Enrichment and Extension Booklet 2021

Enrichment & Extension

Enrichment & Extension

Education at The King’s School is designed to grow and develop our students to be Global Thought Leaders through a combined emphasis on Academic Excellence with Character Development in the context of Christian Community. Each of these three elements contribute to developing each student as a whole person, in their quality of mind, body and soul.

Consequently, while there is an extraordinary range of activities and opportunities for each and every student at King’s to choose their own unique educational adventure, each and every student will be shaped and moulded to be the very best version of themselves as a Kingsman.

The Enrichment and Extension Program at The King’s School is designed to not only extend and stretch students in their particular strengths, but to also encourage and develop those areas that may not be so strong. The purpose of this program’s unique approach is to ensure that students with diverse needs and abilities are developed as whole and balanced people, willing and able to give of themselves in service for others.

For intellectually gifted and talented students, this program is designed to ensure that they are not only people of a quality mind, but of body and soul also.

Each student is unique and so The King’s School program is designed to provide a tailored educational adventure that brings out students’ strengths while also developing any weaknesses.

Enjoy discovering the opportunities that await your child as you read through this handbook. While no handbook can do justice to the breadth and variety of opportunities provided at The King’s School, it does provide a good overview of how to understand and explore The King’s School Enrichment and Extension Program.

Tony George Headmaster, The King’s School

Success for a Kingsman is not defined by the School or society, but by the boys themselves. Success is for each individual student to feel a sense of rigour, motivation, achievement and enjoyment from what they are learning by acknowledging their learning needs, strengths, interests and goals. The enrichment and extension opportunities we offer, endeavour to ensure the needs of all students are met.

As a non-selective school, it is essential for King’s to challenge boys, giving them opportunities so they may follow their passions. We believe in catering for high potential learners, including gifted students. This may mean they need to be pushed beyond the general curriculum and be encouraged to work at a level matched with their abilities.

Therefore, all our students are provided an enriched learning environment both in and out of the classroom, but it is through our Extension Program that learners of a high potential are identified, supported and extended within a challenging, creative and nurturing environment across a variety of domains.

This is one aspect of a much broader educational experience offered to your son by The King’s School. We go beyond the traditional classroom setting for learning where we value experiences in the Character and Christian Community spaces to complement our Academics.

Our focus is to provide students with opportunities across a variety of settings to develop necessary 21st Century competencies, such as critical and creative thinking, problem solving and collaboration, along with The King’s School values like Integrity, Humility and Responsibility.

We encourage you to identify opportunities at The King’s School that can challenge you and contribute to a rich and holistic learning experience during your time here.

We believe that when a student is allowed time and support to follow his passion, the sky is the limit and he can share his successes with the world. So, we would like to assist them on their journey to becoming a global thought leader who will make an outstanding impact on the world, not only during their time at The King’s School but well beyond our gates after graduation.

Ms Kathryn Fraser

MEd (Gifted) BSc BEd Head of Enrichment & Extension

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Success for a Kingsman is not defined by the School or society, but by the boys themselves.

Enrichment & Extension Model

SOME STUDENTS

Extension

ALL STUDENTS

Enrichment

Student Identification

No formal identification required / offered to all students who may or may not have a choice regarding participation

Academic Department Opportunities

Whole-School promotion of innovative educational strategies, critical and creative thinking skills, providing choice for personal interest projects, solving real world problems, excursions, guest speakers, exhibitions of student work

Co-Curricular Involvement

All students participate in a winter and summer sport from Years 7-12 and are involved in the Cadet Corps in Years 9-10, Bronze Duke of Edinburgh in Year 8. Also included: Choir, some Clubs, Chess, Junior and Senior Crusaders

MOST STUDENTS

Enrichment

Student Identification

Often based on student interest via self selection or selection based on specific criteria for each activity and may include auditions or selection on performance data

Academic Department Opportunities

C lass activities that extend beyond the core providing differentiated levels of content between streamed classes

Academic Enrichment Opportunities

Some external camps and other opportunities on holidays/weekends for students are interested in atttending

Co-Curricular Opportunities

Some Clubs, Chess, Study tours, Debating, Drama, Music ensembles; Wind Orchestra, Senior String Orchestra, Intermediate Stage Band, Sporting and Academic Tours

Student Identification

Based on students’ demonstrated and sustained interests including teacher nomination, marks and academic achievement, other test data or auditions to select students

Academic Department Opportunities

Sequenced modifications throughout programs and assessment tasks that extend beyond the core and provide differentiated levels of content between streamed classes

Academic Extension Opportunities

Year 9 Extension English and History Community Project, GATSTA excursion days, UNSW and Olympiad Competitions, GERRIC Student Programs, The Future Project in Year 10

Co-Curricular Opportunities

Academic clubs, Da Vinci Decathlon, GATEway 8, World Scholars Cup, Philosothon, Ethics Olympiads, Model UN, School Musical and Drama Productions, Symphonic Band, Senior Stage Band, Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award, Cadet Corps in Year 11 and 12, Community Outreach Program, GPS Representative teams

FEW STUDENTS

Extension

Student Identification

Based on any evidence or application supporting the student’s unusual and unmet needs beyond Level 2 including learning disablities exceptional interest or outstanding performance or selection for representation in areas specifically related to the proposed service

Academic Department Opportunities

Students benefit from highly individualised services; such as accelerated Mathematics classes, Individual flexible progression plans – single subject acceleration and differentiated assessments

Academic ExtensionOpportunities

The Future Project in Year 11, NYSF, Olympiad Summer Camp, FerMUN, other external competitions/programs

Co-Curricular Opportunities

Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, State and National Representative teams

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In our Extension Program learners of a high potential are identified, supported and extended within a challenging, creative and nurturing environment.

Shown below is a differentiated model of the enrichment and extension opportunities across The King’s School. Through this model, we are able to identify students according to their strengths and provide appropriate learning opportunities at a variety of levels both in and out of the classroom.

ALL STUDENTS

Enrichment FOUNDATION

LEVEL

MOST STUDENTS

Enrichment

LEVEL ONE

SOME STUDENTS

Extension

LEVEL TWO

FEW STUDENTS

Extension

LEVEL THREE

SOME STUDENTS

Extension

LEVEL TWO

MOST STUDENTS

Enrichment

LEVEL ONE

ALL STUDENTS

Enrichment FOUNDATION LEVEL

Adapted by Kathryn Fraser 2020 from Treffinger, Young, Nassab, Selby, & Wittig (2008) The Talent Development Planning Handbook: Designing Inclusive Gifted Programs Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press

Enrichment

The School aims to provide quality enrichment for students of all ability levels through varied and rigorous classroom and co-curricular experiences.

Academic Enrichment Options Within the Classroom

Within schools, enrichment aims to take the basic curriculum subjects and expand them, looking at them in more depth or from a different perspective. At King’s, our teachers do this in multiple ways; from the promotion of innovative educational strategies, critical and creative thinking skills and providing choice for personal interest projects. Opportunities for solving real world problems, excursions, guest speakers and exhibitions of student work are all embedded within each Department’s classroom programs.

Enrichment Options Outside the Classroom

At The King’s School, we offer a wide variety of co-curricular options including Cadets, Sport, Clubs, Duke of Edinburgh, Music and Drama. It is through these opportunities that students with a healthy risk appetite embrace challenge and adventure, whilst nurturing humility and excellence.

The array of co-curricular programs exposes students to opportunities for them to be active and engaged with the School community outside the classroom. The experiences students encounter from participation and enjoyment enable them to further develop considerable skill and elite aspirations.

This student-centred approach, whereby each student takes personal responsibility for their chosen co-curricular activities, is one that aims to foster individual development and a growth-mindset under the framework of Character Development.

The link between co-curricular and curriculum pursuits is one that encourages this evolution, as well as engaging the student in a sense of belonging and community pride.

We also do this through clubs such as:

Agriculture

Book

Chess

Computer Programming

Debating

Homework

Maker Space

Science

Industrial Technology

Visual Arts

Writers’

Music and Drama programs offer a wide array of bands, ensembles and choral programs along with the Drama Musical and Productions that aim to draw together the experience of curriculum music and drama with that of performance in the co-curricular sphere.

We also present many opportunities for students to challenge themselves through numerous local and overseas excursions and tours. These can be study, cultural or performance based allowing students to apply their knowledge and skill base to a variety of experiences:

Sporting Tours

Academic Tours

Musical Festival Tours

Duke of Edinburgh Expeditions

Language Exchange Programs

We encourage all students to challenge themselves at home and abroad through these activities.

“

The School aims to provide quality enrichment for students of all ability levels through varied and rigorous classroom and co-curricular experiences.

Extension

We recognise there are some students within our School community who require further programming options. This ensures the particular needs of our high potential learners, including gifted students, are identified and supported.

Co-curricular Extension

The King’s School acknowledges all domains of potential: intellectual, creative, socialemotional and physical. Therefore we have processes for identifying high potential and giftedness for talent development to occur across these domains. We provide many opportunities for students to be extended across these areas through our vast co-curricular offerings. There are a myriad of representative teams available for all sports such as GPS, State and National team selections. We also encourage students to follow passions if competing at an elite level outside of the School if we do not offer the sport, such as fencing and karate.

The Performing and Creative Arts also provide many opportunities for extension beyond what is offered at school through the inclusion of students attending external competitions, auditions and exhibitions both domestically and internationally.

Gifted Learners with a Disability

A unique aspect of The King’s School is the diversity of the student cohort, so we recognise the need to acknowledge individual differences. For twice exceptional learners, the Academic Extension Program, along with the Educational Support Services Department, caters for high potential learners who may have identified physical, emotional or learning issues to minimise any impairments to their learning.

Academic Extension

All students benefit from enrichment, but for gifted and talented students, it can give them opportunities to explore areas of passion and use their imagination. The School’s Academic Extension Program aims to assist in the identification of students with intellectual gifts and to develop their talents through appropriate educational opportunities.

Identification tools that may be used by the School to identify giftedness and talents include:

• Academic Assessment Services Testing

• NAPLAN tests

• Independent psychologists’ reports

• External tests and competitions

• Teacher identification checklists

• Pre-testing on new topics

• Work samples

• Parent, peer and self nomination

Support

Gifted and highly gifted students in particular can often be asynchronous in their development. This can mean aspects of their physical, intellectual and emotional growth are out of step with each other. This can be frustrating for the student, as well as for their parents and teachers. The School’s pastoral care network of Mentors, Year Coordinators, Housemasters and School Counsellors is used to monitor each student in the Academic Extension Program and assist him to reach his full potential.

“

A unique aspect of The King’s School is the diversity of our student cohort, so we recognise the need to acknowledge individual differences.

JOINT ALAN MITCHELL PRIZE WINNER 2021

Profile Patrick Xie

On the field, in the classroom, and in so many areas in between, Patrick Xie made an outstanding contribution to King’s. He has a list of accolades to match, including the coveted Alan Mitchell Prize for the best all-round boy at the School in 2021.

Patrick admits to being awestruck and just a little intimidated by the calibre of boys surrounding him when he arrived at King’s in Year 7. “I had been School Captain but soon realised that everyone else had been too. Over the years, I’ve witnessed academic excellence within my cohort, prodigious sporting ability and outstanding leadership skills. I came to realise that there will always be someone better, but you can learn from these individuals to improve yourself,” says Patrick.

Being surrounded by high achievers did not stop Patrick from distinguishing himself. In 2019 he was part of the 1st XI Cricket team, taking an undefeated win for the season. He captained the 1st XI Cricket team in 2020 and 2021 and was awarded Cricket Honour Colours.

He was also a talented Football player, representing the School in the 1st XI team receiving Football Full Colours.

Patrick was also awarded Academic Full Colours, and deservingly so. In the HSC he ranked amongst the top students with an ATAR of 99.80, securing a spot on the All-Round Achievers’ List. Patrick served as a School Monitor and Dalmas House Vice-Captain, and contributed richly to the selective Twelve Club, Symphonic Band, Senior Stage Band and Saxophone Ensemble.

A fierce competitor, Patrick’s positive attitude, humility and compassion commanded the attention and appreciation of coaches at a club and national level. His success on the cricket field led to him being selected in the Australian Under 16 Cricket Team, and since graduating Patrick has gone on to represent the NSW Under 19 Cricket team in the National Championships.

“The emotional development at King’s, which focuses on respect and conscientiousness, set me up well, particularly on the sporting field. Sometimes it’s the leadership you demonstrate when you are not winning that matters most. The Dalmas motto, ‘Men for Others’, always rang true for me - no matter how large or small the contribution, we live for the betterment of others.”

Since graduating, Patrick has continued to seamlessly juggle academic and sports commitments, pursuing a double degree in Commerce and Law at the University of Sydney, whilst playing Cricket in the NSW Under 19 Cricket team. Patrick has remained well connected to the School by taking on a coaching position with the King’s Cricket program, and as a tutor supporting current students with their academics.

Reflecting on what he will miss the most at King’s, Patrick calls out the unwavering support of his ‘wise and friendly’ teachers and staff.

“They taught us more than the curriculum, they imbued us with future skills,” Patrick says. “The farewell video that staff put together for the cohort before HSC trials was extremely touching and a reminder that the School is always with us, supporting us on our journey.”

As a King’s Old Boy, Patrick will go on to inspire future generations of King’s graduates in the same way that the courage and service of Alan Mitchell himself continues to inspire.

The emotional development at King’s, which focuses on respect and conscientiousness, set me up well, particularly on the sporting field. Sometimes it’s the leadership you demonstrate when you are not winning that matters most.

Finn McDonald

Profile Finn McDonald

Year 9 Student, Finn McDonald is a fine example of how a well-rounded King’s education can bring out the very best in students. Joining King’s in 2019 in Year 5 at the Preparatory School, Finn was quickly identified as a gifted student both inside the classroom and out.

From a young age, Finn had a keen interest in numbers and enjoyed the challenge of problem-solving. He recognises that this comes from both a natural ability as well as his home environment.

“From a very young age, my Mum and Grandma would give me real-life Maths problems to solve. When it comes to Maths, I enjoy the process of problemsolving and I apply this to many other areas at school and at home. I love riddles, trivia games and challenges that require many steps to find a solution,” says Finn.

From Year 5, Finn was identified by his teachers as a high-performing mathematician well above his year level. Finn has participated in the Australian Intermediate Maths Olympiad (AIMO) since Year 6, an invitation-only program usually reserved for students in Years 7-10. He is also part of the accelerated Mathematics program, which provides talented Mathematicians with a pathway from Year 7 to follow an advanced program, skipping over Year 7 Mathematics to Year 8 and completing the HSC Advanced course in Year 11. This allows students more time in Year 12 to focus on their Extension Mathematics courses.

Alongside the AIMO, Finn participates in the Maths Mentoring Program, where younger students meet with older students to work through high-level Maths problems.

It is not just Mathematics where Finn excels, he was also a member of the National Junior Science Olympiad Academy where he was accelerated across all four branches of the Stage 6 Science Curriculum.

“The Science Academy challenged me and pushed me out of my academic comfort zone. I am curious in nature, and I love learning about how things work, which is why I enjoy subjects like Chemistry and Physics,” says Finn.

A desire for challenge is something Finn takes with him through all his walks of life. As a talented breaststroke swimmer, Finn has a rigorous training schedule that he manages around his school commitments. He trains from 5.00 to 7.00am five days a week, as well as participating in AAGPS, regional and state-level competitions representing both The King’s School and his local swimming club.

Finn is also a keen member of the King’s Debating team, competing at A level since Year 7 in the ISDA and GPS competitions. In 2022, his team was undefeated in the GPS competition.

“Debating gives me the opportunity to not only develop my public speaking skills, but I also learn how to work in a team which are both important skills I will need in the future”.

Finn acknowledges that the balancing act of school and co-curricular commitments can still be a challenge, but through the support of his parents and teachers, along with the mentorship provided by older Kingsmen, he is learning to develop his time management skills.

“In Kurrle House, we regularly engage in conversations with the older students who are coming to the end of their King’s experience. They give us advice about time management and how to make the most of the opportunities available to us”.

Finn recognises that leadership is inculcated deeply in the School, and he embraces both the opportunity to be a leader and to accept leadership from his peers. Holding the position of SRC in Years 7 and 8 was an opportunity for Finn to serve others and enhance the King’s experience for everyone.

“Leadership and the idea of being a leader inside the school gates and beyond is something I aspire to. Becoming a Gowan Brae Monitor in Year 10 would be an amazing opportunity to support and guide the younger students, much like the older boys have done for me. Good leadership within the School makes King’s a better place,” says Finn.

Finn recognises that natural ability is one thing, but students need a supportive network at school and home as well as their own personal drive to be successful.

“As Mr George says, the King’s experience is not just about academics, it is about embracing all the opportunities that the School offers to develop people into compassionate leaders”.

Finn’s advice to students entering Senior School is to try as much as possible in Years 7 and 8, and don’t be fearful of failure – you never know what you might be good at!

“

As Mr George says, the King’s experience is not just about academics, it is about embracing all the opportunities that the School offers to develop people into compassionate leaders.

Academic Extension Options Within the

Classroom

The King’s School is committed to providing teaching staff with professional learning to meet the needs of our high potential learners. We aim to foster the links between the Gifted Education, Research, Resource and Information Centre (GERRIC) and the Gifted and Talented Secondary Teachers’ Association (GATSTA) forming professional learning partnerships to ensure active and ongoing training and engagement for staff.

Scholar Classes are structured in Years 7 to 10 to cater for the most able boys. Placement is performance-based and classes can undertake a variety of curriculum modifications to address the student’s specific learning needs, such as a differentiated curriculum, rigorous extension tasks, curriculum compacting and individualised programs.

In-class extension is staffed by subject specialists with relevant programs developed to meet the individual needs of students. Sometimes high potential learners need advanced learning pathways and/ or acceleration in order to work at a level commensurate with their ability. We have a variety of acceleration options that occur on a whole cohort basis such as in Mathematics or individually through a single subject. These cases are assessed individually and a decision arrived at after considering all aspects of a student’s wellbeing.

Academic Extension Options Beyond the Classroom

A wide variety of extra-curricular activities adds to the richness of opportunity for talented boys at The King’s School. This is vital for building a group identity in which students are supported by capable and hard-working peers who share their aspirations. Intellectual societies and extension groups exist in each year group from Years 7-12 including the Mary Burns Philosophical Society (Year 7), the Tom Barrett Society, Cartesian Club, Scipionic Circle and Twelve Club for senior students.

National inter-school and international academic and thinking competitions are offered, such as the da Vinci Decathlon, Philosothons, Model United Nations, UNSW

and Olympiad competitions. Through links with GATSTA, we participate at inter-school activity days providing access to eminent people within their fields addressing a wide variety of different themes. University courses are also encouraged, such as Macquarie University’s Critical Thinking course for Year 11 students as an extension of the School’s Stage 5 Philosophy program. We encourage students to follow independent pathways to connect their outside passions within their school learning. Through our Independent Learning Projects, we work with students and support them to follow their passions so they can share their successes with the world. The sky is the limit.

“

A wide variety of extra-curricular activities adds to the richness of opportunity for talented boys at The King’s School.

Profile Jack Thomas

The Future Project offers to work with leading scientists on real research projects while working in an industry standard research facility. One exemplary emerging scientist is Jack Thomas, who went above and beyond within the Future Project where he was exposed to science communication, now his true passion.

During these two years, he learned various micro-biology techniques, focusing his research on commercial waste water, deriving hydrogen from waste water using unique sources and techniques. Working with Dr Michelle Bull and Dr Belinda Chapman from Quantal Bioscience, Jack was able to conduct practical research to tackle the issue of industrial waste disposal and rising energy costs.

In Year 12, he submitted a paper from his Year 12 Biology Depth Study to the Young Scientist of the Year Awards and was awarded first place in the Science Investigations section for his paper titled ‘The Impact of pH and Atmosphere on the Growth and Antibiotic Resistance of Pseudomonas fluorescens’.

Jack’s interest in science research and communication led to his invitation to stay on in The Future Project after Year 11, giving Jack practical research experience from Year 10 until graduating in Year 12. In this time, Jack had various articles published in scientific journals, outside his The Future Project submissions. For these achievements he was awarded Honour Colours by the School.

Jack has always had passion for science, specifically in micro biology or environmental science, but it was The Future Project which took him in the direction of scientific research and communication. “The skills acquired from industry scientists, the many research projects completed and the various articles published in scientific journals all helped me get to where I am now,” said Jack.

Jack has now completed his second year of an Advanced Science Degree at ANU in Canberra, with a Major in Environmental Science and is looking towards picking what his 2023 honours project will be. He would like to pursue projects relating to environmental conservation with the opportunity to experiment with different management techniques and monitor populations of vital wildlife species.

Jack’s overall goal is to continue on with research and science communication, as he feels there is a deficit when it comes to bridging the gap between communicating to the public and politicians who work with scientific researchers.

“

The skills acquired from industry scientists, the many research projects completed and the various articles published in scientific journals all helped me get to where I am now.

Profile Kris Ward A

ctively participating in King’s co-curricular program, 2020 graduate Kristin (Kris) Ward is an excellent example of a Kingsman whose passions, while explored at School, have led to exciting future prospects.

While acting has always been a passion, Kris immersed himself within the Drama Department, performing at every opportunity he could - featuring in eight theatre productions, three as lead. Kris knew from a young age he wanted to study in New York City in the hope of performing on Broadway. However, it was the countless opportunities that King’s offered him which confirmed his passion, thus leading to his current success.

For his drama achievements, Kris was awarded the Braeside Award for Acting in 2019 and 2020 and received an OnSTAGE nomination for 2020. Kris gives much credit to the King’s staff who personally added to his rich co-curricular experience, where he was able to achieve a balance between academic and co-curricular opportunities.

Kris accepted a scholarship and has been attending the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) in New York City. Here he has continued with the balance between academic and co-curricular by finishing in the top 5% of all his classes, all the while being pushed by the expert educators and his peers to continually step outside his comfort zone and push himself to learn all the different acting techniques, styles and genres.

With his future ambition to be cast for Broadway, living in New York fuels his dedication and passion to reach these goals and aspirations, which hopefully will see him one day receiving a nomination for a Tony Award.

“ Being involved in such a variety of different shows, whilst playing lead characters, provided a wonderful training ground to learn the essential techniques of effective movement, vocal control, and character development which I will be able to take with me as I leave Kings’.

Profile Lachlan Roach

Rowing in King’s 1st VIII Crew for two consecutive years, Lachlan reflects on his most treasured moments while at King’s - cherishing one particular event above all, the annual Head of the River Regatta. Joining the rowing program in Year 8, and not having any experience with the sport before, Lachlan credits much of his current success to the School’s competitive academic environment and great rowing program.

While rowing for King’s, Lachlan was surrounded by motivated Kingsmen, who worked hard and pushed him to be the best he could be. This, along with the exceptional coaches and training programs, helped Lachlan develop the rowing abilities he needed to compete at the same level as university rowers. His contributions within rowing were recognised with his appointment as Vice-Captain of Boats and the receipt of Honours Colours.

Although Lachlan spent many hours out on the water, he was admired by his classmates for his ability to balance the demands of rowing and the classroom to maintain a very high academic standard. Throughout his time at King’s, Lachlan was consistently part of the Scholar’s classes. Most impressive was the level of effort he put into his schoolwork, cultivating positive interactions with his teachers to ensure that he was able to maintain the best personal academic results. He was regularly recognised at the annual Speech Nights. His consistency in regards to his academics was rewarded with an ATAR of 97.30 when he completed his HSC.

Lachlan accepted an offer from Harvard University where he is studying Mechanical Engineering and has continued rowing. The academic foundation he had whilst at King’s has helped him adjust to university life. “I am excited for my second semester as I now have some experience at Harvard and I know how to optimise my academic performance,” he says. Lachlan has found an extremely supportive community “The students here are incredibly smart and talented but also extremely supportive and there is a culture of helping each other, which helps improve everyone, it reminds me of learning at King’s”

In terms of rowing, Lachlan is already making an impact as a member of the 2021 Head of the Charles Regatta winning four crew. He is looking forward to representing Harvard in the Eastern Sprints and Harvard-Yale Regatta’s where he has every intention of adding additional silverware to Harvard’s cabinet for those races and for the years to come.

Profile Marcus Malouf

Marcus

is

Starting his King’s journey in Kindergarten, Marcus spent the next 13 years taking on every opportunity he could, forming lasting relationships with students and staff alike. His positive involvement inside and outside the classroom earned him great respect as he grew into an accomplished young man.

With a ‘why not’ attitude, Marcus involved himself in the co-curricular program as much as he could. The busier he was, the better. Being extremely determined from a young age, Marcus took a particular interest in rowing and Cadets - two highly disciplined co-curricular activities.

Marcus demonstrated his leadership abilities while holding positions including School Monitor and Britten House Vice-Captain, as well as achieving his Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award. Yet, his true passion for leadership came from his time serving as Regimental Sergeant Major of The King’s School Cadet Corps. His role saw him leading by example ensuring the Cadets upheld the Corps’ traditions and were well trained, while also ensuring they had a rich experience. He was recognised for his achievements within the Corps by being awarded the Lieutenant OC Atkinson Officer of the Watch Telescope Award for Command Support and Cadet Development, as well as the Major GL Murphy Award for the Development of Military Ethos in the Cadet Corps.

He demonstrated the ability to succeed academically while also balancing a thriving co-curricular life. Throughout his studies he consistently received excellent results in all of his courses. Marcus’ academic efforts saw him awarded certificates for Academic Proficiency and Academic Half Colours in Year 11 and Full Colours in Year 12. “I am proud to say I took the path of studying the subjects I loved. This coupled with the way that all teachers, mentors, tutors, and coaches are invested in the success of each student was one of the most significant factors in the King’s academic experience. Even during the toughest they were all working together to support me. That is what makes King’s so great. Not grandiosity, but the little things and the connections we students make within this community. Someone was always there to guide and support me.”

After achieving an ATAR of 96.65, Marcus is currently enrolled at The Australian National University (ANU), where he is studying a flexible double Law (Honours) Degree, specialising in Law and International Relations majoring in French. Not only has Marcus managed to achieve Distinctions and High Distinctions, but is also a member of the ANU Rowing Club placing second in the men’s eight at the ACT Championships.

Malouf

testament that doing the things you love and following your dreams will always be the most rewarding.

Profile Jack Parsons

When Jack sat down to work out his subject choices for the HSC, he already had a clear vision of pursuing a career in hospitality.

When he realised he could graduate school with not only an ATAR, but a Certificate II in Hospitality, his only question was, “Where do I sign up?”.

For Jack, the Vocational Education and Training (VET) course gave him the opportunity to kick-start his career, and a pathway to his future studies in the industry of his dreams. And it did just that!

Upon graduation, Jack received seven offers from various universities and colleges, including a scholarship with The International College of Management Sydney (ICMS) to study a Bachelor of Hospitality Management, which he happily accepted.

“I was overwhelmed by the number of University offers I received. The positive of completing a VET course at school is you already have industry recognised credentials before you step into the real world,” says Jack.

Jack had a vision of working in a service-based industry and knew that hospitality provided global opportunities.

“I enjoy putting a smile on people’s faces and giving them an experience they won’t forget. The course offered many practical experiences that gave me a real sense of what it feels like to work in the industry.”

A highlight for Jack was Service Week, where he practiced his skills as a server and bartender for parents and other members of the King’s community.

“I really enjoyed those practical experiences where I had the opportunity to serve new and familiar faces. It was

a true buzz and felt like a real gig. It was those practical experiences where I realised I was on the right track with my future goals,” says Jack.

Jack is now studying at The International College of Management Sydney and has secured a part-time industry job. His long-term goals are to work in hospitality management, and he one day hopes to own a cocktail bar.

“I believe the scholarship with ICMS was a result of both the work I put into my studies, as well as the co-curricular activities I participated in at King’s. Activities like theatre performances, leadership opportunities and involvement in charity events, played a big part in developing my character and building self-confidence. Because of those experiences, I was able to speak professionally and confidently during scholarship interviews, and from there my passion for hospitality shone through.”

Profile Justin Wang

Playing alongside the world-class Los Angeles or Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra is musician extraordinaire Justin Wang’s dream.

As Music Captain for two years and with no fewer than four prestigious musical achievements to his name, Justin departed King’s with his sights set on the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Coming from a family of talented musicians, Justin says King’s was instrumental in fostering his innate passion for music. “I was able to access wonderful programs and music ensembles which cultivated both my musical ability and my desire to become the best musician I could be. I was encouraged by all the musical staff and tutors who pushed me to become my greatest self in the music realm,” Justin says.

Justin’s time at King’s did more than nurture his natural talent and aspirations in the field of music. As a Tennis, Soccer and Badminton player, as well as a leader in the Cadet Corps, King’s allowed Justin to build and round out his character.

“I transitioned myself from a shy and timid Year 7 student to the proud and fortified individual I am now,” Justin says. Choosing a favourite among his many musical pursuits is difficult. Justin’s repertoire at King’s spanned everything from Clarinet Ensemble to Choir and Cadet Corps Drum Roll. However, it was the brotherhood formed with his Symphonic Band friends over the years that stands out.

King’s strong focus on giving back to the community provided soul food for Justin’s creative flair and a platform to combine this flair with his leadership skills. The live virtual concert Justin organised to provide solace and hope to the elderly in nursing homes during COVID-19 restrictions was broadcast to over 7,000 people internationally. It came hot on the heels of a $5,000 fundraising concert for Dementia Australia and Red Cross Australia

hosted by Justin and his friends. “No matter how far music takes me, I always want to utilise its power to bring solace and unity to those in society who need it,” Justin says.

Justin is now studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music and is wellengrained in the music industry, having played with the Western Sydney Philharmonic Youth Orchestra in their orchestra debut concert. He has also played for the Sydney Conservatorium of Music Symphony Orchestra and as Principal Clarinet in the Wind Orchestra. In 2023, Justin was accepted and attended the Australian Youth Orchestra’s National Music Camp.

Justin hopes to move to the USA once he has completed his studies at the Conservatorium.

Music Enrichment Stream

Music is woven through the experience of every boy at King’s and all students study Music as part of the Year 7 Course. They also have the wonderful opportunity to sing in The School’s Chapel services and hear Musical performances in assemblies by School and visiting musicians.

At The King’s School, we seek to offer a unique experience to Year 7 students who demonstrate significant musical backgrounds. Upon application, boys are selected to participate in a Music Enrichment Stream which is determined by their existing musical ability and achievements.

Head of Music, Sarah Feltham is excited about what this program brings to the School. “This program provides an exceptional opportunity for those boys who have dedicated their time to learning a musical instrument since primary school. Their skills, knowledge, and understanding of music, through performance, is already at a remarkable level. This program brings likeminded boys together to sing, play and create music, providing them with an extraordinary chance to further their skills within the class timetable. Students have access to a variety of experts from both The King’s School and other specialists who visit the School and perform with the students throughout the year.”

Advanced musical skills are taught through: Orchestral playing; the development of Composition skills; and performance in Small Music Ensembles. This intensive course builds upon boys’ existing musical experience and knowledge, extending students according to their own unique abilities. Taught in an orchestral and choral setting, with instruments ‘in hand’, this program: encourages service to the community; champions solo and ensemble

participation; and focuses on the development of musical excellence in performance, composition, and musicology.

The program aims to create a pathway to further enhance the capacity of the student musician and enables and fosters a culture of musical excellence with clearly defined pathways through to Stage 5 and Stage 6 Music at The King’s School.

Sarah is confident that the Enrichment Stream not only provides the opportunity for our advanced musicians to succeed in senior courses, it also allows us the chance to introduce a more Contemporary Program into the Mandatory Stream and to locate our beginner musicians. “The number of boys applying for the Enrichment Stream has increased since its inception, allowing us an opportunity to trial a beginner music stream. This enables us to meet the diversity of our Year 7 boys and to foster the beginner musician. It is hoped that this may also have the potential to cater for our rock, pop and jazz musicians, thus filtering through to the Music 1 Course in Year 11 and Year 12.”

2022 Bicentennial Music Scholar, Eukai Miao enjoyed being in this class. “Being a part of this class meant we were enlightened with both opportunities to play music and to compose our own. Seeing the other student compositions really inspired my own thoughts and ideas, and I learnt to play and analyse sample works written by my peers… I have a great interest in classical music and composition and I was able to strive to continue pursuing it in this course.”

The Big Questions

How can we know our lives have meaning/purpose?

What is knowledge?

Are human rights universal?

Am I real?

What is beauty?

These are just some of the big questions Year 9 and 10 Philosophy students enjoy tackling. The Philosophy elective was introduced to the School in 2019 and has proved very popular with students. Philosophy has provided them with a wealth of knowledge and a critical thinking capacity that is indispensable for success. Students have also found that the lessons are different, both in structure and content. They allow for more discussion and deep thinking. Learning in Philosophy requires listening to classmates’ ideas and incorporating those whilst building one’s own unique view, rather than only having one correct answer.

The aim of Philosophy in Schools is to create a Community of Inquiry (COI) where collaborative inquiry based teaching and learning transforms the way that students learn and the manner in which they relate to one another. Such a classroom fosters critical, creative and

caring thinking by means of structured classes and small group discussions. (Cam, 2020). The boys particularly like the COI experiences and find them to be the most enjoyable sessions in Philosophy. They enjoy voicing their own views, playing devil’s advocate occasionally, and find many of the views their classmates present as interesting, even if they directly conflict with their own.

Along with philosophy in the classroom, there have been many opportunities for students to engage in philosophical inquiry in the co-curricular space. Philosothons and Ethics Olympiads are inter-school competitions where boys can flex their critical thinking, questioning and reasoning skills against students from other schools. Ethics Olympiad competitors enjoy identifying both sides of a myriad of ethical quandaries and engaging in intellectually stimulating discussions with the opposition. In the Ethics Olympiad history, The King’s

School is the most successful boys school with gold, silver and bronze placings which have led to invitations to international events.

The Year 7-8 Mary Burns Philosophical Society, Year 9-10 Student Colloquium and Senior Academic Clubs offer unique opportunities for boys to be exposed to and value each other’s thinking whilst on campus. Led by Senior students who facilitate and model discussion and questioning techniques, students participating in Mary Burns receive an introduction to the skills of philosophical thinking and reasoning, while Student Colloquium and Senior Academic Clubs are an opportunity for students to present to their peers and pose discussion questions. There are a wide range of topics addressed throughout the year providing the opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals and discuss thought provoking questions.

Demonstrating Gratitude Violet Macansh Scholarship

Being at King’s has been a dream.

Violet Madeleine Macansh’s legacy is one of great compassion, humility and integrity –a true representative of The King’s School values.

Violet always had a strong connection to The King’s School with her father, John Sedley Futter (The King’s School, 1836-39), her two half-brothers and three full brothers all being Old Boys, and all of whom she outlived.

In 1950, Violet Macansh bequeathed in her Will half a million pounds to The King’s School, the largest bequeathed sum to an Australian school at the time. This significant and generous donation led to many education opportunities for the School which greatly benefited numerous generations of students. In 1951, the donation was turned into a scholarship which was deemed to its first recipient based on the boy’s high academic standing.

The Violet Macansh Scholarship is awarded in accordance with Mrs Macansh’s wishes and over the 60 years since the Scholarship was instituted, over 120 boys, who otherwise may not have had the means, have been able to attend The King’s School.

Along with leading to financial support for future Kingsmen, the donation has aided the purchase of Gowan Brae and together with Futter Park, which was bequeathed to the School and named in memory of her brothers. The Park is highly productive, running merino ewes, shorthorn cattle and having extensive hectares under crops, all of which has supported comprehensive rebuilding and refurbishment to the School, not least of which being the upgrade to Futter Hall.

Two recent recipients of the Violet Macansh Scholarship are Albert Osborn and Daniel Payne, both boarding students who started their journey in Year 9.

We also have day boys who have been recipients of the Violet Macansh. Edward Kim and Elijah Bradford are both day students who started their King’s journey in 2018.

“

Albert Osborn

Profile Albert Osborn

Albert Osborn comes to The King’s School from a farm nearly 20km South of Moree, a small town in NSW. When he was offered the scholarship at King’s, after a rigorous process of testing and interviews, he was truly amazed.

Since coming to King’s, he feels right at home. “The huge green campus makes it feel as if you’re not in a major city,” said Albert. “I appreciate the camaraderie that the boarding house offers. Being around my mates is supportive and the way we live and work together makes it feel more like a family and not a school.”

Being at King’s means he has constant access to all amenities provided on site, with modern, fully equipped facilities, and being supported by an always helpful teaching staff, Albert doesn’t have to stray far to get what he needs. “It is great to have tutors in the boarding house to support us academically and large spaces such as the Doyles and the gym for us to use for sport and also recreationally.”

Albert takes advantage of his place at King’s, making the most of every opportunity by joining Clubs and trying new things whenever he can. “I was involved in the Tara Musical Back to the 80s. It was an entirely new experience for me. I learned a lot about commitment and the need to really put a lot of time and effort in to making something successful.”

Profile Daniel Payne

Daniel Payne comes to The King’s School from the lush and remote area of Barrington Tops in NSW. When he received his letter of offer he felt extremely privileged.

“To be at King’s is an unbelievable opportunity,” said Daniel. He notes his future lifelong connection to the School and his fellow Kingsmen is something that he truly cherishes. As a scholarship recipient he takes advantage of this by grabbing onto every opportunity with both hands and embracing the rich culture that makes King’s distinct.

“I want to continue improving myself and excel to the best of my ability, as I know not everyone gets a chance to receive such a high education at a great school like this,” said Daniel. Daniel’s family agrees receiving this scholarship has had immense positive effects on him as a student and as an individual. “Daniel had his heart set on going to King’s, but it wasn’t financially an option. Receiving the Violet Macansh scholarship has made his dream a reality,” said Cath Payne, Daniel’s mother. Being at King’s has been a life changing experience for Daniel, offering challenges, vast opportunities and experiences to which he would not have been exposed.

Profile Edward Kim

Edward Kim lives locally and very close to King’s, which is often the contrast between a day boy and a boarder. He saw coming to The King’s School on a such a prestigious scholarship as a “priceless opportunity”. He wanted to come to here because of the “many opportunities not only academically but all the other aspects that a King’s education provides, such as leadership and co-curricular opportunities that allows students to explore their strengths and challenge their limitations”

“Being at The King’s School has given me the opportunity to grow stronger as a person, mentally and emotionally, giving me a different insight to the world that we live in today.” Edward feels it is his involvement with the range of activities outside of the classroom that has provided these opportunities.

“I have learnt new skills through the large variety of co-curricular activities such as Cadets and Clubs. I have been involved in the sporting arena with the GPS swimming team, and in the academic field participating in the Da Vinci Decathlon.

“Looking back on the memories and knowledge that I have gained, I am surely becoming the best version of myself that I can be and for that I am forever grateful. Without a scholarship I would not have been able to be where I am today or who I am today, it is a great privilege to come to this School.”

Profile Elijah Bradford

Elijah Bradford has very strong links to the School being a third generation Kingsman. “My grandfather, father and uncle are TKS Old Boys so I wanted to continue the family connection to the school. King’s has become part of my identity and has given me a sense of belonging and community.”

Embracing all that King’s has to offer, Elijah has made the most of opportunities such as high levels of academic learning supported by dedicated teaching staff and excitingly in new areas that have allowed him to mature and grow. “I am looking forward to being a Gowan Brae Monitor this year.” Although Elijah also understands his contributions back to the School are just as important. “I believe that I am a positive influence in all areas of school life; whether in academics, sport or band and I am reliable and willing to be involved and help when needed. I aim to do my best in all areas of my schooling.”

When asked what does being on a scholarship mean to him, Elijah shares “my father serves as a Christian pastor and my family has limited financial resources, so being on a scholarship gives me access to opportunities that I would not have otherwise been able to experience. It also means that I have a feeling of responsibility to utilise these opportunities that are available to me at King’s, and striving to do the best that I can. I am grateful to the generosity of those who have donated scholarship funds and I hope to repay this generosity to others in my future.”

Success is for each individual student to feel a sense of rigour, motivation, achievement and enjoyment from what they are learning by acknowledging their learning needs, strengths, interests and goals.

The King’s School Extra-curricular Activities

Academic Extension Clubs

MARY BURNS PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY

An intellectual society for approximately 12 invited students from Years 7-8 in which a wide range of topics will be considered within a philosophical inquiry model. The aim is to open up the minds of members, whilst enjoying the social nature of the group. Boys will be introduced to the skills of conducting discussions about philosophical and ethical concepts and attend events such as the Ethics Olympiad.

YEAR 9-10 STUDENT COLLOQUIUM

Chess

CHESS CLUB

There are a number of opportunities for keen chess players across different levels.

1. Social games are held twice a week both in the morning before school and during lunch with coaching available at one session. This is open to all students in Years 7-12.

2. NSW Junior Chess League is a competition against other schools that runs on Friday afternoons in Terms 2 and 3. Students are transported to and from the School for away games.

3. The Chessmania Competition is an internal competition open to all students to crown the School Champion.

4. The best nine players in the School represent King’s in the annual GPS Chess Championships held as a single day tournament.

5. An Annual House competition is held to award the Champion Crown Chess House at The King’s School.

Reading and Writing

READING CLUB

The Reading Club aims to provide a welcoming and dynamic social environment that empowers students to nourish their love for reading, to give them opportunities to explore and expand their personal literary experience by participating in discussions and activities with like-minded individuals. The Reading Club is open to all Senior School students. Members connect with likeminded readers, share their favourite books and authors, chat and debate about different literary genres, watch latest book-trailers, participate in book challenges, and discuss the pros and cons of titles on different award short-lists. The CBCA and KOALA - major Australian young adult book awards are closely followed. Literary

events like Roald Dahl Day, Australian Reading Hour, Library Lover’s Day, CBCA Book Week, and more are celebrated with engaging activities, innovative competitions, excursions, inter-school reader forums and weekly delicious treats.

WRITING CLUB

If you are interested in creative writing, come along to the Writing Club, open to all in Years 7-12. In Week A, we have a structured lesson where members learn about the craft of creative writing. In Week B, members ‘free write’. Students work on their own writing project, with the teacher librarian ready to provide advice.

Educational Support

HOMEWORK CLUB

The Handwriting Club is for students requiring assistance with prep, assignment tasks, organisational and effective study skills, as well as general examination techniques. All sessions are supervised by the The King’s School staff to offer personalised support as required.

HANDWRITING CLUB

The Handwriting Club is for students who need some extra tuition in handwriting script. Early morning classes allow for intensive teaching and practice of this skill. Classes are small in number and available for Years 7-12.

MULTI-SENSORY LANGUAGE CLASSES

The overall aim is to increase literacy skills and a knowledge of the English language. With a committed approach, these improved skills will assist students in all academic subjects and life beyond King’s. It will be open to invited students in Years 8-10 only.

The Student Colloquium attempts to foster leadership and an enriched mind through discussion and debate for approximately 12 invited students from Years 9 and 10. A keen interest in the world around them and the desire to actively participate in conversation, taking intellectual risks and challenging assumptions is imperative for members of this club.

SENIOR ACADEMIC CLUBS

These clubs are only available for invited students in Years 11 and 12, with students expressing an interest in joining these clubs at the start of Year 10. A selection process then occurs in Term 4 of Year 10 based on academic results and effort ratings along with other character and leadership criteria and students are invited to attend the following year. There are always a mixture of Year 11 and 12 students and discussions are based on current issues, historical perspectives, philosophy or various topics of esoteric interest.

The Twelve Club founded by Mr TW Cuff in 1950 and named after the original twelve members. This is led by the Headmaster.

Scipionic Club founded by Mr RI West in 1968, with the name originating from a group of Roman intellectuals of the second century BC. This is led by the School Chaplain. Cartesian Club founded in 1966 by Mr JW de B Persse and takes its name from the French mathematician and philosopher Rene Descartes. This is run by the Deputy Headmaster.

Tom Barrett Society founded in 1990 by Mr PJ Yeend and is named after Tom Barrett, a convict who arrived on the First Fleet in 1788. This is is led by the Deputy Head (Co-curricular) of the Senior School.

The Faraday Club founded in 1950 to foster interest in matters scientific, the Faraday Club went into abeyance in 1972. Student interest has seen this Club revitalised under the patronage of the Director of Character Development and Leadership.

The King’s School Extra-curricular Activities

Academic Extension Opportunities

INDIVIDUAL LEARNING PROJECTS

The Independent Learning Projects (ILP) is a way of facilitating students’ passions and interests outside of the classroom and school. It is designed for students who are performing well in their current studies and who are already spending time outside of school on endeavours that could potentially link to an academic area of study, external competition or could be used for an application to a competition or grant.

These programs are academically challenging and require students to work independently on their chosen project over a long period of time. As there is a limit to amount of facilitation that can be offered, entry into this project is based on student applications.

DA VINCI DECATHLON

The da Vinci Decathlon is an academic competition held at Knox Grammar School, where hundreds of teams from local and regional schools work collaboratively competing in tasks which focus on a particular theme. The da Vinci Decathlon celebrates students’ academic abilities with a challenging and stimulating competition featuring 10 activities throughout the day, in the spirit of an Olympic Decathlon.

The da Vinci Decathlon is open to high ability students from Years 7-11. The School enters one team of eight students per year group (7, 8, 9, 10, 11) into the competition.

ETHICS OLYMPIAD

The Ethics Olympiad promotes respectful, creative and rigorous discussion of ethics among students within and across school communities. Students compete against other school teams to solve a difficult problem whilst impressing the judges with thoughtful analysis, reasoning, logic, and coherent communication of ideas. Students work in teams of five to compete in a series of three Ethics Olympiad rounds. The scoring criteria rewards clear, concise, and respectful discourse around interesting ethical cases.

Ethics Olympiad is open to high ability students from Years 7-12. We enter two junior and two senior teams of five students per grouping (Junior, 7-9 and Senior, 10-12) into the competition.

EXTERNAL COMPETITIONS/EVENTS/CAMPS

MODEL UNITED NATIONS

We invite UN Youth NSW to come and provide a day of learning along with facilitating an internal debate amongst 30 of our students. This provides exposure to the rules and nuances of the competition and from this day we select our representatives to attend the annual, two-day weekend competitions. This event is part of an International Rotary project to educate senior high school students (Years 9 - 12) on the United Nations organisation and its vital commitment to world peace, in addition to health, education and living standards around the world. The event provides an excellent forum for students to develop and practice their public speaking skills, whilst debating on topical world issues and researching and representing a particular country. We enter teams of three students Years 10-12 in these events.

GATEWAY 8

GATEway 8 is an academic competition held at Macarthur Anglican School where over 40 teams from local and regional schools work collaboratively, competing in tasks focusing on a particular theme. GATEway 8 offers a challenging and stimulating competition featuring 8 activities throughout the day, inspired by the Olympic Octathlon.

GATEway 8 is open to high ability students from Years 7-10. We enter one team of eight students per year group (7, 8, 9, 10) into the competition.

There are a number of competitions for students to be involved in throughout the year that are organised by the School.

Competitions such as ICAS, Science Olympiads, various Mathematics competitions including Olympiads, Informatics Olympiad, Geography Olympiad, National History Competition are all offered by the School. There are also a number of other competitions that we encourage students to pursue independently with a comprehensive list across a variety of domains made available to students.

Attendance of The King’s School students at a variety of external events and competitions on weekends and holidays is encouraged and supported. The School participates in The National Youth Science Forum, The Young Entrepreneurs Program, UN Youth State Camp, The National Invention Convention.

There are a number of events throughout the year such as Individual Learning Projects, Model UN, da Vinci Decathlon, Ethics Olympiad and external competitions, events and camps to which students can be invited or where they apply throughout the year.

The King’s School Extra-curricular Activities

Christian Community

JUNIOR AND SENIOR CRU GROUPS

As part of our Christian Community at King’s, Junior and Senior CRU groups are a space where students can further explore the Christian faith outside of formal classes. We meet weekly and encourage new members to attend.

CRU LEADERS GROUP

Students in Senior CRU, are invited to become part of the CRU Leaders’ Group. CRU Leaders meet weekly to plan meetings and to explore what leadership means from a Christian perspective.

MID-WEEK FELLOWSHIP

Year 7 Mid-Week Fellowship held after dinner is an opportunity to welcome all Year 7 boarders to get to know others, to take part in devotions and discussion, and to encourage each other in what it means to be a Christian Community at King’s.

FRIDAY

NIGHT YOUTH - BOARDERS

Friday Night Youth is focused on Boarders in Gowan Brae and in Year 8. Its purpose is to have some fun playing active games outside like ‘Tennis Rugby,’ to build friendships and connections across Gowan Brae and Senior Houses, and to have a short reminder from the Bible about what it means to live as a Christian Community at King’s with our eight core values.

Debating and Public Speaking

DEBATING

Debating is a lively, intellectual challenge that requires the development of an argument by a team. The skills that a student develops within debating will easily carry through to other subjects and beyond school into the wider community. All students in Years 7-12 are invited to trial for team placement in two main competitions. These are: the ISDA Debating Competition (Term 1) and the GPS Debating Competition (Term 3).

All boys including those who have not made team selection for ISDA and GPS are eligible to participate in the inter-school Sloane Cup Debating Tournament (Term 2). Catering for novices and debaters of all abilities, this competition enables students to practise their skills and learn more about the art of debating in a fun and friendly competition. In Term 4, all boys are welcome to join our Debating Workshops to build on their knowledge of core topic areas and further develop their debating skills.

PUBLIC SPEAKING

Running since 1996, The Faversham Oratory, is an internal public speaking competition. It is endowed by Mr SE Edwards of Merriwa and is named in memory of his Father who lived in Faversham, Kent and had a great love of both the written and spoken word.

Students are invited to write and perform their speech in front of a panel of internal adjudicators and audience. There are three age groups run across the School, Junior (Years 7-8), Intermediate (Years 9-10) and Senior (Years 11-12).

The School also offers opportunities for a variety of external representative public speaking competitions such as The Plain English Speaking Competition, UN Youth Voice Competition, and the Legacy Junior Public Speaking Award. Numbers for these events are usually capped, so students who are interested or have won internal events such as The Faversham Oratory are candidates invited to attend.

Science and The Future Project

SCIENCE CLUB

The purpose of The King’s School Science Club is to truly engage Years 7-10 students with the scientific method whereby they learn to hypothesise, conduct experiments, understand and explore various ideas, whilst communicating results just like in the real world. Activities are designed around hands-on science experiments incorporating Stages 4-6 syllabus and STEM projects. In addition to the learning of science activities and projects, students will be guided for different external competitions throughout the year.

THE FUTURE PROJECT JUNIOR INTERNS

The Future Project is a unique collaboration between The King’s School and scientists. Students are able to join The Future Project in Year 10 as Junior Interns. They specialise in either Physics, Chemistry or Biology and work on an authentic scientific research project. The selection process for students going into Year 10 occurs in Term 4 of Year 9 with work completed in Year 10 Science Classes and during school holidays.

THE FUTURE PROJECT SENIOR INTERNS

The Future Project is a unique collaboration between The King’s School and scientists. Working with students from other schools, students work on an authentic scientific research project culminating in a poster, a presentation, and a journal article. The selection process for Senior Interns occurs in Term 4 of Year 10 and all work is completed outside of normal classes (after school and during school holidays).

After School Academic Interest Clubs

AGRICULTURE CLUB

Includes boys from Years 7-11 two afternoons a week at the King’s Farm. Students engage in the care and maintenance of show livestock. During Terms 1 and 4 the boys prepare for the steer showing at the Sydney Royal. Boys in Years 7 and 8 prepare the sheep for showing across regional areas of NSW all year to attend a number of regional shows across NSW. Sheep showing runs all year. Participants can also engage in a peer mentoring program with boys from the Prep Ag Club.

VISUAL ARTS CLUB

The Visual Arts Club covers a large range of practical experiences including using GoPros, printmaking, painting, ceramics, sculpture, photography, drawing, spray painting, video and animation. It includes guest artist presentations and workshops involving professional photographers, drawers and graffiti artists. Students produce a number of refined artworks, driven by their own personal interests across a large range of media.

INDUSTRIAL ARTS CLUB

Boys in Years 7-12 are given the opportunity to work on individual projects or catch up on classwork under the supervision of teaching staff. In particular, extra time is provided for boys to work on their HSC Major Projects.

The King’s School Extra-curricular Activities

Computing Studies

PROGRAMMING CLUB

Years 7-12 students meet two afternoons each week to learn new and exciting skills beyond what’s taught in the curriculum. Students will learn Python, Swift and later in the year, Object Orientated Programming. Students will have the opportunity to develop mods for Minecraft, build apps, games, and participate in Cyber Security challenges. This is an introductory program so no prior knowledge of programming is needed or expected. For those students with prior experience, extension activities are available to further extend their knowledge and participate in national competitions.

MEDIA & PODCAST TEAM

Years 7-12 students meet twice a week to learn new skills and will join either a media production or podcast team. Students will have the opportunity to develop skills in podcasting, interviewing, video production, and filming and editing. Students will eventually be producing work that will be consumed by the School and wider community. Media Club students will have the ability to capture events at King’s and be involved in the organising of these events. Students will also be able to enter into national video and animation competitions throughout the year.

ROBOTICS

Years 7–12 students meet twice a week to learn new and exciting skills beyond what’s taught in the curriculum. Students will learn how to design, build, program and control robotic units, and will have the opportunity to enter competitions and test their skills against others. This is an introductory robotics program so no prior knowledge is needed or expected. For those students with prior experience, extension activities are available to further extend their knowledge and they are able to act as mentors for younger students whilst preparing for competitions.

Digital learning

THE MINECRAFT GUILD

The Minecraft Guild has a limited number of spaces for Year 7 and Year 8 students. Students participate in two different styles of sessions; Build and Battle. Build sessions encourage students to complete a building challenge which may require research and discussion with others within the allocated time. They can also level up their Minecraft skills or learn more about Redstone and the Code Builder capabilities of the platform.

Battle sessions invite students to participate in friendly e-Sport Competitions within the Minecraft realm where students either face others independently or engage in team contests and challenges. Students interested in joining the Guild will need to apply via the application process.

Drama

THEATRE TECH CREW

The Tech Crew is responsible for assisting with all technical aspects that allow a show to run smoothly. These include lighting, sound, and backstage management. Boys in all years are afforded the opportunity to be part of the Tech Crew for both the musical and the play. Tech Crew for the musical begins in Term 1 and the play in Term 3.

THE PLAY

In conjunction with the girls from Tara, boys in Years 10-11 have the opportunity to perform in the Term 4 play with rehearsals taking place during Term 3. A great experience for those that want to act – without the need to sing or dance! Past productions include Don’t Drink the Water and The Bourgeois Gentleman

THE MUSICAL

The School Musical is a large-scale production that incorporates all the elements – acting, singing and movement. Boys in Years 9, 10 and 11 can audition with rehearsals taking place in Term 4 and Term 1, building to performances in March - often playing to packed houses. Past productions include School of Rock, We Will Rock You and Mamma Mia!

The King’s School Extra-curricular Activities

Leadership

STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL (SRC)

The Student Representative Council is an avenue for the development of leadership skills across Years 7-12, with strong emphasis on servant leadership, excellence, and responsibility. An SRC member requires compassion, fortitude, and a creative mind, in order to foster a positive culture in their community both in and outside of The King’s School. The aim of The King’s School Student Representative Council is to give all students a voice in the development of the School’s culture and to confirm and strengthen the values and presence of The King’s School community. Voting and then allocation of positions on The Student Representative Council occurs towards the end of Term 1 for Year 7 and in Term 4 for Years 8-12.

DUKE OF EDINBURGH

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is comprised of three levels of increasingly greater challenges. It is an internationally recognised award and encourages our boys to be well-rounded students who make a positive contribution to society and their own communities. All Year 9 boys are required to participate in the Bronze Award, which requires at least six months to complete. Once completed, boys may continue and complete the Silver Award from the age of 15 or when they finish Bronze regardless of age.

Participants, at all levels, are required to complete four sections: Voluntary Service, Skill, Physical Recreation, and Adventurous Journey. At the Gold Level, participants also complete a Gold Residential Project. Adventurous Journeys that are co-ordinated by King’s have in the past included Mountain Bike Riding in Tasmania, Sailing in New Caledonia, Cross-Country skiing in the Australian Alps, and Hiking in areas such as New Zealand, The Himalayas, Tasmania or the Australian Alpine Region.

THE KING’S SCHOOL CADET CORPS

The King’s School Cadet Corps (TKSCC) is the oldest and one of the largest cadet units in Australia. Our unit engages over 850 cadets in various cadet activities throughout the school year. TKSCC is a compulsory activity for all students in Years 8-10 and it becomes optional for those in Years 11-12.

TKSCC adopts the vision, purpose and values of the Australian Army Cadets (AAC). The AAC is a leading national youth development organisation, with the customs, traditions, character, and values of the Australian Army. It is founded on a strong community partnership, which fosters and supports an ongoing interest in the Australian Army.

In TKSCC, cadets develop leadership skills, learn and experience discipline, teamwork and character building exercises, in preparation for the Annual Field Exercise (AFX) held end of Term 1 during Camps Week, where cadets are challenged and tested in the field.

This is a thrilling experience for cadets and incorporates military-style training exercises and a variety of outdoor education experiences.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

The Community Outreach Program is an alternative pathway for boys at the end of Year 10, where the commitment to The King’s School Cadet Corps has become optional. In Term 3 each year, students are invited to apply for inclusion in the Program, and then they commence active engagement in Term 4. During Term 1, the boys continue their service-learning activity. In Term 2, the boys reflect upon their learning, review their engagement and share their experiences. There are also additional opportunities to continue active participation during this time. The boys have engaged with outside agencies, preparing, cooking, and constructing meals that are distributed by the agencies to those in need. Active and ongoing engagement with the wider community is the focus of the Community Outreach Program.

The King’s School Extra-curricular Activities

Sport

There are many sporting opportunities at The King’s School beyond the compulsory Winter and Summer sport seasons.

EQUESTRIAN CLUB

Open to any boy in Years 7-12 who has their own horse and the capacity to transport it to Coonabarabran for the North West Equestrian Expo held during May/June each year. Events include hacking, polocrosse, jumping, cross country, team penning, and sporting.

SHOOTING CLUB

Interested boys from Years 8-12 are invited to come to Shooting Club held at the School’s Smallbore Range. During this time boys who are new to the sport of Rifle Shooting are taught safety, skills, and discipline in the sport, whilst others are engaged in honing their skills of accuracy and commitment. Many boys obtain their shooting licence during their training through the Shooting Club.

Towards the end of Term 2 a number of competent shooters (about 16) are selected to attend a Shooting Camp in preparation for the annual AAGPS Shooting Competition held at the Hornsby Range in July.

SNOWSPORTS

Open to any boy in Years 7-12 who wishes to compete for the School in either skiing or snowboarding. Boys will need to be available at the snowfields during the middle week of June/July Holidays and then, if successful, the NSW Championships (late August) and National Championships (early September).

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING GYM

The Strength and Conditioning Centre is open to any boy in Years 7-12 and its aim is to teach students to be fit and healthy and promote their physical wellbeing. Strength and conditioning programs are based on scientifically proven principles for children and adolescents recommended by organisations such as the Australian Sports Commission, the Children’s Hospital at Westmead, and the Australian Strength and Conditioning Association.

There is no minimum age for students to undertake a strength program. They need to be emotionally mature and have the ability to follow instructions, from the School’s accredited strength and conditioning coaches.

OPTIONAL CRICKET TRAINING

The School has optional cricket training available in Terms 1 and 4 for all cricketers from Years 7-12 looking to improve their cricket skill set. Boys will work with the School’s specialist cricket coaches on a one on one basis. Batsmen will have the opportunity to use the bowling machines where their batting technique can be closely monitored. Bowlers are videoed to review bowling actions and suggested corrections are communicated by the coaches.

WINTER CRICKET TRAINING

Each year, the School selects cricketers to participate in optional Winter training sessions in Terms 2 and 3 which is in addition to their normal Winter sport. Boys work with our 1st and 2nd XI coaches and other specialist cricket coaches in small group sessions aimed at developing and extending the leading cricketers at the School. These sessions also prepare cricketers for the annual June/July cricket tours that the School runs both domestically and internationally each year.

OPTIONAL RUGBY TRAINING

The School has optional training available for all boys looking to improve their skills in kicking and in hooker throwing and halfback/five-eighth passing. Boys from all age groups work with specialist coaches, whose focus is to improve kicking technique, involving place kicking and general field kicking, and to improve throwing and passing technique.

The King’s School Extra-curricular Activities

There are numerous opportunities for boys to engage in music across the School, both within the classroom, beyond the classroom, and in private lessons. We offer several exciting and enriching ensembles, including orchestra, concert bands, stage bands, contemporary bands, string ensembles and choirs. Our boys, whether a beginner or advanced musician, have an ensemble they can experience and contribute to at The King’s School.

SENIOR CHOIR

One of the largest ensembles in the School, the Senior Choir, is non-auditioned and open to any boy. Many choral opportunities exist during the year including, assembly performances, chapel performances, large ensemble concerts, large external concerts, and the end of year Festival of Carols.

BARBERSHOP QUARTET SYMPHONIC BAND

The Barbershop Quartet is a specialist acapella ensemble. Auditions are open to students who display exceptional aural skills and the ability to sing confidently in harmony with others. This is a specialised group of singers who perform at School functions and assemblies.

SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

This orchestra is for more advanced players from Years 7-12. They perform regularly throughout the year, in large ensemble concerts and public events. Students in the orchestra have advanced playing skills and selection is through invitation.

CHAMBER STRINGS

The Chamber Strings are one of the School’s premier performance ensembles and suited to upperintermediate to advanced string players. Auditions are open to all students who meet these requirements. The Chamber Orchestra performs regularly throughout the year.

CORELLI STRINGS

This ensemble is where boys will start if they already play violin, viola, cello, or double bass. Each boy will be auditioned by the Head of Strings. Those who are successful are invited to participate in regular weekly rehearsals. Corelli Strings will have the opportunity to perform at several events during the year.

The Symphonic Band is the most advanced level band at King’s. Auditions are open to students who display exceptional skill on their musical instrument. This ensemble caters to advanced brass, woodwind, and percussion students with performances occurring regularly throughout the year.

WIND ORCHESTRA

This is the ‘middle’ band in The King’s School Band program. The band plays at a high level and performs at school events and competitions during the year. Entry is competitive, and boys in Years 7-12 are encouraged to audition. The Wind Orchestra will have the opportunity to perform at several events during the year.

MIDDLE SCHOOL CONCERT BAND

This ensemble is a starting point for boys in Years 7-8 who already play a wind, brass or percussion instrument. Each boy will be auditioned by the Head of Woodwind, Brass and Percussion. Those who are successful are invited to participate in regular weekly rehearsals. The Middle School Band will have the opportunity to perform at several events during the year.

STAGE BAND - INTERMEDIATE AND SENIOR

These ensembles progress from intermediate to advanced and provide access to jazz and contemporary repertoire along with the opportunity for boys to build improvisation skills. Both stage bands perform regularly and work towards competitions and festivals, such as the Merimbula Jazz Festival.

DRUM LINE

The Drum Line is the heartbeat of The King’s School. The members have performed for many different events including Seven Network’s ‘Sunrise’ and ‘Australia’s Got Talent’. The Drum Line is open to audition for skilled and committed percussion students, Years 7-12. Selection for this prestigious ensemble is determined by the Drum Line Director.

SMALL ENSEMBLES

There are several small ensembles including: piano trios, string trios, string quartets, flute, saxophone, clarinet, low brass, and guitar ensemble. These are generally non-auditioned ensembles and the selection process is based on a student’s involvement in one of the larger ensembles within the program.

CONTEMPORARY BANDS

These ensembles are created specifically to cater for our keen drummers, guitarists, vocalists, and keyboard players. Boys are encouraged to rehearse with each other in regular contemporary music rehearsal times. Contemporary/rock groups and rock bands perform at assemblies, house dinners, and other informal gatherings.