St Spyridon June Newsletter #71

VOLUME XXVIII No 8 3rd June, 2011

DATES TO REMEMBER

FROM THE COLLEGE

JUNE Vaccinations Year 7 girls, Year 7 boys and girls

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Queens Birthday School Closed

13th

Year 6 visit to Senior School CIS Cross Country JS

16th

Debating Competition JS

17th

Athletics Carnival JS

20th

Work Placement Hospitality and IT VET

21st

P & T Interviews K-4 & 5

22nd

Divine Liturgy

23rd

Term ends for staff and students

24th

JULY Staff Development Day

18th

Students return

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Parent Teacher Conferences Years 10 and 11

20th

Parent Teacher Conferences Years 7 – 9

25th

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AUGUST st

HSC TRIALS begin

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ICAS English JS

2nd

Australian Mathematics Competition

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Jeans for Genes SS

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Debating Competition JS

12th

The Dormition of the Theotokos School closed

15th

ICAS Maths JS

16th

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THE VISIT TO AUSTRALIA BY THE PRESIDENT OF CYPRUS AND THE FIRST LADY’S VISIT TO ST SPYRIDON COLLEGE

20th – 24th

Athletics Carnival SS P & T Interviews K-4 & 6

HEAD

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VISIT FROM MRS CHRISTOFIA First Lady of Cyprus

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PREFECT PAGE PREFECT PROFILE Name:

Angela Kardamis

Subjects:

English Advanced, English Extension 1, Mathematics, Legal Studies, Ancient History, History Extension, Modern Greek Continuers.

Hobbies/Interests: Reading, playing sport, cooking, spending time with family and friends.

Favourite Quotes: We all have ability. The difference is how we use it.

Stevie Wonder An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind.

Mahatma Gandhi Future Aspirations: To pursue a career in either clinical or forensic psychology.

Role Models: My mum and brother.

Name:

Anastasia Kerameas

Age:

17

Position:

Prefect

Subjects:

Advanced English, General Maths, Food Technology, Business Studies, Legal Studies, PDHPE.

Achievements: Representing the school in ISA netball, contribution to drama, peer support leader.

Future Aspirations: Complete the HSC and continue further studies at University.

Role Models: Family

Past and Present Senior School Leaders Stamati Margelis Vice Captain 2011, Paul Karantonis School Captain 1995, Christopher Stasos School Captain 2009, Ashli Bergmann School Captain 2011, Elleni Mavrolefterou Senior Prefect 2011

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K

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NEWS

Montagues and Capulets to the choir’s You Raise Me Up and more very talented performers. This multi-purpose centre is truly a product of the promise that St Spyridon College endeavours to fulfil for its families as it provides Educational Excellence within its caring environment.

VACATION CARE School holidays are right around the corner again!

The June/July school holiday program is attached to this newsletter. A lot of new fun activites planned as well as popular favourites like wheels day and cooking day.

Congratulations to all the key people who contributed to the development and completion of this impressive structure.

PLEASE NOTE: OPERATING HOURS HAVE CHANGED. VACATION CARE IS NOW OPEN 8AM - 6PM

JUNIOR SCHOOL SPORTS CARNIVAL - P&F catering available on the day on Monday 20th June.

To book your children in, please give me a call on 9516 2188 and/or fill in the attached enrolment and booking forms.

Its winter! It’s cold! We’re hungrier than ever and thirsty for hot drinks!

P&F WILL OFFER FOOD SNACKS - BOTH SAVOURY & SWEET, HOMEMADE & READY MADE Plus HOT/COLD DRINKS… Plus more ....HOT SOUP - at small kiosk in the Grand stand (like last year) to satisfy our fierce athletic competitors, our supportive spectators, our hardworking staff and super parents. A flyer will go home to families with details.

AFTER SCHOOL CARE After School Care fees are $17 per day and we are able to reduce fees if your family receives the child care benefit. Our operating hours are 3.30pm-6.30pm. At after school care children are given the opportunity to complete homework and play games. There are art and craft activities and afternoon tea is served also.

COLLEGE MEMORABILIA UMBRELLAS

For enquiries or to book your children in, please call me on 9516 2188.

If you get stuck in the rain, just remember….

Navy Golf umbrellas with College logo are now available in the Junior School Front Office selling at $30.

Miss P. Doyle Children’s Services Coordinator

P

&

F

NEWS

Mrs M Pascalis P&F Assistant Secretary

UPCOMING EVENTS TRIVIA NIGHT NEW DATE ……………………SAT 23 JULY

JUNIOR SCHOOL REPORT

OPENING CEREMONY OF SPORTS & PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE

OFFICIAL OPENING OF SPORTS AND PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE

A truly proud day for every member of the St Spyridon Parish and College! All those who attended the Opening Ceremony of the Sports and Performing Arts Centre embraced this amazing facility which will provide great learning opportunities for our students and enhance their performance power in the world of sports and performing arts.

Congratulations to all our students K – 12 who performed and served at the Official Opening of the Sports and Performing Arts Centre. We extend our thanks to the Year Two parents who assisted with costumes and makeup and especially to our teachers for all their hard work: In Year Two, Miss Theodossiou for Choreography, Mr Volas for assisting with the learning of the lyrics – Το Γρίζο Γατί, Miss Sotiras and Mrs Karpouzos for Year Two costume design and practice, Mrs Coyne for preparing such a polished choir piece – You Raise Me Up and Mr Podjarski for preparing

We were all so emotionally moved by all the entertaining performances on the day from Year Two’s Grey Kitten to Sofija’s piano solo of

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Mavrolefterou, Peter Milios, George Raptis, Markella Roditis, Kerryanne Syros, Eric Volas, Deyarna Xenos.

the accompaniment to the choir with his violin students. You made us all very proud.

OPENING MORNINGS On Wednesday 18th May an information morning was held for parents of Kindergarten students for 2012. We were especially proud to have with us parents who were students of the original Kindergarten in 1983: Lydia Kamaras (nee: Savoulis) and Bianca Kristallis (nee: Taras).

Other past students whose children will commence at St Spyridon College in 2012 are: Maria Miller (nee Venianakis) Olga Gouveros (nee Grivas) Magdalena Demetriou (nee Rallis) Kathy Pateras (nee Tsakirios) Anthony Panayi Not even the inclement weather could deter prospective Junior School families from attending the Open Morning and Tour on the 25th May. We had even more families than normal attend. We especially thank Mrs Stamoulis and the P & F committee for providing the refreshments on both these occasions.

DEBATING COMPETITION Our co curricular debating group was able to put into practice all that they have been learning this year by hosting and participating in their first debate on 17th May against Cranbrook. The students delivered their arguments clearly and with confidence and were wonderful ambassadors for our school. We thank Miss Orfanos for preparing the students and Mrs Port for adjudicating.

VISIT BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS On Sunday 29th May, our students along with students from our sister schools, welcomed the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr Demetris Christofias at the Archdiocese in Redfern. We thank the following students for attending and Mrs. Synesios, Mr.Volas, Ka. Ieroklis, Mr. Amditis and Miss Theodossiou for accompanying the students.

CHESS CLUB All children taking part in the Chess Club on Thursdays at lunch time have been learning new skills associated with the playing of Chess. This club is run by a member of the Chess Academy and it is wonderful to see so many enthusiastic children, who with the knowledge they gain, will be included in the Chess Competition in 2012.

Paul Giavis, Christina Borean, Connor Giavis, Nathan Adam, Anna – Maria Borean, Nikki Cardamis, Patricia Frazis, Florence Georges, Erin Giaras, Alexandros Gousetis, James Karagiannis, Nicholas Kollias, George Makris, Sophia Micos, Maree Nikitopoulos, Nicole Stramotas, Dean Albanakis, Dominic Augoustis, Jennifer Eve Contominas, Catherine Dokos, Sarantos Makris, Eleni Mastroperos, Joanna Skouteris, Rhea Tsimboukis, Demetrios Avdalis, Jacqueline Burleigh, Andreas Veryinis, Michael Constantopedos, Constantinos Kollias, Stavroulla

CHESS COMPETITION 2011 The children playing competition Chess on Friday afternoons are doing very well, considering many are newcomers to the competition.

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Congratulations to Michael Vetsikas and Dean Albanakis who have won all three games played.

Well done.

SENIOR SCHOOL REPORT

Mrs C. Bartlett Chess Coordinator

WORLD MATHS DAY CONGRATULATIONS PANAYIOTI

CO CURRICULAR Please note that co curricular activities end on the 17th June this term. Term 3 activities resume on Monday 25th July.

AFTER SCHOOL SPORT – INFANTS After school sport activities for infants will end on Tuesday 14th June.

ANNUAL ATHLETICS CARNIVAL K-6 St Spyridon College–Junior School Annual Athletics Carnival will be held on Monday 20th June 2011 at E.S. MARKS ATHLETICS FIELD. Entry is gained via the main gate in Boronia Street, off Anzac Parade Kensington.

COUNTRIES PARTICIPATED: 234 5, 556, 296 Students Registered

All children Kindergarten to Year 6 are to be taken directly to E.S. Marks Athletics Field and must be there by 8.30am for Roll Call. The carnival will commence at 8.45am sharp and will conclude at 2.45pm. All children are to be picked up from the oval by 3.00pm. Skennars Bus Company has been notified and all private bus children will be taken direct to the field and picked up from the field in the afternoon.

In Australia: 3, 033 schools participated in Australia 94, 629 students in Australia participated 32, 468, 922 questions answered correctly in Australia Australia came 2nd in the world.

Only 6 Students in Australia Received Medals th and Panayioti Kaodistrias came 5 .

The canteen WILL NOT be open on the day.

Please Note: If wet weather all children are to come to school for normal lessons.

CONGRATULATIONS!

If you require After School Care on Monday 20th June, please notify the school office by 17th June.

Despina Carpis, Year 11 Visual Arts, has been accepted into the National Art School, Sydney, to attend Preliminary HSC Intensive Studio Practice Workshops. This is a highly competitive course and Despina is the first from St Spyridon to be accepted. Despina will be working in the Ceramics Workshop where she will be able to work with established artists and learn new skills that can be applied to her HSC Body of Work. We are proud of Despina’s achievement and wish her well.

PARENT TEACHER MEETINGS Parent Teacher meetings will be held this term.

Please see dates below: ¾ K – Year 4 on Tuesday 21st June and Wednesday 22nd June. ¾ Year 6 on Tuesday 21st June ¾ Year 5 on Wednesday 22nd June Mrs M. Hamer Principal Junior School

Ms M. Pringle Visual Arts Teacher

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MIDDLE REPORT

THEATRESPORTS SCHOOLS CHALLENGE On Tuesday 17th May, a team of Year 9 students from St Spyridon College competed in the Theatresports Schools Challenge at Newington College. The students, Christina Andrew, Sophia Georgas, Rena Lambos and Anthony Theofanidis, competed against teams from schools such as The Scots College, Waverley College, Newtown High School of Performing Arts and Sydney Girls High School. In this very challenging heat, the students were required to perform impromptu scenes based on given situations. The students performed with enthusiasm and kept their audience highly entertained at all times. The students are to be congratulated for the commitment and passion they displayed throughout this competition, and for being such fine representatives for the College.

SCHOOL

“A sense of humour is part of the art of leadership, of getting along with people, of getting things done” Dwight D. Eisenhower

PASTORAL CARE HIGHLIGHTS BULLYBUSTERS On Wednesday Year 7 had the opportunity to extend their understanding of bullying with an entertaining presentation of “Bullybusters’ by the Class Act Theatre Group. This supplements and reinforces the issues currently being addressed in Pastoral Care this term.

Ms Laura Davis Drama Teacher

AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST MORNING TEA for Cancer Council We would like to thank Mrs Mio for organizing this event. A total of $490 was raised. An excellent example of the teachers being role models for students!

POLICE TALK ON ROAD SAFETY Year 12 listened to a sobering talk from our local Police School Liaison Officer about some of the dangerous situations and statistics relating to injuries and fatalities from the reckless behaviour displayed on our roads by some young people.

Students viewed confronting footage aimed at

Mrs A. Katsogiannis Principal Senior School

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The people that were there were so thankful.”

Nikolas Baratsas.

alerting them to things they should not do whilst driving and they heard to some very useful tips from the experienced Senior Constable.

“We saw many different kinds of people. Some young, some old, some Greek, some from other backgrounds, (Asian, Aboriginal, Alaskan, Islander, Australian etc), some were nice others were angry people” George Karapanayiotidis.

What did you learn from your overall experience?

“We are very lucky, compared to these people.

We should all help those who do not have the luxuries we have. George “We need to be grateful that we are so lucky. The poor people we saw were so polite and well spoken, despite their circumstances” Michael Vlahos “Anyone can become homeless, even people that are completely normal like you and me. Even respectful and knowledgeable people can wind up homeless” Nikolas

YEAR 7 VACCINATIONS Next week, on Monday 6 June, the second stage of immunizations for Year 7 will take place. All Year 7 who have returned their consent cards will be vaccinated against Diptheria/Tetanus/Pertussis, while Year 7 girls will receive their second dose of the Human Papilomavirus Vaccine

YOUNG ENDEAVOUR LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITY

SOUP KITCHEN DUTY RESUMES

Australia's national sail training ship Young Endeavour is now accepting applications for youth to join eleven day voyages departing between September and December 2011. Young Australians aged 16 to 23 can apply for the ballot at www.youngendeavour.gov.au until 05 June 2011. No sailing experience is required.

Over the past two weeks Year 9 began Soup Kitchen Duty as part of our Pastoral Care Programs’ Community Awareness and Responsibility focus “Giving Back”. The first group of students found the experience confronting and a little uncomfortable whilst this week’s group were excited and interested in having this new experience. Below are some of their comments:

A voyage in Young Endeavour is a challenging adventure at sea, and a unique opportunity for youth to develop teamwork and leadership skills through a world recognised organisation. The current ballot includes voyages departing from Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and

“I felt really happy after helping out at the Soup Kitchen, because I think I’ve done a good thing.

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Tasmania, which will be crewed by youth from around the country.

During each voyage youth crew learn the skills to successfully sail a square rigged ship. They climb the 30 metre mast, set and furl sails, and maintain a 24 hour watch on the bridge. They also learn to navigate, take the helm, keep lookout and help the chef in the ship’s galley. Once they have learned these skills each youth crew will take command of Young Endeavour for 24 hours, sailing the ship along the Australian coast. On their last day at sea they will host a local group of youth with special needs, sharing their new found knowledge and experiences.

SRC NEWS Review The SRC meet together every fortnight on a Monday at lunch. At meetings we discuss various matters including what students want and need around the school.

19 year old Kirsty Reaks, of Rye, was elected youth crew captain on her voyage from Devonport to Geelong in January. “Being elected captain of a multi-million dollar ship was absolutely exhilarating. What I wanted was a challenge, and the responsibility and adrenalin I experienced in Young Endeavour were amazing. The problem solving skills, teamwork, the friendships, and working with so many different people in a small space has been a fantastic life experience which I would recommend to every single young Australian.”

This year we have had 6 formal meetings and a couple of informal meetings where we prepared for special events.

Our meetings are lively and productive. So far we have learnt about our roles and responsibilities and how meetings are conducted, the importance of setting goals to direct our activities. Being an SRC member gives us a chance to have a say about what is important to us as students, it also means being busy and helping out at various events. Some of these have included acting as guides during twilight tours, reminding everyone to switch off lights during Period 4, for St Spyridon’s Daily Earth Hour, collecting food in the lead up to Year 9’s Donate a Tin Can Appeal, and recently welcoming and guiding visitors to the school before the official blessing of our new Sports and Performing Arts Centre.

Since 1988 the Young Endeavour Youth Scheme, in partnership with the Royal Australian Navy, has provided challenging training voyages for over 11,000 young Australians in the tall ship Young Endeavour. The specially designed program delivered aboard the ship increases the youth crew’s self awareness, develops teamwork and leadership skills, and fosters a strong sense of community spirit.

For more information www.youngendeavour.gov.au,

AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST TEA - PANCAKE DAY

please

visit

This year the SRC’S have set three goals to work towards. The first involves giving back to the community by way of raising money for charities like the Cancer Councils. Our second goal is to fundraise for school improvements. This may include fixing up the bathrooms and setting up attractive outdoor seating areas for all of us. The third goal focuses on our environment, both within our school and outside in the wider community. This will involve developing an environmental plan that will support the initiatives we take.

MORNING

Last week SRC members banded together at lunch to sell over 300 pancakes with a variety of toppings to hungry masses of students. All proceeds from this event will be combined with the up coming teachers Morning Tea, and sent to the Cancer Council to help continue with research into finding a cure for this terrible disease.

Unfortunately many of us know someone who has been affected by the various forms of cancer which and so it with this in mind that the St Spyridon School Community unites to support causes such as this.

At the end of each month we will be taking turns to write this SRC news review and also reporting back to everyone at assembly. Furthermore, the SRC fortnightly Agenda and Minutes from previous meetings can be found on the

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noticeboard at the entry corridor in A block for anyone who is interested in seeing what we plan to talk about or have decided to do.

Favourite Quote: “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”

Martin Luther King, Jr.

Thank you to everyone who bought Pancakes on Friday 27 May and everyone who helped us prepare for this event. Over 300 pancakes were sold, raising $448.35 for Cancer Research Maria Mio

SRC PROFILES Name: Maria Mio Class: 10D Hobbies: Sport (Swimming, Netball, Basketball, Gym), Reading, EPL, NRL, Cooking and Pet care.

Leadership Experiences: SRC Member 2011, Peer Support Leader 2010- 2011 Goals for the future: Attend University and undertake study and work that combines and advocates the health sector and children.

Favourite Quotes: 'Fear not, Believe only' - Luke If God be for us, who can be against us' – Romans 8:31

Ms G. Kokinelis Dean of Middle School

CAREER

8:50

NEWS

The Sydney Morning Herald’s HSC and Careers Expo will be held from Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th June from 10am to 4pm in the Royal Hall of Industries, Moore Park (next door to Hordern Pavilion). The Hall is on the corner of Driver Avenue (parallel to Anzac Parade) and Lang Road. Our Year 12 students will be attending on Friday afternoon as an excursion.

This event would be of interest to parents and Years 10 to 12 students. Parking is available in the Fox Studios’ Car Park. Website link for maps, list of exhibitors and their web links, seminars list, cost of tickets, etc is www.hscandcareers.com.au See ‘The Expo Guide’ in the SMH on Tuesday 31 May.

'Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that’ Martin Luther King

UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME lunchtime presentation. On Thursday 9 June, a representative will come to the College to give a presentation on the university courses and the application process involved in applying to this university. Instead of using the UAC process, students apply directly to UND and this process involves an interview with a senior member of the academic staff. A successful student will receive a conditional offer for a course often before the HSC exams. Come along to hear all about the University on Thursday 9 June at 1.25 pm in T1 during your lunchtime.

Name: Kalioppe Kefalas Class: Year 8D Hobbies: I enjoy soccer, travelling, reading and spending time with family and friends.

Leadership experiences: Vice Captain of the St Spyridon College Junior School (2009), SRC Member 2011 Goals for the Future: I plan to attend University and become an architect or an Interior Designer.

UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY INFORMATION Year 10 Information Evenings “The Path to University” will be held on 6th and 8th June at 6pm.

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UNSW iChallenge Competition has been created by the Australian School of Business at UNSW for Year 10, 11 and 12 students. The aim is to identify and celebrate the next generation of business innovators and entrepreneurs.

The competition is a great opportunity for students to use their creativity and imagination in coming up with a new business idea for the future. The winner of ichallenge will receive a fantastic MacBook Air. 2nd prize will be a new Apple iPad and 3rd an Apple iPod Touch.

The Competition closes on 30th July.. For details on how to enter, go to www.asb.unsw.edu.au/ichallenge or email ichallenge@unsw.edu.aufor more information. .

Flyers can be obtained from Mrs Skerman.

These annual evenings are designed to help year 10 students and their parents choose their HSC subjects and navigate through the process of applying to university.

Topics will include ATAR, scaling and university entrance, subject selections, career pathways and university transition. Registrations will open on Monday 16 May at 5pm at http://sydney.edu.au/future_students/domestic_un dergraduate/year_10_evening/ A Scholarships Information Evening will be held on Tuesday 28 June at 6pm. Did you know that the University of Sydney gives out over $65 million in scholarships each year? That’s $65 million for over 700 scholarship schemes (not including prizes or college and sporting scholarships). A scholarship information evening for year 11 and 12 students will be held on Tuesday 28 June to assist students’ chances of receiving a scholarship. See Uni of Sydney website for more information.

2012 Teacher Education Scholarships Program Up to 300 scholarships are available for students to train in the secondary key learning areas of mathematics, science and English and in primary and secondary special education for employment as teachers in western and south western Sydney and non-coastal rural NSW. Students will receive an annual training allowance of $5000 for their full-time studies, a guaranteed job in a agreed location when they graduate and $3000 when they begin permanent teaching. The closing date for applications is 7 October 2011. Full details at www.teach.nsw.edu.au/scholarships

UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME OPEN DAY will be held at the Broadway Campus on Saturday 27th August from 10am to 4pm.

UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY The UTS Engineering Information Evening on 22 June will give students an overview of the different areas of engineering available at UTS. They will find out how to increase their chance of entry through the UTS Engineering Bonus Scheme and Questionnaire. They will also hear from current and past students about their experiences studying at UTS. The UTS Engineering Scholarship Information Evening on 29 June will give those interested in scholarships all the information they need to apply and interview for scholarships worth up to $85,000.

Mrs A. Skerman Careers Adviser

GREEK

COLUMN

Αγαπητοί γονείς και φίλοι, Στην έκδοση αυτή θα έχετε την ευκαιρία να διαβάσετε µία από τις εργασίες της Α΄ Γυµνασίου. Οι µαθητές της τάξης αυτής έπρεπε να απαντήσουν στο γράµµα µιας κοπέλας από την Ελλάδα, της ∆ήµητρας, που ζητούσε αλληλογραφία µε παιδιά της ηλικίας της από άλλες χώρες. Κατάλληλο λεξιλόγιο είχε βέβαια δοθεί εκ των προτέρων στους µαθητές µας για βοήθεια. Την εργασία αυτή είχαν να παρουσιάσουν και προφορικά ως οµιλία στους συµµαθητές τους στην τάξη. Μία από τις εργασίες αυτές διαλέξαµε για να σας κρατήσουµε συντροφιά σ’ αυτό το τεύχος.

‘A Day in the Life’ Programs These programs ( run by Think Education Group) give students the opportunity of experiencing what some career areas would be like. Be a Designer, Hotel Manager, Events Manager, Head Chef, Photographer, Interior Designer or Graphic Designer.

Designer - Saturday 10am to 4pm 18 June or 23 July $80 For more Information Ph 1300 851 245 Hospitality Management Wednesday 6 July or Thurs 14 July $50 For more Information Ph 1300 851 237 Photography, Interior or Graphic Design 2 day workshop. 9 &10 July $160 For more information Ph 9251 0029 Costs include lunch

Επίσης θα ήθελα να συγχαρώ τους µαθητές της Α’ Γυµνασίου Πασχαλιά Αλµπανάκη, Μιχάλη Τσιντοµηνά, Σταύρο Αντωνίου και Λεωνίδα Ανδρέου της Α’ Λυκείου για το ωραίο και θερµό τους καλωσόρισµα στην Κυρία Χριστόφια που επισκέφτηκε την ∆ευτέρα 30 Μαϊου το σχολείο µας. Καλή ανάγνωση! κ. Μ. Φαλέτα

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LISTENING STUDENTS

Αγαπητή µου ∆ήµητρα, Γεια σου! Το όνοµά µου είναι Πηνελόπη Αλεγιάννη και είµαι δώδεκα χρονών. Από εµφάνιση, θα έλεγα ότι είµαι νόστιµη και αρκετά ψηλή για την ηλικία µου. Το σχήµα του προσώπου µου είναι οβάλ µε φωτεινά, καστανά µάτια και λεπτά, κόκκινα σαν κεράσια χειλάκια. Έχω µακριά, καστανά µαλλιά τα οποία συνηθίζω να έχω αλογουρά.

TO

OUR

On the 22nd of March, I was privileged to attend the 16th National Schools’ Constitutional Convention in Canberra. The 3 day convention consisted of numerous debates, heated discussions, speeches and various other events in which 127 delegates from schools all over Australia took part. The issue to be discussed throughout the duration of the convention was “Should Australia become a Republic?”

Μένω στο Σύδνεϋ της Αυστραλίας και πηγαίνω στο κολλέγιο του Αγίου Σπυρίδωνα. Είµαι µαθήτρια της Α΄τάξης του Γυµνασίου και το όνειρό µου είναι να γίνω δασκάλα όταν µεγαλώσω. Αγαπάω πολύ το επάγγελµα της δασκάλας γιατί πιστεύω ότι προσφέρει τα απαραίτητα εφόδια στη ζωή των παιδιών έτσι ώστε να γίνουν ικανοί και άξιοι πολίτες στην κοινωνία. Σαν µοναχοπαίδι της οικογένειας που είµαι, αισθάνοµαι µερικές φορές µοναξιά και καµιά φορά πιάνω τον εαυτό µου να ζηλεύει τα άλλα παιδάκια που έχουν αδερφάκια. Ευτυχώς όµως η σκυλίτσα µου η Cherry, µε κάνει να ξεχνώ κάθε φορά τη µοναξιά που νοιώθω, δείχνοντάς µου τη χαρά και την αγάπη της µε ένα σωρό τρέλες.

(Leah Balayannis second from the right)

Σαν χαρακτήρας, νοµίζω ότι είµαι πολύ ευαίσθητη, κοινωνική και προπάντων επιµελής. Μου αρέσει η καλή παρέα και τα αστεία. Γενικά, είµαι πολύ εύκολος χαρακτήρας και πολύ ευκολόπιστη. Τώρα αυτό αν είναι καλό ή κακό δεν ξέρω.

Visits and receptions On the first day of the convention after a lengthy bus trip we arrived at Parliament House. Here we were given the opportunity to meet the other delegates from other states and territories and then all together proceeded to Question Time where we witnessed Prime Minister Gillard vs. the opposition in action. This was followed by a welcome reception hosted on behalf of the Prime Minister by the Hon Mark Dreyfus QC MP, Cabinet Secretary and Parliamentary Secretary for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, in the Mural Hall at Parliament House. We were then afforded with the opportunity to meet and have photographs taken with other Parliamentarians.

Τον ελεύθερο χρόνο µου ασχολούµαι µε το διάβασµα και το χορό. Ανάµεσα στα αγαπηµένα µου βιβλία είναι η συλλογή των «Vampire Academy» και «Vampire Diaries». ∆ιαβάζοντας τα αγαπηµένα µου βιβλία, ταξιδεύω µε την φαντασία µου στον όµορφο κόσµο τους και γνωρίζω τους ήρωές τους. Όσο για τον αγαπηµένο µου χορό είναι ο “Zumba” στον οποίο εξασκούµαι και στο σχολείο. Μου αρέσει επίσης η µουσική, ο κινηµατογράφος και το διαδίκτυο.

Day two began with the official opening of the Convention by the Hon Peter Garret AM MP, Minister for School Education, Early Childhood and Youth. His address was followed by a Welcome to Country address by Mrs Matilda House, a Ngambri woman.

Πιστεύω να σε βοήθησα αρκετά να µε γνωρίσεις καλύτερα. Για την ώρα σε χαιρετώ και εύχοµαι να µάθω γρήγορα νέα σου. Φιλικά

In the evening, the Governor-General, Ms Quentin Bryce AC, hosted a reception for all the delegates at Government House. This event was followed by the Convention dinner at the High Court of Australia. We were welcomed to the High Court

Πηνελόπη Penelope Aleyiannis Year 7

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University of Adelaide developed the two day program and facilitated the Convention proceedings at Old Parliament House.

by Mr Andrew McLeod, representing the High Court, who spoke about his experiences working as an associate at the High Court and the important role the High Court fulfils in interpreting the Constitution. Mr Clary Castrission, NSW Young Australian of the Year for 2011 addressed us about his philanthropic work with impoverished people in the Indian state of Bangalore. All the delegates were then provided with a tour of the Court 1 and Court 2 where High Court staff and associates explained the function and purpose of each court.

The first session followed the official opening on day 2 of the Convention was based on for and against arguments in regards to Australia becoming a Republic. The session began with addresses by Professor John Warhurst, Deputy Chair, Australian Republican Movement and Mr Jai Martinkovits, Young Australians for Constitutional Monarchy Spokesman who both presented their arguments for and against the issue being discussed. At the completion of this session, the delegates voted in an informal plebiscite on the question ‘Are you in favour of the Australian Constitution being amended to establish the Commonwealth of Australia as a Republic?’. The tally of responses revealed that 41 delegates (32%) were opposed to, and 86 (68%) were in favour of, Australia becoming a republic. Following this session was Working Group 1, which was designed to promote thinking about the pros and cons of Australia becoming a republic. A report back session was then held and the delegates had the opportunity to voice their opinion on the pros and cons of the issue.

The second session of the Convention consisted of a discussion regarding the existing republican government models. We were addressed by Mr James Tira, United States Foreign Service Political Officer from the Embassy of the United States, Mr Pierre Labbe, Counsellor of Cooperation and cultural Actions from the French Embassy and Professor Macintrye who outlined the features of the US, French and Irish republican government models. Working Group 2 required the delegates to focus on four key issues: the method of election of the Head of State, The method of dismissal of the Head of State, The constitutional powers of the Head of State and the symbolic functions of the Head of State. A Soap Box session completed the days program.

Day three, the final day consisted of us visiting the Museum of Australian Democracy and the National Archives of Australia. Following this, we gathered in the House of Representatives at Old Parliament House to witness the presentation of the Convention Communiqué to the President of the Senate, the Hon John Hogg, Senator for Queensland.

The next day commenced with Professor Williams and Professor Macintyre discussing the three possible republican models that could be adopted

by Australia. These three models are: the Direct Election of President, Presidents elected by twothirds of Parliament and President selected and appointed by the Prime Minister. Working Group 3 then took place and consisted of discussion in regards to then strengths and weaknesses of the models. After a vote it was shown that the preferred model identified in the indicative plebiscite was the Two-thirds of Parliament

Convention processes Professor John Williams from the Law School at the University of Adelaide and Professor Clement Macintyre, School of History and Politics,

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SPORTS

election of the President with a 48% preference.

This preference was to be then put to vote in the mock referendum. One-hundred and twentyseven formal votes were cast, which resulted in a national total of 77 formal “YES” votes and 50 formal “NO” votes. A double majority had been achieved and a majority of voters in a majority of states were in favour of the alteration, which meant that the Australian Constitution had been altered.

REPORT

JUNIOR SCHOOL The Primary CIS Soccer Carnival was held on Thursday 7th April 2011. In early May, I, Mitchell Knight Captain (6P), Jordan Makridopolus (6M), Aaron Nissirios (5I), and Alex Nissirios (5A) took part in the NSW CIS Primary Soccer tournament at the Kings School in Parramatta.

After the convention

There were nine associations and we were representing ASISSA. Game one, we won 8-0, Game two we won 1-0, Game three we won 3-0, and Game four we won 4-0. After playing four group games undefeated and without a goal being conceded ASISSA made the final only to lose 2-1 in the last 20 seconds to IPSHA.

The National Schools Constitutional Convention was a great success and gave me the opportunity to create a deeper understanding of the issue “Should Australia become a Republic?” and gave me the opportunity to meet other young Australians from all over Australia with similar interests. On Thursday 28th April, we were invited to be a part of the audience on ABC’s ‘Q&A’ show for a ‘Monarchy special’. This episode was highly relevant to the issue we had discussed in Canberra so it was quite an amazing experience for all the delegates who attended including myself. We were given the opportunity to hear the views of Marcia Langton, academic and activist, Nick Minchin, Liberal Party powerbroker, Amanda Vanstone, former Liberal Party MP and minister, Angela Bishop, channel 10 entertainment reporter and Bob Carr, former NSW Labor premier.

At the end of the tournament I was selected for the NSW PSSA State Titles team which will be played at Coffs Harbour from May 21 to May 25.

Congratulations to all the boys who played in the spirit of the game and represented the school proudly.

Mitchell Knight 6P UPCOMING SPORTS EVENTS Tuesday 31st May CIS Touch Football Trials Thursday 2nd June ASISSA Cross Country Thursday 16th June CIS Cross Country Monday 20th June Athletics Carnival K-6 Wednesday 22nd June NSW Futsal Schools Regional Championships Mr J. Volas Sports Coordinator SENIOR SCHOOL Parents please ensure that your children are collected from St Spyridon Church or Brighton RSL on time. Students will call parents before their arrival.

Evangelia Balayannis Year 12

Ms K. O’Shea Girls Sport

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TEAM

TIME

GROUNDS

OPEN A’S

8.30am

INTER C’s

9.45am

ST PAULS Leave Brighton RSL at 6.30am and St Spyridon Church at 7am. Bus will Leave St Pauls Grammar at 11am approx return at 12.30pm

JUNIOR B’s

8.30am

INTER D’s Ms Gonzalez

9.45am

BARKER Leave Brighton RSL at 7.45am and St Spyridon Church at 8am. Bus 12.15pm will Leave Thornleigh at 1.30pm approx return at 2.30pm.

ISA GIRLS SOCCER

9am

SACS Heffron Park, Maroubra corner of Bunnerong Rd and Fitzgerald Avenue

BOYS SPORT

TEAM

GAME TIME

FIELD

BUS TIMES

Firsts Coach: Mr Kaldis V St Pius X

10:00am

St Pius College Fields – Dreadnought Street Oxford Falls -Walsh 1

Bus 1 Leaves Brighton at 6:30am and to leave Church at 6:45am. Bus will Return at about 12:30pm

16’s/Seconds Mr Zafiropoulos V St Pius X

8:00am

St Pius College Fields – Dreadnought Street Oxford Falls -Walsh 1

Bus 1 Leaves Brighton at 6:30am and to leave Church at 6:45am. Bus will Return at about 12:30pm

14A’s(Year 8/9) Coach: Mrs Dalakiaris V St Pius X

10:00am

St Pius College Fields – Dreadnought Street Oxford Falls -Walsh 2

Bus 1 Leaves Brighton at 6:30am and to leave Church at 6:45am. Bus will Return at about 12:30pm

13A’s(Year 7) Coach: Mr Croft V St Pius X

9:00am

St Pius College Fields – Dreadnought Street Oxford Falls –Chaplin 2

Bus 1 Leaves Brighton at 6:30am and to leave Church at 6:45am. Bus will Return at about 12:30pm

Mr A. Condous Boys Sport

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OFFICIAL OPENING PHOTO GALLERY

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