Success Magazine - Semester 2 2022

SUCCESS

semester two 2022

From the Principal 3

Inclusion matters 4

Turning the spotlight on Drama 6

Introducing new Captains 8

A rollercoaster of science 10

Student achievement 11

Tuning in to mental health 12

MEASURING

From the Principal

On Wednesday 12 October the Year 12 HSC exams began. The tension in the air was palpable for students, exam invigilators and staff. That morning, on the ABC Breakfast Show, the presenters wished all Year 12 students in NSW good luck and shared an important piece of advice: “Remember your HSC results don’t define you and won’t determine the rest of your life.”

It is to be expected that the start of the final exams is scary and all-consuming for students and parents. It also feels extremely high stakes for schools and in this sense the media does not help. Schools (particularly in the independent sector) are measured by their published ranking when HSC results are released. If you are not ranked in the top 150 schools based on your students’ HSC results, then academics are perceived as a problem at the school.

As an educator, none of this makes sense. How is it that the complexity of learning, and a journey that spans 13 years of a student’s life, can be reduced to a single number? When parents share with me that they are concerned about academics at HVGS and I ask them about the evidence they are using to make this claim, invariably they cite whether HVGS is ranked in the top 150 schools. This metric is the only tangible one that seems to matter, despite most parents believing (as the ABC Breakfast team do) that a number does not define their child. Why then should it define schools or be the key metric to determine the success of our learners?

If we know that employers are looking for workers with core human competencies such as creativity, critical

measuring what we most value in our young people?

The first step is to be courageous and clear about what we value. This includes spending time listening to the concerns in the community about academics and facilitating an alternative understanding about learning. It involves placing each individual student at the centre of our thinking and recognising that one exam grade will not define them. Exam grades might open some doors and close others, but alternative pathways exist throughout our lives and rarely is that path direct and smooth.

Like all Year 12s across the state, our students are worried, but I would hazard to guess that the vast majority see these exams as one of many stepping-stones towards their future. At HVGS we get them ready for their examinations and do more than that; we stay committed to helping them become good human beings who love being part of a community who sees them for who they are and who they can be.

Visit Rebecca’s blog to read the full story.

Inclusion

matters

HVGS is a diverse community of cultures, identities, and customs, and we strive to embrace and value them all. We want everyone at HVGS to feel accepted for who they arewhatever their background, belief or identity.

Everyone is welcome at HVGS!

We promote an inclusive culture not only because it is the right thing to do but because inclusion benefits everyone. It is no surprise that students’ sense of belonging, connection and engagement increases when they see themselves represented and valued in their school community.

This year, our new Affinity Group, (comprised of Senior students and supported by school staff) sought to find a way to celebrate the diverse identities that make up the fabric of our School. Together they planned and developed Uniquely You Day - a whole school celebration to champion connection at HVGS.

“Uniquely You Day was a day of self-expression and acceptance which allowed everybody (including those in minority groups) to feel included and accepted for who they are,” says Year 10 student Sophie Abrams. “It was a day of belonging regardless of race, sexuality, gender and religion.”

This student-led initiative was a resounding success. Our ELC, Junior School and Senior School students all embraced the opportunity to dress in the clothing that makes them unique, and it was beautiful to see so many expressions of self represented in so many varying ways.

Some students wore traditional and cultural dress, and others wore clothing that expressed their taste in music, arts, culture, sport or personal interests. Some students wore clothing that simply made them feel relaxed and comfortable. Staff were also able to express their uniqueness, opening channels of dialogue that may never be explored otherwise.

“My highlight of Uniquely You Day was seeing everybody wear what makes them feel most like their true selves,” says Sophie. “It was a joyful day which shows that celebrating inclusion and diversity creates a healthy environment for everybody to thrive and positively impacts our overall happiness at school.”

Donations were also collected for Minus18 and Reach Out Australia. Thank you to the HVGS community for supporting The Affinity Group to raise close to $900 which will help these charities undertake meaningful work with young people in the community.

About the HVGS Affinity Group

The Affinity Group mainly focuses on the LGBTQIA+ community and what we can improve on. The group discuss things such as bathrooms, uniforms, and language, which we chat about in our lunchtime meetings with the hopes of supporting change in the School. It's essential to students that we have a voice and can bring up these issues in a safe space with the goal of working through solutions.

– Sophie Abrams

Turning the spotlight

on Drama

Drama is arguably one of the most rewarding subjects a student can study - and it comes with great personal benefit, too.

Drama is for those destined to shine on the stage, or for others keen to discover their passion as part of a crew behind the scenes. There truly is something for everyone. Interestingly, not many parents and students consider how the elements and teachings of Drama can develop valuable skills required day-to-day, like confidence, vocabulary and the ability to talk in front of others.

HVGS Drama teachers, Jennifer White and Hannah Date, share more about the benefits of Drama.

What might surprise students about what they learn in Drama?

HD: How many different perspectives they come across. Alot of the learning is social and cultural exchange, as well as reflecting on beliefs and practising articulating ones’ own values. Drama also practises listening skills in collaborative situations. Students are surprised by how much ‘behind the scenes’ work there is involved in a project or production.

What skills outside of Drama can be applied to other subjects/life?

JW: Drama educates the whole person! Students develop communication skills, problem-solving, confidence, presentation skills, creativity, empathy, group work and collaboration through acting and play-building activities.

What do you love about teaching Drama?

HD: Watching students build self-esteem and the ‘ah-ha’ moments when they realise that drama is their own process, rather than a product for someone else.

Drama is a beneficial and well-rounded subject, regardless of whether students have aspirations to be the next Academy Award winner or not. It teaches skills that can be transferred to any situation in life, and is a great way to build confidence, teamwork abilities and problem-solving skills.

I love teaching real life skills and hearing about how it is benefitting a little person’s whole life outside of the Drama teaching and learning space such as having the confidence to speak up for what they believe in, or have the confidence to put their hand up in class to contribute to discussion.

Hannah Date

O’ CAPTAIN

We’re so excited to introduce you to our the School Captains for 2023. We sat down with Audrey McPherson and Lachlan Lidbury to get to know them a little better – from their values to their go-to Treetops order!

Which HVGS value do you most identify with and why?

A: I identify with Optimism because it is defined by hopefulness and confidence about the future or the success of something. Without optimism, you are unable to move forward in life. I have come across many challenges throughout my life and being optimistic has allowed me to push forward and achieve the things I have dreamt of.

L: For me it’s respect. It is more than just acknowledging others, rather it is a form of understanding, a different

perspective. Respect is critical in my Captaincy role. Meeting new people and understanding everyone’s point of view is something I strive to achieve every day.

Why are you proud to be a Captain of HVGS?

A: I have been a student at HVGS since preschool and my older brother also attended HVGS since preschool. HVGS has always been an important part of my life and the School community has allowed me to flourish in an environment that has so many opportunities. The HVGS community is so encouraging, caring and compassionate and being able to represent an incredible group of students is an honour.

L: I am very proud to be Captain of Hunter Valley Grammar School for many reasons.

Our School community – it is a kind and exciting place, which makes this role so much fun. We are also driven and hardworking.

The people – I am most proud of being able to lead a wonderful population of intelligent and dedicated learners. They always bring a smile to my face with what they get up to at School.

My Family – I am very proud to not only represent the School, but also represent my family within this role. My father, being a foundation student, has a high level of respect through his association with the School and I hope to continue that legacy.

What is your go-to Treetops order?

A: My go-to Treetops order is definitely a ham and cheese croissant and choccy milk.

L: When I do buy my lunch from Treetops, I tend to find myself buying a toastie and choccy milk.

How do you hope to be the voice of your peers?

A: I hope to form genuine connections with all groups of students at the School. Many of us identify differently, have different passions and visions and I hope to be able to help these students achieve their visions through being an openminded, caring, and authentic leader I’d like to lead others beyond a point they would take themselves.

L: I hope to give voice to those who may not be, or feel, heard. I hope to stay open-minded and respectful of everyone’s ideas and to be an expressive voice for our community and student body.

What’s your favourite subject and why?

A: My favourite subject is Agriculture. I am extremely passionate about sustainability and the environment and Agriculture has given me communication, self-management, and critical thinking skills. Our Agriculture class is a tight-knit group that is full of ideas. We all bounce ideas off each other and encourage each other within the classroom, and it has allowed me to create genuine friendships where we discuss some fascinating ideas.

L: Like Audrey, Agriculture! The wonderful practical opportunities to work with livestock and study crops/pastures at the School Farm is an exciting way to get outside the classroom and explore a new way of learning.

Where can students usually find you at lunch to come have a chat?

A: I am somewhere around Treetops or walking around with my best friend. Give me a big smile and I’d love to have an awesome chat with you.

L: You can usually find me on the Rugby Oval playing sport with my mates. I am always down for a chat or even an extra teammate.

What are your personal strengths?

A: Compassion and confidence would be my personal strengths. To be compassionate, I need to be open-minded and listen to all ideas. I love being able to help others achieve their goals and passions. To achieve my own personal goals and create change, I have to remain courageous and confident.

L: My strengths are perseverance, honesty and I’m hardworking. I try to put these strengths to work in all form of learning and leading, with a bit of fun along the way!

Have you ever really thought about the science behind a rollercoaster? How riding a rollercoaster is a prime example of physics in action?

No? You’re probably not alone! Year 8 have however, as part of the fun and educational activities they explored for this years’ National Science Week.

While Year 8 were constructing (literally) science knowledge that relates to rollercoasters, Junior and Senior students were immersed in other exciting activities to engage in all things science.

This year’s theme for National Science Week was ‘Glass’. Senior students tested laser lights, made their own light globes and competed in a glass-inspired escape room challenge. Meanwhile Junior School students had an exciting visit from the University of Newcastle Science Faculty, where they showcased fun experiments.

National Science Week is Australia’s annual celebration of science and technology. It is an opportunity for everyone to talk science, see science and do science, which is especially important for young people growing up in an increasingly technological and scientifically advanced world.

Providing opportunities for students to get hands-on through events like National Science Week help build their understanding, interest and scientific literacy, so they are empowered to tackle some of the complex problems facing their generation in the future.

Student achievement

Each year students in Years 5 and 6 compete in the Newcastle Permanent Primary School Mathematics Competition. This challenging competition is a valuable learning opportunity for mathematically inclined students to apply their numeracy and problem-solving skills.

Congratulations to Taran Peddu, Zoraiz Minhaj from Year 5 and Kate L from Year 6 who blitzed this year’s competition. These students were invited to attend a presentation ceremony to receive their award from the team at Newcastle Permanent Greenhills and excitingly opened their very own bank accounts. What a fantastic achievement!

Are you smarter than a 5th grader?

How quickly can you solve this question that appeared in this year’s Newcastle Permanent Mathematics Competition paper?

The Fibonacci number pattern is 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, …. and so on. To get the next number you add together the two previous numbers. What is the first 3-digit Fibonacci number?

Hint: Turn upside down for the answer

Answer: 144

Helping an important cause

Who can forgot the damage sustained in the recent floods?! As a way to say thanks to the wonderful volunteers from the SES who helped so many people and properties (our own included) during the recent terrible weather, the Junior School SRC decided on a fundraiser to raise much needed funds for the SES.

Each class received a coin jar to collect loose change and students could also “buy a number” off a 100’s chart! Service and learning in action!

All that small change ultimately made up a large amount of money – enough to spell out “Thank you from HVGS” in coins which totalled $3,000! Well done Junior School! We are sure the SES very much appreciated the kindness and the support.

Tuning in to mental health

SafeTalk Training R U OK Day

World Mental Health Day on 10 October was an apt day for HVGS staff to commence the SafeTalk Training with Living Works Australia, which focuses on suicide and suicide prevention.

Principal, Rebecca Butterworth, is a strong advocate for suicide prevention training for teachers in schools because of the shear impact it can have on a young person struggling with their mental health.

“Training for teachers is a crucial step towards supporting students at risk because it helps people know what to do in the moment and supports students to reach out for help,” says Rebecca.

Staff engaged in the LivingWorks Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) are learning life saving skills like understanding how to identify when someone may be at risk of suicide and then work with them to create a plan that will support their immediate safety. The training has been offered to HVGS as part of a state-wide initiative to create a network of safety and support around young people.

R U OK DAY is a very special day at HVGS and embraced by all staff and students. To raise awareness and amplify the message of R U OK Day, the School came together to write messages of encouragement, reflection and to illustrate what R U OK DAY means to them.

This was a great way to start the conversation and have peers discuss with each other how they were feeling. The School footpaths were left bright and colourful – a beautiful representation of the caring staff and students that call HVGS home.

Layla and Ashaani from the Year 12 Leadership Team had a chat to us about what R U OK Day means to them and what you can do to start the conversation. Scan the QR code to hear more.

“Almost anyone can learn the skills to save a life”

– LivingWorks Education

KREATIVE IN KINDY

Art exploration in Kindergarten is not only fun and entertaining, but it is also educational.

Apart from the beautiful artworks that take pride of place on the fridge, art develops students’ essential skills that support learning. For example, writing, problem solving, fine motor skills, creativity and self-esteem by providing levels of autonomy to express themselves.

Children at this age learn so much through play and exploration, and creating art allows students to be multidimensional individuals who are creative and innovative. The arts complement the IB PYP philosophy perfectly as it promotes creative thinking and innovation, supporting young children to use their creativity to communicate messages in different ways.

Grandparents’ and Day

Special Friends’

One of our very favourite days of the year, Grandparents’ and Special Friends’ Day, brought many happy faces and generations to HVGS. With over 500 guests in attendance, we celebrated with a morning tea, and a wonderful musical extravaganza featuring all our Junior School students. A picnic lunch on the lawn and a visit to classrooms was the perfect day to end the day.

“They always make me laugh”

“I like to fix stuff with my Granddad in his shed”

“I like to sit down and have hot chocolate with them”

“Grandma likes to help me make dumpling soup with noodles”

“I like spending time with them, they make me laugh”

“I love going on walks with them, because then we can take the dog out and have a lot of fun”

“With my special friend I like to play handball”

NEW MEET OUR STAFF!

Game of Thrones for FOXTEL to working for five years at the Australian Reptile Park – I am obsessed with the everchanging digital media space and creating unique content for marketing!

In my spare time I love watching movies (huge Star Wars and Marvel fan!), going to concerts and travelling. I’m heading to America next August and can’t wait!

BP: As an educator, I have had extensive experience in the field of special and inclusive education and have worked across a wide range of settings. I am deeply committed to providing expertise, knowledge and support to enhance an inclusive school environment.

In my spare time I love to cook, share recipes, nurture my indoor garden and dream and plan for travel with my family. What is your role here at HVGS

RP: As the Marketing and Content Manager for HVGS I am always running around with my camera to capture everything that’s happening! I work with our Director of Advancement and Community Engagement to build our marketing strategies and develop compelling visual, digital, and written content in internal and external communications, publications, email campaigns, on the school website, social media, and any other platform you can think of! (Are you following us on social media?!)

I am the Head of Student Services (Junior School) which means I have the absolute pleasure of working with students, their families and teachers right across the Junior School. As Head of Student Services my focus is on ensuring that students with complex learning and wellbeing needs have access to the curriculum, co-curricula activities and social networks available in the School. Inclusion is my passion and I look forward to working with the staff to ensure all students achieve their full potential.

What’s your Treetops order?

RP: Usually a Caramello Koala or the Nachos when it’s the special of the day!

BP: Small double flat white – the stronger the better.

What have you loved about working at HVGS?

RP: The staff and students are so happy and wonderful to be around. It’s truly a joy coming to work each day. I love working in such an open, beautiful space.

BP: The people of course! The students and staff have been so welcoming and I am thoroughly enjoying getting to know everyone. In the short time I’ve been here I have noticed that there is a strong culture of inclusion and respect amongst both staff and students. I am looking forward to being part of the HVGS community and getting to know the students, teachers and families.

Head of Student Services (Junior School): Belinda Pearson Marketing & Content Manager: Rebecca Plumridge

ELC Father’s Day Fun

To celebrate Father’s Day, the ELC welcomed all father’s and father figures to come and visit! The special guests were treated to a delicious breakfast prepared by Senior Hospitality students and spent the morning playing in the

sandpit and other interactive elements of play. It was nothing but smiles! ELC students were excited to share their learning portfolios with their guests and to show them around their amazing learning environments.

A very fluffy visitor!

The ELC were so excited to spot a very small, cute visitor during National Bird Week! Looking up into the trees they were able to find a birds nest where a baby bird had just hatched. The students have named the bird ‘Fluffy’ and have eagerly observed Fluffy moving about the Adventure Playground, interacting with the other birds and learning to fly. Some deciding to draw their interpretation of their special friend!

You may have spotted many ELC students out and about, eyes to the skies, in the HVGS grounds recently as they have also been participating in the Aussie Backyard Bird Count 2022.

Soprano sensation

Sarah Dockrill has had a long and endearing relationship with the HVGS community. A talented singer and performer while a student at the School, she returned in 2015 as a Specialist Music Teacher – tutoring and sharing her vocal talents and gifts with HVGS students.

In 2019 Sarah left teaching to pursue her solo singing career, which was evidently impacted by COVID-19. But Sarah is now back on her musical journey, with

Sarah Dockrill (2011)

a grand adventure about to begin as she prepares to leave Australia for the opportunity of a lifetime in Wales.

You’re a Soprano – is there anything special you need to do to keep your voice in tip-top shape?

I must ensure my voice is well looked after and healthy. It’s similar to an athlete and their sport. They must warm up and cool down. This is also the case with singing - I warm up before singing for an extended period and cool down afterwards.

Some purists will avoid certain foods and drinks that can affect the voice, such as coffee, but I can’t do that!

What’s been your career highlight?

That’s tough! I’ve been fortunate with differing opportunities both as an ensemble and choir member and as a soloist.

From HVGS to Miss World!

Earlier this year, I was a soloist with the Willoughby Symphony, which was my first orchestral debut with an orchestra at the Chatswood Concourse. I also had my operatic debut this year as Lady Billows in Benjamin Britten’s Albert Herring, which was an incredible milestone

We hear you’re moving to Wales. What sparked this new adventure?

I always knew that I wanted to move to the UK at some stage to gain further training. I auditioned for a few schools in the UK last year via online recordings and was offered a few places; however, the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama appealed to me the most. So that's where I'll be heading!

Read the full story on our website

After graduating from Hunter Valley Grammar School in 2016, Lucy Burls has been a powerhouse. From being accepted to complete her Masters in London, managing two offices in Sydney for a creative agency, to currently being in NSW State Finals for 2023 Miss World – the opportunities have been endless!

Lucy Burls (2016)

What have you been doing since you graduated from HVGS?

After I graduated, I started my degree in Speech Pathology, then I travelled to 21 countries by the time I turned 21. When I came home I changed my degree to Health and Science majoring in Nutrition and Exercise. Excitingly I have just recently been accepted to complete my Masters at the University of London for Public Health and Conflict! During the pandemic I was working at the Mater Hospital which was a very unique experience.

I am currently managing two offices in Sydney for an International Creative Agency and I am also in the running for

Miss World Australia – now in the state finals! I am also a National finalist for Miss Tourism Australia. So… I’ve been busy!

What is your big dream in life?

My biggest dream in life is to find a career that makes me happy, and be successful doing it. I just haven’t worked out what that is yet!

What made you want to apply for Miss World?

I really love how Miss World encourages young females to reach for the stars and raise awareness for important charities that matter to communities.

Tyneal Bunt (2004) Thriving post-pandemic

Tyneal’s career goals were thrown into disarray when COVID-19 struck, prompting a move back home to the region.

You’re an experienced Events Manager; what’s been your career trajectory?

What is something about you that your past teachers might be surprised to learn?

I started at HVGS in Kindergarten, and my past teachers might be surprised to know that my best friend today is still the best friend I met on day one at HVGS!

COVID-19 had significant impacts on many businesses in 2020 and 2021. The events and hospitality industries were particularly impacted, which Alumni student Tyneal Bunt (2004) can certainly attest to.

As an experienced Events Manager in a world-renowned hotel in Sydney,

I started my career in hotel events as an event coordinator and worked my way up the ladder to be the Director of Events at the InterContinental Sydney located in Circular Quay. I was awarded the 2019 Leader of the Year for my work there, but then COVID hit, and I ultimately returned home to Newcastle.

Since returning home, I have moved into running the events at Hope Estate in the Hunter Valley, which is a fantastic and diverse venue.

What was your favourite memory of HVGS?

The sports carnivals! I was in Barrington and loved sport. I also played in the HVGS Netball and Soccer teams throughout my Senior years.

Read the full interview on our website

Supreme result for Liam Liam Taylor

(2015)

Liam Taylor is reaping the rewards of years of study and hard work after being admitted to the ACT Supreme Court in August.

A passionate advocate for social justice, Liam is determined to pursue his aspirations in the area of Public and Administrative Law as a Solicitor while remaining involved in grassroots community law organisations.

What have you been up to since leaving HVGS?

After completing a Bachelor of

Economics from the University of Sydney, I started a Juris Doctor at the Australia National University. Passionate about social justice and educational support, I began volunteering at the Australia Indigenous Mentoring Experience (AIME), working closely with students supporting their further tertiary education. While at the ANU, I also embraced various other opportunities, including volunteering at Legal Aid ACT, the Kimberley Community Legal Centre, and a research project at Canberra Community Law. I was also involved in the ANU Law Students’ Society as a Competitions Director, where I ran a variety of Novice and Senior Mooting Competitions.

I currently work as an Associate at the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) in the General Division, where I’m regularly involved in matters concerning the National Disability Insurance

Scheme (NDIS), Comcare, Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, Migration/ Visa, and commercial/taxation matters.

What is involved in being admitted to the Supreme Court?

Upon completing a Law Degree and a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice (a course you undertake after your law degree), you can apply to the Supreme Court of your state or territory to be admitted as Solicitor, which means you can now practice Law.

At the Admission Ceremony, a moving Counsel moves your admission, which involves them making a Statement to the presiding judge. Newly admitted Solicitors collectively take an oath/ affirmation and sign the roll.

Read the full interview on our website