coonabarabran high school and p&c newsletter · m johnston, principal . p lee, p&c...

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COONABARABRAN HIGH SCHOOL and COONABARABRAN HIGH SCHOOL and COONABARABRAN HIGH SCHOOL and

P&C NEWSLETTERP&C NEWSLETTERP&C NEWSLETTER

23 March 201223 March 201223 March 2012

PO Box 3 COONABARABRAN NSW 2357 Phone: 02 6842 1099 Fax: 02 6842 2267

www.coonabarab-h.schools.nsw.edu.au M Johnston, Principal P Lee, P&C President

Week 10 Event

Mon, 26 Mar Year 7 Vaccinations P&C Meeting Tue, 27 Mar Formal Assembly Year 12 English Excursion to Sydney - Shoe Horn Sonata Thu, 29 Mar NW Rugby Trials OH&S White Card course

Week 11 Event Mon, 2 Apr CHS Swimming Tue, 3 Apr 7-a-side Rugby Armidale Wed, 4 Apr Sydney Royal Easter Show Thu, 5 Apr Year 12 Reports distributed Last day of Term 1

Week 1 Event Mon, 23 Apr Pupil Free Day Tue, 24 Apr Students resume Term 2 Wed, 25 Apr ANZAC Day Fri, 27 Apr Next Newsletter

Term 2

Preparations for the school musical “Sheerluck Holmes”, a Maverick Musicals production, are well underway with casting completed and rehearsals in full swing. Could everyone kindly note and keep free the performance dates which will be Thursday 3 May, Friday 4 May and Saturday 5 May (the end of week 2/ term 2). Another important date will be the full days rehearsal which will be held on the pupil free day which commences Term 2, Monday 23 April. A dress rehearsal for Senior Citizens is being planned for the morning of Wednesday 2 May (more details will follow).

As rehearsal schedules become clarified, a note will go out to students advising of times and dates in relation to all practices.

Finally, congratulations to all of those students who have, once again, embraced this opportunity so enthusiastically.

Next P&C Meeting Monday, 26 March @ 5.30 pm

School Library ALL WELCOME

The Annual School Report for 2011 will be available to download from the

School’s website next week.

Welcome to Year 7 BBQ & SocialWelcome to Year 7 BBQ & SocialWelcome to Year 7 BBQ & Social

The “Welcome to Year 7” Social was held on Thursday, 23 February. The night began with a BBQ and school tours for the year 7 students and their parents and caregivers. Parents had the opportunity to see the Trade Training Centre as well as a classroom from each faculty. At 7pm the parents nervously left their children and the students experienced their first high school social. Thanks go to the SRC and the Prefect body, Mrs Nash, Mr Gardiner and Mrs Adam for their organisation and running of the social.

Top left: Byron & Lockie Above: Phoebe, Hannah, Gabi, Teaghan & Molly

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Principal’s Report Term 1 is one of the busiest

of the school year as our teaching programs gather momentum and the days are filled with learning inside and outside of the classroom. Students brim with enthusiasm as they engage in the big events like the Swimming Carnival, Coonabarabran Show, North West Sports Trials and School Musical. A wide range of sports, agriculture and curriculum activities have moved learning outside the four walls of the classroom this term. Recent trips for astronomy, archeology, biology and chemistry enrich student understanding of course work. The emphasis on real world learning continues as students prepare for the English trip to Sydney, the Geography excursion, the OHS Whitecard training and the SRC leadership training day.

Congratulations to the HSC students who have performed so well during the recent Half Yearly Examinations. HSC students began their courses at the beginning of Term 4 last year and have already completed a significant part of their final year of study. I have sent letters of recognition home for students who have received commendations from their teachers for achievement and effort.

Year 12 students will receive their School Reports in the last week of term. I have a strong expectation that all students attend school until the last day of term as full teaching programs will continue till the last day. Please contact the school if your student is unable to attend.

Russell Murray has represented our school in the field of Information Technology on several occasions in the past. Last weekend he made it to the State Final of World Skills held in Sydney. Russell made us very proud with his strong presentation. He placed an unofficial fourth but his commitment to improving his skills is first class.

The Agriculture program at Coonabarabran High is impressive and diverse. A large group of students have had wonderful opportunities to learn about agriculture and to represent the school at local shows and seminars. Our team (listed below) performed exceptionally well at our local show. I would like to congratulate: The Coonabarabran High Cattle Leading Team: Justin Antaw, James Bateson, Jessica Richards, Sam Bowen, Sam Smith, Sophie Stuart, Michaela McGlashan, Samantha Harris, Caitlyn Green, Sarah Richards, Karl Calleija, Lachlan McEvoy, Jed McEvoy, Lydia Harris, James Britton, Joseph Clarke, Matthew Clarke, Nathan Chapman, Lachlan Tudgey, and Tabitha Harris.

I would also like to congratulate Alex Kirk, Cody Hoy and Jacquelyn Hoy for their success at the Tamworth Show. These young students won both the Junior and Senior Reserve Champion ribbons for our school sows.

A small but dedicated group of student volunteers has been giving their service to the Riding for the Disabled program. I commend Phoebe Hensby, Madeleine McNeilly, Katie Young, Sam Smith and Emily Young for quietly supporting this wonderful

community service. Coonabarabran High encourages students to get into volunteering as an activity which helps others and promotes personal growth. Interested students should see Mrs Young in the Support Unit to discuss volunteering opportunities.

The school is buzzing with rehearsals, the learning of lines, singing practice, choreography and the preparation of sets. The school musical is coming soon. Performances of “Sheerluck Holmes” will occur on Thursday 3 May, Friday 4 May and Saturday 5 May (the end of week 2/ term 2). Put the dates in your diary now.

There is a great deal of learning occurring at Coonabarabran High this term and whilst the students get most of the credit for their efforts in the classroom, there are quite a few teachers working behind the scenes to develop new resources and strategies to support the teaching of literacy skills to students. Our school plan (a link exists on our website) includes the creation of a school literacy team which will represent all areas of the curriculum. This team will ensure that students get the skills necessary to understand the information which is presented to them (the reading/ listening skills) and that they are able to communicate that understanding effectively across a range of subject areas. (the writing/ speaking skills). These skills will enable students to succeed in all areas at all levels from NAPLAN through to their HSC and beyond.

I encourage parents and students to visit our school website today. The site has information about courses and the latest news for our HSC students. It is regularly updated and contains an array of articles and images about our school.

Parents are invited to attend the P&C Meeting on Monday 26th March at 5.30pm in the School Library. I will be discussing the role of the School Council, the digital curriculum and the proposed new Year 12 jumpers in my presentation to parents.

Pam Lee has announced her decision not to stand for re-election to the position of President of our P&C. Pam has been a tremendous supporter of our school over the past eight years and her leadership has contributed significantly to the success of our school. Pam has the heartfelt thanks and best wishes from the Coonabarabran School community.

Mel Johnston

The Annual General Meeting of the Coonabarabran High School P&C Association will be held in

the High School Library at 5.30pm, Monday, 26 March.

The Annual General Meeting of the Coonabarabran High School P&C

Canteen Sub-committee will be held in the High School Canteen at 3.40pm, Tuesday, 27 March.

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President’s Report The next P&C meeting,

on Monday 26 March at 5.30pm, will be our Annual General Meeting. This will be followed by a general meeting. If you have never been to a P&C meeting before, this is the time to come. Our association can only remain relevant and representative with your help, suggestions and ideas. We look forward to meeting you.

Sarah Jackson from Orana Community Mutual will be the guest speaker at the general meeting to give us more information on their services. This follows a suggestion at our last meeting to move our finances from our current bank.

The school canteen is run by a sub-committee of the P&C and the Canteen Committee will hold their Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, 27 March at 3.40pm in the school canteen. This committee would appreciate more members and is looking for a new treasurer this year. Can you help? Please come along to the meeting, your input will be appreciated.

There have been some recent, negative newspaper reports about the P&C Association. Please note that these unconfirmed reports refer only to some within the Head Office in Sydney and not to any of the local associations in schools around the state. The P&C Association within Coonabarabran High School makes local decisions independently of head office, while following the rules and procedures laid down state-wide. Our affiliation to the P&C includes mandatory insurance cover.

It is good to see students in their smart uniforms when I visit our school. Other visitors to our school have commented on this and our students have been complimented on their presentation and behaviour when representing our school away from home. The P&C supports and encourages the wearing of the correct school uniform at all times. There is a Uniform Shop at our school where second hand uniforms can be bought at very reasonable prices. All proceeds go to the P&C. Please contact the school office if you wish to make a purchase.

Planning is already underway for the P&C‟s main fundraiser of the year which is running a canteen at the Equestrian Expo based at the showground Hut. The multi-talented Julie McGlashan will once again be our coordinator. We will be looking for volunteers and donations closer to Expo. Please check the advertisements which will appear in our newsletter.

My daughter is now half way through her final year at Coonabarabran High School and I will not seek re-election to the P&C executive this year. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in the P&C over more than eight years, the last three being as president and consider it a privilege to have been able to make a contribution. Thank you, both to the P&C and to our school, for the opportunity.

Pam Lee

Treasurer's Report

COONABARABRAN HIGH SCHOOL Parents and Citizens' Association

Statement of Receipts and Payments

as at 27 February 2012

BALANCE

Opening Cash Balance as at

28 November 2011 $ 12,488.92

Add Receipts

Receipt No

Bank Interest - November $ 26.39

Bank Interest - December $ 20.86

Bank Interest - January $ 17.76

Total $ 65.01 $ 12,553.93

Less Payments

Cheque No

557

Warrumbungles Publications - School Blues Ad.

$ 352.00

Total $ 352.00

Cash book balance as at

27 February 2012 $ 12,201.93

Bank Statement

Reconciliation

Balance as per Statement dated 31 January 2012

$ 12,201.93

Receipt No Add Deposits since 31 January 2012

Total $ -

Cheque No

Less unpresented cheques/payments since 31 January 2012

Total $ -

Reconciled total as per cash book 27 February

2012 $ 12,201.93

North West Equestrian Expo Friday, 1 June to Tuesday, 5 June 2012

Entries close on Thursday, 5 April - the

last day of Term 1. The Program can be

downloaded from the High School

homepage - follow the links.

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COONABARABRAN HIGH SCHOOL P&C MEETING 27 FEBRUARY 2012

Meeting opened: 5.35pm Present: Pam Lee, Serena Fiegert, Leesa Kelly, Tracee McHugh, Rendle Hannah, Tammy Samuel, Peter Knight, Mark Fosdick, Martyn WiIkin, Daniel Stewart, Emma Rankmore, Gail Kenny, Naomi Morrissey, Graham Enks, Mel Johnston, Rebecca Ryan, Anita Tighe, Sherrin Whale. Apologies: K Nash Guest speakers were introduced by Pam Lee: Naomi Morrissey, Gail Kennedy , Emma Rankmore and Daniel Stewart. G Enks spoke to welcome each of them. Previous Minutes: Treasurer‟s Report CHS Drum Kit needed to be included in the minutes . Rendle Hannah to be included as present at the last meeting. Moved: A Tighe 2

nd: T Samuel

Business Arising: Correspondence in: P&C Journals; Letter from Mary Doolan and English faculty thanking us for funding the purchase of new texts of HSC material; Sponsorship request from North West Equestrian Expo for Rug $137.50 Moved: Leesa Kelly 2

nd: Mark Fosdick

Correspondence out: nil Treasurer’s Report: As tabled and presented by Serena Fiegert. Total $12, 201.93. Membership subs are now due. Moved: Serena Fiegert 2

nd: Peter Knight

Serena Fiegert speaks on closing the CBA account and going to Orana Credit Union. Interest rate sheet tabled. Discussion around the move to the Credit Union. Motion: Close the CBA account Moved: P Knight 2

nd: R Hannah

Amendment to the motion: Serena to investigate fees etc. associated with the Credit Union account. Moved: T McHugh 2

nd: L Kelly All in favour.

Canteen Meeting: Pam Lee spoke about price increases which are in the menu. Profit of $800 from last year. Price rises reflect the general increase in cost of the food. Canteen meeting 27

th March 3.40pm in the

canteen will be Annual General Meeting. School Council: no meeting Environment Committee: no meeting. No further info on solar scheme. Grounds Committee: G Enks - Works on hold till Trade Training Centre is completed. North Wall - Landscape steps and wheel chair access. After the meeting P&C members invited for a walk around the Trade Training Centre. Principal’s Report:

Edmodo – online educational diary and notice board being used in the school.

New Teachers in the school are very enthusiastic.

Duncan Graham – Head Teacher HSIE while Phil Draper continues with Centre of Excellence.

Mr Eshman – Relinquished the post of Head Teacher Mathematics. Emma Dwyer in the position temporarily.

Spoke on the great results in the HSC.

STLA role – Expanded to full time position, Kylie Deshon and David McIntosh in the role.

QuickSmart and MULTILIT programmes aimed mainly toward year 8 students. 8 ways aboriginal learning programme works well across all children.

Study Centre staffed by Jenny Sullivan.

Year 12 students have teachers as mentors.

Mixed ability classes in junior school is working well. Year 7 is non-streamed, year 8 & 9 has one top class then mixed ability.

Looking at establishing a gifted and talented program in Maths.

TVET and TAFE classes - large ranged offered.

Questions were asked about Mentoring program. The program is offered to all year 12 students, about 50 year 12 students took up the program. Discussion around the program.

QuickSmart/MULTILIT - what is the basis for entry into the program, teachers review NAPLAN.

Deputy Principal’s Report:

HSC – 17 subjects at CHS are above state average

Former year 12 students invited back to speak with current year 12 about what worked well and what didn‟t for them.

Encouraging Year 12 students to study for their half -yearly exams

Parent/Teacher Night Tuesday, 14th March 7pm

Swimming carnival a great success

Annual School Report will be on the school website.

Pam Lee asked if the school could mark the roll on swimming carnivals days a little later as it left the pool to return to school prior to all the buses arriving at the school

Rebecca Ryan asked what should year 12 parents know – G Enks to do a listing.

Rebecca Ryan – asked could there be an email list for year 12 parents, Mel Johnston replied that it was better to use the school‟s website.

General Business:

Next P&C meeting will be the AGM and several positions need to be filled.

Expo - P Knight spoke on Expo providing shirts for the riders and aprons for the canteen staff. Mel Johnston to see Duncan Graham about anything needed.

Rebecca Ryan spoke on the Gonski report and the outcomes and recommendation. Rebecca Ryan to draft a letter to state and federal government.

My School Herald lift out tabled. Next meeting: Monday, 26

th March - AGM

Meeting closed: 6.40pm

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Visual ArtsVisual ArtsVisual Arts Congratulations to Hannah Harris who won the

Senior, two dimensional class in the Visual Arts Section at the Coonabarabran Show with her black and white lino-print titled “Drought”, cleverly depicting a windmill, cow‟s skull over cracked earth and sizzling sun. Madeleine Byast‟s “Reflecting on a Light house” gained second place with a skilfully painted acrylic work. A pencil sketch of multiple views of roses by Raquel Egner was given “Highly Commended”. In the Junior section, Brooke Meier‟s “Bee M.” initial monoprint was awarded second prize and apologies to those whose work was whisked away but granted a prize. Sandra Allon and her assistant stewards were very complementary about the standard of our work entered and we thank them for organising the exhibition.

Top: Hannah Harris & Brooke Meier Middle: Ellie Capewell Bottom: Grace Smith

Wrap With Love returns to Coonabarabran High for 2012

What Wrap With Love does 'Cold humanity is our concern, people caring about

other people.' There are millions of people in the world suffering

extreme cold. In 1992 Wrap with Love began with the idea to help as many people as possible by providing warm Wraps to ward off hypothermia and in the past 18 years we have sent more than 255,322 Wraps to people in over 75 countries, including Australia, with the help of our hardworking and generous volunteers.

Most of us can knit and sew. Just one square provides one twenty-eighth of warmth, and collectively, twenty-eight assembled squares create one whole warm and sheltering Wrap.

Can you help us warm people up with simple plain knitting? Join us in our fifth year of knitting and wrapping with love. In the four years of knitting so far, we have made 10 beautiful and warm blankets. Knit at home or at school. Send in spare wool and we will knit for you.

Here’s how: Using 8ply wool

and 4mm needles

Step 1 Cast on about 50

stitches. The exact number

will depend on your knitting

tension (Means how tight you

pull the wool).

Step 2 Work garter stitch

(plain knitting) until the

square measures 25cm,

then cast off.

If you can‟t knit, don‟t worry, come to the library at lunchtime on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday during Terms 2 and 3 and we will teach you. If you have wool to donate, we will gratefully accept it.

Beginners and crocheted wraps are what we do best!

If you can already knit and would like to try different patterns go to the Wrap With Love website at http://www.artsandcraftsnsw.com.au/Wrap.htm for their ideas.

Brooke Meier, Hannah Harris & Raquel Egner with their prize winning art work.

http://www.artsandcraftsnsw.com.au/Wrap.htm

http://www.artsandcraftsnsw.com.au/Wrap.htm

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60 seconds…. My name is…Shane.

My nickname is…Eddie.

My friends tell me…get a hair cut.

My favourite movie is…Love

Actually.

My favourite song is...Stairway to Heaven by Led

Zeppelin.

It scares me, but I’d love to…go Scuba diving.

The best advice I’ve been given was…never leave

till tomorrow what you can do today.

My favourite place other than Coona is…Sydney.

My funniest memory is……thinking this can’t get any worse, then ‘The Naked Gun’ flashes on the

screen in bold.

If I could change one thing in the world, it would

be…important.

I have never understood…my own handwriting.

I am happiest when…listening to good music.

I would cry if I lost…my Les Paul.

The hardest thing I’ve done was…stop

procrastinating.

If I was Prime Minister I would…probably be kicked

out of Parliament.

If I was reincarnated I would come back as a…an

Owl.

School has been…a journey.

When I grow up I want to be a…person who knows

what they want to be.

Any words of wisdom?...If you don’t think you can

do it, just stop thinking and do it.

Shane Bourke is currently in Year 12 at Coona High.

Coonabarabran Show Success Students from Coonabarabran High exhibited six

heifers and one steer at the Coonabarabran Show on the 9

th and 10

th of March. Students competed in the

Paraders Competition where they were judged on their ability to handle and present their animals. There was some fierce competition from Coolah Central School and other exhibitors. Our students displayed excellent animal handing skills especially Lachlan McEvoy and Emily Young who won their age divisions. Both students competed for Grand Champion Parader where all the students who won their age divisions competed against each other. Lachlan McEvoy, the youngest competitor in the event won Reserve Champion Parader of the Coonabarabran Show, this was an outstanding result! Caitlyn Green, Emily Young and Sam Smith impressed the judges to qualify for the Paraders Competition at the Sydney Royal Easter Show.

We also exhibited five Charolais heifers owned by Terry and Maylene Griffin from Temana Charolais Baradine. These heifers were also very successful. Temana Georgia was placed 3

rd in European Heifer

under 14months old. Heifers Temana F86 and F107 were placed first and second in European heifer under 18 months. In the steer section our Angus Limousin steer named „Buddy‟ was placed second. I would like to thank all the people that made it possible for the Livestock Showing Team to exhibit and compete in the show including Terry and Maylene Griffin from Temana Charolais, Col and Lorna McGilchrist, John McEvoy, Sweet Bulk Baradine and Mrs Webb.

Results Under 13 Years: Lachlan McEvoy 1

st and Reserve

Champion Parader Overall; Jed McEvoy 3rd

Under 15 Years: Caitlyn Green 2

nd

Under 16 Years: Emily Young 1st; Sam Smith 2

nd

Under 18 Years: Nathan Chapman – finalist

Lachlan McEvoy wins Reserve Champion Parader of the

Coonabarabran Show.

Coona High Cattle Parading Team.

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Indigenous News The 11

th February, 2012 marked the anniversary of

the National Apology to the stolen generation delivered by former Prime Minister Mr Kevin Rudd in 2008. Coonabarabran High School Aboriginal students, Les Cain and Dylan Neville delivered a speech at morning assembly, reflecting on Mr Rudd‟s Apology to the Nation.

On the 21st of February a speech was delivered by

the Aboriginal Studies class acknowledging the 100 year

Anniversary of Burra Bee Dee being gazetted. The students reflected on the historical significance of Burra Bee Dee and the founder Mary Jane Cain as well as life on Burra Bee Dee.

That afternoon Coonabarabran High School students and teachers gathered at Burra Bee Dee with the local Aboriginal community as well as the broader community to help celebrate the day. Along with speeches from Mr Bill Robinson and welcome to country from Mr Casey Dowd, the crowd were thoroughly entertained by the local Aboriginal Dance Group, this was then followed by a BBQ and a game of cricket.

On the 1st and 2

nd of March there was an excursion

to Dubbo Zoo for the IYLP scholarship holders. The 11 indigenous Youth Leadership Program recipients along with Mr Johnson and Miss Nixon travelled to Dubbo Zoo to attend a mini-gathering to meet with fellow scholarship holders from Dubbo, Campbelltown and Young.

Above: Buzz Light Year (aka Hughie), Sarah & Jim at the Year 7

Social. Below: Year 7 boys in the new Metalwork facility.

Latoya & Teagan make a furry friend at the IYLP Zoo Excursion.

Advanced Life

Photography

Dear Parents, We will be photographing your school on

Thursday, 3 May 2012. You will receive a flyer/envelope for each of

your students explaining the *products available. Please ensure that each student returns his/her

own envelope even if payment is made in the eldest child‟s envelope. Envelopes are not to be placed inside other envelopes.

Students are to bring envelopes on or preferably before Photo Day.

We have an automated system for payments by credit card. You can go online to www.advancedlife.com.au for easy to understand payment instructions. You will receive a receipt number which MUST be written on the order envelope in the space provided. You can also make payments by cash, cheque or money order.

Sibling photos are also available for students at the school, please collect a „family order envelope‟ from your school and return it to the office.

Please don‟t hesitate to contact us if you have any queries.

We look forward to seeing all your smiling faces.

Your team from Advanced Life Photography 02 6881 6422

*Prices range from $25 for the Group Presentation up to $40 for the Ultimate Pack.

Tamworth Show Success Cody Hoy, Alex Kirk & Jacquelyn Hoy (pictured below) enjoyed great success in Pig Parading at the Tamworth Show recently. Three gilts took 1st (Camilla), 2nd (Sarah) & 3rd (Georgia) place in the 4-6 month category. Camilla went on to win Reserve Champion Junior Sow (under 12 months category) Our Senior Sow, Jacki, was awarded Reserve Champion (over 12 months category) .

http://www.advancedlife.com.au

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Writing CompetitionsWriting CompetitionsWriting Competitions

The Sydney Morning Herald Younger Writer of the Year

This competition is open to students in Years 7, 8 and 9. Entrants are required to use one of three story starters provided to produce a 1000 word story.

Winners in each year group will then be judged for an overall champion. Winners receive a $200 book pack, runners up a $100 book pack. Prizes will be announced during the Sydney Writers‟ Festival in May.

Entries must be posted by Monday, 2 April as they must reach the SMH before Easter. See your English teacher or Mrs Macintosh for details.

Banjo Paterson Writing Awards, Orange The ABC Central West Radio Writing Awards are for

students aged 16 and under. There is no limit to the length of poetry while a short story must not exceed 1000 words. Although it costs $5 per entry, first prize is $200 while second and third placegetters both receive $100.

Entries close 20 April (late school holidays). If you are serious about this competition, see Mrs Macintosh and find out why you have a good chance of winning a prize. Entries must have Australian content whether in theme or style.

Whitlam Institute What Matters? Competition

All students in Years 7 - 11 should have completed the first draft of their entry and be busy proofreading/editing.

The first bundle of entries has been posted and others will be sent soon. See your English teacher for deadlines.

Henry Lawson Literary Awards, Gulgong We have some Year 12 entries in the Open Section

but so far only one in the Year 7 - 10 category. Many students must have a story almost ready. If you are interested, see Mrs Macintosh so your entry can be posted in the next week.

Henry Lawson Awards, Grenfell

Once again, we have a few entries but would welcome more. There are sections for poetry and short stories. If you are interested, see Mrs Macintosh so your entry can be posted in the next week. Happy writing!

The SRC does Youth WeekThe SRC does Youth WeekThe SRC does Youth Week The SRC will be helping the shire celebrate Youth

Week by running two activities in the last week of term 1.

The first is a challenge to design a new wrap or baguette to be added to our canteen‟s menu. Entrants need to name the wrap or baguette, list its ingredients or describe it in a tantalising, tempting way.

Five finalists will be chosen. These baguettes or wraps will be trialled at the canteen where canteen staff will tally the orders for each finalist. The winning baguette or wrap will win a canteen voucher of $15 and the finalists will win a $10 canteen voucher.

The second activity is a Chatter Box challenge. Each day, the chatter box will be positioned in a different spot in the school grounds and students and staff will be invited to say their piece. Talking should not go any longer than a couple of minutes, and you can enter as an individual or as a team.

The overall theme for the Chatter Box for the week is “Own it: What is precious about your life?” For example, is it precious that you live in a free country? Is it precious that you can speak freely without fear of going to gaol for your opinions? Is it precious you have clean water? Is it precious you have people who care about you? Is it precious you have a house to live in?

While the overall theme runs all week, each day has a specific topic you can talk on. Monday: Hot dogs have left the building. If you could add anything you like to the canteen menu what would it be and why? Tuesday: Today is National Fun at Work Day. What would you introduce to have more fun at school? Wednesday: If God hadn‟t invented Oompa Loompas to make chocolate, what would you give kids at Easter? Thursday: Comedy Box

Each day will have mystery judges. Prizes of canteen vouchers will be won each day. Good luck to all students and staff who enter.

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YEAR 8 TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT THE UNIVERSE

What better way to conclude the Year 8 Science Astronomy unit than with a trip to the Siding Springs Observatory. After the long journey across part of „The World‟s Largest Virtual Solar System Drive‟ to the top of Mount Woorat, Year 8 were greeted by fair dinkum (very tired from getting up so early to talk to us) Astronomer, Donna Burton.

Along with Principal Johnston, Year 8 discovered why poor old Pluto was no longer considered a planet and were surprised to find out how many people with different occupations and careers are required to keep the Observatory up and running, and the Astronomers happy.

The students had a hands-on experience of the solar system, gravity on other planets, nebulae, meteorites and more in the Exploratory and were taken for a tour of the Anglo-Australian Telescope (AAT). The students were captivated by the size of the AAT, the view from the top of the mountain and the number of telescopes up there.

Overall, it was an informative and interesting day at the Observatory.

Year 11 Business Studies Business Studies is a practical subject which

gives the foundation for understanding how businesses operate. Last week the Year 11 students visited an old established business and a new business in the CBD of Coonabarabran.

At Peter Young‟s clothing and Eat It, the students quizzed the owners about their respective businesses. Valuable insights were gained into how businesses are established and run in a sometimes difficult and competitive environment.

Thanks to these two businesses for giving half an hour of their time for some very down to earth input about the operation of their businesses.

Thanks to Jack Ayoub, Luke Scott, Caleb Sovic and Chloe Sutherland for participating so positively.

What’s new on our website

Information for Year 12 students The school‟s website now has a page specifically for Year 12 students. Timetables, Assessment booklets, Career newsletters, Board of Studies information and any other information regarding Year 12 will be posted on this page. Go to the school‟s homepage and click on the link Information for Year 12 students. Student timetables Year 7 to Year 12 timetables are now on our website. Go to the school‟s homepage and click on the link Student timetables. DER Laptop Survey We seek your views on the NSW one-to-one laptop program. Go to the school‟s homepage and click on the link 2012 DER – Laptop Survey. Centre for Excellence A new webpage has been created specifically for Coonabarabran High School Centre for Excellence. A link to this page can be also found on the school‟s homepage. North West Equestrian Expo Once again the program and weekly updates for Expo can be found on our website. The Expo page is updated every Tuesday afternoon. Go to the school‟s homepage and click on the link 2012 Expo Program & updates. Weekly Events, School Calendar, P&C Newsletter, Canteen Menu & Roster, Excursion & Sporting permission notes , News, Photographs and much more can be found on our website and are updated regularly. Please take a moment to visit our website at www.coonabarab-h.schools.nsw.edu.au

http://www.coonabarab-h.schools.nsw.edu.au/index.htm

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YOUR TIME STARTS NOW……Sharon Rankmore

My earliest memory is…having a „chop picnic‟ in a dry creek bed at Stephen‟s Creek near Broken Hill. My school report usually said…quiet and diligent (synonyms for boring and ridiculously shy). My first relationship was…sweet. I don’t like talking about…stuff. My most treasured possession is…my job. My mother and father always told me…I had to finish school. I still haven‟t… In the movie of my life, I‟d like to be played by a good actor. I wish I had…lots more time in each day. I wish I hadn’t…let the weeds grow in my garden last week. My guiltiest pleasure is…my campervan. My most humiliating moment is…too difficult to talk about. My happiest moments …heaps of them. At home I cook….nothing. My last meal would be…with friends (as long as they were cooking). My favourite gadget is…my camera. I’m very bad at…sport and cooking. When I was a child….I wanted to knit with real knitting needles. The book that changed my life is...„Marva Collins Way‟. If I could live anywhere I’d choose…to live anywhere. It’s not fashionable but I love…my happy pants. My worst trait is…my soapbox. My best trait is…when I get off my soapbox. Friends say I am…OK. If I wasn’t me I’d like to be…my cat. The song I’d like played at my funeral is…Helen Reddy‟s „I Am Woman‟. It scares me, but I’d love to…swim the length of the pool. If I could change one thing in the world it would be…the length of the pool. My greatest fear is…being trapped in a watery cave. If only I could…run a kilometre. The hardest and ‘bestest’ thing I’ve ever done was... move away from Tumut by myself. I love...big belly laughs. I relax by...playing in clay, finding out stuff, making mindmaps, solving problems, spending money. What I don’t find amusing is…being lied to. I’m always being asked…How are you? My first impressions of Coonabarabran...crisp, alive, special. I arrived here on a full moon at 1am. My favourite place in the world …my world. At the moment I’m listening to…the other me! My favourite work of art is…not from Renaissance Italy! My favourite singer is …Gurrumul Yunupingu. My worst job was…being an enslaved nanny when I was 19. I often wonder…where life is leading me… Sharon Rankmore is currently teaching in the Support Unit.

Coonabarabran High School

2012 Adolescent

Vaccination Program

Clinic 1 - Monday 26 March 2012

Year 7 – Hep B 1, HPV 1, Varicella

Clinic 2 - Monday 21 May 2012

Year 7 & 10 – HPV 2, Boostrix

Clinic 3 - Monday 17 September 2012

Year 7 & 10 – Hep B 2, HPV 3 & Boostrix catch-up

For further information please read the information from NSW Health (below) or contact Michelle Birrell during school hours on 68421099.

Vaccinations in school

Each year NSW health offers the vaccines recommended by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) for adolescents as part of the school-based program.

In 2012 the following vaccines will be offered:

Hepatitis B and Varicella (chickenpox) vaccines

will be offered in a catch-up program for Year 7 students who may have not previously received 3 doses of Hepatitis B vaccine when they were a baby, or, had a chickenpox disease.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine will be

offered to Year 7 girls only as a 3-dose course over a six-month period.

Diptheria, Tetanus and Pertussis (Whooping

cough) vaccine will be offered to all Year 7 and Year 10 students.

Parent Information Kits were sent home to parents/guardians. To consent to the vaccination of their child, parents/guardians are advised to read all the information provided, complete the consent form and return it to their child‟s school.

Parents/guardians who wish to withdraw their consent for any reason may do so by writing to the school principal.

Please note that for HPV vaccine only, parents/guardians must record their Medicare Number (all 10 digits) on the consent form, and this is required to record the student‟s health information to the National HPV Vaccination Register and link to the National Cervical Screening Program.

A Record of Vaccination will be provided to each student vaccinated at the clinic. Parents/guardians should ensure that this record is kept for future reference and should not assume that their child has been vaccinated if they do not receive this Record of Vaccination.

WESTERN NSW LOCAL HEALTH DISTRICT

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Riding for the Disabled Volunteer Program

The Coonabarabran High School Volunteer Program continues into 2012 with Brenda Young as the Program Coordinator.

The Program got off to a very exciting start with the induction of the Riding for the Disabled Volunteers. A training day for the volunteers, Phoebe Hensby, Madeleine McNeilly, Sam Smith, Emily Young and Katie Young was held at the RDA Centre on Wednesday, 28 February. Coach Hazel Aylett and Assistant Coach Melissa Clarke put the students through an interesting and informative morning learning how to follow RDA routines. These included leading, grooming, safety issues and interacting with horse and rider. The RDA Coaching Team and the other senior volunteers that were present were amazed at the high level of horsemanship demonstrated by all the students and were also delighted with the courteous and friendly manner of the students.

At the end of the training session each student volunteer was presented with a Volunteer‟s Handbook and folder.

There will be other opportunities for students to participate in the Volunteers Program as the program will extend to include other organisations and services.

Students interested in joining this worthwhile and interesting program are most welcome to see Mrs Young at school.

If there are services or organisations in Coonabarabran that would like to be part of this program please contact Mrs Young at the High School on 68421099.

Visit to Burra Bee Dee Three students from Year 11 Aboriginal Studies

recently visited Burra Bee Dee to help John Whitehead survey and map the graves in the cemetery there. The local Aboriginal Lands Council provided the finance for this important piece of historical work.

Burra Bee Dee is a very significant site for the local Indigenous community. Having a permanent record of the location of the graves and the identity of the people buried in them is important for future generations.

Thanks to Jordan Deaves, Jordan Cobcroft and Ben Martin for helping so efficiently.

Andrew Piper, Teacher of Aboriginal Studies

RDA President, Norma Roberts and Coach Hazel Aylett present RDA Volunteer booklets to Phoebe Hensby, Madeleine McNeilly, Sam Smith, Katie Young and Emily Young.

HSC Study Work Shop On Tuesday 14

th February, our Year 12 students

benefited from an insightful evening of study strategies presented by students from the 2011 HSC class. You could have heard a pin drop in the library as Ashley Reynolds, David Flood, Laura McLean, Anna Ramage, Lachlan Smith, Madeleine Storer, Joshua Douglas and Ruby Bouwsema shared their tips for successfully navigating the challenges of the HSC year of study. Although unable to attend, Patrick Tighe and Rowan McKinnon contributed by preparing handouts filled with very sage advice. Valuable information about the importance of getting organised, preparing worthwhile study notes and handling stress was relayed in this session and gratefully received.

After a pizza break, the evening concluded with a workshop run by Mr Draper which focused, in particular, on effective examination preparation. With the Half Yearly Examinations fast approaching, the evening was certainly very timely, a fact reflected in the large number of students who attended.

Thanks are extended to our ex-students for generously giving of their own time to help our current Year 12 class.

Maddy McNeilly grooms “Trooper” while Coach Hazel observes.

Year 12 Physics make DC motors out of a couple of corks, paper clips and a piece of wire.

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North West Regional Swimming On Monday the 5

th March 13 High School students

made the trek up to Armidale to attend the North West Regional Swimming carnival. For a change the weather co-operated and it was a fine and warm day. Everyone competed to the best of their abilities which was shown by several students recording personal best times. We wish the following students all the best at NSW CHSSA swimming carnival in Sydney on the 1

st to the 3

rd of

April.

Kadesha Ayoub 2nd

100m Butterfly Phoebe Hensby 1

st 50m, 100m, 200m, 400m

Freestyle, 1st 100m Breaststroke, 1

st 100m Backstroke,

1st 200m Individual Medley

Joshua Masman 1st 100m Butterfly, 2

nd 200m

Individual Medley, 2nd

200m Freestyle, 3rd

100m Freestyle James Schaeche 3

rd 100m Backstroke

Nattalie Scheache 3rd

100m Butterfly Bradley Watts 2

nd 100m Freestyle

Also two relay teams qualified for the state carnival. These were:

U/16 Girls Medley Relay of Phoebe Hensby, Caitlyn McHugh, Nattalie Schaeche, Sam Smith U/16 Girls 50m Freestyle Relay of Phoebe Hensby, Nattalie Schaeche, Sam Smith, Sam Cormie

Coona Softball Girls take out first round in Knock Out

Look out Narrabri, the Coonabarabran Open Girls Softball team is coming to town! It had been a long time between innings for Coonabarabran to field a softball team but who knew this unlikely bunch of girls had it in them, they certainly didn‟t.

With only four girls who had played before and eight others who were very keen to learn we made the trek out to Narrabri and returned victorious, winning quite convincingly, 16 to 9.

It was an exciting game of softball with some big hits from Tessa Flick, Jeanette Schaeche, Holly Purdy, Megan Silk and Maddie Baker. Amee Wrench made some great stretches at first base to assist in several outs from Tessa and Nattalie Scheache. Rachel Storer and Gabbie Olsen shared the pitching responsibilities keeping the batters at bay. Standout fielding moments wereTessa‟s double play and Megan Silks fantastic catch in centre field.

Sherelle Moore

Lawn Bowls

This year, the Coonabarabran High School Lawn Bowls team has three young and enthusiastic new players playing their first game of competition bowls. They are Domanic Lugli, Byron Coe and Holly Verrender. They were defeated by Narrabri High School 27 – 12 in the second round after receiving a forfeit from Coonamble High School in the first round. The team played well, showed excellent sportsmanship, enjoyed their game and played to the best of their ability, even winning the first end of the match.

Phoebe Hensby achieved outstanding results at the North West Regional

Swimming carnival this year.

Open Girls Softball team with Ms Moore

North West Representatives On 15 March, Blake Cain travelled to Inverell to

participate in the 15yrs Touch Trials. He was successful in being chosen in the North West team which is a significant achievement as he is eligible to trial again next year.

On 17 March, Eddie Kuras travelled to Tamworth to participate in the North West Open Basketball Trials. He is only in Year 10, however, his high level of skill was recognised and he will now represent the North West at the State Carnival in Tamworth in May.

Congratulations to both these boys for their outstanding achievements.

Blake Cain (left) was chosen to represent the North West in the 15 yrs Touch Football team. Eddie Kuras (right) was chosen to represent the

North West in the Open Basketball team.

coonabarabran high school and p&c newsletter · m johnston, principal . p lee, p&c...

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