VOLUME XXVIII No 18 2nd December, 2011
DATES TO REMEMBER
FROM THE COLLEGE
DECEMBER 2
Year 6 Graduation Dinner/Evening K-6 Awards Presentation Morning
6th
Christmas Carols JS
7th
Term ends for students Years 7-12 Prize Giving Afternoon 12.30pm Sports and Performing Arts Centre
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Staff Development Day
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A graduate of St Andrew’s Theological College, Father Peter began at St Spyridon College fourteen years ago, and has taught a variety of subjects including the Greek language, PDHPE and Orthodox Studies. He has been a Year Adviser over many years. He has an innate love of sport and has been a strong contributor to the school’s involvement in ISA sports. He was honoured by the Combined Independent Schools (CIS) for Service to Sports in 2010. His leadership was highlighted in Orthodox Studies, developing a common Orthodox Studies programme and a comprehensive resource (ie. textbooks) base for all Greek Orthodox Colleges. He lifted the profile of Orthodox Studies as a Board Endorsed Course with the Board of Studies.
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St Spyridon Vespers
11th
St Spyridon Day
12th
Office closes SS
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JANUARY Office opens SS
16th
Staff Development Day
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Staff Development Day
30th
Years 1 to 7, 11 & 12 commence
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Father Peter established the Byzantine Choir which chants the Engomia on Holy Friday and the Year 12 Farewell Doxology. These are now valued traditions for our College. He has been appointed as Assistant Priest and Teacher at St Euphemia.
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We will miss him very much, but know that the Mission of our Church will be enriched, wherever he may be doing God’s work.
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FEBRUARY Kindergarten and Years 8 – 10 commence
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FAREWELL FATHER PETER MAVROMMATIS
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Musical Showcase JS
HEAD
We take the opportunity to farewell Fr. Peter from our College and to wish him, Presvitera Penny and their three daughters every success and happiness in the future.
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In this the last Newsletter for 2011: We wish all students, teachers and their families a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Mrs E. Stefanou-Haag 1
JUNIOR SCHOOL PRIZE GIVING MORNING On Tuesday 6 December at 11am we will acknowledge the students, K – 6, who have achieved Academic Excellence this year. At this prize giving assembly, which will be held in the Church, awards to be presented include Academic Achievement in the Key Learning Areas, Athena Pallas Outstanding Reading Award Years 3-6 and the Bank of Cyprus Award for Diligence and Improvement in English for Yrs 3-6. The Hon. Kristina Keneally, Member for Heffron, will present her Outstanding Leadership Award to a student in Year Six. The Junior School Leadership Team for 2012 will receive their badges. The Year Six 2011 students will be presented with their conclusion of primary education gift from the Junior School. Parents are requested to sit in the last 4 pews on either side of the church or upstairs. Year Six students may leave after the assembly to prepare for their graduation dinner and younger siblings are also permitted to leave at this time but must be marked off by their class teacher. It is fitting we acknowledge the efforts made by all students to improve this year. It is not possible to award prizes to all students, but students need to feel a sense of accomplishment for their application and gains made this year. Congratulations to all students K – 6. Please note Infants awards in alphabetical order not order of merit. Kindergarten Cerise Yiota Cross
Academic Excellence
Sophia Karatasos
Academic Excellence
Achievement in Greek
Christian Lynch
Academic Excellence
Achievement in Greek
Sienna Tsoukalas
Academic Excellence
Achievement in Greek
Kindergarten Jade Charlie Georgas
Academic Excellence
Nicholas Giallafos
Achievement in Greek
Nektarios Kollias
Achievement in Greek
Alexander Kumar
Academic Excellence
Thomas Pambris
Academic Excellence
Mia Paris
Academic Excellence
Achievement in Greek
Kindergarten Ruby Katerina Alexandratos
Academic Excellence
Achievement in Greek
Nicholas Bastas
Academic Excellence
Achievement in Greek
James Karagiannis
Academic Excellence
Kosta Micos
Achievement in Greek
1 Emerald Jamyson Gouveros
Academic Excellence
Patricia Hardas
Academic Excellence
Tiana Natsikas
Academic Excellence
Achievement in Greek
Marlon Rallis
Achievement in Greek
Lucia Zois
Achievement in Greek
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1 Topaz Adriana Drakoulis
Academic Excellence
Achievement in Greek
Sia Manos
Academic Excellence
Achievement in Greek
Nicholas Papas
Academic Excellence
Alex Stamoulis
Achievement in Greek
1 Violet Jameson Darras- Samaras Paul Giavis
Achievement in Greek Academic Excellence
Heleena Ginis
Acheivement in Greek Achievement in Greek
George Grillakis
Academic Excellence
Nicolas Kalligiannis
Academic Excellence
Achievement in Greek
2 Aqua Billy Bourdaniotis
Academic Excellence
Maria Grivas
Achievement in Greek
Demi Micos
Achievement in Greek
Peter Petrides
Academic Excellence
Gregory Tsoukalas
Academic Excellence
Achievement in Greek
2 Crimson Teoni Antonopoulos
Academic Excellence
Mary Diamond
Academic Excellence
Mihalis Dovellos Juval Mikhail
Achievement in Greek Achievement in Greek
Academic Excellence
Anastasi Poulos
Achievement in Greek
3 Amethyst Nicholas Drakoulis
(=) 1st Maths
1st HSIE
2nd English
George Stavrou
(=) 1st Maths
2nd HSIE
3rd Science
Laura Pitharoulis
1st English
1st Science
Marissa Diakoumis
3rd English
3rd HSIE
Roza Papas
2nd Science
Peter Ganis
3rd Maths
3 Sapphire Ariana Armenakas
1st Maths
Nicola Skouteris
1st HSIE
1st Greek gr 1
Anna Papas
2nd HSIE
3rd Maths
1st Greek gr 2
2nd Maths
James Hristeff Rose Economou
2nd English
1st English
3
2nd Science 3rd Science
Katherine Tsingos
1st Science
Andrew Karaniki
1st Greek gr 3
Thomas Mouratidis Nikki Kondou
3rd English 3rd HSIE
4 Coral Peter Nikas
1st English
1st Maths
3rd Science
Desi Kapodistrias
1st HSIE
2nd English
3rd Maths
Georgia Veryinis
1st Greek gr 3
2nd Maths
2nd HSIE
3rd English
Tiffany Tsoukalas
2nd Science
3rd HSIE
Reece Kalergis
1st Science
Peter Synesios
4 Turquoise Connor Giavis William Georgas Theoni Apostolopoulos Stella Ktenas
1st Greek gr 1 2nd HSIE
1st Maths
(=) 1st Science
3rd HSIE
1st HSIE
3rd Maths
(=) 2ndEnglish
(=) 1st Science 1st HSIE
Jonathon Lynch
1st Greek gr 2
Peter Tsoukalas
(=) 1st Science
Vivienne Hatzigiakoumis
1st English
2nd Maths
Kristina Poulos
(=) 2nd English
Sophie Ioannidis
3rd Maths
5 Amber Florence Georges
1st Maths
2nd Science
2nd English
Nicole Stramotas
1st Science
1st HSIE
3rd English
Patricia Frazis
1st English
(=) 2nd HSIE
3rd Maths
Alexandros Gousetis
(=) 2nd HSIE
(=) 3rd Science
Elaine Andrew
1st Greek gr 2
Nathan Adam
2nd Maths
George Makris
(=) 3rd Science
5 Iris Joanna Skouteris Stephen Bletsas
1st Greek gr 1
1st Science
1st Maths
3rd HSIE
Rhea Tsimboukis
2nd English
2nd HSIE
Chrysanthi Diasinos
2nd Science
3rd English
Michael Vertiskas
1st Greek gr 3
Deanna Tzivakis
2nd Maths
Dean Albanakis
(=) 3rd Science
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1st English (=)3
rd
Science
6 Magenta Constantinos Kollias
1st Greek gr 1
1st Maths
(=) 1st HSIE
2nd English
Johnny Mouratidis
1st Science
1st English
(=) 1st HSIE
(=) 3rd Maths
Jordan Makridopolus
2nd Science
3rd English
(=) 3rd Maths
Demetrios Avdalis
3rd Science
3rd HSIE
Giorge Gemisis
1st Greek gr 2
Mariah Zouroudis
1st Greek gr 3
Andreas Veryinis
2nd Maths
6 Pearl George Raptis
1st Science
(=) 1st HSIE
(=) 1st English
(=) 1st English
(=) 1st HSIE
3rd Science
1st Maths
2nd Science
(=) 3rd HSIE
Markella Roditis
3rd English
(=) 3rd HSIE
Jordan Stoijkovic
2nd Maths
Kerryanne Syros Tina Ventoura
Peter Milios
(=) 3rd HSIE
Athena Pallas Oustanding Reading Award 3A
James Zouroudis
3S
Victor Kezalas
4C
Desi Kapodostrias
4T
Marie Vasilakis
5A
Maree Nikitopoulos
5I 6M 6P
Christina Hatgis Maria Zouroudis Christina Theofanidis
Bank of Cyprus Award for Diligence and Improvement in English 3A 3S 4C 4T 5A 5I 6M
Roza Papas Nicoletta Tsimboukis Peter Synesios Vivienne Hatzigiakoumis James Karagiannis Catherine Dokos Demetrios Avdalis
6P
Sophie Andreou
5
3rd Maths
K
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NEWS
P
&
F
REPORT
UNIFORM SHOP
A TIME FOR GIVING!
The uniform shop will be open Wednesday, 18th January and Wednesday, 25th January, 2012 from 9.00 am to 4.00 pm.
The P&F was excited to offer the College its annual cheque which totalled $50,000.00 as announced at the Gala Dinner early November. With this great contribution, the committee wishes to thank all the families and friends of the College and Parish who have supported all our fundraising events this year and enabled us to achieve this promising figure. We also thank all of you who have donated goods, your precious time, your efforts and money to help us reach this great goal. These funds will be spent on technology for teaching and learning. We look forward to giving you further details regarding this in the near future.
Mrs H. Simicos
GWC KINGSFORD OUTSIDE SCHOOL HOURS CARE The Greek Welfare Centre has revised their Outside School Hours Care fee structure, which will come into effect as of Tuesday 3rd January 2012. Fees will be as follows: After School Care - $18 per session Vacation Care - $38 (will remain the same as 2011)
WELL DONE YEAR 3 CHANTERS! Last Friday, the College invited parents to come to a lesson/service of chanting for Year 3. Every Friday, Mr Psilakos teaches chanting in our church to Year 3 students. The parents who attended were most impressed with the genuine spiritual interest the students expressed during this time. They were enthusiastic and focused on their roles throughout the whole service. Well done to all the students who participated and made us proud of their spiritual commitment towards their church – St Spyridon. Congratulations to Father Steven, Father Sotiri, Mr Psilakos, Ms Besir and Ms Nikolaou for guiding and supporting the students to reach such a great achievement!
Casual rates will be enforced as of 2012. We will require you to give at least 24 hours notice when booking in your child/ren, in order to be paying the set daily fee. If you are unable to give 24 hours notice, you will be charged a casual rate of $20 (child care benefit applies here also). If you have any difficulties to pay your fees on time or have any other fee concerns, please contact your team leader as soon as possible. Please note it is your responsibility to inform the centre of any Child Care Benefit percentage changes. Please bring in your letter from Centrelink when this does occur, so staff are able to confirm changes to your daily rate.
SEASONS GREETINGS HOLIDAYS!
We have a new look enrolment form which is available at the junior school office as well as the after school/ vacation care staff at Doran House. This form will need to be completed for your child to attend care in 2012. Please note there is one form for both after school and vacation care. The form will need to be filled out only once a year and will provide us with the relevant information needed to provide the best care possible to suit your child’s needs.
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HAPPY
The P&F committee of 2011 sincerely wishes all the families and friends of our College and Parish a very Merry Christmas and a bright and prosperous New Year! May the holidays bring you all some well deserved rest and get you ready and energised for 2012. See you all then! Mrs M Pascalis Assistant Secretary
I would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your family all the best for the upcoming holiday break and look forward to seeing you in the new year. Miss P. Doyle Children's Services Coordinator 9516 2188
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JUNIOR SCHOOL REPORT GREEK CERTIFICATE ATTAINMENT
educational programmes focused on Australia’s history, culture, heritage and democracy. The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit their National Capital as part of the civics and citizenship education. To assist parents in meeting the cost of the excursion, the Australian Government is contributing funding of $20 per eligible student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate (PACER) programme toward the travel expenses incurred.
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Students of our College who sat for the Certificate of Achievement in Greek were awarded their certificates on 23 November at the University of Technology Sydney. We congratulate all students who participated and to Mr Amditis for preparing the children.
We would like to thank the Australian Government for their support of this program.
RANDWICK CITY COUNCIL’S COASTAL AND MARINE ADVENTURE PROGRAM JANUARY 9 – 13 AND 19, 2012 Randwick City Council is running its popular summer activities program along our coast in January 2012.
CONGRATULATIONS CAPTAINS
The program includes a range of free and affordable activities aimed at helping families and children of all ages discover for themselves our unique marine and coastal environment.
HOUSE
From snorkelling around Bare Island, sea – kayaking at La Perouse, rockpool rambles at South Maroubra and discovery walks at Fred Hollow’s Reserve, Little Bay and Bare Island.
Congratulations to the following students who were selected by their house teams to be the House Captains for 2012. The students will be expected to demonstrate leadership, sportsmanship and set an example of all aspects of school policies and procedure.
Our newest activity will also take people by boat to Cooks Landing at Kamay National Park for a guided history walk.
Corinthians: Dominic Augoustis & Sophia Micos
Further details and how to book can be found on our website www.randwick.nsw.gov.au.
Delphians: George Andrianakos & Maria Krassas
YEAR 6 PREFECT CHRISTMAS COLOURING COMPETITION – WINNERS
Nemeans: Nathan Adam & Nikki Cardamis Olympians: Jordan Bond & Eleni Mastroperos
Congratulations to the following students who placed in the top three in their class in a recent Prefect Christmas Colouring Competition! Infant winners received a certificate plus 10 wacky dos (1st) or 5 wacky dos (2nd). Primary winners received a certificate plus 10 maples (1st) or 5 maples (2nd). Thank you to all teachers and students for participating and showing Christmas cheer!
AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE FOR NATIONAL CAPITAL EXCURSION Students from Year Six have recently, undertaken, an educational tour of the national capital. While on this tour they participated in a variety of
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Class KR KJ KC 1T 1V 1E 2C 2A 3S 3A 4C 4T 5A 5I 6P 6M
1st place Nia Petrelis Katerina De Pasquale Sienna Tsoukalas Christina Pascalis Tiana Natsikas Sophia Economou Athena Dimitriou Mary Diamond Efthimia Kollias Alyssa Alas Peter Tsoukalas Christina Mazis Georgina Mandidakis Christina Hatgis Tina Ventoura Andreas Veryinis
Class KR KJ KC 1T 1V 1E 2C 2A 3S 3A 4C 4T 5A 5I 6P 6M
2nd place James Karagiannis Belen Munoz Krissy Bounandinitiotis Paul Giavis Jamyson Gouveros Michael Antoniou Sophia Mavrouleftorou Teoni Antonopoulos Angelique Giokas Georgia Athanasopoulos Eleni Preketes Georgia Veryinis Elaine Andrew Dean Albinakis George Raptis Mariah Zouroudis
Class KR KJ KC 1T 1V 1E 2C 2A 3S 3A 4C 4T 5A 5I 6P 6M
3rd place Andrea Kakakios Mia Paras Jasmin Moros George Grillakis Gabriella Sketos Evangeline O’Reily Greg Hatzon Dimitra Katsidis Anna Papas Elana Munoz Connor Giavis Harry Mavroulefterou Maria Krassas No Other Participants Markella Roditis Jacqueline Burleigh
APOLOGY Our apologies to Alexandros Gousetis for incorrectly naming him in the last newsletter. Alexandros will be a Prefect in 2012.
FAREWELL AND WELCOME BACK We farewell Mrs Port and thank her for the services she has offered our children and wish her all the best. We welcome back Mrs Economou who will be returning from maternity leave in 2012. We wish Mrs Mulligan all the best as she commences her maternity leave for 2012. We wish Ms Finikakos all the best for 2012 as she commences Long Service Leave for Term 1 and special leave for the remainder of 2012.
PARENT TEACHER INTERVIEWS Thank you to all the parents who attended parent teacher interviews and waited so patiently when interviews went overtime. Thank you also to all for your positive comments about your child’s progress and about the school in general it is greatly appreciated and we look forward to working co-operatively with you in 2012 for the welfare and education of your child.
MERRY CHRISTMAS On behalf of all the staff I wish you a Merry and Holy Christmas and a Happy New Year and look forward to your safe return in 2012. Mrs M. Hamer Principal Junior School
SENIOR SCHOOL REPORT SPEECH AND PRIZE GIVING AFTERNOON 2011 The Annual Speech and Prize Giving Afternoon will be held on Thursday, 8th December, 2011. It will take place in the Sports and Performing Arts Centre. This year students will be awarded 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th place (Years 7-9, 11); 1st place (Year 10) and 1st, 2nd, 3rd place Year 12 at this event.
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neglect to step back and take stock of what we are doing and why we are doing it. This time of year is a perfect time to do all this, to reflect, and to give thanks for the experiences and lessons that life has given us, while looking forward to the renewal of hope and the new possibilities as we prepare to herald in 2012.
Students are to attend wearing summer uniform including their blazer. The Reports for Years 7-9 will be distributed at the end of the afternoon.
SCHOOL CERTIFICATE
Throughout 2011 many Middle School students have shown their understanding of this by applying themselves with diligence towards their studies, building a sense of community through their involvement in various school service projects and activities, supporting numerous charitable causes, showing resilience in difficult situations, and by learning the meaning of respect, responsibility and accountability. Congratulations and well done everyone for all your efforts! I wish you all a safe, happy holiday season and look forward to your renewed enthusiasm in 2012.
The School Certificates will be available to Year 10 students from Monday, 12th December, 2011 from the Senior School office.
BEST WISHES Mrs Kefalouros will be on Maternity Leave in 2012. We wish her well as she prepares for the birth of her second child. Mrs A. Katsogiannis Principal Senior School
CANTEEN
YEAR 4, 5 VISITS TO THE SENIOR SCHOOL AND YEAR 7 2012 ORIENTATION DAY
I would like to thank our wonderful volunteers Diane Siagos and Elenie Coroneos who help us at the canteen on a weekly basis, also Zoe Avdalis who comes to help on such short notice. I am very grateful and appreciate their time and support throughout the year. Thank you to Mr Kaldis who jumps in to help when needed.
These have indeed been very busy weeks at the Senior School. On Monday 21st November we had the privilege of having Year 4 join us to begin the first of 4 transition lessons over the coming 3 years, while on Tuesday 22nd November Year 5 spent the day here familiarizing themselves with our campus, teachers and routines.
I would also like to thank our students and staff who support our canteen whether it be on a daily basis or just occasionally, allowing us to cater for their recess and or lunch. On behalf of Maria and myself we wish all our students, staff, families and friends a Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year. Mrs I. Paraskevas Canteen Supervisor
MIDDLE REPORT
SCHOOL
“Know that the simple gift of being kind is greater than all the wisdom of the wise” Dubose Heyward The end of the school year has once again arrived. When looking back it always seems surprising how much we all have fitted in this year and indeed every year. We often hear the expression “where did the time go”, being banded around. The reason for this is a reflection of our busy, jam packed lives, and the fact that sometimes we
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Orientation Day, held this year on Friday 25th November, is always a fun filled and exciting for all involved. In 2012 we will have an even mix of students join us from our Junior School and from other Primary schools to continue their secondary schooling with us. There is also a mix of cultural backgrounds represented in this cohort, which we hope will add to the great dynamic already witnessed.
MIDDLE SCHOOL ASSEMBLY TERM 4 & KRIS KRINGLE GIFT EXCHANGE Our last assembly for the year will be held on the last Wednesday of term (next week). This occasion offers us all the opportunity to celebrate the positive efforts of Middle School students this year through the issuing of MAPLE certificates, Principals Awards, MAPLE HOUSE CUP winners, plus Year Adviser “Pat on The Back’ Awards, and Perfect Attendance Certificates. At this assembly we will be privileged to be entertained by representatives from the Middle School as well as engage in the gift of giving through our annual Kris Kringle exchange. We look forward to this event being hosted by Middle School SRC representatives: Elias Hatzon, Nicole Adam, Aaron-Paul Kostandakis, Kaliope Kefalas, Dylan Kontos and Nikolas Baratsas.
Ms G Kokinelis Dean of Middle School
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LISTENING STUDENTS
TO
OUR
The link below will enable you to view Giorgio’s contribution to this day:
NATIONAL YOUTH LEADERSHIP DAY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bIB4Gp3Xjr4
On the 18th November, Year 12, 2012 attended the ‘National Youth Leadership Day,’ at Darling Harbour. There were 2500 students from many schools attending this convention. The morning commenced with the very entertaining host, Mike Martin, who gave an engaging talk about developing our leadership skills and being prepared to take on the responsibilities awaiting us as Year 12 students.
Marielle Pizanis, Stephanie Satouris and Sofija Belajcic (Year 12, 2012)
PARLIAMENT HOUSE VISIT On the 21st of November, we visited NSW Parliament House to take part in the annual Vote Formal Seminar. We were shown around and then addressed by: The Honorary Don Harwin MLC, President of the Legislative Council and Mr Jamie Parker MP, Member for Balmain. They also answered questions asked by the students from various schools in attendance, (incidentally most these questions were related to the Carbon tax). Afterwards, workshops were held in which the students simulated the creation of a political party and attempted to gain votes. Finally, we were educated on the electoral process and how votes are counted up. In summation, it was an enjoyable and informative day for all students who attended.
The first speaker for the day was Jessica Watson, who sailed around the world on her own at age 16 and recently also won the Young Australian of the year award. She gave a very interesting talk about her life journey and the challenges she has had to overcome. From this we learnt about resilience and determination. Jessica Watson left us with a memorable quote; “Aim for the moon and even if you miss you will land amongst the stars.”
Giorgio Lambos and Kostandino Baratsas (Year 12, 2012)
Avril Henry, a leadership expert, was the next speaker and someone whom many of us connected with the most. She was very inspirational, and her message was clear… never give up on your dreams. The qualities she exhibited on this day made us aspire to be like her. Avril Henry quoted the esteemed Thomas Edison who once said;
RECOUNT ON YEAR 3 CAMP
“Genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration.”
On Thursday 10th November, 2011, Year 3 went to camp at Deer Park for two days and one night. It started to rain and I started to get really worried that it would rain the whole time. I got more worried when it rained the whole trip to camp on the bus. Finally it stopped raining!
Another highlight of the day was the celebrity guest speaker, singer Delta Goodrem, who reinforced the idea that we must believe in ourselves, that we need to strive to be great leaders, and be passionate about what we love to do.
First, we got out of the bus and went inside the hall to meet two of our leaders called, Tabitha and Matty. We talked about camp and then were led back to the bus to collect our bags. My bag was one of the biggest. Then we were being led towards our cabin.
Overall, The National Young Leaders Day was a worthwhile experience. It gave us further impetus to excel in what we feel passionate about and highlighted the importance of being positive role models for the people around us.
Next, we walked into our cabins. I was in my cabin with my friends. We were in cabin number 12. Then the bell went and we assembled in the court yard. Our first activity was the waterslide! I went on it 5 times! After the waterslide were the Mangroves.
To conclude, on this eventful and inspirational day, Giorgio Lambos, one of our peers was privileged to be chosen to contribute to the “10 000 Great Ideas” clip.
Soon after, we got ready for the Mangroves with Matty. We went on a motor boat to “Mangrove Island.” We saw a midden and learnt lots of cool things about the island. The next thing we did was
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little dips. Once you’re at the bottom of the dip it feels like your about to fall off. On the waterslide you are able to go with two friends which is really fun!
hop into the boat and go back to the jetty. Then it was lunch! We had beef burgers and paddle pops! After lunch was pool rafting. It was SO fun! Then it was free time, however group B and C had kitchen duty. This involved cleaning plates and serving food. After dinner we went to bed. I slept on a trundle.
After that we got ready for lunch and were told our activity groups. Group A was on the kitchen duty. We had to serve people and clean up. For lunch there was beef burgers and ice-cream.
The next morning, our activities were Christian Discovery, bush hiking and bush cooking. Before we knew it, it was time to go home. I had such an exciting time and am looking forward to it again next year!
After lunch, group A and B went to the Mangroves and learned different things. After we went to the Mangroves we went pool rafting. At pool rafting, we had to make a raft and then race our rafts! Pool rafting was a fantastic activity.
Rose Economou 3S
Later on, we needed to get ready for dinner. For dinner we had butter chicken and group B and C were on kitchen duty. After dinner, we did our last activity for the day which was “night games.” After we played games we got ready for bed. At night we spoke, laughed and could not get to sleep.
On Thursday 10th November Year 3 went to Deer Park. It was our first ever camp. Everyone was so excited! We were going to miss our parents a little bit but we knew we were going to be home soon. First, we went on the bus to go the Deer Park it was about 40 minutes away. I could not stop looking out the window to see the wildlife. On the bus, we had a great time talking to our Friends.
The next day, we had breakfast which was cereal, bacon and eggs. After breakfast we had Christian Discovery where we learned about being good Christians.
Next, we finally stopped at Deer Park. We went to our cabins and unpacked. We got changed for the waterslide. We walked to the waterslide and got a mat. The water started running and I jumped in! My friend lost his mat and I landed near him. It looked like we were crabs. Then the big splash went over our heads! This was a very fun activity.
Eventually, it was lunch and we went out in the bush to do bush cooking. This was awesome! After that we went to the camp site and got ready to leave. I loved camp and can’t wait to go back there next year!
After that we went on a speed boat to the Mangroves. We had to lick a leaf. On the way back, the speed boat went so fast it was tilting! Soon after we went pool rafting then had lunch. We had free time in our cabin then had kitchen duty. We had to clean the plates and threw away rubbish. Then it was night time. The next morning we were off back to school, I had a great time and I would love to do it again!
Anna Papas 3S
GREEK
COLUMN
Αγαπητοί γονείς και φίλοι, Στο τεύχος αυτό δηµοσιεύουµε τις εργασίες τριών µαθητών της Β’ Γυµνασίου. Οι εργασίες αυτές παρουσιάστηκαν προφορικά ως οµιλίες, µέρος των διαγωνισµών του Β΄εξαµήνου. Καλή ανάγνωση, Καλά Χριστούγεννα και καλές διακοπές! κ. Μ.Φαλέτα
Nicola Skouteris On the 10th of November 2011, Year 3 was getting ready to go the Deer Park for camp. This camp was not only about having fun but was also about learning.
Θέµα: «Πώς τα περάσαµε σε µια βάπτιση»
When we first arrived, we were told a little about camp and then we went to our cabins to get ready for our first activity. The first activity was the waterslide. The waterslide was really big and had
Καληµέρα σας κυρία Φαλέτα και συµµαθητές, Πριν από ένα µήνα παραβρέθηκα σε µια βάπτιση στον ιερό ναό του Αγίου Σπυρίδωνα. Ο παππούς
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µου είναι επίτροπος στην εκκλησία και είχε υπηρεσία εκείνο το απόγευµα. Πήγα κι εγώ µαζί του να του κάνω παρέα αλλά επίσης ήξερα και την οικογένεια.
Θέµα: «Πώς τα περάσαµε σ’ ένα γάµο» Καληµέρα σας κυρία Φαλέτα και συµµαθητές µου, όπως ξέρετε µε λένε Καλλιόπη και είµαι χαρούµενη που σήµερα πρέπει να σας µιλήσω για το «πώς περάσαµε σ’ ένα γάµο» που έγινε την περασµένη Κυριακή. Πήγα µε τους γονείς µου και όλα εκεί ήταν τέλεια!
Όπως ήδη γνωρίζετε, στην αρχή της βάπτισης, κρατάει η νουνά το παιδί και στέκονται στο νάρθηκα όπου ο ιερέας διαβάζει σπουδαίες ευχές στις οποίες απαντά η νουνά ή ο νουνός.
Ευτυχώς, έπρεπε να είµαστε στην εκκλησία στις δύο το µεσηµέρι κι έτσι είχα αρκετή ώρα να ξυπνήσω αργά και να ετοιµαστώ χωρίς να βιάζοµαι. Φύγαµε από το σπίτι στη µία και µισή και φτάσµε στην εκκλησία στις δύο και πέντε. Μόλις βγήκαµε όµως από το αυτοκίνητό µας ήρθε η νύφη. Την οικογένεια της νύφης την ξέρουµε για πολλά χρόνια, αλλά δεν ξέραµε τον γαµπρό και τον γνωρίσαµε στην εκκλησία.
Όλα πηγαίνουν καλά! Ακούσαµε το όνοµα του παιδιού, Γεώργιος κι έπειτα πήραν τον Γεώργιο να τον γδύσουν. Εκείνος άρχισε να κλαίει αλλά σταµάτησε αµέσως όταν ο ιερέας τον βούτηξε στην κολυµπήθρα γιατί έκανε ζέστη εκείνη την ηµέρα και φαίνεται ότι το νερό ήταν δροσερό και του άρεσε! Ο Γεώργιος δεν ήθελε να βγει από την κολυµπήθρα και ο ιερέας δεν µπορούσε να τον βγάλει. Όχι µόνο αυτό, αλλά άρχισε να ταράζει το νερό µε τα πόδια του κι έκανε µούσκεµα τον ιερέα και τη νουνά. Αφού λοιπόν τον έπιασαν κι οι δυο, το ένα χέρι ο ιερέας και το άλλο η νουνά, κατάφεραν να τον βγάλουν και να τον ντύσουν οι δικοί του.
Λοιπόν, η νύφη, που φορούσε ένα πανέµορφο νυφικό και τα παρανυφάκια βγήκανε από δύο διαφορετικές λιµουζίνες και µπήκανε στην εκκλησία χαµογελώντας σ’ όλους τους καλεσµένους που έπαιρναν φωτογραφίες. Μετά από µισή ώρα το Μυστήριο είχε τελειώσει και ο γαµπρός και η νύφη ήταν πια ένα παντρεµένο ζευγάρι. Μου άρεσε που στο τέλος τους ρίχναµε ρύζι, ένα ελληνικό έθιµο για «να ριζώσουν µαζί» όπως λέµε, ένα έθιµο που µου αρέσει πολύ!
Τέλος πάντων, τελείωσε η βάπτιση και πέρασαν όλοι να ευχηθούν στους γονείς «να τους ζήσει ο νεοφώτιστος» και στη νουνά «πάντα άξια». Στην έξοδο µας έδωσαν µπουµπουνιέρα κι ένα κοµµάτι κέικ σοκολάτας.
Αµέσως µετά γυρίσαµε στο σπίτι γιατί είχαµε περίπου δύο ώρες καιρό µέχρι την ώρα της δεξίωσης που άρχιζε στις έξι. Αυτές οι δύο ώρες πέρασαν γρήγορα και σε λίγο µπαίναµε στην αίθουσα όπου γινόταν το δείπνο. Εκεί, η ατµόσφαιρα ήταν πολύ ωραία, η διακόσµηση της ανακαινισµένης αίθουσας τέλεια και αν κι ο κόσµος ήταν πολύς κι ο χώρος λίγος δεν µε πείραζε καθόλου!
Η δεξίωση έγινε στο χωλ της εκκλησίας. Κάθε τραπέζι είχε σαλάτες, µικρά στογγυλά µπισκότα µε ταραµά ή τζατζίκι, τυρί φέτα και ψωµί. Μας κάλεσαν τραπέζι – τραπέζι να σερβιριστούµε από τον µπουφέ που είχε γαρίδες, τυρόπιτες, σπανακόπιτες, καλαµάρι, ψάρι και κεφτεδάκια.
Το φαγητό ήταν πολύ νόστιµο και έφαγα απ’ όλα. Θαλασσινά, κρεατικά και τελικά τρελάθηκα µε τα γλυκά! Ο γαµπρός και η νύφη χόρεψαν τον πρώτο χορό και µετά πολλοί άλλοι έκαναν το ίδιο αφού πρώτα τελείωσαν οι διάφορες οµιλίες που είχαν ο πατέρας του γαµπρού και της νύφης, ο κουµπάρος και κάποιοι άλλοι συγγενείς.
Μετά απ’ το φαγητό, η νουνά µαζί µε τον Γεώργιο κόψανε την τούρτα που ήταν στολισµένη µε µπλε κορδέλα και το όνοµα Γεώργιος. Ύστερα µας κάλεσαν για καφέ και γλυκά και για το συνηθισµένο Ελληνικό, γιορτινό τραπέζι µε τους κουραµπιέδες, τα µελοµακάρονα, καταϊφι, µπακλαβά και το πιο αγαπητό µου γλυκό το γαλακτοµπούρεκο. Το απόγευµα ήταν πολύ ευχάριστο και εύχοµαι να έχω την ευκαιρία να ξαναβρεθώ σε µια ελληνική βάπτιση σύντοµα. Ευχαριστώ
∆ιασκέδασα πολύ χορεύοντας µοντέρνους και ελληνικούς παραδοσιακούς χορούς. Όµως το γλέντι για µένα και την οικογένειά µου τέλειωσε κάπως σύντοµα επειδή είχα σχολείο την άλλη µέρα. Να σας πω όµως την αλήθεια, γυρίσαµε στο σπίτι σχετικά αργά και ήτανε δύσκολο να ξυπνήσω νωρίς το επόµενο πρωί.... Τα περάσαµε όµως υπέροχα!!
Christos Kollias 8GKA
Kalioppe Kefalas Year 8GKA
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Θέµα: «Μια γιορτή στο σπίτι»
CONGRATULATIONS…………
Καληµέρα σας κυρία Φαλέτα και συµµαθητές. Στην οικογένειά µου µας αρέσει να γιορτάζουµε κάθε επέτειο ονοµαστικής γιορτής και γενεθλίων. Μαζευόµαστε όλοι µαζί για να γιορτάσουµε. Ιδιαίτερα στη δική µου ονοµαστική γιορτή το γλεντάµε πραγµατικά διότι η γιορτή µου είναι την Πρωτοχρονιά. Έτσι στο σπίτι µας έχουµε διπλή γιορτή γιορτάζοντας την πρώτη µέρα του χρόνου και τη γιορτή του Αγίου Βασιλείου.
¾ Nansia Koukounaris and Luka Kasalovic of Year 9 who were selected for the Under 18’s Sydney Comets Division 1 Basketball Representative Team. ¾ Rena Lambos of Year 9 who was selected for the Under 18’s Sydney Comets Division 2 Basketball Representative Team.
Το προηγούµενο βράδυ, δηλαδή, την παραµονή της Πρωτοχρονιάς, βγαίνουµε για να δούµε τα πυροτεχνήµατα. Γυρίζουµε στο σπίτι αργά και έτσι την ηµέρα της γιορτής µου σηκωνόµαστε αργά από το κρεβάτι. Φυσικά, εγώ µόλις σηκωθώ, ψάχνω για τα δώρα που µου πήραν οι γονείς µου. Αυτό άλλωστε είναι το πιο σπουδαίο! Τρελαίνοµαι να βλέπω τα δώρα που µου ‘χουν πάρει!
¾ Andriane Efstratiou of Year 9 who was selected for the Under 16’s Sydney Comets Basketball Representative Team. ¾ Cassandra Georgiou of Year 9 who was selected for the St George Opens (Div 5) team to compete in the NSW State League Competition.
Η µαµά αρχίζει να ετοιµάζει τα διάφορα φαγητά και τις σαλάτες για το βραδινό τραπέζι µε όλους τους συγγενείς µας. Ο µπαµπάς ανάβει τα κάρβουνα και ψήνει πολλά και διάφορα κρέατα. Έτσι, νωρίς το απόγευµα, το σπίτι είναι στολισµένο µε όλα τα Χριστουγεννιάτικα στολίδια, τα φαγητά έτοιµα και οι συγγενείς και φίλοι µας αρχίζουν να έρχονται µε τα δώρα και τα γλυκά τους και φυσικά όλα για µένα! Είναι ωραίο να έχεις πολλούς γύρω σου που σ’ αγαπάνε.
¾ Natalie Michos of Year 9 who was selected for the Under 16’s UNSW Soccer Representative. ¾ Nicole Adam of Year 7 who was selected for the Under 14’s UNSW Soccer Representative. ¾ Dane Ivanovic of Year 9 who was selected for the Under 15’s Rockdale City Suns Soccer Representative.
Επίσης το τηλέφωνό µας δεν σταµατά να χτυπά για τις ευχές απ’ όλους τους συγγενείς µας στην Ελλάδα. Έτσι λοιπόν, όλοι µαζεµένοι, τρώµε και παίζουµε γιορτάζοντας τον ερχοµό του καινούριου χρόνου και την ονοµαστική µου γιορτή. Μέχρι τα µεσάνυχτα κρατάει το γλέντι αυτό και συνήθως την επόµενη µέρα φεύγουµε για διακοπές κάπου κοντά στη θάλασσα.
¾ Stefan Petrovski of Year 8 who was selected for the Under 15’s Sydney Olympic Soccer Representative. ¾ Petros Stefadouros and Christopher Kolistasis of Year 10 who were selected for the Under 18’s Sydney Olympic Soccer Representative.
Είµαι πολύ χαρούµενη που έχω αυτό το όνοµα, Βασιλική, γιατί έχω την ονοµαστική µου γιορτή την πιο όµορφη µέρα του χρόνου!
As we can see from above we have many talented students in a variety of sports and many whom despite their involvement in outside sport continue to represent their school, which most certainly strengthens our participation in the ISA competition.
Vicky Papadopoulos Year 8GKA
SPORTS
COLUMN
ISA BASKETBALL SEASON
Students of our college not only excel in their sporting achievements within the school setting, many students are achieving exceptional selections within many community teams. Due to their modesty their achievements have not yet been acknowledged.
After Round 6 we have seen some exceptional results. Open Girls remain undefeated and look in good stead for a Finals Position. The team would like to
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take this opportunity to thank Mrs Kefalouros for her commitment to the team and wish her all the best for the upcoming birth of her child.
BOYS BASKETBALL will commence next year. Its good to see that the Opens are undefeated and looks promising that the 13's and 14's will make the finals. If this happens it will be the first time St Spyridon has had 100% of the Basketball teams in the Finals. Let’s hope and ALL players please practice over the holidays.
Intermediate A’s team who consist of Year 10 students are currently in a very difficult division competing against many schools who have representative players, however, they have remained positive, persistent and competitive at all times.
Results so far
Intermediate B’s have secured a couple of wins demonstrating that hard work is not only important in the classroom. These girls have worked incredibly hard to improve their skills and of all teams they train the hardest. Miss Kladakis has been a positive influence for the girls and I wish them luck for the remainder of the season.
Opens Round 1 - beat St Stanislaus Round 2 - beat Oakhill College Round 3 - beat St Andrew's Round 4 - beat St Pius X Round 5 - beat St Pius X Round 6 - beat Redlands
Junior A’s team has little experience in comparison to their competition, however, they have been extremely competitive with some close defeats and some good wins.
14's Round 1 - lost to St Stanislaus Round 2 - beat Oakhill College Round 3 - beat St Andrew's Round 4 - beat St Pius X Round 5 - lost to St Patricks Round 6 - beat Redlands
Junior B’s won their first game in two years by one point which was definitely a highlight for the season. Let’s hope for some more wins next year. Junior C’s with two teams in the same division the Year 7 girls have demonstrated exceptional sportsmanship and their skills are beginning to improve each week. The girls have shown a willingness to practice every lunch which is a positive sign for the years to come.
13's Round 1 - lost to St Stanislaus Round 2 - BYE Round 3 - beat St Andrew's Round 4 - beat St Pius X Round 5 - lost to St Patricks Round 6 - beat Redlands
I hope all teams have a restful holiday and continue to practice their Basketball over the Summer Break! Good Luck to all teams for the remainder of the Basketball Season.
Mr A. Condous Boys Sport
Ms K. O’Shea Girls Sport
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2012 DATES
TERM 1
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Friday 27 January 2012 Monday 30th January 2012 Tuesday 31st January 2012 Wednesday 1st February 2012
Staff Development Day Staff Development Day Years 1 to 7, 11 & 12 commence Kindergarten and Years 8 – 10 commence
Thursday 5th April 2012
Term ends
Friday 6th April 2012 Sunday 8th April 2012 Monday 9th April 2012
Public Holiday – Western Good Friday Western Easter Public Holiday – Western Easter Monday
Friday 13th April Sunday 15th April
Good Friday Orthodox Easter
TERM 2
Monday 23rd April 2012 Tuesday 24th April 2012 Wednesday 25th April 2012
Staff Development Day Students return Anzac day – Public Holiday
Monday 11th June 2012
Queen’s Birthday Public Holiday, School closed
Friday 22nd June 2012
Term ends for staff and students
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TERM 3
Monday 16 July 2012 Tuesday 17th July 2012
Staff Development Day Students return
Wednesday 15th August 2012
Dormition of the Theotokos - school closed
Thursday 20th September 2012 Friday 21st September 2012
Term ends for students Staff Development Day
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TERM 4
Monday 8 October 2012
Staff and students return
Thursday 6th December 2012 Friday 7th December 2012
Term ends for students Staff Development day
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