ISSUE ONE - 2020
VA L L E Y N E WS
TERM 1 1
Contents PRINCIPALS WELCOME 4 -5
STAGE 5 & 6 CAMP RECAP 24-25
PEOPLE TO KNOW 6
SPORTING EVENTS & UPDATES 26-27
PACIFIC VALLEY NEWS 7
SPORTING ACHIEVEMENT 28-29
PACIFIC VALLEY UPCOMING EVENTS 8 - 9
CREATIVE ACHIEVEMENT 30-31 MISSIONS 32-33
JUNIOR SCHOOL 10-11 PRINCIPAL’S LUNCH RECAP 12-13 INTERVIEW WITH CAPTAINS 14-15 MIDDLE SCHOOL 16-17
Being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, And giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light.
MIDDLE SCHOOL FOCUS 18-19 MIDDLE & SENIOR SCHOOL DISCIPLINE 20-21 SENIOR SCHOOL 22-23
VALLEY HOPE NEWS 34 PEOPLE TO KNOW 35 VALLEY HOPE WELCOME 36 MEET OUR CLASSES 37 SCIENCE ART 38 B1 STORY FOCUS 41 SWIMMING CARNIVAL RECAP 42 ACHIEVEMENTS 43 EXTRA CURRICULAR 44-47 COMMUNITY ORGANISATION CONTACTS 48 - 49 COMMUNICATIONS SURVEY 50
- Colossians 1:11-12 2
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Hello & Welcome
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ear Parents and Carers,
In 1889 the great English preacher, Charles Haddon Spurgeon, said; ‘It is only by perseverance that the snail reached the ark’. This is a simple and humorous, yet profound, thought for us to ponder at this early point in the school year. Perseverance is the theme in both Pacific Valley Christian School and Valley Hope School in 2020. The year has started well at both schools and there is still a lot of the school year ahead of us. Sometimes we need to remember to be like the snail - persevering slowly but ever so surely towards our goals. School life always provides students with opportunities to grow in perseverance, for example when learning a new topic; facing a challenging problem-solving exercise; developing and improving physical or academic skills; navigating struggles in our relationships with others, whether at school or at home (or both!), overcoming hurdles and choosing to reach and consistently maintain high standards of behaviour and compliance with school rules etc. Throw a once-in-a-generation global pandemic into the mix and the need to persevere takes on another dimension again! The Bible has much to say on the topic of perseverence, including this pertinent verse from the book of James: ‘Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.' (James 1:2-4) As we partner with you to grow young people of increasing maturity and responsibility, may this year be a significant time in all of us deepening our understanding and practice of perseverance. God certainly perseveres with each of us - let’s reflect this in our faith and service to Him, and in all areas of our lives. God bless, Richard Sansom
BUILDING A STRONG FOUNDATION FOR YOUR CHILDS FUTURE.
Head of Middle School 4
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People to Know Principal Scott Logan
Assistant Principal Lee Hackfath
Head of Junior School Katherine Armstrong
Head of Middle School Richard Sansom
Head of Senior School & Dean of Curriculum Toni Ankersmit
Bursar Peter Ramsay
BUILDING A STRONG FOUNDATION FOR YOUR CHILDS FUTURE.
Registrar
Principals PA
Jenny Fischer
Sarah Robinson
Pacific Valley News BUILDING A STRONG FOUNDATION FOR YOUR CHILD’S FUTURE, TO SEE THEM THRIVE IN EVERY AREA OF LIFE.
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Upcoming Events
All events cancelled until further notice Please keep your children home for online learning where possible until the end of Term 1. We understand that this can be an uncertain time for all the families represented in our school community & hope to assist you in continuing our students education even though their classroom may look different in the coming weeks. On the advice of Federal Government, PVCS will remain open for parents who work in the essential services. Our school will be delivering education through External Delivery Method (EDM) for all students now until the end of term, Thursday 9 April. So whichever location your child is learning from, be it home or school, they and you have the support of our amazing staff at the Valley. At this stage, Term 1 concludes on Thursday April 9 and Term 2 is scheduled to commence Tuesday April 28. We anticipate that the processes that operates for the remainder of this term will be similar in Term 2. Although most events are altered, postponed or cancelled we still encourage all our families to celebrate Easter at home together. We will be uploading video’s to our Facebook page & class Dojo for you to watch with your children. Hopefully this will start some good discussion about the reason we celebrate Easter & time to thank Jesus for the sacrifice made for us.
Good Friday 10th of April Easter Long Weekend 11th - 13th of April School Holidays 13th - 27th of April 8
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JUNIOR S CHO OL
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An article from our Head of Junior School, Mrs. Armstrong, sharing the direction & vision for 2020.
unior School has had a very exciting and busy start to 2020. We have been blessed with many new faces joining us in each class and we hope that our new students and their families have felt welcomed into our school community. We are also excited for our new playground that will begin construction in early March. As a school, we believe that God is at the centre of all that we do and that we exist to bring glory to Him. We look forward with great anticipation to what God will do in the Junior School in 2020. Throughout Term 1, staff and students have been exploring our school values together and discussing what it looks like if we are a school that seeks to bring glory to God. Our school values are an integral part of the Junior School.
o Service - Putting others first o Perseverance - Never giving up o Connection - Helping all to belong o Respect - Respect for all people Service - Each of you has been blessed with one of God's many wonderful gifts to be used in the service of others. So use your gifts well. - 1 Peter 4:10 We are looking forward to providing a number of opportunities for our students to use their God given gifts to serve one another. Already, our Junior School Captains have been leading our Year 3 and 4 students as they run our weekly Zooper Dooper stall. This is an opportunity for students to support our Compassion sponsor child and see how their small contributions can make a big difference in the lives of others. This year we are also planning visits to the nursing home, once again running Operation Christmas Child and encouraging students to look for opportunities to serve each other and their school community on a daily basis. Perseverance - I can do all this by the power of Christ. He gives me strength. - Philippians 4:13 Students have been exploring what it means to have a growth mindset as part of PDHPE this term. This is a mindset that focuses on persevering through things that are difficult rather than giving up. As we look at people from the Bible who continued to trust God even when things were not going to plan, students will learn that God is with them to help them to persevere as they learn 10
new things and face challenges each day. Connection - Accept one another, then, for the Glory of God, as Christ has accepted you. - Romans 15:7 Our vision for this year is to have each Junior School student and their families to feel a sense of belonging at Pacific Valley. We are exploring new ways to connect families through events and assemblies as well as providing opportunities for parents and carers to help in our classrooms. It was wonderful to see so many parents at our information evening earlier in the year and to have a number of you volunteer to help with reading and attend our parent seminar. Stay tuned on Dojo for more opportunities to be involved in the life of Pacific Valley. Respect - Show proper respect to everyone. Love the family of believers. Have respect for God. - 1 Peter 2:17 We believe that every person has been uniquely created in the image of God. We want the Junior School students to see the differences in themselves and others as something to be celebrated and valued. Glory to God - Bringing Glory to God in everything we do. In the same way, let your light shine so others can see it. Then they will see the good things you do. And they will bring glory to the Father who is in Heaven. - Matthew 5:16 As we teach our school values to students, we want them to understand that they are an important part of our school community. In this community, we all have a role in ensuring people feel connected, respected and valued for the unique person that God created them to be. We build this culture as we serve one another and look to the needs of others before ourselves. Each member of the school community is responsible for making our school a safe place where everyone is able to learn and is encouraged to persevere in all aspects of school life so that they can grow to their full potential. The ultimate aim of all these things is to bring Glory to God. We are excited for the year ahead as we work in partnership with you and look forward to what God has planned for us as a Junior School community. Katherine Armstrong Head of Junior School 11
Principal’s Lunch A time to celebrate all the hard work our students put in throughout the year. Keep up the good work everyone!!
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ur Junior School Principal's award recipients from 2019 got to let their hair down to celebrate a job well done at our annual Principal's Lunch. STUDENTS LINING UP FOR LUNCH
This is a day that our Principal, Assistant Principal & Head of Junior School shout the students a 'healthy' lunch of chips, pizza & drinks to honour the hard work they put in throughout the year. Mr. Logan believes in acknowledging our students achievements & encouraging them to keep on working hard to accomplish their goals. We would love to see more & more students attending in the years to come.
A Z A L I YA N I C H O L S & B E L L A M C M A H O N W I L LO T T
S T U D E N T S E N J O Y I N G T H E P R I N C I PA L S L U N C H
G R O U P P H O T O W I T H M R . L O G A N & M R S . H A C K FAT H
L- R L I S A J O U B E R T, A Z A L I YA N I C H O L S , LY D I A H A L L E T T, M A I S I E M U R R AY & S AVA N N A H B A K E R
Not only is this a fun, relaxed lunch for our students to enjoy but, in continuing this tradition, our school hopes to show our students that hard work does pay off and it is worth some of the challenges that come your way throughout the school year. As a school we love to celebrate the achievements of all our students. The Principal’s Lunch is an opportunity for students across all grades in the Junior School to join together to laugh, eat and celebrate their efforts throughout the year.
JACOB SWIFT & SPENCER LOGAN GROUP MUCK UP PHOTO
SOPHIE DELAFORCE & KRISTEN HANSEN
We are extrememly proud of all that our students have accomplished and we hope to have an even bigger group attending our Prinipal's lunch for 2020.
S O P H I A M A H O N E Y & L E YA E V E R S O N
M R S . A R M S T R O N G & T U L LY L O G A N
L- R K YA H F O S T E R , L I LY B L A I R , J J J O H N S T O N , T U L LY L O G A N , J O R D A N B R I C K N E L L , S U M M E R N E W M A N , E L L A SWIFT, ANNIK A APPS
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Junior School Achievement Focus Two of our Junior School Captains have a vision for Pacific Valley and they want to let you know all about it.
How did it feel when you found out? Leo: For me, I was so excited!! I thought I was never ever going to win, then right at the end, I won!! It brings back so many memories. Eli J was cheering me on. Kristen: I felt pretty excited & was nervous because I wasn't sure I would win. I was happy for myself & so was Sophie & Mia. It felt good because everyone was being nice when I won. What does being Captain mean to you? Leo: Probably to help the school become popular, show our school is good, get more students in & raise zooper dooper money. Kristen: It means I can help people to make the world a better place. What advice would you give another student that would like to run for School Captain? Leo: Put down a REALLY good speech, love your speech, make sure people love your speech & don't worry what people think, just be yourself.
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S C H O O L C A P TA I N S K R I S T E N H A N S E N & L E O M A R S H A L L
had heaps of fun sitting down & speaking with two of our newly elected Junior School Captains, Kristen Hansen & Leo Marshall. Kristen & Leo serve as Captains along side our other Junior School Captains Reuben Turner & Lydia Hallett (look out for them in the next issue.) Not only do they have a heart to do their jobs as captains well but they also have a vision to see Junior School thrive & grow while they are in the position of Junior School Captains for 2020. Here are a few of their thoughts on what it means to be Captain & how they can contribute in making Pacific Valley a place that everyone wants to be a part of.
What year are you in? Both: Year 4, Mr. Brown's class. Why did you get nominated to be Junior School Captain? Leo: Because I'm going to try to help develop the school. Kristen: Because I'm a great leader, I listen, I trust people & I like to help people. (Leo: that's true, you do) Did you vote for yourself? Leo: No, because it shows that you only care about yourself. Kristen: No, because it means your opponants don't get a chance. Did you have to make a speech? Both: Yes. Did you get anything when you became captain? Both: Our badges.
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Kristen: They should friend more people. Have a good speech . Be a nice person to everyone, even people you don't like. You don't have to be popular to be School Captain. Is there anything you want to do while you are Captain? Leo: This is a nice place but I would like to extend Junior School to use the old year 5/6 area . Maybe turn that part into a netball or handball court. Kristen: I agree we should turn the old year 5/6 area into a handball or netball court. How can you help other students when you're Captain? Leo: If someone was getting teased 1. I would tell the teacher 2. Help them & get them away & make sure they don't get teased again. Kristen: Help when they have rolled their ankle. I would get a teacher to help & take them to the office. Congratulations to all our Captains for a well earned merit and keep an eye out in our next issue for some words from Lydia & Reuben. 15
MIDDLE S CHO OL
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A welcome from our Head of Middle School Mr. Sansom
he exciting venture into Middle School at PVCS is in full swing! A major focus for the first half of Term One has been ensuring we are doing everything we can to promote, build and sustain an environment in Middle School where learning is valued and behavioural expectations are clearly communicated, understood and practiced. The Core teacher model is one of the unique and critical aspects of Middle School. Core teachers have special pastoral responsibilities for their Home Room Class and they are particularly skilled in understanding the needs and characteristics of pre-adolescents and young adolescents.
This is proving to be very effective in ensuring clear and regular correspondence between school and home as we seek to fulfil our responsibility of truly partnering with parents. We have been intentional, from the outset, in addressing the topic of bullying. Navigating the relational and social side of life in the ‘middle years’ can be challenging. The Bible is clear about God’s desire for relationships to be healthy, uplifting, edifying and honouring, so we are investing a great deal of time and effort into this.
Part of the PVCS Middle School vision is to be building a community of learners who God has blessed us with our six Core are growing in maturity, responsibility and teachers: Mrs Leah Buckland and Mr interdependence as we continue, together, Brad Hallett (Year 5/6); Mrs Aneeka Jones to discover God’s perfect plan for each of us. and Mrs Kara Lenord (Year 7) and Mr We give thanks to God for the start Ben Stubbs and Mr Nick Taylor (Year 8). we have had and look forward with These teachers have made an exceptional anticipation for what is to come. start to the year, demonstrating a deep understanding of Christian education, a commitment to quality teaching and great love for the young people in their care. This is also the case for the Middle School subject teachers. A committed, capable and caring staff team certainly is a gift from our wonderful Heavenly Father.
Richard Sansom Head of Middle School
We have put in place ClassDojo as a very user-friendly and immediate means of communication between key Middle School staff and parents.
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Middle School Achievement Focus Commit your way to the Lord, trust in Him & He shall bring it to pass - Psalm 37:5
What Personal Best are you most proud of?
I started when I was 7 which was about 3 years ago.
I took 29 seconds off my 100m free a few months ago which I was proud of.
How may times a week do you train?
What do you want to do with swimming?
I do a session of 5km every morning of the week in Yamba & 3 afternoon sessions a week, at Lismore workers.
I want to see if I can get to Nationals this year because I didn’t get to make it last year.
Breaststroke at the moment. I’ve been getting personal bests in that stroke.
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M AT I L D A M C M A H O N - W I L LO T T O F Y E A R 5
With a lot of students competing at a high level it was a great day for everyone to watch our students demonstrate their skills in the pool & hard work they have put in throughout the year. One stand out student was Year 5's Matilda McMahon - Willott. We have been privileged to watch Matilda improve every year at our school swimming carnival because of her hard work and dedication to her training outside of school. Matilda was happy to answer a few questions about her swimming & the accomplishments she has had this year. I sat down with Matilda before she headed off to State & followed up with her once she got back to see how she went.
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I like the feeling of doing well because I know that I have tried hard & put in the hard work to do well.
How long have you been swimming for?
What is your favourite stroke?
e had our whole school swimming carnival at Maclean Swimming Pool on Tuesday the 4th of February.
What do you enjoy about swimming?
How did you go in our school carnival? I came first in 200m IM, 100m freestyle, 50 freestyle, 50 breaststroke, 50 butterfly & 50 backstroke. Because of that I got age champion for the 10 year old girls & made it to Zone. What was Zone like? I was a bit nervous but had fun on the day. I came first in everything except 50 butterfly & 50 backstroke which I came second in. I made it to State for all my races. When will you be going to State? On the 9th of March which is in about two weeks. (See over the page to see her results)
Matilda travelled down to Sydney to compete in the State Swimming Carnival on the 9th of March and proved that all her training has paid off. See her results below: 100m
Freestyle
4th (open girls)
200m
IM
4th (open girls)
50m
Butterfly
7th
50m
Breastroke 9th
50m
Freestyle 10th
Matilda raced against 40 other girls across the event heats with the open girls events having up to 70 other competitors racing. We are so proud of Matilda's success in the pool and extremely impressed by the display of dedication she has shown to her sport. As a school we have loved seeing her striving towards her goals & accomplishing so much at such a young age. With hard work & perseverance we know that she will be someone to watch as she pursues her passion for swimming. Thank you for representing PVCS so well!!
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MIDDLE & SENIOR SCHOOL DISCIPLINE
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Everything you need to know about our new dicipline system
t Pacific Valley Christian School, we endeavour to create an environment that celebrates success, foster positivity and provide opportunities for students to discover the abilities God has given them. In the spirit of this goal, we have implemented a new behaviour system for Middle and Senior School which seeks to celebrate positive behaviour and provide opportunities for growth.
across the school. Students who achieve these will receive various rewards throughout the year.
Students who make poor decisions will receive a ‘reflection’ in which they will be required to attend a session at lunchtime to reflect on their behaviour. If a student receives 5 reflections, they will automatically be placed on a behaviour card (Green, Orange and Purple) which monitors their behaviour over a minimum of one week The new system is based on the concept of a (depending on their level). This system places behaviour scale in which teachers award ‘white responsibility on the students to make positive bands’ for positive behaviour. The basic premise behaviour decisions and to provide scope for is that students will accumulate these white students to receive support where necessary. bands and submit them for more ‘prestigious’ bands (Green, Orange and Purple; see diagram). As parents/guardians, we encourage you to ask your children about their white The idea behind this system is that it empowers bands and what they received them for students to take ownership of their own and we thank you for partnering with us. behaviour and encourage a positive culture
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SENIOR S CHO OL An overview of what is in store for Senior School for 2020 from Head of Senior School & Dean of Curriculum, Toni Ankersmit.
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enior School has a different look in 2020. Years 7 and 8 have moved into the Middle School which has decreased our numbers and intensified the focus on some of the issues. This new phase has created an opportunity for staff and students to grow into a new decade of the school focusing on the whole school theme 'Perseverance' in all we do. Staff came together to look at some of the issues and barriers that may inhibit students being able to persevere in the pursuit of excellence in the areas of our school values of respect, service, and connection. The new behaviour system that has been designed and is being implemented, has a focus on positive behaviours in students. The negative behaviours system is clear and well stepped out with opportunities for students to learn and grow and redirect their behaviours to what is more appropriate in the school context. Students have responded really well to the positive behaviour plan, with students being heard around the school talking about white, green and orange bands.
As we have renewed focus on our school values in 2020, we as a school are focusing on 'perseverance' in all we do in our application to academic, spiritual and social pursuits. Clubs run on a Friday afternoon for Senior and Middle Schools. This year students have a term with a focus on the 'Service' and 'Connection' element of the school values. In Term 1 our Years 9 and 10 students have had the option to choose from activities such as; visiting Mareeba Aged Care and spending time with the elderly of our community; going to help at Cubby House to assist preschool aged children in their activities; going to Landcare to plant seeds, or work on the school grounds to improve the gardens; or maintenance tasks around the school. Years 7 and 8 have been going to the beach to work on 'Respect' and 'Perseverance' with time away from the school as a group and participating in team games to develop these values. Years 5 and 6 have been also focusing on 'Respect' and 'Perseverance' with both passive and active choices at school. This also included a 'Clean up Australia Day' activity on the 28th of February.
We are excited to see what 2020 brings for We have consistently enforced the mobile Senior School and thank all our parents and phone policy with great success. We carers for coming alongside us as we help our thank parents and carers for supporting students grow into all God wants them to be. us in this process. By ringing the office if you need to speak to your child between school hours, instead of calling the students Regards, phones, you have really helped us be consistent in having students adhere to Toni Ankersmit Head of Senior School this policy so that phones don't interfere in student learning during the day.
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How was camp? Our Stage 5 & 6 students started the term off with camps. Here’s a little recap of what they got up to during their time away.
Stage 5 - Mr. Standard
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n Wednesday the 19th of February, Stage 5 attended camp at QCCC Tambourine. The camp was aimed at providing an opportunity for our students to enjoy new and challenging activities. While away on the camp, students participated in a range of activities including devotional time, day and night activities, team building challenges and high rope courses. These activities were aimed at promoting the development of Christian values while also encouraging healthy relationships with others. The tree tops challenge was one of the highlights while on camp. On the final day of camp, students enjoyed a visit to the theme park, Wet'N'Wild. This visit provided an opportunity to inspire students and encouraged them to explore in a destination that naturally appeals to many. The students and teaching staff had a great time, with many requests to return back to QCCC Tambourine for our next camp. A big shout out to the staff and vendors who helped make this camp come together.
Stage 6 - Mrs. Allen
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ue to popular demand, we revisited Moreton Island Wilderness Camp with our Stage 6 students. Despite the early start, students were welcomed to the island with sandboarding and a well-earned afternoon swim. Along with these activities, students had the opportunity to explore Bulwer Wreck near our camp, night fishing, hiking to the lighthouse, more swimming and snorkelling Tangalooma wreck. As a way to celebrate our time away, a group of students took part in an epic paintball war while another group went shopping. The Stage 6 teachers were very impressed with the way students engaged with these activities and how they encouraged each other. It was a wonderful camp and we hope Stage 6 enjoyed their time away!
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Sporting Events & Updates
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Term 1 Final Clan Tally
Recapping our school Swimming Carnival for 2020.
acific Valley kicked off Term 1 with its first inter-house carnival for the year. Students in years three to twelve headed off to the Maclean Pool to compete in the swimming carnival. The day was a great success and this year we had our first ever 'themed' carnival with staff and students encouraged to wear Hawaiian inspired house colours. There was lots of house points up for grabs with clans competing not only in the competitive swimming events, but also a war cry competition, a dance off and a best dressed competition. Thank you to all of the staff, students and parents who came along and supported the event. It was a great turn out with students, staff and parents really getting into the house spirit. The competition was fierce with some great swimming events and some stand out performances. Congratulations to the Gibraltar Lions who won the overall competition.
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678
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Introducing our Clan Patrons As a school we are very pleased to introduce our new Clan Patrons. Each Patron has been chosen for the way they used the gifts that God had given them to bless all who were around them; each creating a lasting legacy of Love, Service and Christian Charity. This is something that we as a school want to instill into each of our students.
AMY CARMICHAEL
GEORGE MÜLLER
Amy Beatrice Carmichael was a Protestant Christian missionary in India, who opened an orphanage saving hundred’s of vunerable children from being sold into slavery. She served in India for 55 years without break and wrote many books about the missionary work there.
George Müller, was a Christian evangelist and the director of the Ashley Down orphanage where he cared for 10,024 orphanes during his lifetime in Bristol, England. He was one of the founders of the Plymouth Brethren movement which has blessed the United Kingdom ever since.
MARY SLESSOR
JIM ELLIOT
Mary Slessor was a Scottish Presbyterian missionary in Nigeria. Because of her understanding of the native language and her boldness Slessor gained the trust & acceptance of the locals. She acheived many things in her life but is most famous for having stopped the common practice of the harming of twins among the Ibibio people, an ethnic group in Nigeria’s southeast.
Philip James Elliot was an evangelical Christian who spent his life trying to get the gospel (the Good News about Jesus) to the people of Ecuador. He was one of five missionaries killed while participating in Operation Auca, with the Huaorani tribe. His family continued his work with the Huaorani people after his death, bringing many to the Lord. 27
Sporting Acheivements ‘I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life and that’s why I succeed’ - Michael Jordon
Age Champions - Junior, Middle & Senior School
Wolves - Chief & Chieftains
8 Years Boys: Eli Weedon 8 Years Girls: Lilianna Lasso 9 Years Boys: Spencer Logan 9 Years Girls: Lisa Joubert 10 Years Boys: Morgan Coxell 10 Years Girls: Matilda McMahon-Willott 11 Years Boys: Taj Angelo 11 Years Girls: Summa Swift 12 Years Boys: Sonny Luxford 12 Years Girls: Ella Swift 13 Years Boys: Levi Kearns 13 Years Girls: Maddison Zecchinati 14 Years Boys: Jamie Richards 14 Years Girls: Christen Fourie 15 Years Boys: Oscar Phelps 15 Years Girls: Jessie Dransfield 16 Years Boys: Zac Williams 16 Years Girls: Isabelle Dransfield 17 Years Boys: Connor Devy 17 Years Girls: Kiara Foster Open Boys: Bryson Dransfield Open Girls: Isabella Montgomery Eagles - Chief & Chieftains
Lions - Chief & Chieftains with the Clan Victory Plaque 28
Bears - Chief & Chieftains 29
Creative Achievements ‘Creativity is intellegence having fun.’ - Albert Einstein
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t Pacific Valley we have many talented, creative students & believe it is worth highlighting the accomplishments they made during the their 2019 HSC music exams. In 2019 our Year 11 & 12 students completed two compressed HSC elective subjects. One of these elective subjects was the Music course which saw 12 of our Pacific Valley students performing up to 4 songs in front of a panel of experienced musicians & HSC markers. Two of these students, Tyler McDonald & Tanner Blair, achieved some of the highest recognitions associated with the HSC marking criteria. I sat down to ask them a few questions about their love of music & the experience of performing for the HSC exam. Can you tell us a bit about why we are chatting today? Tyler: We're here to chat about my Encore nomination.
TYLER MCDONALD OF YEAR 12
Tanner: I don't really know...I think it's because I got a band 6 in Music. For somone who hasn't done HSC music before can you explain these achivements a bit more? Tyler: Encore is a prestigious event held in Sydney, usually at the Opera House. Out of 70 nominations across NSW the top 20 students get selected to perform at the Opera House on the night.
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Both: Yes. What was it like performing in front of the markers? Tyler: Probably more daunting than playing at the music nights & its hard because your final mark is on those performances not times you have nailed it before but once you start performing the stress & anxiety go quickly & you just get into the music. Tanner: A bit daunting but I wasn't that nervous. It was kind of fun. Did you feel like you did well after you walked out of the room? Tyler: I had the markers grooving along so I was happy with that & felt like I played the songs to their full potential. Tanner: I was a bit disappointed as I feel I didn't play them to my usual standard. How long have you played guitar? Tyler: 8 years, around the age of 10 or 11. Tanner: I've been around alot of music since birth but only started serious guitar at 14 or 15. Tyler what song will you play if you get into Encore? Tyler: Hanuman. What advice would you give other students wanting to do well in HSC music?
Tanner: A band 6 is the highest band you can get in a HSC subject which means you need a mark of 90% or above.
Tyler: Choose songs that are fun to play & that show off your skill sets. Have fun enjoy them.
What instrument do you play? And which did you focus on for your HSC?
Tanner: Listen to Stevie Ray Vaughan.
Tyler: Guitar.
TA N N E R B L A I R O F Y E A R 1 2
Did you both just focus on performance?
(I'm sure Mr. Blair would like you to also practise)
Tanner: I play guitar & drums but focused on guitar.
Final question. If you could perform with any muscisian living or dead who would it be?
What songs did you perform for your HSC?
Tyler: Chris stone & Kingfish Ingrin.
Tyler: Hanuman, Catfish blues, Born Under a Bad Sign & Going Down.
Tanner: Stevie Ray Vaughan.
Tanner: When my train pulls in, Little Wing, Stangs Swany & Drifting. 31
Missions Cool Beginnings! Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. - 1 Chronicals 16:24
O U R M I D D L E S C H O O L C A P TA I N S S E L L I N G I C E C R E A M S T O R A I S E M O N E Y F O R N Y M B O I D A
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O U R M I D D L E S C H O O L C A P TA I N S L I A M L E N O R D & S J A A K A N K E R S M I T
iddle School students have begun but when we serve others, we actually feel the Mission & Service aspect positive about life, remember how blessed of the school year well, as they we are, and have a greater sense of wellbeing. eagerly supported our first fundraiser. As it says in Matthew 20:28, Jesus “did not come Ice cream Splits were sold to raise money for to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as the Nymboida Recovery Hub, which has been a ransom for many.” With this in mind, PVCS will set up to support the victims of bushfires in be encouraging all students to serve in some the Nymboida area. Around 90 houses were capacity throughout the year. Already our Stage lost and this community is in need of help. 3 students have helped ‘Clean up Australia’ by The Middle School Captains did a great job running donning the gloves and filling the donated ‘Clean this fundraiser and we run this again throughout Up Australia’ bags with rubbish found in our the year for Senior and Middle School students. school yard. Thanks Stage 3 for an awesome job!! All ice creams will be for sale at $2 each. We What can you do today to serve others? thank you for your support of this worthy cause. Lee Hackfath PVCS wants to be known for serving. Why? Because not only is serving at the heart of Christianity and at the core of our vision, 32
Assistant Principal
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Valley Hope News
People to Know
CATERING FOR ADDITIONAL NEEDS, TO HELP YOUR CHILD FLOURISH. Director of
Head Teacher
Valley Hope
B1
School
Joshua Jones
Nathan Murray
Registrar Jenny Fischer
Teacher’s Aide B1 Matilda Newing
Head Teacher
TWO SCHOOLS ONE CARING
B2 Liz Latham
COMMUNITY. Bursar Peter Ramsay
Teacher’s Aide B2 Esther Reesink
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Meet Our Classes Introducing you to our Classes of 2020.
Hello & Welcome
I
t has been great to welcome back students, their families and our staff to Valley Hope School for 2020! We have enjoyed a fresh start to the year with a new garden and plenty of rain to bring it to life. As I look outside to this new garden it reminds me of the role God purposed for humanity right from the beginning. That is, to work to take care of the earth! To make this happen it is necessary to demonstrate a number of the school values.
CATERING FOR ADDITIONAL NEEDS TO HELP YOUR CHILD FLOURISH.
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Two of these characteristics that Valley Hope has focused on this year are 'perseverance' and 'service'. As you will see in the following pages, students at Valley Hope are provided with opportunities to be challenged each day, in an environment that is well supported and caring. We have seen much success already this year across a range of endeavors, including in ways that serve the school and wider community. Our hope is that God continues to use our school community to develop the character of each individual in aspects such as ‘service’ of others and ‘perseverance’ to make this world a better place, and demonstrate how good He is! Nathan Murray
O U R B 1 VA L L E Y H O P E C L A S S W I T H M R . M U R R AY, M R . J O N E S & M I S S . N E W I N G
O U R B 2 VA L L E Y H O P E C L A S S W I T H M R . M U R R AY, M R S . L AT H A M & M I S S . R E E S I N K
Director of Valley Hope
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D
uring Science in Term 1 our B1 class made the milk an area for the food dye to move has been experimenting with surface freely through & create beautiful patterns. tension. To show the affects of washing liquid on milk the students added food dye to the two main components in the experiment. Our students were not only able to understand the scientific concept behind the experiment but also made some The food dye made it possible to see pretty cool science art in the process. the reduced surface tension of the milk after the washing liquid was added. When the food dye makes the swirls & streaks in the milk it is referred to as 'dancing' which is made possible because the washing liquid has
R E S U LT S O F VA L L E Y H O P E ' S S U R FA C E T E N S I O N E X P E R I M E N T
Science Art DANCING SCIENCE ART
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Valley Drones T
echnology for students in B1 has included a particular focus on learning how to operate and control educational drones. Tablet devices and a controller are used to take off, navigate obstacles, capture images, video and land safely.
M A K O W I T H O N E O F T H E VA L L E Y H O P E D R O N E S
Some basic coding skills have also been developed to provide instructions to the drones, without the use of the controller. Students have really enjoyed access to this tech, and have been working towards upgrading their 'drone licence' moving from their Learners to full licence.
B 1 B O Y S W I T H T H E D R O N E S & I PA D C O N T R O L
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M R . J O N E S T E A C H I N G T H E S T U D E N T S H O W T O F LY T H E D R O N E S
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Achievements
Swimming Carnival Recap Miss Newing & Miss Reesink give us a rundown of the events that took place on the Valley Hope combined swimming carnival.
V
alley Hope's Swimming Carnival with PVCS was a magnificent event giving opportunity for our students to show an incredible level of support for each other and some phenomenal displays of awesomeness.
Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart. - Psalm 37:4
could, slipping by the contestants on right and left, she danced her way to ribbon-finishes in 3 races!
Lachie Devey: Bullshark! Biting at the ankles of the competition, gnawing through medals , exceeding expectations We were pumped, the cheering and surpassing all others, he bit hard on the was loud, the pom-poms were high, trophy of success to nail a place at Zone. the energy was through the roof. And last but not least, Travis Beilby: The minutes turned to hours we Torrent Slasher, cutting through encountered smiles through the water and finish lines alike, axed the thunderous roar of chants and bursts competition to find himself a place of colour in proud displays of clan in Zone alongside the Bullshark. loyalty. We bolstered numbers and noise, finding our joy in a day of friends, All in all a great day of camaraderie wonderful water and all the lollies and and over-coming challenges. We were hot chips we could get our hands on. blown away by the perseverance, encouragement and service displayed Three standout students participated by VHS students across the board. in all the events they could and did marvellously to boot! We are proud as punch in our amazing school and look forward to seeing Kim Beilby, our Powerful Penguin, how our guys represent at Zone! dove headfirst into every event she
McKENNON WOOD ON THE DRUMS
H
VA L L E Y H O P E S T U D E N T S H E L P I N G T H E M A C L E A N S L I O N S C LU B
ere are just a few acheivements Harrison Kendrick – Perseverance – for that our Valley Hope students showing grit to keep practising table tennis. have accomplished this term. McKennon Wood – Connection – Travis Beilby & Lachlan Devey were for being keen to be a friend to all both selected to represent VHS students and staff at Valley Hope. at the Zone Swimming Carnival. Luke Bury-Oldfield – Perseverance – for being determined to complete all set tasks. A student is selected each week to receive a recognition certificate at our school assemblies. This is given to a student who has upheld the values that make our Valley Hope community what it is.
Liam Gouttman – Perseverance – for persisting with challenging tasks. Kim Beilby – Service – for cleaning the school environment and encouraging others to do the same.
Take a look at which of our students Valley Hope has been blessed with have recievd a certificate so far this term: wonderful students and we cannot wait William Swift – Connection – for being to keep you up-to-date, every issue, about very enthusiastic in learning German. all the achievements coming out of VHS.
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Extra C u r r ic u la r
ENJOY ALL THE BENEFITS OF ROWING WI T H O U T G E T T I N G YO U R FE E T WE T
Maree’s Mini Maestros - Piano Tuition for all ages. Half hour lessons filled with love, laughter and respect on Fridays in the Transition classroom at Pacific Valley Christian School commencing in Term 2. Students who have had lessons in the past will be welcome to use the booklets they already have and will also be given songs to play that they know, love and will enjoy playing for themselves and for others. Cost - $20.00 per half hour lesson. Payments can be made weekly or by the term.
ENJOY ALL THE BENEFITS OF ROWING WI T H O U T G E T T I N G YO U R FE E T WE T
Phone Maree on 0423334624 for more information.
GRow Program - Helping Australia Move
Rowing Australia’s
GRow program
Uses 80% of muscle groups The NSW Government has joined with Rowing Australia to help improve our communties ROWING AUSTRALIA’S GROW PROGRAM IS OPEN helping strengthen bones and muscles, while increasing fitness. fitness by encouraging people who have become idle in their active lifestyles. TO ALL INACTIVE AUSTRALIANS; INDOOR ROWING IS NON WEIGHT-BEARING SO ALLOWS PEOPLE
This
OF ALL AGES AND ABILITIES TO free initiative is targeted at PARTICIPATE. new mothers,
Can take as little as 20mins
with different challenges and goals. and inactive adults in the community youth in initiative, secondary schools. As part of the Sport AUS Move IT AUS GRow programs are expressions FREE to the participant. find out information the Kylie Duff is seeking of interests toTostart a 6more week GRowonprogram for Rowing Australia GRow program please email: Delivered over 6 weeks, or 6 sessions in a community individuals. Apply soon as there will be limited positions available in the program. based and friendly environment. indoorrowing@rowingaustralia.com.au
Email expressions of interest to: kylieannduff@gmail.com
Your local GRow provider can be contacted:
Rowing Australia’s
GRow program ROWING AUSTRALIA’S GROW PROGRAM IS OPEN TO ALL INACTIVE AUSTRALIANS; INDOOR ROWING
helping strengthen bones and muscles, while increasing fitness.
IS NON WEIGHT-BEARING SO ALLOWS PEOPLE
Can take as little as 20mins
OF ALL AGES AND ABILITIES TO PARTICIPATE.
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Uses 80% of muscle groups
As part of the Sport AUS Move IT AUS initiative, GRow programs are FREE to the participant. Delivered over 6 weeks, or 6 sessions in a community based and friendly environment.
with different challenges and goals.
To find out more information on the Rowing Australia GRow program please email:
indoorrowing@rowingaustralia.com.au
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In School Bible Studies During Wednesday lunch all Primary School students are welcome to join in on a Bible Study held by myself and a few other staff members. We think over all it has been very well recieved and an excellent opportunity to further increase the incredible Gospel focus the school has for its students. Our goal is to share the message of God's love found in Christ by engaging those students who come with bible stories, parables and faithful Gospel proclamation. Event includes: - Prayer to kick off - Dance along songs of praise - Interactive Bible message - Linking of Gospel to message - Games - Questions - Lollie prizes - Pray to finish Blessings, Dan Gilbert 46
We are excited to share our faith with any and all in the community, please contact the school to organise a time, all friends and family are welcome. 47
Community Organisations Headspace - Grafton Cranes - Grafton Our Vision - “Empowering People” Our Purpose - “We are an Organisation that cares about its People and those in the Community” Our Values: Integrity - We do what we say we are going to do and ensure our actions align with our values. Respect - We listen to and appreciate the feelings, wishes and rights of others Inclusiveness - We consult, collaborate and communicate openly
We help young people aged between 12 and 25 who may be going through a tough time in the Clarence Valley region of NSW. Headspace Grafton is a free, youth friendly confidential service. We have GPs, psychologists and youth workers available for appointments, or you can drop in any time between 9am and 5pm and we’ll do our best to help you. Address: Phone: Website: 59 Duke Street (02) 6642 1520 hg@genhealth.org.au Grafton, NSW 2460
Address: Phone: Email: 11 Kemp Street 02 6642 7257 enquiries@cranes.org.au GRAFTON NSW 2460
The Lab - Grafton A network of technology clubs for young people with high functioning autism and Asperger’s who enjoy working with computers.
Spot4Kids - Yamba Optimising ability through creative therapy. SPOT4YOU is a Speech Pathology and Occupational Therapy service offering services to both paediatric (SPOT4KIDS) and adult clients. Address: Phone: Email: SPOT4YOU 1300-SPOT-4-YOU admin@spot4you.com.au 1 Ritz Street, (1300-776-849) Yamba NSW 2464
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What is The Lab? The Lab is a growing network of technology clubs for young people diagnosed with High Functioning Autism who enjoy working with computers. The Lab offers mentoring by technology professionals in areas such as programming, 3D, digital design and gaming. While The Lab is not NDIS registered, many Lab participants use their NDIS plans to pay for Lab sessions. Address: Phone: Email: New School of Arts 0419 610 917 grafton@thelab.org.au Old Council Chambers building Crn of Spring Street & New Street South Grafton, NSW 2460
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Communications Survey FO R PAREN T S , CA R E R S & STU D E N TS As we start a new year at Pacific Valley & Valley Hope we would like to know what our parents, carers & students think. Below is a survey for you to fill out & return to the office to help us understand what best suits our school community. Are you a Parent, Carer or Student? PARENTS
CARER
STUDENT
DOJO
NEWSLETTER
How did you find this survey? FACEBOOK
Do you use Facebook? Y ES
NO
Do you communicate through emails? Y ES
NO
How do you prefer to recieve school communication? PAPER
ELECTRONICALLY
Do you read the school newsletter? COVER TO COVER
GLANCE AT IT
NOT AT ALL
Would you prefer to get your school news via written word article or visual content? WRITTEN WORD
VISUAL CONTENT
BOTH
Are you happy with the communication you get from the school? TOO MUCH
JUST THE RIGHT AMOUNT
TOO LITTLE
P LEASE RET URN T HIS S URV E Y TO TH E OFFIC E ON C E COM PL E TE D
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