify war, but to remember the lives lost in the pursuit of peace.

Award

Student (Year)

Outstanding Senior

Emily Mignot Voice (Year 12)

Music Captain

Joshua Jones Bass Guitar (Year 12)

Encouragement Chloe Eckley (Year 6)

Instrument

Oboe

Casey Prater (Year 5)

Percussion

Lily SpenceFletcher (Year 6)

Viola

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Kelson Awards

n Friday 18 May we were pleased to announce the recipients of the annual Kelson Awards. These awards are given to those students who excel in all areas of music, whether it be performance or composition, and are given to honour the memory of former Tintern Director of Music, Mrs Ilma Kelson. Outstanding performers show a flair for musical knowledge, but in a fluid and integrated way. Playing just the right notes is not enough: one must be able to feel the music and be a part of it. The awards also acknowledge performers who are coming up as future musical leaders. We encourage all students to try their best in whatever field they decide to pursue. Composition is also recognised, as writing musical works is a lesson in detail, management and subtlety. To write a fully-formed musical work is an achievement in itself, and we like to encourage that ability with these awards.

ach year the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority sponsors the VCE Season of Excellence to showcase outstanding achievements of the previous year’s VCE students in visual and performing arts studies. On 7 March, students and staff attended a Top Class Sound Concert at BMW Edge to hear Max Roberts (YG2011) who performed his original composition “Reach for the Best”, which he had created for his VCE Music Styles and Composition assessment. Max was accompanied in his performance by Michael Ashfield and Ben Ryding (YG2011). The host described Max’s composition as being one of the “best and most commercial pieces that she had heard for a long time”. Emily McKelvie (YG2011) performed at a further Top Class

Music

Concert at the Elizabeth Murdoch Hall which featured students who had achieved outstanding grades in their VCE Music Performance and Music Investigations examinations. Emily’s viola piece was Sonata in D Minor, 1st movement, by Glinka. She was accompanied by Tintern Schools staff member Barbara Clementson. Congratulations to Emily and Max for these significant achievements.

Friends of Music Jazz Night

2012

f you had the good fortune to be in the CM Wood Centre on Friday 20 April, you would have heard a musical spectacular. Seven talented students performed a concerto movement in the first stage of the Tintern Schools Biennial Concerto Showcase Series. The students were vying for a place in the final four, who went on to play at the Concert Showcase later in the term. On behalf of the students, we’d like to thank Mrs Clementson for tirelessly rehearsing with us to prepare. We will never understand how she learns all of those notes! The night was filled with great music and 7 performers did their very best. In the end, the final four were: Natasha McDowell (clarinet), Joy Xi (Piano), Francesca Teltscher-Taylor (Violin) and Moya Zhang (Violin). These students went on to perform in June where they were accompanied by the Tintern Schools Symphony Orchestra and the Tintern Schools Chamber Orchestra.

VCE SEASON OF EXCELLENCE E

by Emily Mignot Tintern Choral Captain

2012 Penelope Thwaites Award Recipients The Penelope Thwaites Music Awards, sponsored by Mr Michael Kelson, were also given out on the day. They are named in honour of the world renowned pianist and former Tintern student and school pianist. The recipients of these awards were: Award

Student (Year)

Instrument

Outstanding Junior

Holly Fryer (Year 6)

Flute

School Pianist

Moya Zhang (Year 10)

Piano

Choral Captain

Emily Mignot Voice (Year 12)

Australian Composition

Tiana McAsey (Year 7)

Flute

Original Composition

Michael Milton (Year 12)

Piano

or those of you stuck inside because of the cold on Saturday 19 May, the CM Wood Centre was certainly the place to be for a night of big band musical entertainment. The Friends of Music Jazz Night got off to a swinging start with the Tintern Jazz Band, followed by the musical genius of Ron Trigg and his band, who once again filled the dance floor with their irresistible tunes. Performances from the Tintern Senior Swing choirs and the Tintern Concert Choir set the mood before we were nearly knocked from our seats by the amazing swing dancers from Swing Patrol. The thrill of the silent auction and the drawing of the eagerly anticipated raffle In 2011, Natasha McDowell was selected contributed to the excitement to take part in the prestigious Julliard Jazz of the evening. School which was a week-long immersion Each year the Ron Trigg in jazz improvisation and performance. Jazz Musician Award is This was a great honour and is indicative

JULLIARD JAZZ SCHOOL

presented to a student who has participated actively in the Jazz Band rehearsals, workshops and performances for at least two years, and is currently enrolled in lessons on their main instrument. Natasha McDowell was the very worthy recipient of the award for 2012. She has been an integral part of the music program at Tintern, playing in a variety of ensembles and bands including the Jazz Band, the Jazz Combo, the Improvisation Group, the Concert Band, the Wind Symphony, the Clarinet Ensemble and Scrolls. She plays the saxophone in the jazz band but is a multi-disciplined instrumentalist currently studying piano and clarinet. Congratulations to the Friends of Music committee for again organising an enjoyable and fun-filled event for the Tintern Schools community.

of Natasha’s talent.

factis 2012 tintern schools 27

Sport at Southwood

girl power Terms 1 and 2 have been full of action and activity for sport with girls competing in a range of Weekly and House Sport competitions as well as EISM Major Carnivals.

YEAR 7 BOYS HOUSE BASKETBALL

by Mr Ross Jurey Head of Sport, Boys intern School’s Combined House Athletics was held at Doncaster Athletics Track and was a great success. Students and staff have embraced this combined event, and the addition of novelty events has enhanced the fun and enjoyment of the day. The colourful House costumes, the leadership shown by House Captains and the support of Year 12 students for the event all combined for a wonderful day.

boys year group champions Year

Name

Year 7

William Hansen

Year 8

Jordan Wright, Corey Robinson

Year 9

Brendon Green

Year 10

Christopher Wilks

Year 11

Anthony Mafrici

Year 12

Joshua Bird

overall results Place

Name/House

Score

1st

Stewart / Somner

1,879

2nd

Grant / Gordon

1,804

3rd

Butterss / Cross

1,753

4th

Mc Kie / Mansfield

1,738

5th

Dann / Watt

1,713

YEAR 8 & 9 BOYS

SENIOR BOYS

the season . Under the direction of Mr Whiston and Mr Trollope, both the ‘A’ Team (fifth) and ‘B’ Team (seventh) posted impressive wins due their commitment to team strategies and support for each other. Boys Hockey struggled with the hangover of last year’s premiership. With a number of Year 8 boys gaining experience this year, the team should improve next season. The Boys Softball team approached their matches in an enthusiastic and determined manner. They worked hard to improve their skills through excellent attendance at training. Their support and encouragement of each other on match days was exceptional. Our Boys Tennis team was successful, with both “A” and “B” teams taking out the Grand Final. Congratulations to all boys on their determination, focus and sportsmanship. The win was a just reward for all their hard work.

throughout the season under the direction of Mr Collins and Tom Clapham. The ‘A Team’ finished in third position on the ladder after the home and away season, with 4 wins and 2 losses, whilst the ‘B’ team finished sixth, with 2 wins and 4 losses. Senior Boys Cricket struggled to put their best team on the park throughout the season but still managed two wins and two narrow losses from their five matches. The boys supported each other throughout the season and fought all games out until the last ball. Senior Boys Hockey had a mixed season with a couple of key players suffering injury during the season. With 1 win, 2 draws and 3 losses, the team finished eighth on the table. Senior Boys Tennis played consistently well throughout the season, with both the ‘A’ team (third) and ‘B’ Team (fourth) just one win away from the Grand Final.

Boys Basketball battled hard throughout

28 tintern schools factis 2012

Senior Boys Basketball worked hard

he Year 7 Boys ventured to Maroondah Stadium to compete in our House Basketball Competition. All matches were played in an enthusiastic and cooperative manner with all boys displaying the utmost sportsmanship. After a series of games, it came down to the final game between Dann and Grant to decide upon a three way tie with McKie or an outright win to Dann. Dann prevailed 13 – 9 to secure the trophy.

BOYS MIDDLE SCHOOL CROSS COUNTRY

outhwood Boys ventured to Ruffey Lake Park in Doncaster in May for what proved to be a closely contested House Cross Country. Blessed with a fine, sunny day the boys competed around a 3 km course before finishing with a BBQ lunch and presentations. Grant were successful for the third year running, narrowly holding onto the prize from a rapidly improving McKie.

results Year

Place/Name

Year 7

1st Adam Blazevic 2nd Jack Knowles 3rd Hunter O’Shaughnessy

Year 8

Year 9

1st Jordan Wright 2nd Gary Haasbroek 3rd Nicholas Dugan 1st Brendon Green 2nd Ewen Doonan 3rd Jacob Epple

overall results Place

Name/House

Score

1st

Grant

1070

2nd

Mc Kie

1035

3rd

Butterss

970

4th

Dann

955

5th

Stewart

905

by Ms Oriana Constable Head of Sport, Girls

fter many training sessions, the Tintern Swimming and Athletics Squads had successful seasons with many individual personal best times achieved. We saw wonderful team results in Swimming and Athletics, with Tintern Schools winning the Girls and Grand Aggregate in Division 2 Swimming and the Most Improved School in Division 1 Athletics. EISM sport has seen Year 9 and Senior Girls posting teams in basketball, indoor cricket, touch rugby, tennis, softball, netball, hockey, soccer, volleyball and AFL football. It has been great to see many of these teams have success as well as the continued positive involvement from students and their commitment to the support of their peers. Girls have been involved in the Victorian College Championships Basketball Tournament, with the intermediate team qualifying for State Finals. Middle School students have also represented Tintern in netball at the Wowara Aboriginal College Reconciliation Sports Tournament. The girls displayed great House spirit through participation in House Athletics and Middle School Cross Country. In addition to track and field events, students were enthusiastic in their participation in the novelty events and fashions on the field.

EISM Weekly Sport Results (Summer) Ladder Position

EISM All Star Team

Senior Girls Basketball A

Premiers

Amanda Clapham (Captain) Nikki McKissack

Senior Girls Basketball B

4th

Senior Girls Indoor Cricket

Runners Up

Jennifer Gao Stephanie O’Connor

Senior Girls Softball

3rd

Elise Ashfield Clementine Ward

Senior Girls Tennis A

Runners Up

Tamara Graham

Senior Girls Tennis B

Premiers

Senior Girls Volleyball A

6th

Senior Girls Volleyball B

4th

Year 9 Girls Basketball A

4th

Year 9 Girls Basketball B

5th

Year 9 Girls Indoor Cricket

5th

Year 9 Girls Softball

Runners Up

Year 9 Girls Tennis A

Premiers

Year 9 Girls Tennis B

Runners Up

Year 9 Girls Touch Rugby

4th

Jamie-Lee Baker

Division 2 Swimming

Division 1 Athletics

Girls Under 13

1st

6th

Girls Under 14

4th

Girls Under 15

1st

5th

Girls Under 16

1st

3rd

Girls Open

1st

4th

Girls Aggregate

1st

4th

Overall

1st

6th*

EISM Swimming Champions Meet (Finals Night) Event

Name (Place)

Girls Open 200m Freestyle Relay

Mikki Lacey Laura Hunt Madeleine McDonald Laura Berryman (2nd)

Open 50m Breaststroke

Mikki Lacey (1st)

U13 50m Breaststroke

Sophie Paul (2nd)

EISM Athletics Champions Meet (Finals Night)

House Carnivals Overall Place

EISM Major Carnivals *Most Improved School 2012

COMBINED HOUSE ATHLETICS

Sport at Tintern

House Athletics

Middle School House Cross Country

1st

Somner

2nd

Gordon

Cross

3rd

Cross

Gordon

4th

Mansfield

5th

Watt

Year 7

Sophie Paul

Meaghan Lloyd

Year 8

Anjali Lobo

Georgia Hurleston

Year 9

Georgia Hayden

Olivia Bridgford

Year 10

Courtney Collins

Year 11

Natasha McDowell

Year 12

Jamie-Lee Baker

Event

Name (Place)

U16 High Jump

Alice Greig (3rd)

U14 Long Jump

Anjali Lobo (3rd)

U14 Triple Jump

Anjali Lobo (1st)

Open Shot Put

Clementine Ward (1st)

U16 400m

Courtney Collins (3rd)

U16 Triple Jump

Courtney Collins (3rd)

U15 Triple Jump

Georgia Hayden (2nd)

Open 1500m

Katerina Paul (1st)

U16 800m

Katerina Paul (1st)

U15 Long Jump

Lauren Spinks (2nd)

Open 200m

Natasha McDowell (3rd)

Open Long Jump

Natasha McDowell (2nd)

Open Triple Jump

Natasha McDowell (2nd)

U14 Shot Put

Nikki Davis (1st)

U14 Girls

Relay Team (3rd)

factis 2012 tintern schools 29

2011 presentation ball

Community

fifi box

by Ashley Mallett and Amanda Clapham

GOES BACK TO SCHOOL In

March, Tintern Schools was pleased to welcome back past student Fifi Box.

he visited the school for a day with her FOX FM radio show and had the opportunity to join in a maths class, have lunch with the students and reunite with her past teachers. Fifi was School Captain of Tintern in 1993 and was excited to see the many things that had changed – and stayed the same – at the school. She also hosted an assembly for our Year 12 students, talking about her career to date and to stress the importance of never giving up. It was not only an enjoyable and fun experience for our students, but one that gave them insight into the hard work behind her career. Fifi is an Australian radio broadcaster and television presenter and is best known for her radio show, Fifi and Jules, and work with Channel 7’s Sunrise.

Movie under the stars O n the still and clear autumn evening of Saturday 21 April, 350 members of the Tintern Schools community came together to share the special experience of watching a

Movie Under The Stars.

Each of our community groups ran stalls selling items such as glow sticks and movie-themed munchies ranging from choc top ice creams to popcorn, fairy floss, sausages, lollies and drinks. The Tintern Association and Southwood Parents Club wish to thank Friends of Music, Friends

of Equestrian, Friends of the Farm, the Tintern Junior Cheerleaders and the Student Leaders for their contribution to a wonderful evening. The relaxed atmosphere of the outdoors added to the entertaining animated movie Up, and the birds squawking overhead encouraged us all to take in the uniqueness of the setting. We sincerely thank volunteer coordinator Shelley-Anne Eckley, and the team of enthusiastic helpers who created this memorable event.

New Parent Welcome On Friday 24 February, new parents were welcomed to Tintern Schools by the Principal, Deputy Principal, Heads of Schools, 2011 School Captains and representatives of the Parents and Friends groups at Tintern Schools. This was a wonderful opportunity to chat with new parents and for them to meet and socialise together. We look forward to a long and happy association with all our new parents.

30 tintern schools factis 2012

provided a stunning and enchanted venue for the successful Presentation Balls. Both nights were extremely enjoyable and memorable for the girls and the boys, as well as families and friends. We have Sharyn Frisby and Kylie Spears to thank for organising the successful event.

Emma B Cook Heritage Collection and Archive

hank you to the members of the TOGA Archives Group – Sharon Fox, Doris Rose, Lynne Franke and Susan Cuthbert – for all the work they do for the Tintern Schools archive collection. Much time was spent sorting, naming and preparing photos and memorabilia for the Tinternwood Farm and the Tintern Young Farmers Club Reunion held in August 2011. It was good to be able to display some of the hundreds of ribbons which have been won at the many agricultural shows over the years; a wonderful recognition of the involvement of the Young Farmer’s Club members, staff and parents. This small dedicated group continue to support the year group reunions held at the school with wonderful memorabilia displays. They are currently working on sorting and preparing the new Heritage Centre which was launched in June.

glass display cabinets

Community Relations Update

n Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 September 2011, 37 girls and boys woke up bright and early to prepare for the unforgettable evenings ahead of them. The boys, in their classy suits, and the girls, in their snow white dresses, were on display as we were presented to Councillor Natalie Thomas and Mr Peter Buckingham on the Saturday evening and to Mayor of Maroondah, Cr Tony Dib and Mr Geoff Connor on Sunday. We danced the Viennese Waltz, the rumba and several other dances. The boys’ dancing talents also shone bright in the ‘man dance’, the Tango. With a rose in mouth, they took to the floor, ready to lead the girls. It took many Thursday night dance rehearsals during Term 3 with instructors from Sassi Dance to get the 74 teenagers to dance with such elegance and ease. For some it was quite nerve racking and others not so much, but for all it was certainly a very exciting event. The Great Hall in the Ivanhoe Centre

by DI LACEYCommunity

ith the purchase by TOGA of glass display cabinets, it is pleasing to be able to display items from the School Archives. These displays are providing members of the community the opportunity to learn more about the history of the school. Many thanks to those who have donated items to the

Tintern Schools Archives. We are particularly interested in receiving photos and memorabilia relating to the last 30 years. If you have items that you would like to loan or donate or if you are interested in joining the Archive volunteers, please email toga@ tintern.vic.edu.au or contact the Community Relations Office.

ennedy Cottage has always been a home away from home located in the heart of Tintern Schools. Originally used as a residence for Boarding House staff and later as a home for our Senior Boarders, Kennedy Cottage was named after one of our Directors of Boarding, Mrs Lauren Kennedy. Since 2007 Kennedy Cottage has been a home to our parents and friends groups. As a community house, Kennedy Cottage provides our user groups with meeting rooms, office space, resources, materials and archive facilities. During the last year more than 1,500 volunteer hours have been recorded at Kennedy Cottage alone. This does not include the volunteer work carried out at Southwood, Junior Schools, libraries and art rooms. I feel privileged to work with such a wonderful community who volunteer their time, energy and expertise to support the students, staff and activities of Tintern Schools.

Celebrating Tintern’s Outdoor Environment

very enjoyable and successful event was held on Saturday 27 August 2011, celebrating the Tintern Farm, the Tintern Young Farmers Club and the Tintern Environment. Many past members of the Tintern Young Farmers Club, past parents and past staff attended and enjoyed catching up with each other. Our thanks to the Young Farmers for tours of the Farm and their parents who provided a sausage sizzle. The shearing shed was open for viewing and had a range of Young Farmers’ memorabilia on display. As a result of the event, over $2,000 was donated towards the purchase of ultrasound equipment for the Tinternwood Farm’s educational program. factis 2012 tintern schools 31

e are pleased to announce the formation of the Friends of Young Farmers group after their first meeting on Tuesday 22 May. Friends of Young Farmers are parents, friends, ex-students and like-minded people who: Support the students in their endeavours; Support the students by actively fundraising for appropriate supplies and whatever is needed; Support the farm by co-ordinating working bees that contribute work that is identified to be valuable; Support each other by attending ‘getting to know you’ events; Create new opportunities for the students; and Support any other activities that the committee deems necessary.

Community

Friends of Young Farmers

2001’s 10-Year reunion by Briony Hart

The committee members are:

President: Katrina Ryder Secretary: Warren McDonald Treasurer: Julie Anderson Committee members: Michelle Shafto,

Colleen O’Moore, Sandy Bail, Andrea Van Gemert, George Bail, Jenny Horvath, Stella Oliver and Kate McDonald A special thank you must go to Kate McDonald who has been instrumental in getting this group started. Thank you also to Gavin Wall, our Farm Services Manager, and Mrs Di Grochowska, our Young Farmers Co-ordinator, for their commitment to our Young Farmers.

where are they now

Congratulations Nicola

young farmer

icola Hogan (YG2011) received an Australian Student Prize for 2011 in recognition of her academic excellence. She was also awarded a Premier’s VCE Award for studies in both Physical Education and Psychology. Nicola was also invited to an Australia Day celebration for young high achievers at Government House. Along with completing her VCE studies in 2011, Nicola also represented Victoria as the Captain of the U18 Victorian Women’s Hockey Team which won the national championships. Nicola is now studying Medicine at Monash University.

Agriculture Education future

o Newton (YG2006) has been cited in a parliamentary speech on the future of Agriculture Education by the Hon Niall Blair. “In February I met some young, innovative farmers from regional New South Wales. One lady was Jo Newton, a PhD candidate at the University of New England and winner of the inaugural Peter Westblade Scholarship. Jo’s PhD project is in sheep genetics and is focused on gaining a greater understanding of reproductive traits in sheep. What is unique about Jo is that she grew up in suburban Melbourne and her interest in sheep was sparked by high school agriculture classes. Meeting Jo reinforced my belief that we must look at what we can do to ensure that all urban students are exposed to primary industries as part of their schooling, as it is not only students from a rural background who will have a future in the industry.”

32 tintern schools factis 2012

elissa Neal (YG2002) studied a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at the University of Melbourne. She received the Angus Youth Semex Genetics Michigan State University Scholarship in 2006 which allowed her to study a semester of Animal Science abroad. Now living in Bendigo, Melissa works as a Livestock Industry Development Officer at the Victorian Department of Primary Industries. She is also involved with the Bendigo Agricultural Show Society and is the co-ordinator of the beef carcase competition at Royal Melbourne Show.

Swinburne Scholarship Recipients

irsty McDonald (YG2011) has been awarded a scholarship from Swinburne University of Technology for her academic excellence. She was just one of 15 students to receive this scholarship. Kirsty is studying Information and Communication Technologies. “I still struggle to believe that I received a ViceChancellor’s Scholarship. I worked hard during Year 12, which paid off as I received an ATAR score high enough to get into my course. To receive the scholarship on top of it all was unbelievable,” says Kirsty. Also awarded a scholarship to Swinburne was our 2011 School Captain, Thomas Clapham. He received a Commerce – Dean’s Scholars Program. This provides Thomas with financial support for his books, access to professional development or leadership programs and one-to-one mentoring.

Community

aturday 30 July 2011 saw 70 Tintern 2001 graduates gather for their 10-year reunion. We met at The Provincial for an afternoon full of gossip, laughter and warm welcomes. It was lovely to hear stories about where people are working and how some cross paths with other past students. Our friends overseas were not forgotten and a few ladies met in Hyde Park, London for their own 10 year reunion. I loved being able to see friends both past and present, catch up on what has happened over the years and admire how well everyone had aged! I hope that we were able to reignite friendships that may have fallen across the years and realise that the time we shared at Tintern was certainly a special one. Here’s to the 15-year reunion!

WE’re turning 70! 1959 reunion

n 17 March, 24 of the 1959 year group gathered at the Baths Restaurant in Brighton for a lunch to celebrate the fact that most of us are turning by Maureen Orchard seventy this year. Classmates came from Queensland, New South Wales and various places in country Victoria as well as those from around Melbourne. Several people contacted us from Scotland, the United States and Italy to tell us their news and send good wishes, as did those from different parts of Australia who were not able to join us. Saturday 20 October 2012: We wore name tags in case we did not recognise each other, because some For Year Graduated - 1967, 1962, had not met since the fifties but once 1957+ including 1952. Invitations will we met up we did not really need be posted late August. them! Judging by the noise, everyone Saturday 27 April 2013: seemed to take up where they left For Year Graduated 1998 and 1993. off in 1959. We wished we had more time to explore the different paths we Saturday June 15 2013: have all taken, but plan to continue For Year Graduated 1988, the conversations when next we meet 1983 and 1978. in a year or two. Marlene Bevan and I Sunday October 19 2013: would like to thank Di Lacey and her staff for their help in re-establishing contact with For Year Graduated 1973, our school friends. 1968, 1963, 1958+.

Upcoming School Reunions

19 92 i vo r s v r u s

At the Open Day reunions we saw 6 past students from 1992 who have known each other since prep.

Open Day reunions 28 April 2012 O pen Day once again played host to 3 year group reunions: 1997, 1992 and 1987. Nearly 100 girls met in our Visual Arts area to catch up and take a tour of their ‘old’ school, ably led by some of our senior students. What at first seems a daunting experience, as some girls have not been back to school for 20 plus years, quickly evaporates into a sea of smiles, chatter and laughter. Time dissipates too quickly and soon hugs and contact details are being exchanged to schedule the next get together.

factis 2012 tintern schools 33

PAST STAFF MEMBERS

Community

Shelagh Alvarez passed away 17 July 2011. Mother of Katrina (YG1979) and Amaya (YG1981). Mrs Alvarez was a member of staff from 1972 – 1991, teaching English, drama and junior history. She worked tirelessly in a range of productions which included The Crucible, Midsummer Night’s Dream, Antigone and Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead. Mrs Alvarez’s contribution to the direction of the musical co-productions over the years was immeasurable; her work included the choreography of productions such as Oklahoma, Annie Get Your Gun, South Pacific and My Fair Lady. Mrs Alvarez’s knowledge and encouragement of her students, particularly in their poetry and creative writing, her love of literature and her emphasis on individuality have all left their mark.

Marriages

births, deaths marriages

Sophie Edwards (YG 2006 nee Parham) married Garrett Edwards on 25 June 2011 at their church Holy Trinity Doncaster; celebrating afterwards with friends & family in Kallista. Ex Tintern students, Celia Parham (YG 2001), Elise Parham (YG 2002) and Amelia Lober (YG 2006) were bridesmaids with Esther Mathew.

Constance Day passed away peacefully on 26 February 2012 aged 80 years. Mrs Day taught French at Tintern from 1970 – 1984. She was noted as a warm and perceptive teacher which was demonstrated as the co-ordinator of Years 8 and 11.

Deaths Jean Stuckey (YG 1930 nee Wightman) passed away peacefully at the OHCS Nursing Home, Apollo Bay, 2 July 2011. Margaret Henfrey (YG 1946) passed away 7 April 2011. Margaret will be sadly missed at the TOGA on the Peninsula luncheons. Joan Pound (YG 1940 nee Ashton) passed away 20 March 2011. Joan is survived by her sister Verlie Withington (YG 1944 nee Ashton) from Bendigo.

s birth

2010 was a productive year for the Viney girls! Catherine Simcox (YG 1993 nee Viney), Tamara Meadows (YG 1995 nee Viney) and Louise Lowe (YG 2001 nee Viney), with all three having babies. Catherine had baby Matilda in July, Louise had baby Andrew in August. Tamara then had her third child, Lincoln in September. Tamara’s five-year-old twins are enjoying having a baby brother. Christopher and Katie Fitzgerald (YG 2001 nee Asquith) are delighted with the arrival of William James Fitzgerald. William was born on 14 July, weighing 7lb 1oz. William is a little brother for Joshua. Rebecca Tunnecliffe (YG 1999 nee Anker) and husband Tim welcomed the safe arrival of their first child Thomas William Tunnecliffe (7lb 1oz) on Sunday 3 July. Congratulations Rebecca and Tim and first time grandparents John and Angela Anker.

34 tintern schools factis 2012

Joan Storie (YG 1943) passed away 2 September 2010. Joan is survived by her sister Heather Howey (YG 1944 nee Storie). Lorna Johnson (YG 1938 nee Crocker) died on 4 December 2011 in South Australia, where she had been in a nursing home to be closer to her daughter. Wendy Evans (YG 1946 nee Van Senden) passed away on 12 January 2012. Wendy was in the 1946 Tintern Tennis Team, was a member of the Metropolitan Golf Club and was Convenor of the TOGA Golf Group from 1988-1990. She also represented Tintern, playing in the Interschool Challenge Cup for many years. Janet Matthews (YG 1974) passed away peacefully on Saturday 28 January 2012, surrounded by her family and friends.

Patricia Agnes Savige (YG 1938 nee Stoneham) died peacefully on 16 February 2012 in Ballarat. Daughter of Gwendoline Stoneham (nee Rowe) who attended Tintern from 1902 – 1907, mother of Anne (YG 1964) and Jenny Welton(YG 1967). Pat was a life member of TOGA and attended both Melbourne and Peninsula meetings. Joan Hill (YG 1950 nee Tucker) passed away 14 March 2012 peacefully at home. Loving mother of Elizabeth Hill (YG 1976), Simon, Nicholas and Adam. Helen Gibbs (YG 1933/1934 nee Fisher) passed away 29 April 2012. Helen was Head Prefect in 1934 and also Somner Captain. Helen was a member of several senior sports teams including team captain for baseball.

Relatives of past students Jennifer Milner from Benalla passed away at Cabrini Private Hospital on 20 July 2011 after a short illness. She was the loving wife of Peter (dec.) and much loved and devoted mother of Sally (YG 2002) and Jessie (YG 2005). Our condolences to Janet Andrews (YG 1956 nee Darby) on the death of her brother Ian who died on 13 January 2012.

Heather Simmonds passed away on 15 October 2011. Heather was the Year 7 – 10 LOTE Co-ordinator and also taught French at Tintern and Southwood from 1985 – 2005.

upcoming events

Keep in touch

Opportunities to visit Tintern Schools We regularly holds Information Mornings throughout the year. Held between 10.30am and 12.30pm at the Tintern campus, this is the perfect opportunity to learn more about Tintern Schools, meet key staff and take a tour. Upcoming dates: Saturday 4 August Thursday 6 September We would also be happy to arrange a personal tour for you at any time - 9845 7878.

Susan McLean: Cyberspace and Safety On Tuesday 11 September at 7.30pm, Susanne McLean will be discussing cyberspace and safety at an open evening at the Tintern campus. The evening will discuss cyber bullying, the impact it can have and what parents can do to keep their kids safe online. All members of the community are invited to come along.

Upcoming Music Performances Junior and Senior Piano Concert – 15 August at 6.30pm / 7.30pm, CM Wood Centre Singing Soiree – 23 August at 7.00pm, Kelson Room String Concert – 4 September at 7.30pm, CM Wood Centre VCE Performing arts Showcase Evening – 9 October, CM Wood Centre Munch with the Musos – 25 November, CM Wood Centre For more information, contact the Music Department on 9845 7837.

Celebration Evening Tintern Schools Celebration Evening will be held the 15 October at 7.30pm at Robert Blackwood Hall.

KEY CONTACTS Vale Andrew Schreuder On Wednesday 2 May 2012 many members of the Tintern Schools community gathered to celebrate the life of our former Chaplain, Reverend Andrew Schreuder. Held at St Paul’s Anglican Church in Canterbury. It was a wonderful occasion that allowed many of us to reconnect with past students and staff and to share their memories of Andrew. Reverend Andrew Schreuder was with the school for over 20 years. He joined the school as Chaplain, and served in this capacity for five years acting as preacher, co-ordinator of Religious Education and friend, particularly to the boarders and senior students. He then held a wide range of duties in the school and devoted his time to meeting the needs of the community. Reverend Andrew Schreuder will be missed by the many staff, students and parents who knew him in his time at the school and Tintern Schools wishes to formally acknowledge the huge contribution he made to the school during his time as Chaplain and friend of the School.

Principal

Campuses

Mrs Jenny Collins Email: principal@tintern.vic.edu.au

Tintern Campus 90 Alexandra Road Ringwood East, VIC 3134 Phone: 9845 7777 Email: reception@tintern.vic.edu.au

Deputy Principal Mr Peter Buckingham Email: pbuckingham@tintern.vic.edu.au

Head of Campus – Tintern Mr Geoff Connor Email: gconnor@tintern.vic.edu.au

Head of Tintern Junior School and Early Learning Centre Mrs Anna Riddell Email: ariddell@tintern.vic.edu.au

Head of Campus – Southwood

Southwood Campus Maidstone Street Ringwood, VIC 3135 Phone: 8870 1777 Factis magazine is produced by Tintern Schools. Editorial enquiries: Admissions and Marketing Manager 9845 7768

Admissions and Marketing Manager

Printed on environmentally friendly paper that is chlorine and acid free and has been sourced from managed, renewable plantation forests.

Miss Sarah Murphy Email: admissions@tintern.vic.edu.au

Cover Image: By Jessica Davies, Year 12

Mr Adam Kenny Email: akenny@tintern.vic.edu.au

factis 2012 tintern schools 35