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S T PA U L’ S G R A M M A R S C H O O L
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NO. 66 WINTER 2020
A Year Like No Other St Paul’s adapts to the events of 2020
• THE SUMMER BUSHFIRE CRISIS •T EACHING AND LEARNING FROM HOME • JUNIOR SCHOOL LEADERSHIP • P RE-KINDERGARTEN AT ST PAUL’S
FUTURUM WINTER 2020
Contents
Futurum ISSUE NO. 66 WINTER 2020
3
From the Principal
4
From the Chairman of the School Board
5
Teaching and Learning From Home
St Paul’s Grammar School 52 Taylor Road, Cranebrook NSW 2749
6
The 2019-2020 Summer Bushfire Crisis St Paul’s Cadet Rural Fire Brigade Programme
Locked Bag 8016, Penrith NSW 2751 Australia
8
Bushfire Artworks Illuminate St Paul’s
10
Alumni Profile - Wolter Peeters
12
St Paul’s Grammar School 2019 Dux and High Achievers
14
Staff Profile - Jayson Paterson
15
The International Baccalaureate at St Paul’s
16
Family Profile - The Murphy’s
18
Student Leadership in the St Paul’s Junior School
20
Staff Farewell - Lisa Bonazza
22
The Junior School Inquiry Centre
23
Around the Grounds
24
St Paul’s Welcomes New Staff
25
New Babies | Staff Farewell - Deborah Bennett
26
Pre-Kindergarten at St Paul’s
28
Pre-Kindergarten Staff Profile - Sally Arthur
29
Junior School Sport - Swimming Carnival 2020
30
Secondary School Summer Sports Wrap Up
Contact St Paul’s T | +61 2 4777 4888 E | info@stpauls.nsw.edu.au www.stpauls.nsw.edu.au 2020 Term Dates Term 3 | Tuesday, 21st July to Friday, 25th September Term 4 | Tuesday, 13th October to Thursday, 3rd December Find St Paul’s Online /stpaulsgrammar /stpaulsgrammar Futurum Online www.stpauls.nsw.edu.au/community/ futurum-magazine Editors Catherine Corry Rob McDonald
Design Penzance Marketing and Creative Agency Images SPGS Staff, Students and Community, Wolter Peeters Contact Email | futurum@stpauls.nsw.edu.au Cover Image Wolter Peeters Back Cover Image A projection of photographs on the Sydney Opera House honours the hard work of firefighters during the recent bushfire season. Photo by Wolter Peeters, 11th January 2020. Changed Your Address or Contact Details? Email | info@stpauls.nsw.edu.au
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St Paul’s Grammar School
From the Principal | WELCOME
From the Principal ‘Unprecedented’ is a word that has been used with great regularity as we seek to describe the year that has been 2020. While St Paul’s is somewhat familiar with managing the risk of bushfires and navigating the impacts of floods, a pandemic was certainly not on the radar.
The consequences of COVID-19 have been significant for our school community. Many St Paul’s families have been, and continue to be, directly affected in a variety of ways. Over the past six months we have all been impacted by COVID-19 and every aspect of the school’s operations have been under review. As government restrictions tightened, the school moved into ‘remote mode’ – teaching and learning continued but was now online for all students from Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12.
great difficulty. Experiencing these challenges together makes us stronger; it makes us appreciate what we have and helps us to recognise what is most important in life. As the school slowly emerges out of the restrictions of COVID-19, my prayer is that we will continue to fix our eyes on God who has blessed us so richly and that we will trust in Him no matter the circumstances that surround us.
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way.
The transition to online learning was rapid and complex. Never before had our school experienced such a momentous change in such a short space of time. The next challenge, of course, was to transition students and staff back to school while continuing to provide a safe environment for all concerned.
In Christo Futurum
As you can see from this edition of Futurum, despite all of this upheaval, life at St Paul’s continues. The strength of our school community is self-evident and even more apparent in times of
Ian Wake
Editors’ Comment A Futurum like no other.
Psalm 46: 1-2
As you will read throughout this edition of Futurum, 2020 has been far from ordinary at St Paul’s. Yet despite the challenges and uncertainty experienced by many as a result of this year’s events, the great strength, resilience and character of our school community has been thrown into relief like never before. This edition of Futurum is testament to the unwavering dedication of the students, families, teachers and staff of St Paul’s. Here you will find insights on the impact of the summer bushfire crisis and our
RFS Cadets programme; the transition to remote learning in the Junior and Secondary Schools; staff profiles; a fond farewell to two much-loved teachers; an interview with the Murphy family; sport updates; a conversation with St Paul’s alumni and award-wining photo-journalist, Wolter Peeters; plus much more. This edition of Futurum is fully digital, providing you with a more accessible and convenient way to keep up to date with all things St Paul’s. Welcome to your Winter 2020 Futurum.
Futurum #66 Winter 2020
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MESSAGE | From the Chairman of the School Board
From the Chairman of the School Board The events that have taken place in 2020 have been amongst the most challenging and complex ever faced by St Paul’s. Never before have schools needed to make such significant change in their delivery of education and in such a short space of time.
Back in April, as schools were preparing to start Term 2 with remote learning due to COVID-19 restrictions, my wife and I gained approval to enter Queensland in order to supervise the schooling of the three primary-aged children of our youngest daughter and her husband. They live on a farm about one hour from Toowoomba and both parents work shift work in emergency services. As travel and distancing restrictions meant they could not have their normal carers come to the home to care for the children, we took on the role of both carer and teacher (as well as doing a little farm work). The few weeks of supervising the education of three young children gave me a much deeper appreciation for the role of teachers. There was not only the technical side of organising lessons, explaining concepts, and making sure all the set tasks were achieved, there was also the challenge of learning how to keep the children focussed when there were much more exciting things to do outside! To the teachers and support staff at St Paul’s, I want to express my deep appreciation of how you have handled the challenges that have been thrown to 4 |
St Paul’s Grammar School
you this year. We started the year with the trauma of fires around us and this was quickly followed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The move to remote learning happened with little time for preparation, yet my observation is that it happened almost seamlessly on the surface, but with a lot of hard work under the surface. Somehow, the sense of community in the school seemed to be retained, despite the fact that students and teachers were scattered over a large area of our region.
On behalf of the School Board and the St Paul’s community in its entirety, I say thank you to all the staff for their dedication, application and professionalism. I also acknowledge the mature way in which the student body as a whole has responded to the challenges and assure each member that I and the Board are praying that the disruption that has occurred will be put behind you as you continue in your studies.
I was privileged to be present, both remotely and in person, at the school’s morning devotions during this period of disruption. I was also present on day one of Year 9 returning to school for face-toface lessons and observed how well that was handled. I also noticed the efficient and safe way in which Junior School arrivals were warmly welcomed each morning.
Peter Mackie Chairman of the Board
The school’s successful handling of the challenges of the first half of 2020 is not due to just a few people. It has been a team effort; a great team effort of many talented and hard-working people. It also did not ‘just happen’. It is reflective of preparation and training that has taken place over previous years.
May God continue to richly bless St Paul’s.
On behalf of the School Board and the St Paul’s community in its entirety, I say thank you to all the staff for their dedication, application and professionalism.
Remote Learning | @ ST PAUL’S
Teaching and Learning From Home In response to the COVID-19 pandemic this year, school staff across both the Junior and Secondary Schools worked tirelessly to implement remote learning platforms and procedures; to coordinate the delivery of best-practice online teaching for our students; and to ensure the transition from the school classroom to the home was as seamless as possible.
The strength of a community is defined in times such as these. We acknowledge our dedicated students, whose level of engagement during the period of remote learning was exceptional and of course our parents and families who supported every aspect of the transition to remote learning mode.
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SPGS CADET RURAL FIRE BRIGADE | The 2019-2020 Summer Bushfire Crisis
The 2019-2020 Summer Bushfire Crisis St Paul’s Cadet Rural Fire Brigade Programme Events in the final months of 2019 and the opening chapters of 2020 were unprecedented. St Paul’s stood with our local community in mourning the tragic loss of life, damage and devastation wrought by the 2019-2020 summer bushfire crisis, which engulfed much of the Australian east coast and beyond. As a community, we stood in awe of the incredible volunteers and emergency workers who gave so much of themselves for such a long period of time, wherever and whenever they were called upon. In late 2019, St Paul’s made the uncommon decision to close the school for a day following a ‘catastrophic’ fire warning issued by the Rural Fire Service. This proved to be a wise course of action as bushfire erupted only one kilometre from the school’s campus at Cranebrook. The ceaseless efforts of our local bushfire brigades, particularly those from Castlereagh and Londonderry, saw the fire extinguished and the grounds of St Paul’s spared any damage, but many other individuals, businesses and communities were not as fortunate over these incredible months. We acknowledge and thank members of our school staff, senior students and alumni who were involved in firefighting efforts as part of their local brigades. With firefighting efforts and resourcing thrust into the national and international spotlight, the value of grassroots local initiatives like the St Paul’s Cadet Rural Fire Brigade programme were heavily emphasised. Providing a highly beneficial service learning experience and a potential springboard into local RFS brigades, the worth of this programme to students and the wider community is significant. Peter Horan, St Paul’s Cadet Rural Fire Brigade Coordinator (and Secondary School teacher), spearheads the programme at St Paul’s and is currently overseeing a surge in popularity for this unique cocurricular opportunity, especially amongst Year 7 and 8 students.
Firefighters undertake property protection as a bushfire impacts property in Mangrove Mountain. 5th December 2019. Photo by Wolter Peeters
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St Paul’s Grammar School
How many students are in the St Paul’s Cadet Rural Fire Brigade? In 2020, there are forty-five cadets - fifteen new cadets and thirty existing from last year. A large-scale renewal of the programme commenced in 2018 and the growth that started then has continued through to this year. Our younger Secondary School students have been working hard to fill the boots of departing senior cadets. As with any team rebuilding, outgoing students leave a hole to be filled, especially in terms of leadership
The 2019-2020 Summer Bushfire Crisis | SPGS CADET RURAL FIRE BRIGADE
experience. In 2019, St Paul’s sent our most inexperienced team ever to the Australian Fire Cadet Championships – and they placed second! Which members of staff are involved in the St Paul’s Cadet Rural Fire Brigade leadership team? In 2020 the cadets are guided by a great staff team, including returning teachers Mark Linfoot and Mona Moon. We are also joined by Stephanie Paragalli and Laura Willet this year, together with St Paul’s alumni (graduate of 2018) and former cadet, Sam Keogh, who also currently works with the school’s maintenance team. Additionally, the cadets are supported by two other groups who are critical to the success of the programme. The first being the amazing team of parents, grandparents and family members who always stand ready to assist our students. The second are the representatives from our local fire brigades at Castlereagh and Londonderry, who are so generous with their time, advice and resources. When do the cadets meet/train? In regular circumstances, the cadets undertake their training on Friday afternoons at St Paul’s, from 3:30pm to 5:00pm. What percentage of cadets go on to serve in local fire brigades? Typically around 20% of cadets move from the programme into local fire brigades. As most of our cadet brigade are in Years 7 and 8 at this stage, it will certainly be interesting to see whether they go on to seek membership in other brigades once they are eligible. Currently the average age of volunteers in the fire services across Australia is quite high. A recent report from La Trobe University identified that 31% of volunteers were aged 55+ within the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services. The statistics are estimated to be similar in NSW. As such, it is vital that young people are introduced to the concept of volunteering. Providing some training and introduction to the RFS goes a long way to building a connection with local brigades and the RFS in general. Students find joining a local brigade less daunting, as they have an understanding of how the NSW RFS operates and what to expect. Regardless of whether a student goes on to join a local fire brigade or not, they still benefit greatly from the opportunity to take part in a challenging activity they would not otherwise get to do. Through simulations and drills, they experience and develop important teamwork, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE CADETS IN 2020? The NSW RFS State Championships in September are still expected to go ahead, albeit in a different (and still to be determined) format. Always looking to improve, the cadets will be working hard to better their 2019 performance, which will be no mean feat! With last summer’s bushfire season still fresh in their minds, the cadets are more motivated than ever. Perhaps more than any time in the past, students recognise the value and importance of the skills they are learning.
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SISTER SCHOOL | Bushfire Artwork
Bushfire Artworks Illuminate St Paul’s The impact of the 2019-2010 bushfire season on local communities and the flora and fauna of our region saddened many of our friends overseas. Students and staff from our sister school in China, Deyang Foreign Languages School, were deeply affected by the events they saw unfolding and sent a moving letter of support, accompanied by a range of poignant, insightful artworks. This warm gesture of international friendship was greatly appreciated by the St Paul’s community.
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St Paul’s Grammar School
Futurum #66 Winter 2020
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ALUMNI PROFILE | Wolter Peeters
Rowing competitors from around the world gather at Sydney International Regatta Centre in Penrith to compete. Rowers on the practice lake during their early morning warm up session before competition commences for the day. 21st March 2013
Wolter Peeters Graduating Year: 1992 Profession: Photojournalist, Sydney Morning Herald The Peeters family have been associated with St Paul’s from its very beginnings. Their expertise and support were crucial to the establishment of the school’s native tree planting programme and the beautiful gardens which students, staff and the wider St Paul’s community still admire and draw inspiration from today. St Paul’s alumni, Wolter Peeters, is an acclaimed photojournalist, currently working with the Sydney Morning Herald and recently returned to St Paul’s to undertake a series of promotional photoshoots for the school. 10 |
St Paul’s Grammar School
What is your family’s history with St Paul’s? My family’s history with St Paul’s goes way back to when the school was in its infancy. My older sisters, Esther and Anita, were part of the foundation class which met in a factory unit in Jamisontown and we were heavily involved with the early development of the school. I recall many weekends were spent laying the turf on the oval and working alongside the Barratt family making the mud bricks for the Secondary School Library. Most of the native plants that continue to grow so beautifully around the school grounds were donated through my parents’ native plant nursery in Cranebrook. My wife, Naree (nee Anderson), is also a St Paul’s alumni and was School Captain in 1997/1998. What was your favourite subject at school? Why? The subjects I enjoyed the most at school tended to be the more practical ones. I particularly enjoyed doing Industrial Arts and Engineering Science with Mr Neil Marshall as our teacher. I still recall him telling us our drawing pencils had to be ‘sharp enough to pierce cold porridge!’ He definitely had a way of bringing out the best in us. Who inspired you growing up? My older brother, Otto, was my best mate growing up. With three older sisters, we were as thick as thieves! Otto’s determination throughout the years was encouraging to me. This determination led to him training to become a pilot, eventually working as a pilot for the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Describe your typical working week. There is no such thing as a typical week in my role at the Sydney Morning Herald - each
day is different from the next. You need to be prepared to drop everything you are doing at a moment’s notice to cover the urgent breaking news of the day. For example, I was asked at very short notice to cover the arrival of US President Barack Obama when he visited Sydney in 2018. After several hours of security checks and waiting at the airport, I only had a few minutes to document him disembarking from his aircraft. Select media were then hustled into a van which became part of the presidential cavalcade that trailed him to his next destination. I have had the privilege of documenting many major news events such as this, including asylum seekers arriving on Christmas Island; flood, drought and bushfire seasons; royal visits; and the rise and fall of Prime Ministers and Premiers. My career has also given me the opportunity to enjoy some great experiences, like flying in formation as a passenger with the RAAF Roulettes, upside down, over Sydney Harbour! I have had the chance to meet and photograph a range of famous people, including Hugo Weaving, Brad Pitt, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Bryan Brown and some amazingly courageous people like those in the NSW Rural Fire Service. As a photojournalist, you never know what job you will be sent to from one day to the next and that is a large part of why I love my work. How did school help consolidate your career path? St Paul’s gave me a great Christian education, an outward looking worldview and a solid work ethic that has stayed with me. I really enjoyed the Visual Arts programme at school, so I think that informed my passion for photography.
Wolter Peeters | ALUMNI PROFILE
Roulettes flight over Sydney to commemorate the centenary of the first flight of an Australian military aircraft on March 1, 1914. 26th February 2014
Where do you see yourself headed in the future? The print media sector has been in a state of decline over the last few years as media continues to move towards online multimedia models. The recent merging of the Sydney Morning Herald with Channel 9 has highlighted the increasing potential for videography as a news media platform, which is part of the sector that I would like to explore further in the near future. What challenges have you encountered? How did you overcome them? I think people photograph best when they feel at ease. One of the challenges that I have day-to-day is making people feel comfortable enough with me to relax in front of the camera in a short amount of time, so that I can present them in the best possible light. This can be difficult when I may have only met them ten minutes prior to the photo shoot. I have had to learn to build rapport quickly and engage easily with people from a diverse range of backgrounds. Often this involves throwing any preconceptions I have out the window, sitting with them and listening to their story. I have learnt to be a good listener in order to better understand people and portray them authentically in a short amount of time. Have you travelled since leaving St Paul’s? If so - where, and how has this influenced you as a person? I have travelled overseas, both for my work with the Sydney Morning Herald and as a freelance photographer. My work has led me to places like Papua New Guinea, Tanzania, Finland and London. With my family, I have travelled to the United Kingdom, The Netherlands, France,
Firefighters undertake property protection as a bushfire impacts property in Mangrove Mountain. 5th December 2019
Portugal, The United Arab Emirates and Switzerland.
passionate about now may help identify your future career path.
I have also travelled extensively within Australia for my work, including visits to Uluru in the Northern Territory; Christmas Island; Lord Howe Island; and to remote, exclusively indigenous communities. In many ways, experiencing these places has brought perspective to my life and broadened my worldview. I have witnessed, in many communities, both overseas and locally, people who are content with very few material possessions. Seeing how little people actually need to live a contented, happy life has made me realise how incredibly privileged many of us are in Australia and how we often take it for granted. Travelling has provided me with perspective on the problems I face and an understanding that more ‘stuff’ does not necessarily mean more happiness.
What was it like returning to St Paul’s to undertake photographic work for the school? I was truly humbled to be involved. Over the course of three days I captured a series of images depicting the range of opportunities that St Paul’s offers, for the school’s promotional use. It was amazing to see how much the school has changed and grown since I left. Taking photos of great new additions like the incredible Performing Arts spaces, The Centre, the enhanced Pre-Kindergarten facilities and the new Saint’s Café was rewarding.
Do you have a favourite memory from your time at St Paul’s? I have lots of great memories of my time at St Paul’s and it is hard to pick just one. I have strong memories of going on camp and witnessing the teachers’ faith in Jesus being put into action; in the way they dealt with situations and through the guidance and counsel they provided to students.
Are there any industry accolades you are particularly proud of? The award I am most humbled to have achieved is the national Nikon-Walkley Award, for Best Sports Photography in 2013, which recognises excellence in photojournalism. The winning photo was taken locally at the Sydney International Regatta Centre at Penrith during a dawn practice session for an international regatta.
After finishing school, I came back to St Paul’s to work on the grounds team. Being part of morning devotions with the school’s staff was a memorable experience. What is one piece of advice for current St Paul’s students? Pursue the subjects you have an interest in and are passionate about. The things you are
While the campus grounds and buildings have been updated over the years, it was reassuring to see how the character of the school has remained unchanged and familiar.
Having my photo projected onto the Opera House as part of a collection of photos to say thank you to the firefighters involved during the 2019/2020 bushfire season was also an amazing recognition of my work.
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HSC RESULTS | St Paul’s Dux 2019
St Paul’s Grammar School 2019 Dux and High Achievers
48% 19%
of students achieved an ATAR above 80 of students achieved an ATAR above 90
Congratulations On Your Outstanding Results
A list of students who achieved an ATAR greater than 80
Charlie SimpsonOur Crest
Amelia Wong
98.70
97.35
97.35
Emu PlainsDesign & Colour
The St Paul’s crest represents the centrality of the cross to the Christian faith and thus mission of our school; profiled by the rising sun symbolising our hope and future in Christ. The crest is made up of the central logo with the name and motto of the school around the diameter.
PMS 294 C
The logo should not be redrawn, digitally manipulated or altered. No rescaling of the horizontal or vertical
proportions should occur. 2019
PMS 362 C
PMS 3935 Pantone, C Colours: CMYK and RGB
RO
XI
PMS 294 C
The St Paul’s crest represents the centrality of the cross to the Christian faith and thus mission of our school; profiled by the rising sun symbolising our hope and future in Christ. The crest is made up of the central logo with the name and motto of the school around the diameter. The logo should not be redrawn, digitally manipulated or altered. No rescaling of the horizontal or vertical
0 proportions should occur. J ME O I N T SIT 2 ACCES PMS 362 C
PMS 3935 C Pantone, CMYK and RGB Colours:
C100 M69 Y7 K30
C78 M0 Y100 K2
C2 versions M0 Y60 K0 of the St Paul’s School crest have
C100 M69 Y7 K30
C78 M0 Y100 K2
C2 M0 Y60 K0
R0 G47 B108
R80 G158 B47
been created. R243 G234 B93 The colour values are:
R0 G47 B108
R80 G158 B47
R243 G234 B93
Mono / Mono Reverse To be used when appropriate for non colour reproduction (forms, reversed out of photographic background) or when colour isn’t
Mono / Mono Reverse To be used when appropriate for non colour reproduction (forms, reversed out of photographic background) or when colour isn’t
available.
available.
Bethany Vella
Eleanor Hadfield
Kalista Plummer
Ella Lock
Cranebrook 83.70
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Samuel Street
Blair Tholen
Connor Thorpe
Angel Brown
Bryce Marchant
Rhiannon McCabe
PAGE 4
Kurrajong Heights 92.80
Glenbrook 89.90
Bowen Mountain 83.70
St Paul’s Grammar School
BRAND IDENTITY 2016
ST PAUL’S GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Cranebrook 92.80
Windsor 88.05
Jordan Springs 83.70
Lachlan Fellowes
Xiaohan Lin
Maria Nanan
Tara Slowey
Eleora Fisher
Elan Gock
Cranebrook 96.45
PMS 3935 C
C2 M0 Y60 versions ofK0 the St Paul’s School crest have
beenG234 created. R243 B93 The colour values are:
available.
Ebenezer 89.90
PMS 362 C
C78 M0 Y100 K2
Mono / Mono Reverse To be used when appropriate for non colour reproduction (forms, reversed out of photographic background) or when colour isn’t
Castlereagh 93.95
PMS 294 C
0 J ME O I N T SIT 2 ACCES
R80 G158 B47
Colour Reverse White reverse / CMYK crest should be reversed out of St Paul’s Blue - PMS541
ST PAUL’S GRAMMAR SCHOOL
XI
C100 M69 Y7 K30
Colour Reverse White reverse / CMYK crest should be reversed out of St Paul’s Blue - PMS541
BRAND IDENTITY 2016
RO
R0 G47 B108
Colour Reverse White reverse / CMYK crest should be reversed out of St Paul’s Blue - PMS541
PAGE 4
Blaxland
P
Colours: Pantone, CMYK and RGB versions of the St Paul’s School crest have been created. The colour values are:
DUX
The St Paul’s crest represents the centrality of the cross to the Christian faith and thus mission of our school; profiled by the rising sun symbolising our hope and future in Christ. The crest is made up of the central logo with the name and motto of the school around the diameter.
P
The logo should not be redrawn, digitally manipulated or altered. No rescaling of the horizontal or vertical proportions should occur.
Design & Colour
Leonay
19
Design & Colour
Kirsty LavenderOur Crest
19
Our Crest
Shantou, China 96.45
Blaxland 96.45
Faulconbridge 93.95
Jeremy Walker
Sophia Walsh
Hannah Heath
Aidan Lilly
Shae Chambers
Alkhuder Alseneid
Katherine Bavor
Cameron Jeffery
Hannah Kaitlyn Madanowski McCarthy Freemans Reach 86.25
Winmalee 86.25
Nixi Zhang
Caitlin O’Brien
Amirah El-Saedy
Kai Brown
Simon Hoffmann
William O’Rourke
Anjali Torvi
Timothy Brown
PAGE 4
Kurrajong 92.80
Leonay 88.05
Caddens Rise 83.70
BRAND IDENTITY 2016
ST PAUL’S GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Yarramundi 92.80
Emu Plains 86.25
Minchinbury 83.60
East Kurrajong 92.80
Kurrajong 86.25
Mulgoa 81.25
Blaxland 91.40
Hazelbrook 86.25
Kingswood 81.25
Grose Vale 91.40
Kurrajong Hills 81.25
St Clair 89.90
Jordan Springs 81.25
Cranebrook 89.90
Fuqing, China 86.25
Berkshire Park 80.35
Design & Colour St Paul’s Dux 2019 | HSC RESULTS The St Paul’s crest represents the centrality of the cross to the Christian faith and thus mission of our school; profiled by the rising sun symbolising our hope and future in Christ. The crest is made up of the central logo with the name and motto of the school around the diameter.
St Paul’s Dux 2019 Kirsty Lavender
The logo should not be redrawn, digitally manipulated or altered. No rescaling of the horizontal or vertical proportions should occur.
Colours: Pantone, CMYK and RGB versions of the St Paul’s School crest have been created. The colour values are:
DUX
2019
PMS 294 C
PMS 362 C
PMS 3935 C
C100 M69 Y7 K30
C78 M0 Y100 K2
C2 M0 Y60 K0
R0 G47 B108
R80 G158 B47
R243 G234 B93
Students from the St Paul’s Year 12 class of 2019 achieved some remarkable end of year results, with 48% recording an ATAR above 80 and 19% scoring above 90. With an ATAR of 98.70, Kirsty Lavender was the St Paul’s Dux for 2019, flourishing during her years at the school.
Colour Reverse White reverse / CMYK crest should be reversed out of St Paul’s Blue - PMS541
Kirsty credits the development of her strong organisation and self-motivation skills as important factors in her remarkable academic achievements. Striking a healthy and successful balance between her Mono / Mono Reverse To be used when studies many co-curricular pursuits, appropriate for and non colour reproduction (forms, reversed out of photographic Kirsty enjoyed her final year of study at background) or when colour isn’t the school. available.
Within the classroom, she particularly relished the school’s excellent French and Mathematics subjects, while beyond her IDENTITYKirsty 2016 STtook PAUL’Spart GRAMMAR SCHOOL PAGEformal 4 BRAND studies, in a range of activities to help relax and refocus – including chess, netball and theatre. Kirsty is currently studying a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours), majoring in Biomedical Engineering, with a Diploma of Professional Engineering Practice (under a Women in IT and Engineering Faculty Scholarship) at the University of Technology, Sydney.
What did you find most valuable during your time at St Paul’s? “What I loved about St Paul’s so much was the opportunities that I was given both in the classroom and through the co-curricular programme. The co-curricular programme offers a wide range of activities for various skills and interests. I was part of the Drama Academy among many other things, which helped me to de-stress during exam periods and relieve me of my exam anxiety. My classroom teachers also gave me many opportunities to learn and extend upon my knowledge. They sacrificed mornings, afternoons, weekends, lunch breaks and their school holidays to tutor me whenever I needed help to achieve the best I could and I will be eternally grateful for that”. What advice would you give to current students? “I believe that organisation and preparation is the key to success and trying to eliminate feelings of procrastination as much as
possible. People will always try to tell you that ‘diamonds are made under pressure’ and that they ‘only work well when they have that 3am adrenaline boost the night before’ but I have found that the opposite works best. I began setting up my study routine in my junior years of Secondary School, so when I got into the senior years, the workload wasn’t a massive shock. With this routine, you can continue to study three to four hours after school whilst you’re still in the mindset of learning. Starting my assignments, homework and studying as soon as possible helped me relieve a lot of my exam stress.”
Don’t work yourself too hard, it’s important to take well-earned breaks as well.
Kirsty Lavender Residence Emu Plains
98.70 ATAR
DUX
2019
CURRENT DIRECTION Studying a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours), majoring in Biomedical Engineering, with a Diploma of Professional Engineering Practice (under a Women in IT and Engineering Faculty Scholarship) at the University of Technology, Sydney. Futurum #66 Winter 2020
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STAFF PROFILE | Jayson Paterson
Jayson Paterson Position: Head of Department, Visual and Performing Arts Time at St Paul’s: 26 years Where did you grow up? I grew up in the Lower Blue Mountains, firstly in Blaxland and later in Mount Riverview. When my grandfather passed away in 1994, I purchased his cottage in Blaxland. It is very significant to me that my sons now share a room that was once my father’s. ell us about your journey to becoming T a teacher. After becoming a Christian towards the end of Year 9, I began to feel a clear calling to teaching. When I was completing my undergraduate degree in Fine Arts at Western Sydney University, I shared a studio with an artist who, unbeknownst to me at the time, was the wife of the founding chair of the St Paul’s Grammar School Council. We encouraged each other in our developing artmaking practices, particularly as we both wrestled with how we could create art that reflected our Christian worldview.
subject at school but I also enjoyed Science, particularly Biology, and studying Literature. s a student, what was your least A favourite subject at school? I struggled with Mathematics and it remains a weakness for me. I also struggled with Wood Technology at school, however working with wood is now something that I enjoy doing as a hobby. As an educator, what inspires you? Above everything else, it is the students that inspire me. This has been something I have become acutely aware of during the period of remote learning we experienced as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The inherent creativity and curiosity of young people invigorate my creativity.
I remember feeling a very strong sense of belonging while driving into St Paul’s for the first time. I believe it was God telling me that He was preparing a place for me at the school. Over the weekend that followed, Dr Michael Barratt, the founding chair of St Paul’s, called me to ask that I apply for a Visual Arts and Design teaching position.
ow does your faith influence your role H as a teacher? I subscribe to aspects of Immanuel Kant’s notion of ‘weltanschauung’ or worldview, particularly in acknowledging that I perceive the world through a Christian viewpoint. This frames my sense of right and wrong and specifically influences the way I interpret and evaluate works of art and how I teach content. My faith informs the value I place on creativity, which I see as the Creator’s thumbprint placed upon us as the pinnacle of His creation.
s a student, what was your favourite A subject at school? Unsurprisingly, Visual Art was my favourite
What do you enjoy about working at St Paul’s? I think our students are exceptional and
teaching them is a privilege. I also love working with the Visual and Performing Arts Faculty - an extraordinarily creative and dedicated team of teachers. I value working in an inter-denominational community and sharing in a breadth of Christian tradition and practice. Tell us about your family. My wife, Joanne, works part-time in the Junior School. My eldest son, Lachlan, graduated from St Paul’s Grammar School in 2018, having completed the IB Diploma. He is currently reading for a Bachelor of Screen Production at the Australian Film, Television and Radio School. My youngest son, Jayden, is in Year 9 and my daughter, Caitlyn, is in Year 7 at St Paul’s. What is your favourite verse in the Bible? My favourite verse in the Bible is Philippians 4:8-9. In the verse, Paul almost presents us with a raison d’etre for education, listing “whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right… if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things,” but then goes on to encourage us to live by example – and to be an example that is worthy to be followed. “Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me - put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” Paul encapsulates what I would desire for my teaching practice.
Above everything else, it is the students that inspire me... The inherent creativity and curiosity of young people invigorate my creativity. 2016 May Session IB Diploma Programme Visual Arts Grade Award Team, taken in Peterson House in Cardiff Wales.
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International Baccalaureate | PROFILE
The International Baccalaureate at St Paul’s The International Baccalaureate (IB) is embedded throughout St Paul’s and is much more than just what students are taught – it is how they are encouraged to learn. As an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, providing a continuous IB programme from Pre-Kindergarten right through to Year 12, St Paul’s offers an education that prepares students for a future rich in opportunities. Jayson Paterson has twenty years of experience in delivering the IB Diploma Programme (DP) at St Paul’s. Amongst other roles, he is currently the Principal Examiner for the IB DP Visual Arts Higher Level Process Portfolio. His long-term commitment to the school and delivery of the IB is representative of the dedication that many teachers across St Paul’s display and reflects the value placed in the unique education St Paul’s provides.
“The IB has significant impacts on the school culture at St Paul’s – in student engagement with critical thinking, independent learning and global awareness. This is observable at our student exhibitions and in the breadth and depth of work presented in the numerous Arts showcases conducted over a normal year. As a school, our engagement with the IB Programmes is a distinctive quality and we have a global reputation for our expertise. This is evidenced in the large number of our staff who are engaged by the IB in a range of capacities. “ Jayson Paterson.
As a school, our engagement with the IB Programmes is a distinctive quality and we have a global reputation for our expertise.
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FAMILY PROFILE | The Murphy’s
The Murphy Family St Paul’s enjoys a vibrant and welcoming community of families whose support enhances the learning experience of our students in many valuable ways. Over the last twelve years, the Murphy family have not only entrusted St Paul’s with the education of their three daughters, they have also been instrumental in the development and direction of the school’s thriving softball culture and wider sports programme, as both coaches and players.
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Who is the Murphy family? The Murphy’s are a family of five who live in Glenmore Park. Wendy: Mother, wife and school teacher (Special Education) Daniel: Father, husband and fire safety professional Kelsey: St Paul’s graduate 2014, currently studying a Masters of Teaching - Drama/ English (after completing a Bachelor of Performance in 2017) Eliza: St Paul’s graduate 2016, currently studying a Bachelor of Teaching Bridie: Currently in Year 11 at St Paul’s Why did you choose to send your children to St Paul’s? Our first introduction to St Paul’s was in the early 2000’s when our friends’ children were attending the school. We attended a school production and were very impressed with the grounds and facilities. We made further enquiries and thought that St Paul’s would be a good fit for our daughters, with all that the school has to offer. In the now twelve years our daughters have attended St Paul’s, it has been an
absolute pleasure meeting many of the school’s beautiful families and watching our girls and their friends grow into confident young adults with the world at their feet. What are the things you engage with at St Paul’s that you really value as a family? We have always enjoyed the many social events open to families of St Paul’s, including movie nights, the school’s Christmas celebrations and the fundraising initiatives coordinated by both students and the Friends of St Paul’s. We have also been privileged to attend more formal occasions like school award nights, assemblies, the Debutante Ball and Valedictory Dinner. The Visual and Performing Arts productions of St Paul’s and the many sport activities our girls have been involved in have also been particular highlights. What are some of things your children enjoy at St Paul’s? Kelsey has a passion for Performing Arts and was involved in Drama, choir and Music groups at St Paul’s. She loved
The Murphy’s | FAMILY PROFILE
all of her Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) tutors, who provided a dynamic environment for learning. While developing her abilities, it was also a place where she created amazing friendships and wonderful memories. Kelsey will often share stories about her senior Music class and her teachers, Mr and Mrs Jarman. Eliza enjoyed the St Paul’s Leadership Programme, the Duke of Edinburgh Award camps, and the many sports she was able to take part in. Highlights from her Secondary School years include the Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award trip to New Zealand; an IB Geography excursion to the Gold Coast; and the opportunity St Paul’s afforded her to attend the All Australian Girls Softball Team tour to Hawaii. Following in her sister’s footsteps, Bridie also loves participating in the co-curricular activities that St Paul’s has to offer. She enjoys Drama, and highlights the Year 10 ‘Clue’ performance as particularly special. Bridie values the comradery and school spirit that comes from playing house and inter-school competitions and she has a lot of fun participating in the school
sports carnival. “Go Strathdon!” Bridie values taking part in the Independent Sporting Association (ISA) sport on Saturdays, as she gets to play the sports she loves while socialising and enjoying time with her school friends. What are some things you find challenging as parents (or as a family)? Time management is always a challenge to achieve a balance between studies, sport, work, social interaction and down time. What has been a highlight for your family so far in 2020? This year, St Paul’s created ISA Softball history in being the first school to win both the Junior and Senior premierships in the same season. With Eliza coaching the St Paul’s Junior Softball Team and Daniel coaching the Senior Softball Team, our highlight for 2020 was sharing the joy of this achievement with the teams, their families and supporters.
Staff Reflections “Kelsey Murphy’s involvement in co-curricular Arts was superb! She was involved with nearly everything - choir, theatre, musicals and more…Kelsey has an amazing singing voice, which she shared confidently and generously with the St Paul’s community and beyond. She also blitzed performance in the HSC Extension Music course! Her performance quality in Music and Drama was, and continues to be, dynamic. It has been exciting to reconnect with Kelsey as a professional post school. I look forward to our continued friendship and collaboration for years to come.” Cathy Jarman, Music Academy Coordinator.
“Eliza Murphy engaged in a wide range of the co-curricular programmes on offer at St Paul’s. In particular, she excelled in the Duke of Edinburgh Award and greatly contributed to the school’s sporting programme, doing so with genuine humility and the ability to encourage all those around her. This is seen most notably in her softball sporting achievements, representing St Paul’s at all levels with pride and dedication. Her commitment to softball both as a student and an alumni has been highly valued, contributing to the success we see in the programme today.” Darryl Kelshaw, Secondary School PE Teacher and former Sport Academy Coordinator.
“Bridie Murphy is a phenomenal softball player. In her position as pitcher, Bridie has few opponents who can make contact with the ball and make a base. Her outstanding ability and hard work has earnt her a place in numerous ISA and CIS teams and in 2019 she was named in the All Australian Girls Softball Team. As a result of her outstanding achievements across various sports, Bridie was awarded the Duffy Medal in 2019, the highest sports honour at St Paul’s.” Hailey Tantalos, Sport Academy Coordinator
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LEADERSHIP | In the Junior School
Student Leadership in the St Paul’s Junior School Written by Rachael Jamieson Newton Deputy Head of Junior School – Welfare and Organisation
In the Junior School we value the voice of our students. Their questions and ideas are central to our passion for inquiry – not just in the classroom, but in the playground too. From Pre-Kindergarten all the way through to Year 6, students in the Junior School have many opportunities to experience leadership. Under the careful guidance of their teachers, these opportunities progressively become more formal as students grow and build their confidence.
Every term, in Years 2 to 6, our students elect Class Captains. These students are leaders amongst their peers and provide assistance to their teachers. The role of Class Captain gives students a practical ‘taste’ of what leadership really means and it is always exciting to induct these students and watch them wear their pins proudly. Students who are passionate about representing the voice of others are often drawn to our Student Representative Council (SRC). Members of this group commit for the whole year and attend weekly meetings. Ms Hinrichsen facilitates this group, giving students the chance to report on behalf of their classmates and discuss issues of importance to Junior School students. The SRC also run a yearly Easter Egg Hunt and the very popular School Disco. Year 6 leadership positions are especially important to the Junior School and the process of applying for one of these roles is robust. Students are required to submit a written application, attend an interview with the Head of Junior School and give a speech in front of both teachers and students. It is a series of tasks many adults would find challenging!
Ben Dwyer: “I especially wanted to be a house leader because I have a passion for Strathdon. I was always told I was good at helping and leading.“ (House Captain – Strathdon) Stella Muscat: “I wanted to help serve our school. My little brother thought I should be a leader because he thinks I’m bossy! I think I’m good at helping people.” (Junior School Prefect) Our Junior School leaders know their role is not about telling people what to do, but about servant leadership. We talk with the students about how Jesus showed us that to be great, we must be servants to all. Our student leaders serve their peers at all times. From the playground, to the classroom, to the Junior School Hall stage, they take part in a range of important duties. From helping to facilitate games in the Infants playground to leading Junior School assemblies and other formal school events, their confidence, and interpersonal and service skills are consistently being tested and strengthened. While juggling the roster of leadership jobs is a challenge, all of the leaders love to help and know that this is appreciated by staff and students. One task they undoubtedly enjoy is canteen duty, where they collect and distribute lunch
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orders. This is an enormous job on Fridays! A welcome sight in the Junior School is a leader in a bright fluro vest leading a long line of eager Infants students all the way to the canteen, coins excitedly clutched in their hands. They are also encouraged to be creative, with their fresh ideas often leading to fun and inventive activities for their peers. The introduction of “Fun Times Fridays” is currently being planned, where leaders will run special activities like dancing, boot camp and soccer for children in the school. Working with the Junior School leaders is a privilege as they build and strengthen their leadership potential. It is wonderful to witness a student who is nervous about public speaking step out onto the stage and out of their comfort zone; to observe a child put aside their own desire to play to serve another; or to see our leaders rally and encourage their house mates at sporting carnivals. The early opportunities to lead that students receive at St Paul’s make a lasting difference in their personal development. It has a powerful impact that does not start and stop at the school gate but flows outward as each student takes what they have learned and carries it with them into their wider community.
In the Junior School | LEADERSHIP
The early opportunities to lead that students receive at St Paul’s make a lasting difference in their personal development.
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STAFF FAREWELL | Lisa Bonazza
Staff Farewell Lisa Bonazza Guiding, supporting and inspiring hundreds of students throughout her sixteen years of teaching in the Junior School, the St Paul’s community farewells one of their valued educators. Lisa Bonazza has contributed to St Paul’s in very significant ways during her time with the school, including her role in the establishment of our leading Pre-Kindergarten programme. Her commitment to professional growth and excellence in teaching has been recognised in her appointment to Barker College as the Director of Primary Curriculum/ PYP Coordinator. Lisa reflects on her time at St Paul’s and shares some of her most cherished memories.
The establishment of the St Paul’s Pre-Kindergarten Programme Soon after my arrival at St Paul’s in 2005, the school began to seriously consider how to make a Pre-Kindergarten facility and programme a reality. My role was to explore other pre-schools in Sydney and Melbourne and develop a holistic ‘vision’ for Pre-Kindergarten at St Paul’s. About a year was then spent planning, writing programmes and meeting with architects and painters. I was supported by Dr John Collier (former Principal) and many current and former staff members. Pre-Kindergarten at St
Paul’s officially started in January 2008 and it was a wonderful four years of my life as its Director. The Little Saints logo was designed by my daughter Isabella as a young Junior School student and the name ‘Little Saints’ had long been thought of by Anne Rogers. The principles of Reggio Emilia, world renowned for its early years’ education philosophy which considers the learning environment to be key to a child’s development, helped to inform the Pre-Kindergarten programme at St Paul’s. These principles are still evident in the teaching, learning, play and facilities our Little Saints enjoy today.
Memories of your time at St Paul’s How can I put into words the joy I see on a student’s face when I have taught them to understand; made them laugh; walked alongside them in their learning; seen them succeed when they’ve struggled; or comforted them when they’ve lost a loved one and prayed with them. I have treasured seeing the students of St Paul’s grow and this is what I’ll miss the most when I leave. It’s very rare in a workplace to say you don’t work with colleagues but with friends.
The friendships that I have developed during my years at St Paul’s will remain forever close to my heart. I count many school staff, past and present, as some of my dearest friends. We have laughed, cried and had so much fun together! Driving to the school each morning with my own children has been a blessing. The fact that they have been able to experience St Paul’s with me and put up with a sometimes ‘embarrassing’ mother, has put a smile on my face every day.
Many may not be aware that some of the most beautiful photographs of our Junior School students, often shared on the St Paul’s social media pages, were captured by Lisa. People need to see the great things that are happening each day at St Paul’s. We as teachers take all of those moments for granted in a way, because they are happening all the time. Snapshots of greatness need to be shared. Especially the play and fun in the playground; the happiness and joy in the faces of our students; and the exciting educational activities our amazing teachers plan.
Lisa brings so much passion and energy to everything she puts her hand to. Whether it’s her creativity in teaching, her care with students and families or the genuine warmth felt when you meet her. Lisa is one of a kind! She will be greatly missed by all. Ian Brooker, Head of Junior School
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Photo Gallery | JUNIOR SCHOOL
“Snapshots of greatness need to be shared...” Lisa Bonazza
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INQUIRY CENTRE | The Junior School
The Junior School Inquiry Centre The colourful and engaging Inquiry Centre sits at the heart of the St Paul’s Junior School and places a rich world of literature, learning and imagination at the fingertips of every student from Kindergarten to Year 6. It is a supportive hub for student inquiry and creativity. Giving students access to quality literature and helping them to explore and understand it, is a major focus in the Junior School. With the assistance of a team of highly trained and experienced library staff, St Paul’s helps to broaden and deepen the reading landscape of our students. The Inquiry Centre’s collection is carefully chosen and constantly being updated with new books and other learning resources that align with the Junior School Units of Inquiry. Each year at Grandparents’ Day, many generous families donate brand new books at our annual Book Fair. The new books are greatly appreciated by staff and students. The Inquiry Centre also curates an accessible and growing bank of online resources for Junior School students and their families, which is continuously refreshed to supplement and enrich the learning experience provided at St Paul’s.
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Increasingly, information and communication technology is playing an important part in contemporary student learning. The Inquiry Centre hosts three desktop computer labs, fifteen laptop computers and a bank of iPads. Students learn and create in a well-resourced environment where keeping a balance between online and print resources is a priority. Students are also developing important skills, equipping them to navigate the ever-changing online environment confidently and safely. Lunchtimes see many students drawn into the Inquiry Centre space to engage in a variety of activities. Some students have shown great initiative and leadership by starting clubs for their peers or sharing their coding and drawing skills. Last year, a Minecraft group proved very popular. Likewise, augmented reality books and Merge Cubes, used with our iPads, are always in great demand, along with
construction, drawing, and board games. A knitting club runs during the winter months, ably assisted by talented, volunteering teachers. Although the Inquiry Centre is much more than a library to our students, families and staff, it speaks volumes that you will still always find children sitting down, in a quiet corner, absorbed in a good book! As Ursula Dubosarsky, the new 2020 Australian Children’s Laureate said:
Reading is a skill to be encouraged, not assumed. Canberra Times, February 2020
Campus Update | AROUND THE GROUNDS
Around the Grounds
While the familiar sounds of play and learning were temporarily missing from St Paul’s due to COVID-19, staff remained focussed on delivering projects across the school. Some of these included:
Throughout the year, maintaining the spacious seventy-acre St Paul’s campus is an immense task. The school is blessed to have a dedicated maintenance team whose work, often undertaken behind the scenes, is critical to providing a learning environment that inspires our students, staff and community.
• The installation of new irrigation systems; the ongoing pruning of trees and shrubs; the removal of fallen trees due to recent storms; and topping-up of the mulch in and around the school
• Installing new shade sails above the Junior School playground
Enhancing the natural and built environment of St Paul’s
Over the course of the 2019-2020 summer holidays, this work was made all the more demanding as staff prepared to safeguard the campus from the threat of bushfire. For our Maintenance and Properties teams this included the ongoing cleaning of gutters, mowing of lawns, clearing of green waste and debris and checking the school’s fire protection systems. As the threat of bushfire eased, planned work on the school grounds continued apace and a range of jobs were completed or set in motion.
• The revitalisation and enhancement of many garden beds, including a variety of new plantings – 267 natives to be exact!
• Refurbishing of old hardwood seats in and around the Secondary School’s central playing field • Refurbishment of GAGA pits in the Junior School, including the installation of red safety rails and soft fall for protection • The installation of Soft fall around repurposed fallen tree in Kindergarten for children to play on safely • Additionally, all the usual day-in, day-out jobs that are required to keep a campus as large as St Paul’s running efficiently!
“The beautiful, clean school campus supports student wellbeing and adds to the gratifying atmosphere so prevalent at St Paul’s. The effort that is put into both the gardens and the buildings is extremely appreciated by the student body.” Keaton Daniels, School Captain.
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NEW STAFF | Welcome to St Paul’s
St Paul’s Welcomes New Staff Whether it is in the classroom, the office, or in the school grounds, each member of staff at St Paul’s works to enhance the learning experience of our students.
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Over the last few months, a number of new staff have joined the school. We welcome them and are thankful for the valuable talents they bring to the St Paul’s community.
Heather Bray Secondary School Classroom Teacher Physical and Health Education
Ruth Dunn ESL - EAL/D Teacher Secondary School
Caroline Farrugia Accounts Receivable Officer Office of Business and Finance
Vanessa Gale Junior School Classroom Teacher Year 6
Valerie Huston Secondary School Classroom Teacher Language Acquisition
Hayley Smyth Junior School Classroom Teacher Year 5
Nicholas Storm Secondary School Classroom Teacher Design
Amy Stubbs Junior School Counsellor Student Support
Casey Taylor Secondary School Classroom Teacher - Studies in Language and Literature
St Paul’s Grammar School
NEW BABIES / STAFF FAREWELL
New Babies
The St Paul’s Grammar School community is pleased to welcome new babies amongst our staff families.
Laila
Harry
Name | Laila Born | S aturday, 18th April 2020 Weight | 3.105 kg Length | 47cm
Name | Harry Born | Sunday, 3rd May 2020 Weight | 4.139 kg Length | 53cm
Nick Storm from the Secondary School Design Faculty and his wife, Beth, welcome Laila.
Kristy Edwards from Junior School and her husband, Scott, welcome Harry.
Staff Farewell Deborah Bennett
At the beginning of this year, St Paul’s bid a fond farewell to Junior School teacher, Deborah Bennett, who retired following fifteen years of service. Over that time she worked across a number of grades, particularly enjoying her time in Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten. Deborah was known by staff to be highly collaborative, skilled and committed. She has a calm and caring manner with children and developed strong, respectful relationships with parents in our school. We are grateful that Deborah remains a part of our school community with her son, Tom, currently in the Junior School. “My fondest memories were of the children treasuring the Bibles they received in Kindergarten and engaging with them every day.
It was wonderful to be a part of the Kindergarten team for the first few years. I grew as a teacher by increasing my knowledge of the importance of play-based learning. Seeing the children flourish in this environment and develop a love for learning about God’s world was just amazing. Teaching the IB through the Primary Years Programme was also a highlight. Providing children with a global perspective and an awareness that they can impact their world is vital for a future of peace and acceptance.” Deborah Bennett
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PRE-KINDERGARTEN | @ St Paul’s
Pre-Kindergarten at St Paul’s “Little Saints” Pre-Kindergarten at St Paul’s is a multi-purpose learning environment, where children are able to explore, inquire and play in safe and secure surroundings. Our students at Little Saints are immersed in learning experiences that are framed by the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP), and work towards Early Stage One outcomes (NSW Board of Studies). The flexibility of the PYP for the Early Years allows teachers to support children’s interests, build up their self-esteem and confidence and guide students through real-life learning experience. Children engage in quality learning in all areas of the curriculum, including Mathematics and English, through play-based learning opportunities. Students in Pre-Kindergarten are active inquirers and contributors to the world around them. At Little Saints the learning is challenging, engaging and purposeful. This philosophy prepares our students for their many years of learning through inquiry at St Paul’s. The transition programme into the first year of ‘formal schooling’ is focussed on building confidence and skills ready for learning in Kindergarten and beyond. While at Little Saints, children and their families develop supportive relationships that continue throughout their learning journey at St Paul’s. 26 |
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At Little Saints the learning is challenging, engaging and purposeful. This philosophy prepares our students for their many years of learning through inquiry at St Paul’s.
@ St Paul’s | PRE-KINDERGARTEN
In early 2020, Pre-Kindergarten students have enjoyed the opportunity to inquire into the Central Idea “cultures shape the way we express ourselves”, with a focus on Australia. Students have taken the opportunity to engage in a range of child-initiated and teacher-guided learning experiences. They have built their pre-reading skills through singing songs about Australia and listening to stories, and developed their fine motor skills and numeracy by using cotton tips to explore patterns and Aboriginal art. Students continuously develop their language and imagination, role taking and sharing as they create stories with small world play. They have posed insightful questions about fire, cricket and other cultures during outdoor play. These rich experiences allow the children of Little Saints the opportunity to explore, question, grow in confidence and express their individual interests and abilities – core skills for their future educational journey at St Paul’s and beyond. But of course, the children call all of this play!
They have built their pre-reading skills through singing songs about Australia and listening to stories, and developed their fine motor skills and numeracy by using cotton tips to explore patterns and Aboriginal art. Futurum #66 Winter 2020
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STAFF PROFILE | Sally Arthur
Sally Arthur Coordinator of Pre-Kindergarten
How long have you worked at St Paul’s? I started working at St Paul’s in Term 1, 2020. Where did you grow up? I was born in Darlinghurst and grew up in the St George area in Sydney. ell us about your educational and career T journey prior to arriving at St Paul’s. I have been involved in the education sector for the last sixteen years and have held a range of roles across both church and school. I started my working life in an early childhood centre and then worked as Children’s Minister at an Anglican Church while I completed a Diploma in Theology. Following this, I worked at various public schools as School Chaplain. While undertaking my teaching degree, I worked as a teacher’s aide in PreKindergarten at a private school in southern Sydney. I then worked at two different Prep schools as a Pre-Kindergarten teacher before moving to my role at St Paul’s. I have also had the privilege of supporting pre-service teachers from Western Sydney University as a University Placement Advisor. s a student, what were your favourite A and least favourite subjects at school? My favourite subject at school was Drama, as I enjoyed the small group collaboration. My least favourite subject was Mathematics. As an educator, what inspires you? I am encouraged and inspired by people’s
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stories. Everyone has a story of strength and courage. As an educator, I am inspired and shaped daily by the children, staff and families I get to work with. I am encouraged by the children’s curiosity, their questions, their sense of wonder and resilience. ow does your faith influence how you H approach your role at St Paul’s? My faith is central to all I am and all I do. I am passionate about the practical relevance that faith has to the lives of those in the St Paul’s community. My faith shapes how I teach, lead and engage with others. God has placed me in the St Paul’s community for a purpose. He has given me a job, position, resources, an education and an amazing team with many opportunities to serve Him and others. He has given me the opportunity to encourage children to explore and develop their confidence as inquirers, as they make meaning of their world within a safe and secure learning environment. As a leader, I am encouraged by a German evangelical pastor called Dietrich Bonhoeffer who wrote a challenging book called “Life Together” (a book I read yearly). It investigates how life as a Christian can be lived and shared in community and the great value of a life lived together, through Jesus. I look forward to collaborating with the wonderful staff in Pre-Kindergarten who work tirelessly to prepare children for a life of learning. What do you enjoy about working at St Paul’s? When I came for an interview at St Paul’s, one of the first things I noticed was the presentation of the flourishing grounds. As I have come to know the staff and community, it is this sense of “flourishing” that I have been encouraged by. There is a desire to work together to see the students and the school flourish as a learning community. I enjoy the teamwork
and desire for others to joyfully serve one another and help each other grow. I also really enjoy the coffee at Saints Café! Tell us about your family. I have been married to my amazing husband Jason for 12 wonderful years. We have a precious little boy named Elliott who is four and a half. We also have a Tenterfield Terrier called “Chookie”. We enjoy spending quality time together jumping on the trampoline, bike rides, pottering in our vegetable garden, camp fires and holidays to the beach with our family and friends. What hobbies do you enjoy? I enjoy passing the time and recharging by reading biographies, watching ‘Survivor’ and British comedy, and spending quality time with my family and friends. I also never shy away from karaoke with the girls. What is your favourite verse in the Bible? Hebrews 12:1-3. “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”
As I have come to know the staff and community, it is this sense of “flourishing” that I have been encouraged by.
Swimming Carnival 2020 | JUNIOR SCHOOL SPORT
Junior School Sport Swimming Carnival 2020 On a beautiful day in late February 2020, students from Years 3 to 6 took part in the Junior School Swimming Carnival. One of the highlights of the day was the teachers’ race that included inflatable props. This was followed closely by some free time in the pool where the students enjoyed games with their friends. Our incredibly supportive Middle Year’s leaders encouraged their houses from the sideline and assisted with a range of jobs to ensure the carnival ran smoothly.
Congratulations to the following age champions:
The positive attitudes and house spirit were overflowing, creating a competitive and enjoyable carnival.
Junior Girl | Luella Bourke
The winning house was Wilberforce and the House Spirit Award was presented to Claremont.
Intermediate Boy | Zac Wallace
Junior Boy | Charlie Camp Intermediate Girl | Abigail Simiana
Senior Girl | Amrah Connor Senior Boy | Ethan Mackie
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SECONDARY SCHOOL | Summer Sports Wrap Up
Secondary School Summer Sports Wrap Up St Paul’s Sport Academy students enjoyed a successful summer despite difficult circumstances. As the state and the nation battled a bush fire emergency, closely followed by a period of significant regional flooding, sporting events were dramatically impacted. Within this disruptive climate, St Paul’s students tackled early Saturday morning starts, weekly training sessions and hard fought matches to represent the school to the best of their ability in the Independent Sporting Association (ISA) summer competition. As a school we congratulate and celebrate their achievements.
The school’s congratulations and thanks also extend to the St Paul’s community, whose support throughout the season was inspiring - with many students, alumni and staff regularly standing on the sidelines to cheer on our hardworking teams. Of course, the ongoing success of our sporting teams is due in no small part to the commitment of a dedicated team of coaches, who so readily give up their time to further the development of our students, build team comradery and proficiency. Regardless of the season result, we are proud of each individual who wore a St Paul’s jersey in the 2019-2020 season. To the right is a wrap up of our top performing teams of the season.
Softball Continuing on from their 2019 final win, our Open Girls Softball team had another strong season. Game after game the team continued to grow and blossom into a fantastic unit bound together by friendship and healthy competition. Coming through all rounds unbeaten, they fought on to win the final in a nail-biting, down to the wire, game against Barker College. Following in their footsteps, our Junior Girls team went from strength to strength over the course of the season. As the underdogs in the final fixture against Oxley College, our girls surprised their opponents to walk away with a well-deserved win. The scintillating victory was a just reward for the team’s tenacity and positivity throughout the summer. St Paul’s were again awarded the Champion School Shield for the second year in a row. 30 |
St Paul’s Grammar School
Champions Junior Softball Open Softball U17 Boys Basketball Junior Girls Touch Football Runners Up Inter Girls Basketball Semi-Finalists U15 Basketball Div. 1 Girls Basketball
Summer Sports Wrap Up | SECONDARY SCHOOL
Equestrian In late 2019, four St Paul’s students - Tara Seppelt, Alex Seppelt, Madelaine O’Hare and Chelsea Brown - participated in the 2019 EA National Interschool Equestrian Championships, representing the NSW Interschools Team. • Alex came 1st in the EvA95 Eventing • Tara came 5th in the EvA80 Eventing, 8th in the CT60 Combined Training and 7th in the Novice Freestyle Dressage. • Madelaine competed in Equestrian Vaulting taking the First Place medal in her Novice Division. Chelsea was Captain of the NSW Dressage team and despite being unable to compete due to a lame horse, she was present for the whole championships and a great encouragement for all members of the winning NSW team! Congratulations to our superb equestrians!
Basketball Our Basketball teams had another great season, playing in high divisions and
challenging themselves to play better each week. Our Open Girls took their place in Division 1 and held their own against the best female basketballers in the ISA to make the semi-finals. The U15 Boys also celebrated their fabulous season with a place in the semi-finals. The Intermediate Girls finished as top of the table but were narrowly beaten by season rivals, St Andrews, in the grand final. A highlight of the Basketball season was witnessing the determination of our U17 Boys team. Unrelenting in their commitment to each other, they battled through the season undefeated, taking out the grand final in a blaze of blue and green.
Touch Football St Paul’s once again hosted the ISA semi-finals and Touch Football finals, bringing hundreds of people from across NSW to our grounds for a day of quality sport. Our first ever Girls Touch Football team played in the ISA competition and definitely started on a high note. Most of the girls had barely played a game of Touch Football before but worked hard across the season. With the expertise of their coach, Mr Horan, they came away as grand final winners!
Summer Sport Representative Team Achievements While most of the school sport pathways were cancelled in Terms 1 and 2 due to COVID-19, a few students were able to complete their trials and be selected for representative teams earlier in the term. Congratulations to the following students: ISA Softball Representatives | Bridie Murphy and Lexy Thorpe CIS Softball | Bridie Murphy NSW All Schools Softball | Bridie Murphy ISA Basketball Representatives | Rose Nelson ISA Tennis | Isabella Podesta and Lachlan Ming ISA Swim Team | Kiani Slaughter and Olivia Fawns
Futurum #66 Winter 2020
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S T P A U L’ S G R A M M A R S C H O O L NO. 66 WINTER 2020
St Paul’s Grammar School 52 Taylor Road, Cranebrook NSW 2749
T | +61 2 4777 4888 E | info@stpauls.nsw.edu.au
www.stpauls.nsw.edu.au /stpaulsgrammar /stpaulsgrammar
