Brighton Secondary School Newsletter March 2012 by Brighton Secondary School

Brighton Secondary School

Newsletter ISSUE 2 I March 2012

From the Principal The visit by Prime Minister Julia Gillard placed Brighton Secondary School centre stage on news services around the world. The students were accomplished ambassadors for the school. The Prime Minister remarked on the talented Rat Pack; the sustainable One to One Program and the unique Volleyball focus. She was particularly interested in what were the F1 model cars – since that visit, the F1 in Schools Team won the National Title and are off to London in September. This is a remarkable achievement (please see the article later in the newsletter). Perhaps your business may consider making a donation to their sponsorship program which is raising money for their air fares and accommodation.

Chris Sarra with his In the near book ‘Dingoes aren’t Dogs’ future we will make DayMap available to parents with your own log-in details to check your child’s attendance, grades and homework. The new version of DayMap has been installed and once it is stable we will alert you.

Brighton’s first 60th Anniversary event was the Volleyball Evening. Congratulations to staff and students for a memorable event.

The Southern Region funded me to attend this course and then engage with other local schools with a view to improving outcomes for both aboriginal students and all students from a range of cultural backgrounds. Chris Sarra, past Principal of Cherbourg State School, developed the school and its community to increase student achievement in education and in self-esteem. He developed the Stronger Smarter program which now has Australia-wide exposure. He has been seen on television and is considered a forthright scholar himself. His passion for changing the outcomes for the disadvantaged was infectious. Our Professional Development day on Thursday 5th April will incorporate much of his work.

Rapid House won Sports Day – the first time in more than 10 years. Congratulations to the students who came in house colours despite the cold, damp weather. You can imagine the hard work and long hours of planning that go on behind the scenes, especially for the Physical Education staff and the Groundsman. All schools will be teaching the Australian Curriculum in 2013 and to prepare, we are teaching it in 2012. The two extra Professional Development days are assisting staff to be acquainted with the new curriculum. I remind you that we have placed the Professional Development days in week 1 of term 2, because it is already interrupted by Anzac Day and the Year 12 Formal. The new web site is live and I commend it to you. Do give us feedback and keep an eye out for out-ofdate information in the future. Assistant Principal, David Thomson, Design Notion and Stellar Digital Strategies have produced a state-of-the-art web site that showcases our school across the world.

Department for Education and Child Development T/A South Australian Government Schools CRICOS Provider Number: 00018A

305 Brighton Road North Brighton, SA 5048 P 618 8375 8200 F 618 8296 0949 E admin@brightonss.sa.edu.au www.brightonss.sa.edu.au

This year Brighton Secondary School is due for the triennial self-review required of all DECD schools. We review the school under these headings: • Philosophy • Governance • Curriculum • Students • Staff • Community • Resources & Finance If you would like to be part of one of the parent consultation teams please email Denise Hoskin (denise.hoskin@brightonss.sa.edu.au) The 2012 Site Learning Plan will focus on Literacy, the Australian Curriculum and Tools for Thinking. Contact me personally if you would like to discuss these priorities in more detail.

My recent trip to Cherbourg Queensland to attend the Stronger Smarter Leadership program gave me renewed understanding about what’s called cultural competency. You may be interested in checking out their web site.

The Department for Education and Child Development has streamlined processes for grievances, reporting bullying and parent complaints. These will be available on the web site. I remind our families that the first point of contact with a complaint is with the teacher. If it can’t be resolved there, then contact the Student Team Leader or a member of the Principal Team. Once those avenues are exhausted and there’s still no resolution, the Assistant Regional Director, Michele Spencer, could come on board. Most issues can be settled very quickly if good communication happens early on. We all try to return calls or emails within 24 hours, but sometimes, glitches happen. If you have not had a reply, give us a reminder. Parent / Teacher / Student conferences occur on Tuesday 3rd April, 3.30pm - 8.30pm for Year 11 and 12 students and Wednesday 2nd May, 3.30pm 8.30pm for Years 8, 9 & 10 students. Information and appointment sheets for the Year 11 & 12 interviews have been distributed to students via their Homegroup Teacher. The Year 8, 9 & 10 information and appointment sheets will be distributed with the students’ reports on Thursday 4th April. I wish all families a happy and safe Easter and holiday break to recharge for term 2. Olivia O’Neill Principal

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

Diary Dates 2012 APRIL

MAY

JUNE

Governing Council, 7.30pm

Year 8 SIV Heathfield Challenge

Italian Day Performance

ears 11 & 12 Parent / Teacher / Y Student Conferences, 3.30pm – 8.30pm, by appointments

ear 8, 9 & 10 Parent / Teacher / Y Student Conferences, 3.30pm – 8.30pm, by appointments

Governing Council, 7.30pm

Queen’s Birthday public holiday

SIV Year 8 / 9 / 10 in school trials

Interschool Athletics

Governing Council

Year 10 KO SIV

Last Day of term for students

Open Day

23-30 Sydney Music Trip

5 Student Free Day, Staff Training & Development

Year 8 Immunisations

26-28 SIV Year 9 Tour

SIV Initial Out of zone trial (by appt.)

Good Friday

25-29 Year 11 Exam Week

15-17 NAPLAN Testing

First day of term 2

15-17 Year 12 Aquatics

Anzac Day Holiday

SIM Applications close

26 Student Free Day, Staff Training & Development

NAPLAN catch up

SIM Shortlisting

27 Student Free Day, Staff Training & Development

60th Anniversary Music Event

Year 12 School Formal

25-29 Year 10 Work Experience Week 29

Last day of Term 2

28-29 SIM Auditions SIV Final out of zone trial (by selection)

Congratulations Billy Voss recently came fifth in the Australia National Mountain Bike Championships. He competed in the Under 15s category at the race held in Eagle Mountain Bike Park. He has also won the State Mountain Bike Championships. Lewis Warland, Year 10, has been selected in the State Junior Athletics team competing in Sydney in March and the State Little Athletics state team competing in Hobart in April. Lewis also won the under 17 550 metre title at the Bay Sheffield Carnival at Glenelg in December. Olivia Griffiths, Year 8, competed in the State Junior Athletics Championships held at Santos Stadium in February and won gold in the Women’s Under 16 Pole Vault. Olivia has been selected to represent South Australia in the Junior National Athletics Championships to be held in Sydney in March.

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

Prime Minister’s Visit Principals and Directors of the Southern Adelaide Region of the Department of Education and Child Development and Independent kindergartens, primary schools and secondary schools were invited to the Brighton Performing Arts Centre on 23rd February to an Education Forum with the Prime Minister, Julia Gillard, to ask questions about the Gonski Report.

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

60th Anniversary Opening Ceremony

& Leadership and Recognition Assembly The Leadership and Recognition Assemblies held on 1st March gave Students, Staff and the Community the chance to acknowledge the students chosen to be Peer Support Leaders, Student Representative Council Leaders and Sport House Captains in 2012. Brighton Secondary School welcomed back old scholars Ms Frances Robertson, Mr Bob McGibbon, Mr John Bligh, and Ms Diana Boyd. Ms Robertson attended Brighton High School between 1952 and 1955 and is currently Acting Chairperson of our school’s Old Scholars Committee. Mr Bligh attended Brighton High School between 1952 and 1954. Mr McGibbon, a former Old Scholars Committee Chairperson, attended Brighton High School between 1952 and 1955 and Ms Boyd attended Brighton Secondary School between 1954 and 1956. Ms Robertson and Mr Bligh officially opened the 60th Anniversary Calendar of Events for 2012. Volleyball medal winners from the 2011 Australian Schools’ Volleyball Championships which were held in Melbourne in December were also recognised.

Student Representative Council 2012

Yr 12

Thomas Agars, Head Prefect Jake Morgan, Deputy Head Prefect

Kate Forrester, Head Prefect Kelsey James, Deputy Head Prefect

Yr 11

Jack Newton Bob Parton

Chloe Bremner Sonia Huang Michelle Lennon Lucie Soldan

Yr 10

Ralph Abregana Daniel Akers Chris Buckley

Zoe Lee Chloe Taylor Emily Tran

Yr 9

Billy Voss

Emily Boyd Kaitlyn McKenzie Mikaela Trout

Yr 8

Thomas Hemer Christopher McDonald Sam Will

Erika Kurosawa Kelly Lee

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

Sports House Captains 2012 BUFFALO

HOLDFAST

CYGNET

RAPID

Yr 12

Andrew Aufderheide, Captain Tayce Fry, Captain

Ashwin Whitelaw, Captain Sarah Habel, Captain

Ben Miller, Captain Rosie Nunu, Captain

Jacob Cocks, Captain Hannah Leadbeater, Captain

Yr 11

Kostas Kontos, Captain Sonia Huang, Captain

Cameron Taeuber, Captain Fontae Franks, Captain

Harrison Riddle, Captain Clare Djokic, Captain

Mani Ganiger, Captain Macey Gibbs, Captain

Yr 10

Lewis Warland, Captain Tahlia Kither, Captain

Rohan Wight, Captain Maddie Gurr, Captain

Dylan Cox, Captain Zoe Abbott, Captain

Cody Kumnick, Captain Chloe Taylor, Captain

Yr 9

Lewis Beckwith, Captain Ellissa Noolan, Captain

Jacob Kamara, Captain Phoebe Wittwer-Smith, Captain

Saxon Klass, Captain Tahlia Bryant, Captain

Iman Zarei, Captain Hannah Dubsky, Captain

Peer Support Leaders 2012 ADKIN Jacob

JOHNS Emily

AHERN-BRIGGS Bella

KENNEDY Brooklin

BARRY Cameron

LOMMAN Melissa

BASTABLE Abby

MITCHELLJace

BASTABLE Lizzie

NAPOLI Selene

BOURNIAS George

NEWTON Jack

BRADEY Alanah

OAK Unmesh

BREMNER Chloe

OLDS Spencer

BURTON Charlotte

PENERY Lauren

BURTON Jane

QUIGLEY Emma

CUSENZA Margaret

ROBB Renee

FALZON Uly

SCOTT Amy

GIGGER Esther

SHERRAH Claire

GOODE Emily

SIMMONS Erin

GREENSHIELDS Rachael

SOLDAN Lucie

HANLIN Rachel

STEVEN Danika

HARRY Adam

VIRGO-COLBEY Tess

HARTLEY Sarah

WILFORD Lisa

HEGGART Talis

WILLIAMS Katie

HOLLAMBY Natasha

WRIGHT Charlotte

HUNT Olivia

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

YEAR

Standards Days The beautiful blue sky days set the perfect atmosphere for the year 8 and 9 Standards Days. Students participated actively in nine athletic events and tug of war, beach volleyball and climbed a 10 metre rock climbing wall. It was fantastic to see the endeavour with which the students took on the challenges of each of the activities. The support students provided for others to be involved and achieve their best was outstanding. There was an excellent display of House spirit, with plenty of colour and a high level of participation. I would like to thank the Homegroup teachers and Peer Support students for their involvement on the day as well as the Physical Education staff and other staff who managed the events. The leadership displayed by the House Captains was exceptional. The day could not run as smoothly without their skills in officiating and peer coaching. The efforts of the Physical Education staff and other staff who volunteered to manage events was appreciated by everyone involved in the day. Peter Vowles Healthy Life Style Coordinator

Results by Homegroup: Position

Results by House: Place

House

Total Points

House Shield Points

Buffalo

1665

100

Cygnet

1650

Holdfast

1567

Rapid

1457

Individual Athletic Achievements: Girls

Boys

Homegroup

Points

0803B

33.2

0801H

32.1

0801C

31.4

0803C

28.4

0802C

28.4

0802B

28.2

0802H

27.6

0803R

27.5

0803H

25.3

0801R

24.9

0801B

24.8

0802R

24.4

Position

Homegroup

% Participation

0803B

95.7

801H

FRANSON Samantha

801C

JAMES Tyson

0801C

95.5

803B

JONES Eloise

803B

RIDDLE Jackson

0803C

95.5

0802B

91.3

801C

MATTINGLY Emily

801H

DUFF John-Connor

803C

MAWBY Isabel

803B

STORKEN Liam

0802R

91.3

802R

OLDS Francesca

802C

DOWLING Jack

0801H

90.9

802B

GRIFFITHS Olivia

801R

PIDGEON Alan

0803R

90.9

802C

NAPIER- TRAEGER Madelyn

803R

WILL Samuel

0802C

90.9

801C

HARRY Ella

802H

MCNICOL Oliver

0803H

86.4

802H

SLOAN Shannai

802B

TURTON Mitchell

0801B

86.4

801B

PHILLIPS Nina

802R

COLLINS Jeremy

0801R

86.4

802H

STRUDWICK Michelle

802C

NEEVES Richard

0802H

85.7

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

YEAR

Results by House: Place

House

Total Points

Individual Athletic Achievements: House Shield Points

Rapid

1538

100

Holdfast

1507

Cygnet

1349

Buffalo

1344

Girls

Boys

901C

REEVE Rachel

901R

EVANS Justin

903R

DUBSKY Hannah

901R

JOLLY Luke

902R

DUNCAN Molly

902H

KAMARA Jacob

901B

NOOLAN Ellissa

902R

CRICHTON Drew

901B

RILEY Vanessa

903R

McEVOY Jarred

903H

HOLMES DeArne

901R

DEBOO FARY Jai

902H

FLINN Zoe

901R

TURNER Matthew

902R

KIND Georgina

903B

FARRELL Braeden

903C

ADOLPHI Josephine

902B

MURRAY Charlotte

902B

McNAB Tamikha

903B

McLEOD Brodie

35.5

902H

GREENSHIELDS William

902B

SIKORSKI Caleb

Results by Homegroup: Position

Homegroup

Points

0902H

31.2

0902R

30.5

0902B

26.0

0901R

25.0

0903R

22.5

0903B

22.5

0901C

22.2

0902C

22.9

0903H

21.9

0901H

21.7

0903C

21.1

0901B

18.6

Position

Homegroup

% Participation

0902R

0902C

0902H

87.5

0902B

82.6

0901C

82.6

0903H

79.2

0903R

0903B

0901H

69.6

0901R

0903C

0901B

62.5

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

Swimming Carnival On Wednesday 22nd February we held the Brighton Secondary School Swimming Carnival at the State Aquatic and Leisure Centre for the first time. Over 190 students attended the swimming carnival, including 90 year 8 students. The cheering from the grandstand for the championship events, as well as the mass involvement in the swimming heats and novelties brought colour, house spirit and a sense of occasion to this event. Students also enjoyed participating in the leisure activities including waterslides and novelty games in the afternoon. The leadership of our house captains was integral in the promotion of the carnival and for encouraging and organising students in their houses successfully into events. The student timekeepers made an invaluable contribution, with their efforts and concentration throughout the day. I thank the staff who officiated and managed students and events, as well as the Principal Team and teachers for their support of the day in the busy school calendar. Without the involvement of all these people, the event would not be so successful, or indeedÂ possible. Teacher officials included: Helen White; Barbara Bleckly, Jamie Tester, Ross Service, Tony Mahar, Jayne Hall, Matt Fuss and Anthea Williams.

Final House Scores: Place

House

Total Points

Cygnet

630

Holdfast

507

Rapid

440

Buffalo

408

It is fantastic to have such a positive start to our first carnival event of the year. Points from this event contribute to the Sports Carnival Shield and the overall House Shield. Peter Vowles Healthy Lifestyles Coordinator

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

Individual Winners: Yr 8 Girls Yr 8 Boys Yr 9 Girls Yr 9 Boys Yr 10 Girls

Yr 10 Boys

Open Girls Open Boys

Winner

Adele Beaumont

Runner up Winner

Larissa Fielding

Tom Polden

Runner up

Otis Carthy

Winner

Taylah Eastwood

Runner up

Tayla Jefferies

Winner

Saxon Klass

Runner up

Peter Baker -Hutton

Winner

TJay Rump

Runner up

Renee Kosonen

Winner

Jack Thiele

Runners up

Kohban Fry Lachlan Tyler-Dowd

R H

Winner

Tilly Witherspoon

Runner up

Hannah Leadbeater

Winner

Ethan Rump

Runner up

Curtis Hall

New Records: Event

Name

House

Old Record

New Record

10 Boys

50m Freestyle

Jack Thiele

Rapid

26.22

25.94

10 Boys

50m Butterfly

Jack Thiele

Rapid

29.05

28.47

Open Boys

50m Freestyle

Ethan Rump

Rapid

25.98

25.76

Open Boys

50m Butterfly

Ethan Rump

Rapid

28.95

28.71

Open Boys

50m Breaststroke

Ethan Rump

Rapid

33.21

32.24

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

SACE Results Amended Report In the SACE results report included in the last newsletter, there were a few notable omissions which have been corrected in the data below. Several of our students completed their SACE over a two year period (2010 - 2011) and the original report did not reflect, for some of these students, the results achieved in 2010. This included the number of A grades achieved and the number of merits received. Apologies for this oversight. This year our top-performing student was DeAnne Wilson. DeAnne achieved an ATAR of 99.85 and achieved 2 merits. DeAnne was also awarded the Dux of the school for 2011. Lauren Footner achieved an ATAR of 99.5 and 1 Merit, Tim Stevens 99.0, Jake Taylor 99.80, Izabella Tunis-Notley 99.0, Samantha Tuscharski 99.05 and 1 Merit. Other students with particularly outstanding results were:

Student

ATAR

Merits

Student

ATAR

Merits

Shai Martin

93.25

Jessica Archbold

97.0

Rachael Bartholomew

90.25

Emma McEwen

91.9

Georgia Bevan

96.2

Sarah Metcalfe

93.8

Tara Bouchier

92.45

Jack Morris

96.1

Daniel Clarkson

98.05

Mark Oakley

96.3

Patrick Cobiac

92.05

Samantha Pretty

91.9

Estelle Coote

97.65

Callum Ritchie

94.4

Jack De La Lande

92.6

Georgia Ryan

94.05

Sarah Edwards

94.9

Hanna Sabic

93.05

Renae Fatchen

98.05

Alex Schumaker

96.10

Lauren Footner

99.5

Rebecca South

91.8

Ashleigh Greaves

94.8

Brianna Speight

96.75

Sarah Greenhalgh

94.8

Tim Stevens

99.0

Xuejing Han

96.5

Jake Taylor

99.80

Jessie Hartley

96.0

Izabella Tunis-Notley

99.0

Xuan Huang

94.05

Amber Tuscharski

98.65

Alisse Hywood

93.9

Samantha Tuscharski

99.05

Karina Leatch

95.55

Jennifer Watson

94.05

Wenhui Li

91.6

Deanne Wilson

99.85

Yiju Ma

95.55

Emilie Wilson

97.15

Oliver Morris

96.6

Hannah Greenshields

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

In total we had 22 students who achieved an ATAR of 95 and above. This compares very favorably with last year where 12 students achieved this result. This group of students deserves special mention for their outstanding results that came about through a consistent and studious approach towards all their subjects. All students who managed to complete their SACE also deserve to be congratulated. It is a difficult year for many students to navigate their way through a heavy workload and balance work, family and friends and achieving their SACE Certificate is a significant effort in itself. Our students achieved a total of 19 merits. The details are provided below.

Student Name

Merits

Matthew Oulton

Ensemble Performance and Solo Performance

DeAnne Wilson

English Communications and Physics

Tara Bouchier

English Communications

Estelle Coote

Visual Arts – Art

Jack De La Lande

Ensemble Performance

Sarah Edwards

Visual Arts – Art

Renae Fatchen

Ensemble performance

Lauren Footner

Research Project

Finn Galindo

Communication Products

Sean Helps

Ensemble Performance

Shai Martin

Solo Performance

Mark Oakley

Ensemble Performance and Performance Special Study

Georgia Ryan

English Communications

Brianna Speight

Visual Arts – Art

Amber Tuscharski

Visual Arts – Art

Samatha Tuscharski

Psychology

Rachael Bartholomew

Solo Performance and Performance Special Study

Jake Taylor

Solo Performance and Ensemble Performance

Hannah Greenshields

Solo Performance and Performance Special Study

Daniel Clarkson

Communication Products B

A total of 274 A’s were received by our student cohort in 2011. This compares most favourably with 239 A’s in 2010 and 258 in 2009. Although the number of A+ grades was lower, the overall number of A’s was higher. Lauren Footner received 8 A’s. Jack De La Lande, Jake Taylor Izabella Tunis-Notley, DeAnne Wilson all received 7 A’s. Jessica Archbold, Renae Fatchen and Shai Martin all received 6 A’s. Estelle Coote, Sarah Edwards, Ashleigh Greaves, Alisse Hywood, Karina Leatch, Jack Morris, Hanna Sabic, Timothy Stevens, Amber Tuscharski and Samantha Tuscharski received 5 A’s.

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

Science News Astronomy News The photo shows James Totaro, Stacey Nolan and Marcus Falckh holding pin-hole cameras. The students have loaded the cameras with low sensitivity photographic paper so that the cameras can be pointed at the sun. The students hope to be able to track the sun over many weeks until May. The changing position of the sun over the day and seasons. This type of photography is called solargraphy and has been done in many locations in the Northern Hemisphere. There is less in the southern Hemisphere and the students are part of a campaign to increase the number of photos in the South. The website solargraphy has many photos showing the type of images that the students hope to obtain. I would like to acknowledge the RiAus (The Royal Institute Australia) for their support in supply of the photographic film and the display of the photos that will occur later this year. This is part of a photographic art competition and is open to members of the public. The RiAus offers stimulation public awareness talks, films and displays on science and science related issues. These events are suitable for any interested members of the public. Other students involved in taking the photos are Holly Dew, Emma Wheeler, Rachael Greenshields, Elly Comley, Richard Neeves and Nina Li. The images will be collected until May and we look forward to spectacular photos. SKA The decision about the location of the SKA (Square Kilometre Array) will be decided in the next month or two. This is an ambitious project to build the World’s largest radio telescope. This international project will enable astronomers to collect radio signals from the most distant objects in space. It is possible that the SKA will be built in either Australia or South Africa. There are also associated technological developments that are an important component of the project. Good luck, Australia. Students can look up SKA on their laptops. Transit of Venus This transit will occur this year when Venus passes between Earth and the Sun. The next transit occurs in over 100 years so make the most of this one. A famous transit was in 1769 when Captain Cook led an expedition to the Pacific Ocean to make observations. This was used to calculate the distance between Earth and the Sun, a fundamental quantity in our understanding of the Solar System. Students can look up transit of Venus of their laptops.

Chemistry News Year 9 students complete a chemistry unit on rates of reaction. One way of seeing an example of temperature affecting the rate of reaction is through the use of glow-sticks. Felix is holding the glow-stick in cold water, Matthew’s is at room temperature and Stephanie’s is in hot water. The difference in the brightness of the glow-stick indicates the difference in the rate of the reaction of the chemicals inside the glow-stick. Frank Fischer Science Teacher

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

BSS wins F1 in Schools Competition

Jane Burton, Michelle Lennon, Jake Grant, Henry Lynch, Spencer Olds

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

Bullying No Way! Friday 16th March was the National Day against Bullying and Violence. Staff and students were encouraged to wear ORANGE to show their support for our anti-bullying stance at BSS. We also had a range of awareness raising activities throughout the week including: • A display of anti-bullying resources in the staffroom • B rochures and information provided to all staff for use with their classes • Y ear 8 classes participated in a bullying survey to identify any issues or areas of concern

What you can do: • T alk with your child about school and keep the lines of communication open so children are more likely to confide in you • E ncourage your child to feel okay to ask others for help and to keep their own safety in mind • E nsure your child knows how to report bullying and to ask for your help when needed • R eport the incident to a teacher. Don’t try to sort out the situation yourself.

• S RC students spoke to all Year 8 students and delivered “Anyone can prevent bullying – who will be the hero?” cards, continuing our bystander bullying campaign from last year

• M ake sure you are modelling healthy behaviours to your child, especially in relation to conflict resolution and anger management.

• P eer Leaders and some senior students manned a booth and display in the quadrangle with posters, brochures and information for students

• H elp protect your child from harassment and cyber-bullying by closely monitoring internet use and installing free internet filters.

• S tudents were invited to sign a petition stating “We support No Bullying at Brighton Secondary School”. So far 780 of our students have signed this petition.

For more information and ideas to understand and deal with bullying, visit the Bullying No way! Website www.bullyingnoway.com.au

It doesn’t matter whether it’s physical, psychological or even cyber, bullying is a concern that our school takes very seriously and is working to address.

For immediate help, children and young people can phone the Kids HelpLine (1800 551 1800) or visit the Kids HelpLine website at www.kidshelpline.com.au

If you suspect your child is being bullied, you should talk with your child and make an appointment with the teacher or school Principal to discuss your concerns. It is also important to encourage your child to report bullying behaviours to a trusted adult at school as quickly as possible after an incident of bullying. Bullying thrives in a culture of secrecy, so telling the school is very important. Some signs of bullying might include: • Loss of confidence • C hanges in eating or sleeping habits, possibly bedwetting • H ealth problems such as headaches or stomach aches • U nhappiness or mood swings with sudden temper tantrums • R eluctance to go to school and changes in academic performance.

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

60th Anniversary Event SIV Reunion On Friday 16th March, the first of the 60th Anniversary events was held at the school. This was organised by the Special Interest Volleyball faculty and was held as a reunion for all people who have been involved in the Program over the years. Guest speakers included Kym Foot who was the initiator of the volleyball program, Simon Naismith who was a student before becoming a teacher at Brighton, John Tiver who was the former Coordinator of the SIV Program as well as Olivia O’Neill. During the formalities of the night, framed replicas of the old playing uniforms were unveiled along with the newly made Honour Boards. Guests took a tour of the Volleyball Stadium which now has all the past Australian Schools Cup banners displayed around the walls and people took great delight in identifying their years. Entertainment was provided by current Year 9-12 SIV students who put on a display match on the beach courts whilst wearing one of the original Brighton High School playing uniforms. Also, a string quartet consisting of girls from the Special Interest Music program and known as ‘Belle’, played beautifully on the night and received many compliments. Sensational canapés which were made by the Year 12 Food and Hospitality classes, as well as hot food provided by the canteen staff was served throughout the evening by our SIV students. A very big thank you goes to the staff who helped behind the scenes on the night to make this night a great success. They are Denise Hoskin, Lynlee Graham, Marcia Welsh, Sandra Hall, Anthea Williams, Barbara Bleckly and Mark Orchard. Also thanks must go to the SIV staff and students for their support towards this memorable event. All who attended the event will receive a copy of the commemorative DVD which was shown on the night.

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

Music News Nathaniel O’Brien Our country star Nathaniel O’Brien, Year 11, was named Junior Aristocrat Country Entertainer of the Year at West Leagues during the 40th Tamworth festival. The 16-year old won the junior section overall after his fifth year in the competition, proving that passion and persistence pays off. Event co-ordinator and judging panel chair Gina Timms said the talent this year was outstanding , making Anna Rose and Beccy Cole’s task of judging very hard. Nathaniel also won the Overall at Manilla, after taking out five out of five sections, the Mt Franklins competition and second in the junior male vocal, and first for the best Australian song in the Capital Country Music Associations competitions. Finalists and winners in the talent quest were announced at the association’s Jamboree Spectacular in the Tamworth Town Hall. Nathaniel was one of nine selected by Carter and Carter to perform at Capitol Theatre as an up and coming talented artists in the Shine concert. David Carter introduced Nathaniel as an outstanding young performer with a “unique voice” that they had discovered while he attended the Academy of Country Music.

NAPLAN National Assessment Program Literacy and Numeracy For Year 9 Students: Tuesday 15th May – Language Conventions and Writing Wednesday 16th May – Reading Thursday 17th May – Numeracy The NAPLAN is a nationally developed program administered simultaneously in all schools across Australia. All students are encouraged to participate. The aspects of literacy assessed are reading, writing, and language conventions (including spelling, punctuation and grammar).

NAPLAN individual student reports show the achievement of an individual student in a series of bands, against national minimum standards and the ranges of achievement for the middle 60% of students in Australia. NAPLAN individual student reports are expected to be ready for distribution to parents / caregivers during September. There is a parent information brochure available at the following web address: http://www.decd.sa.gov.au/accountability/pages/Assessments/

Please contact Barbara Bleckly, Coordinator Student Wellbeing, on phone 8375 8237 for further information.

The aspects of numeracy assessed are number, algebra, function and pattern, measurement, chance and data and space.

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

Lift Dance Theatre In 2012 Lift Dance Theatre embarked upon its most ambiitous program yet. Not only would it produce an original work for the 2012 Adelaide Festival Fringe but would create a second longer piece at the same time with the intention of presenting both works in July as part of the Brighton Secondary School 60th birthday and utilise the Brighton Performing Arts Centre. This plan is well on its way to fruition.

this piece and the school can be justifiably proud of what they have achieved. It is true to say that Gameplay is more than just the sum of its parts. When we present this piece again it will be as the prelude to the Silence of Nothing. This work will test the limits of every dancer with its technical demands and those performers who are in both companies will welcome the care we intend to take of them with massage and nutrients in the interval. This is a highly complex work featuring a score written by Emma Drinkwater, animation from film maker Veronica Buhagiar, lighting from a skilled team including Brad Salt and Mark Oakley both now working in the industry and critical perspectives from playwrite Fleur Kilpatrick. Lauren Cox continues her role in choreography and direction. All of these former students maintain their links with the school just as with so many of their predecessors who worked on Rock Eisteddfods. Alan Todd Artistic Director

Gameplay had its debut in Moseley Square on a brilliant Friday evening and then again under full sun and a blue sky on Saturday afternoon. Those who were lucky enough to see the performances applauded the sheer energy of our extraordinary dancers and were moved to tears in the slow section. So much of this piece drew directly on the life experiences of the dancers and members of the audience â&#x20AC;&#x201C; total strangers - sought out particular performers to talk to them afterwards and offer their praise. There can be no greater acclamation. We began with the idea of the games people play. Some games are highly formalised, others less so, but it is the games of social relationships that are the hardest to fathom with their shifting rules and outcomes. Our dancers bring with them so much hard earned wisdom that the problem during choreography was what to leave out. As ever, everyone contributed to the idea and choreography over the many months it took to create

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

Year 8 Woodhouse Year 8 Orientation Program â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Woodhouse As part of the Year 8 Orientation Program students took part in activities at Active Education Group at Woodhouse in the Adelaide Hills in mid March. Students participated in team building and problem solving activities as well as Challenge Hill, a large obstacle course.

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

Year 8 Japanese Inaugural Japanese Year 8 Recital Competition On Monday evening 19th March, five students of Brighton Secondary School attended the Year 8 Japanese Recital Contest. Sean Gatehouse, Tyson James, Jackie Langley, Kelly Lee and Madelyn Napier-Traeger proudly represented the school in this new event for students studying the Japanese language. While not winning a major prize, these students are to be commended on their commitment and presentation on the night. “Yoku Dekimashita!” (Well done). David Thomson Japanese Teacher

Parent / Teacher / Student Conferences Please put the following times in your diaries Parent / Teacher / Student conferences will be held for Years 11 & 12 students on Tuesday 3rd April, 3.30pm – 8.30pm. And Parent / Teacher / Student Conferences will be held for Years 8, 9 & 10 students on Wednesday 2nd May, 3.30pm – 8.30pm. Students / Parents will be expected to make appointments for these interviews. Information for Year 8, 9 & 10 interviews will be sent home with reports.

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

From the CPSW... I recently had the opportunity to attend two of the Year 8 Woodhouse excursions held last month. Over the two days, I was able to get to know many of the new Year 8 students and hear some of how their start to high school has been. We had a lot of fun playing a variety of games aimed at teaching the homegroups to work well as a team, and also had the opportunity to take part in Challenge Hill – a course filled with a number of challenges designed to push participants beyond their comfort zones. As I took part in these challenges alongside the students, I was able to observe a number of personalities: the ‘I’ll give anything a go’ students who usually wrestled to be at the front of the line; the cautious ‘I’ll wait and see how the others do this’ students who took some persuading but gave it a shot; and then those who weren’t able to participate in some of the events for fear of the unknown. I’m not going to tell you which category I’d slot myself into, but I can say that it was very interesting observing these attitudes and getting alongside the students to stretch themselves further than they usually would. One student reflected to me that it was actually the things she found the hardest – when she was most out of her comfort zone – that she remembers as being her ‘highlights’. One thought that came to my mind and that I shared with those around me was the difference that fear of something can make. The example that brought on this reflection was when we were crossing a rope over a river from some height, with the assistance of one other rope. I found myself – and

saw others – wobbling a bit, exaggerated especially when we looked down. But then later in the day, we took part in an obstacle course where we did the same activity – crossing a distance on one single rope with the aid of only another rope – but this time we were only a foot off the ground. How this changed things! The majority of us were crossing with such speed, not looking around us, and hardly even using the rope designed to assist our balance! It was here that I thought that in these two activities, we were essentially doing the same thing! However in the latter, we weren’t filled with fear and were able to complete the task relatively unhindered. There was no fear of falling off because falling from a short distance had minimal repercussions for us. I wondered whether this could teach us something about life. Are there things in my life, I pondered, that I have the ability to do but that I perceive as being unable to, for fear of “falling off”? Are there times where I get ‘wobbly’ because I lose where my focus should be and ‘look down’? Maybe this is true of things in your life? The fact is that the students’ and my ability to cross that rope was never in question…but fear gripped us and altered our belief in ourselves. I wonder whether this is true of many of the things life throws at us… As the Christian Pastoral Support Worker, I am available at the school on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. If you have any concerns and you would like to contact me, please feel free to do so through the school. Likewise, if you would prefer your child not to access CPSW support, please contact the school. Chelsea Lake Christian Pastoral Support Worker

SouthLink Bus Company Information There is information on the latest bus routes provided by Southlink Bus Company at: http://www.southlink.com.au/latestnews_main.htm Should you have any further enquiries please call Lonsdale Depot 8186 2888 or Elizabeth Depot 8282 7900.

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

National Schools Constitutional Convention Youth have their say on Australian Federalism Brighton Secondary School students, Georgia Perdikis and Gabriel Calilung are two of 125 Year 11 and 12 students selected to investigate Australian Federalism: a question of balance, at the 17th National Schools’ Constitutional Convention, being held at Old Parliament House in Canberra from 21st – 23rd March. Facilitated by Emeritus Professor John Warhurst, Professor of Political Science at the Australian National University, Georgia and Gabriel together with other selected delegates will explore whether there is a case to be made for the Commonwealth to assume full powers over health and water in Australia. Students will hear a panel of experts discuss the advantages, disadvantages and issues raised by such a proposal and, through working groups, delegates will explore the principles that inform the division of powers between the respective levels of government in Australia. The Convention is funded by the Australian Government as part of its ongoing commitment for civics and citizenship education.

“I think this is a great opportunity to hear about what is happening in our country and have a chance to voice our opinions.” … Georgia Perdikis

“I am sure this will be a fantastic opportunity and experience for me and I hope it encourages other students to take a more active role in our political system.” … Gabriel Calilung

In becoming a national delegate, Georgia and Gabriel were selected from around 4,000 students from government, independent and Catholic schools, most of whom took part in feeder conventions in their home state or territory.

Host an Exchange Student Fabian from Switzerland is currently enjoying being an exchange student at Brighton Secondary School. Due to a change in family circumstances STS Student Exchange is seeking a new host family for Fabian from the Easter school holidays.

Fabian enjoys hiking, camping, scouts, biking, kayaking, climbing, canyoning, snowboarding and skiing. Fabian is allergic to horses, cats and penicillin. Host families just need an interest in other cultures, open minds and warm hearts to welcome Fabian into their family as a true family member. If your family are interested in hosting Fabian or finding out more about it please call STS Placement Manager Kath Melbourne on 8371 1660 or 0401 741 754.

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

Career News Tertiary Studies and Career Expo Entry is free to the Tertiary Studies and Career Expo. Where: Adelaide Convention Centre When: Sunday 29 and Monday 30 April 2012 Times: Sunday from 10am to 4pm, Monday from 9.30am to 1.30pm

Congratulations to the following students who successfully completed VET Certificates recently:

Representatives from SA and interstate Universities, TAFE SA, VET providers, Defence Forces will be there. This is a great opportunity for parents and students to get career information.

Certificate II in Retail: Jordan Sparks

Year 10 Work Experience

Certificate I in Information Technology: Brett Atkinson, Joel Amanatidis, Samantha Angrave, Mitchell Bails, Josip Blazincic, Joshua Baines, Steve Davis, Bradley Draper, David Dean, Shannon Geary, Jordan Giblett, Bradley Gaskin, Jay King, Henry Lynch, Jace Mitchell, Hayden Peek, Lisa Wilford, Jordan Warren and Nicholas Donato.

Year 10 Work Experience will be held in Week 10 of Term 2. Dates: 25th to 29th June 2012. All Year 10 students were given a work experience pack early in Term 1. Replacement packs are available from Student Reception for $3.

Variety

Extravaganza

Enquiries about work experience should be directed to Sandra Larsen, Career Development Coordinator or Year 10 Home Group teachers.

Vocational Education and Training (VET) Certificates Successfully Completed:

Certificate III in Retail: Madison Chandra

Sandra Larsen Career Development Coordinator

‘Happy Tappers’ and guests present

VARIETY EXTRAVAGANZA at the Brighton Performing Arts Centre, Brighton Secondary School, 305 Brighton Road, North Brighton. Sunday 6th May, 2.00pm. Wine, beer, soft drinks available, Tea and Coffee at the bar. Tickets: Adults $20, Pensioners and Children $17. Donation to the RSPCA Bookings can be made by phoning Judy and John Angus Phone 7070 9946.

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012

South Australian Police Keeping SA Safe Early this term a student from Brighton Secondary School was approached by a male while waiting for a bus to travel to school. The male demanded money and threatened the student with a knife. Families, please be aware if you catch public transport please note the following: • Do not hang around bus / train stops unnecessarily • If possible, young people should travel with a friend or in a group • If you are approached by somebody and you are alone – comply with their requests. Do not challenge them. • If there are other members of the public present then draw attention to yourself to get assistance • Remember to contact Police on 000 or 131444 immediately • All public transport is part of the Safety Assist program and can contact police on your behalf. • If travelling on public transport it is safer to sit at the front of the bus or train • If you are approached or threatened try to remember as much as possible about the person. If they are in a vehicle, record their registration number on your mobile phone. Report any suspicious behaviour to Police

BRIGHTON SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWSLETTER I ISSUE 2 I March 2012