coonabarabran high school and p&c...

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COONABARABRAN HIGH SCHOOL and

P&C NEWSLETTER

21 August 2015

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

www.coonabarabranhigh.com G Enks, Relieving Principal M Fosdick, P&C President

Next P&C Meeting

Monday, 24 August @ 5.30 pm

School Library

ALL WELCOME

COMMEMORATING 70 YEARS SINCE VICTORY IN THE PACIFIC

To honour 70 years since the cessation of War in the Pacific, on Friday 14 August, the staff hosted a morning tea for members of the Coonabarabran Sub-Branch of the RSL. In attendance were Mr Kevin Barrington (President), Bruce Breckenridge (Secretary) and two WW2 veterans, Mr Russ Stinson and Mr Bill Wilkin. The morning tea provided a great opportunity for some sharing of stories, and, fittingly, gave deserved recognition to the service of these men.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Week 7 Event

Mon, 24 Aug P&C Meeting

NW Boys Tennis

Tue, 25 Aug HSC Industrial Technology—Marking

Wed, 26 Aug NAIDOC Day

Week 8 Event

Mon, 31 Aug Year 11 Exams commence

Wed, 2 Sep CHS Athletics (3 days)

Week 9 Event

Tue, 8 Sep CHS Girls Tennis (3 days)

HSC Music—Examination

HSC Design & Technology—Marking

Tell Them From Me Survey

Wed, 9 Sep Tell Them From Me Survey

Thu, 10 Sep Ghana Music Show

Year 12 Farewell social

UNSW Aspire visit (7-11)

Fri, 11 Sep UNSW Aspire visit (7-11)

Week 10 Event

Tue, 15 Sep Prefect Induction

Wed, 16 Sep Canteen Red Day

Thu, 17 Sep Year 12 Farewell

Fri, 18 Sep Last day of Term 3

Term 4

Week 1

Mon, 5 Oct Public Holiday

Tue, 6 Oct Term 4 Resumes

Please note: The next newsletter will be published

on Friday, 23 October. In the meantime, news &

upcoming events will be published on our website.

Events are subject to change, so please check our

website regularly for updates.

Go to the school’s website to view a slideshow of Single Cup action.

SINGLE CUP – 8 YEARS IN A ROW The annual Single Cup competition between Coonabarabran, Coonamble and Gilgandra High Schools was held on 29 July in Coonamble. A delightful sunny winter’s day provided the ideal conditions as both Gil and Coonamble set about the task of trying to take the Single Cup away from Coona who have had it in their possession for seven years.

The day started with rounds of the girls’ Soccer and boys’ Basketball as well as the commencement of the Bowls, Golf and Tennis. The Soccer girls were in fine form as they defeated Gil 2-1 and then had a draw against Coonamble whilst the Basketball boys recorded two solid wins.

Continued on page 9.

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE PAGE

Upcoming events 1

Commemorating Victory in the Pacific 1

Single Cup 1

Principal’s Report 2

Principal’s Council Western Meeting 2

President’s Report 3

Treasurer’s Report 3

Canteen 3

Girls Summer Uniform 3

P&C Minutes 4

Careers in Maths 4

Chess Club 4

Indonesian News 5

International Feast 5

Children’s Book Week 5

Your Time Starts Now 6

Warraymali Coonabarabran 6

Tell Them From Me survey 7

60 Seconds 7

Change to School Tax File Number Program 7

Calculators 7

Feast of Pi 8

CAT Competition 8

Year 10 Coffs Harbour Excursion 9

Single Cup cont. 9

Basketball 9

North West Athletics 10

Open Netball 10

Winter Warrior 10

Principal’s Report Our term is concluding with the farewell of our valued Year 12 students. As a cohort I acknowledge the positive rapport they have developed with their teachers and the respect they have engendered from the student body. Year 12 have recently completed their challenging Trial HSC Examinations and are now focusing upon the preparation for their HSC. A recent note home to Year 12 reinforced the importance of continued attendance and a commitment to working with their teachers to maximise outcomes. Year 12 students are encouraged to take advantage of the Study Centre operating on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 3.30 - 5.00 pm, as well as the additional tutorials being held after school and during the upcoming holidays. Term 3 also concludes with the induction of our new Prefects and Captains on 15 September. On behalf of the staff, I acknowledge the positive contribution of our outgoing student leaders, particularly our Captains Caitlyn, David, Sara and Stephen. They have been excellent role models and I thank them for their support. I am confident that our new Prefects will continue the strong tradition of student leadership which characterises our school. Our Year 7 and 9 NAPLAN results have once again provided important information to support quality teaching and learning. I will provide an overview of our NAPLAN results at the upcoming P&C meeting on Monday evening. At Monday's meeting I also invite you to view some of our innovative Design and Industrial Technology HSC major works. Mrs Bethany Doyle and Mr Dan Stewart will be available to present projects and in addition, Danual will demonstrate the recently purchased P&C Industrial Technology resource. School sport continues to provide a breadth of opportunity with success within both individual pursuits and team events. Once again we were successful in winning the Single Cup inter-school competition for the 8th consecutive year. Our Open Netball team was also very competitive, placing us as North West Runner Ups. A new event, the Winter Warrior Inter-School challenge, contested over a 20km course through rough terrain, mud and water provided an opportunity for our students to demonstrate their resilience being placed 2nd in the mixed team event. We also have 8 athletes who were successful during adverse weather conditions at the Tamworth North West Carnival who will participate at the upcoming NSWCHS Athletic Carnival at Olympic Stadium Homebush. Additional enrichment activities recently provided by staff include a Future Leadership Camp, Mock Trial, Chess Competition and a very successful Year 10 Excursion to the North Coast. Thank you to students for their participation and maturity and to staff for providing access to these events. Our Year 8 and 10 students have been presented with subject selection information to facilitate the best informed decision for their respective future ROSA and HSC studies. I acknowledge, in particular, the efforts of Year Advisers Mr Mark Heaney and Mrs Gail Kenny with the, as always, invaluable support from Careers Adviser Mrs Nancy Doolan, in implementing this process. Finally, I look forward to meeting new parents this Monday, 24 August, 5.30pm at our next P&C meeting and to working co-operatively with our Year 12 students in their final precious weeks of formal schooling at Coonabarabran High School. G Enks Relieving Principal

CHS HOSTS SECONDARY PRINCIPAL'S COUNCIL WESTERN MEETING

On 30 and 31 July, Mr Enks in his capacity as Relieving Principal of Coonabarabran High School hosted the Secondary Principal Council's Western meeting for Term 3. 24 Principals were in attendance together with School Education Directors' Michael Cronk and Paul Loxley.

The productive meeting covered a broad agenda ranging from the Department's new Wellbeing Framework to Indigenous Education and strategies to enhance academic writing.

Thursday afternoon provided an opportunity for the attendees to enjoy a tour of Pilliga Pottery following by dinner at Birds of a Feather café.

A highlight of the conference was the presentation by School Captains David Tighe and Caitlyn McHugh who delivered an insightful presentation on CHS from a student's perspective, as well as Allynta Sutherland’s warm Welcome to Country.

Pleasing too was the positive comments received from the visitors regarding the positive environment at Coonabarabran High School.

Overall, the conference provided a valuable opportunity for Principal's to share ideas and to strengthen their co-operative efforts to ensure that education in Western Region continues to aim for excellence for all students.

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P&C President’s Report Congratulations to those students elected as 2016 prefects. I know most of these young men and women and I am confident they will represent their school and serve and support their peers with distinction.

Year 12 have begun their final steps of their school journey. They are in good hands and good company. Good luck to all.

My book of the month is Chris Kyle’s autobiography ‘American Sniper”. This book is unlikely to win many literary awards but I found it an enthralling insight into the challenges modern soldiers face, physically and emotionally. But most of all, I found it disturbing. Chris Kyle was exceptionally good at his job and, like most people who are very good at their jobs, he loved what he did. Chris was a sniper.

I can’t attend the next meeting, on Monday, but Graham has arranged for the group to see a demonstration of the new joining machine and Tammy will have grapes.

Cheers, Mark.

Treasurer's Report

COONABARABRAN HIGH SCHOOL

Parents and Citizens' Association

Statement of Receipts and Payments

as at the 27 July 2015

BALANCE

Opening Cash Balance as at 22

June 2015 $22,990.26

Add Receipts

Receipt No

80 CHS canteen $890.94

Total $890.94 $23,881.20

Less Payments

Cheque No

672 Coona High School-council payment

$500.00

673 Coona Baker $2,730.10

674 Advanced Coffee $1,525.49

675 CHS canteen $675.73

451 G & D Weatherall $396.00

452 J & M McCabe $434.50

453 Kalolane Foods $1,243.21

454 Taylors Eggs $139.50

455 Inland Distributors $522.80

456 Krysties Meats $697.95

457 J & M McCabe $167.70

Total $9,032.98

Cash book balance as

at 27 July 2015 $14,848.22

Bank Statement Reconciliation

Balance as per statement 30 June 2015

$15,498.66

Receipt No Add deposits since 30 June 2015

80 CHS canteen

$890.94

Total $890.94 $16,389.60

Cheque No

Less unpresented cheques/payments since 30 June 2015

675 CHS Canteen $675.73

456 Krysties Meats $697.95

457 J & M McCabe $167.70

Total $1,541.38 $14,848.22

Reconciled total as per cashbook 27 July

2015 $14,848.22

Canteen Wish List Julie wishes for both a bigger Canteen Committee

and more volunteers.

Meetings are held every third Tuesday of the month

in the Canteen at 3.40pm. Please call Julie on 6842

1904 if you can help.

SOS : Canteen Treasurer Required Treasurer’s duties:

Account’s payable—check invoices to

statements, file invoices

Wages—fill in wage book, produce pay advice

for employees and keep records of pay advice

Write cheques and ensure they are co-signed

and sent

Keep cashbook record of all cheques written

and deposits made

Produce monthly reports and reconciliation of

accounts

Complete ATO forms, Work Cover and

Superannuation forms

Collect and file employee information for all new

employees.

Time required is 3-4 hours per week.

Please call Isabel McGlashan on 0400 903678 or

68434437 for further information.

Addition to Girl's Summer Uniform

Following consultation with the P&C, staff and

students, it has been agreed that the option of

wearing shorts will be added to the girl's summer

uniform effective from Term 4, 2015. Details as

follows:

Shorts must be:

- Navy

- Tailored

- of modest length

Shorts must not be:

- Cargo style

- Board Shorts/Sports Shorts

- Displaying a logo of any nature

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Coonabarabran High School P&C Meeting Minutes Monday 27th July, 2015

Meeting Opened: 5.35pm Present: Mark Fosdick, Nick Karagiannis, Mary Doolan, Angela

Karagiannis, Kellie Nash, Tracee McHugh, Graham Enks, Col Mercer, Anita Tighe, Mandy Sulter. Apologies: Tammy Samuel, Skye Lambert, Geoff Gasior.

Demonstration of new Microscopes provided by Mr Nott. Previous Minutes: Minutes of Monday, 22nd June 2015, Motion

minutes be accepted: Moved: Tracee McHugh Seconded: Leesa Kelly Business arising from Previous Minutes:

HSC Students Design and Technology Projects to be shared at next meeting along with a demonstration from Mr Stewart of the new wood work machine. As identified in previous minutes the Girl’s summer uniform will now include a tailored navy short as accepted by the Executive staff, student handbook to be updated by Mr Enks, Mrs Birrell to advised students at assembly and Ms Doolan to send a letter home. Local providers to be given notice in writing, Mr Enks to organise. Correspondence In:

Thank you letter from CHS Mathematics Faculty.

Parent & Citizen Journal, Term 3, 2015.

The Fundraising Group Correspondence Out:

Grant Application for Feast of Words. Treasurer’s Report: Tabled by Angela Karagiannis.

Balance: $14,848.00 Options for P&C insurance discussed, as no objections current quote accepted. Pony club donation discussed. Motion: P&C to donate $250.00 to the Pony Club for the use of the Hut during Expo, all in favour – Motion carried. Mark to compose a letter of thanks. Moved: Angela Karagiannis Seconded: Leesa Kelly - all in favour. Canteen Report: Tabled by Anita Tighe

New Treasurer required, investigation as to whether it will need to be a paid position, Mr Enks to investigate other Schools arrangements, Current treasurer to be requested to provide a role description, Ms Doolan will then call for nomination on the CHS website. Environment & Grounds Committee Report:

No report this meeting Principal’s Report:

Mr Enks presented an overview of the Principal’s report from the 23 July, 2015 Newsletter. Details provided regarding the requirements of the Schools developmental framework which involves attracting, maintaining and promoting quality teachers and includes the requirement for teachers to participate in 2 personal development lessons per year. In addition CHS will host the Western Regional Principal’s on Thursday & Friday 30 & 31 July, 2015. Deputy Principal’s Report:

Information provided on the inclusion of Cyberbullying and changes to the 7-10 PDHPE Curriculum and the Enhancing Online Safety for Children Act 2015, including the mandatory requirement to study domestic violence issues and effects. Feast of Pi and Feast of Words very successful again this year. David Tighe achieved a Silver Medal in the Combined High Schools Cross Country. Week Five, HSC Trials will commence, how to study sheets and out of hours tutorials. Many activities will be occurring over the next few weeks including Year 9 Federation Day organised by the HSIE Faculty. General Business:

Issues regarding the organisation of the North West

Sports Events on Friday, 27 July, 2015 raised regarding the dangerous conditions, Mr Enks to contact the organisers to convey concerns

Next Meeting: Monday, 24 August, 2015, 5.30pm, School Library. Meeting closed: 6.55 p.m

Chess Club

The North West NSW Country Secondary Schools Knockout Chess Competition for 2015 has finally come to an end for the Chess Team. Coonabarabran High School

boys Joseph Samuel, Jarrod Lambert, Ian Whittall and Tristan Thomas made up the team that was unfortunately knocked out of the competition during a home game at Coonabarabran on 10

August. The team from Oxley High School in Tamworth were just too good for our boys on the day winning 3 games to 1. The games were close and some good chess was played in the true spirit of sportsmanship. I would like to congratulate our boys on their commitment to the team throughout the year. They have represented our school with the utmost professionalism at all times. Well done boys.

To Parents/Carers

Maths Ad(d)s—a publication

showcasing the sought after

careers underpinned by mathematics and statistics.

Mathematics is taught in every secondary school in

Australia but very few of us know about the wide

range of jobs available to those who take their

mathematics study further. Unlike lawyers, doctors

and engineers working mathematicians and

statisticians don’t get a simple job title. This makes it

hard for students and their families to know about

the huge range of sought after and well-paid

careers on offer across many areas including health,

finance, education, energy, game design, data

science and telecommunications.

The Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute

(AMSI) publishes Maths Ad(d)s to tell students, their

families and schools about these exciting

opportunities. Maths Ad(d)s helps answer that old

question, “Where can I go with maths?” This year we

have worked with the Australian Association of

Mathematics Teachers to deliver Maths Ad(d)s to as

many secondary school families as possible.

Download a free copy of Maths Ad(d)s at our

careers site: careers.amsi.org.au/mathsadds/

careers.amsi.org.au/mathsadds/

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Independence Day Hari Merdeka

17th Augustus 2015 Indonesian Independence Day is observed from Jakarta to the smallest towns and

villages across the 17,000 islands in the archipelago. Vibrant parades, formal military processions, and lots of patriotic flag ceremonies take place across the country. Schools begin training weeks in advance with marching practice for military-like processions that later clog all the main streets. Special sales and celebrations take place in shopping malls and markets.

The President of Indonesia delivers his State of the Nation Address on August 16. Each village and neighbourhood holds their own outdoor music, games, eating contests, and creates a festive atmosphere for the occasion.

Transportation can slow to a halt during Indonesian Independence Day -- plan ahead and find a place to enjoy the festivities!

Panjat Pinang Games Perhaps one of the most messy and entertaining parts of Indonesian Independence Day is observing an old tradition known as Panjat Pinang. A heavily greased pole is erected in the main square of towns and villages; various prizes are placed on top just out of reach. Contestants push, slip, and slide up the pole in an effort to grab a prize. What starts as a vicious competition usually turns into a display of teamwork as people realize just how difficult the seemingly simple climb really is.

Prizes in small villages can be simple household items such as brooms and buckets, while some televised events have vouchers for new TVs and even cars at the top!

While generally good fun for all, Panjat Pinang is considered controversial by some because it began as a way for Dutch colonists to enjoy a laugh at the expense of locals.

Saturday 22-Friday 28 August

Short listed CBC titles we have in the library

for 2015 are:

Nona and Me

by Claire Atkins

Intruder

by Christine Bongers

Are You Seeing me?

By Darren Groth

The Minnow

by Diana Sweeney

Cinnamon Girl

by Melissa Keil

The Protected

by Claire Zorn

Two Wolves

by Tristan Bancks

The Simple Things

by Bill Condon

Bleak Boy and Hunter Stand Out in the Rain

by Steven Herrick

Rivertime

by Trace Balla

One Minute's Silence

by David Metzenthen and Michael Camilleri

The Stone Lion

by Margaret Wild and Ritva Voutila

A-Z of Convicts in Van Diemen's Land

by Simon Barnard

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YOUR TIME STARTS NOW… Dr Michael Armstrong

My earliest memory is…. trying to build a trap to catch Santa Claus

My school report usually said…. doing pretty well but could try harder in PE

My first relationship was…. with the girl next door

I don’t like talking about….. painful memories

My most treasured possession is… my music equipment

My mother and father always told me…. to stop reading and go outside

In the movie of my life, I’d be played by…. Kevin Spacey – or at least I’d like to think so

I wish I had….. worked in London for longer

I wish I hadn’t…. stopped performing

My guiltiest pleasure is… dark chocolate coated Blueberries

My most humiliating moment was… tripping up stairs in public while walking on to stage

My happiest moment was…. I am not sure which of three: finishing my PhD, getting married, or being at the birth of my daughter

At home I cook…. anything but I particularly enjoying cooking Indian and Middle Eastern foods

My last meal would be… Chicken and Apricot Tagine with baked Cous Cous

My favourite gadget is… my Kenwood Mixer

I’m very bad at…… saying no

When I was a child I wanted to…. grow up to be a classical pianist

The book that changed my life is…… The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists

If I could live anywhere I’d choose… somewhere cold

It’s not fashionable but I love…. Pink Floyd

My worst trait is…. saying yes

My best trait is…. working hard on what I believe is important

Friends say I am… likely to work too hard and that I can’t say no

If I wasn’t me I’d like to be…. Someone else

The song I’d like played at my funeral is…. Mozart’s Lacrimosa

It scares me, but I’d love to…. go Hot Air Ballooning

If I could change one thing in the world it would be….. to make the world a more compassionate place

My greatest fear is….. of failing

If only I could…. spend time sitting on an island with nothing left to do

The hardest thing I’ve ever done was…. learn about Postmodernism

The last big belly laugh I had was…. when it was suggested that the best way to deal with climate change was to eat People

I relax by….. playing music or spending time with my family

What I don’t find amusing is…. people who say that money is everything

I’m always being asked…. to do more (or less)

My favourite place in the world… anywhere where my family is

At the moment I’m listening to…. too much Nick Cave and Damien Rice

My favourite work of art is…. The Scream

My worst job was….. I don’t think I have one that I would say was the worst. All my jobs have had good points and bad points.

Dr Michael Armstrong teaches History, Geography, and Legal Studies at Coona High.

Indigenous Development Program (IDP) The Indigenous Development Programme (IDP) is funded by the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet under the Indigenous Advancement Strategy, Safety and Wellbeing Stream. The Indigenous Development Programme acts as an Information and Referral Service, assisting Indigenous members of the community to link with services which are appropriate and relevant to their needs and includes advocacy and community capacity building elements such as yarn ups, workshops, events, relationship building and networking. The project aims to improve Indigenous social, health and financial wellbeing, enhance Indigenous education and employment outcomes, improve safety and wellbeing of the Indigenous community, reduce drug, alcohol and substance misuse by prevention education and improve Indigenous social participation. The IDP service operates 5 days per week (Monday – Friday) from 9.00am to 5.00pm. No appointment necessary.

Educational Readiness, Attendance and

Achievement Service (ERAA) The Educational Readiness, Attendance and Achievement (ERAA) Project is funded by the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet under the Indigenous Advancement Strategy, Children and Schooling Stream. The project will be delivered to Indigenous children 0 to 12 years and their parents/carers and Indigenous youth 14 to 18 years and their parents/carers. Project activities will include relationship building and networking, information and referral provision, facilitating relevant information sessions and workshops, strong promotion of early literacy and participation in community events to facilitate strong referral pathways for clients. The project aims to contribute to or achieve the following outcomes: getting children into school, improving educational outcomes including Year 12 attainment, improving youth transition to vocational and higher education and work and supporting families to give children a good start in life through improved early childhood development, care, education and school readiness. The ERAA service operates on a Monday and Wednesday from 9.00am to 5.00pm. Appointments are required.

Warraymali, Coonabarabran

1 / 2 Essex Street, Coonabarabran, NSW, 2357

Telephone: 6842 3971

Email: [email protected]

WARRAYMALI COONABARABRAN - A NEW EDUCATION SUPPORT SERVICE

A new educational facility has opened at 1/2 Essex Street, Coonabarabran. Managed by Karyn Cain, the service exists to support students' educational achievement and is open to all students. More details about the service are as outlined below and Karyn is happy to provide more information if required. Karyn can be contacted on 6842 3971 or by email: [email protected]

WARRAYMALI

Coonabarabran The following two services are operated out of

Warraymali Coonabarabran:

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

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THE TELL THEM FROM ME

STUDENT FEEDBACK SURVEY This term, our school, like many other public schools in the state, will participate in a Department of Education initiative: the Tell Them From Me student feedback survey. The survey aims to help improve student learning outcomes and measures factors that are known to affect academic achievement and other student outcomes. The focus of the NSW-wide survey is on student wellbeing, engagement and effective teaching practices.

More information about the survey is available at: http://surveys.cese.nsw.gov.au/information-for-parents

The survey is an opportunity for our students to provide us with valuable and quick feedback on what they think about school life, how engaged they are with school and the different ways that teachers interact with them. Schools in Australia and around the world have used the Tell Them From Me survey to help improve how they do things at school.

I want to assure you that the survey is confidential. The survey is conducted online and will typically take less than 30 minutes to complete. It will be administered during school hours between 17 August and 16 October. Participating in the survey is entirely voluntary.

A consent form is being sent home with students. If you do not want your child or children to participate, please return the form to school by 15

August. Copies

of the form and FAQs are available from the website above and http://coonabarabranhigh.com

THE PARTNERS IN LEARNING

PARENT FEEDBACK SURVEY Our school will also be participating in the Partners in Learning parent survey, another part of the Tell Them From Me suite of surveys (student, teacher and parent surveys) on student engagement. The survey asks parents and carers questions about different factors that are known to impact on student wellbeing and engagement.

Running this survey will help our school understand parents’ and carers’ perspectives on their child’s experience at school. These include: communication between parents/carers and staff, activities and practices at home and parent/carer views on the school's support of learning and behaviour. This valuable feedback will help our school make practical improvements.

The survey is conducted entirely online at home or on public computers. The survey will typically takes 15 minutes or less to complete and is completely confidential. The parent survey will be conducted between 17 August and 16 October. Participating in the survey is entirely voluntary, however, your responses are very much appreciated.

More information about the survey is available at: http://surveys.cese.nsw.gov.au/information-for-parents

Change to the School Tax File Number Application Program

As of 1 October students will no longer be able to apply for their Tax File Number through the school. If students need a Tax File Number there are a limited number of application forms left. Please contact Mrs Nancy Doolan at the school.

60 seconds…. My name is… Katherine Harris.

My nickname is… Kat, Kaffy, Vanilla Ice.

My friends tell me… can you make us a cake/macaroon?

My favourite movie is… Top Gun or Dirty Dancing.

My favourite song is… Fancy by Iggy.

It scares me, but I’d love to… Catcha Kangaroo with a shopping bag.

The best advice I’ve been given was… enjoy your life and do something you love!

My favourite place other than Coona is… the beach.

My funniest memory is… is when Hannah slipped on the oil in Hospitality.

If I could change one thing in the world, it would be… spiders.

I have never understood… English.

I am happiest when… I’m taking photos.

I would cry if I lost… my Thermomix.

The hardest thing I’ve done was… English paper 2.

If I was Prime Minister I would… do a better job than Tony Abbott.

If I was reincarnated I would come back as a… John Cena.

School has been… a learning experience.

When I grow up I want to be a… Chef.

Any words of wisdom?... Don’t run sideways!

Calculators Calculators are a valuable resource to support your child’s progress in Mathematics and other subjects. Owning their own calculator helps a student to become familiar and confident with their operation both within the classroom and at home.

Formal examinations and external NAPLAN and Higher School Certificate tests have calculator sections and we strongly encourage all students to have their own calculator.

The CASIO fx-82 AU, which is on the Board of Studies approved calculator list is suitable for all levels of schooling from Year 7 to Higher School Certificate and can be purchased from the front office for $22.00. This is a not-for-profit service provided by the school.

If you have any concerns in regards to this request, please do not hesitate to contact the school. Please encourage your child to have a calculator as soon as possible.

http://surveys.cese.nsw.gov.au/information-for-parents

http://coonabarabranhigh.com

http://surveys.cese.nsw.gov.au/information-for-parents

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CAT Competition The Computational and Algorithmic Thinking Competition was held across Australia earlier this year. This competition involves problem-solving and other skills that would be required in computer programming. Thank you to all the students who participated and congratulations to the following students who received a Credit in their respective year divisions.

Year 7 Bethany Freeman Kaitlyn Reynolds

Cobey Smith

Year 9 Ian Whittall

Feast of Pi 2015

The fourth annual Mathematics Festival – Feast of Pi was held on Thursday 23 July, 2015.The goal of the Feast of Pi is to raise the profile of Mathematics as a discipline in the school, thus

encouraging students to recognize the significance of acquiring Mathematical skills which can open the door to an extensive range of career opportunities. The importance of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines for the future economic and social well-being of Australia cannot be underestimated. International research indicates that 75% of the fastest growing occupations requires STEM skills and knowledge.

The Feast of Pi program provided students with the opportunity to participate in a variety of workshops and presentations designed to enrich their mathematical understanding and student engagement.

This year we were fortunate to have Mr David Humphrey join our team of presenters. David completed his schooling at Coonabarabran High School and is the son of local residents Margaret and Andy Humphrey. David has a PhD from the University of NSW and is currently a researcher at the CSIRO working on communications technologies including new developments in WiFi and mobile broadband. He has an interest in presenting the real world applications of science and mathematics to school students and has presented to schools in the Sydney region as part of CSIRO’s Scientists in Schools program.

This year the inclusion of local astronomer and scientist in charge of the Anglo-Australian Observatory at Coonabarabran Professor Fred Watson, created a lot of interest. Professor Watson is also well known for his astronomy slots on ABC radio and his various books. Professor Watson presented a lecture to our senior students and community members.

Mr Harry Langes the Head Teacher of Mathematics at Gilgandra High School up until 2012 and currently the Virtual Mathematics Faculty Leader delivered HSC lectures to our senior mathematics students. Recently Harry has been working in primary schools with a focus on working mathematically and problem solving. He is passionate about getting students to think about their responses and being able to articulate them to others. Harry concentrated on areas of the Mathematics curriculum which students often have difficulties with in their HSC exam and as an experienced HSC marker Harry shared many tips that will benefit students in their future HSC studies.

A Feast of Pi community dinner was held at “Sistereallas” on Wednesday evening and was the precursor to the Feast of Pi. During the evening Harry Langes shared his neverending enthusiasm for Mathematics, David Humphrey outlined some current and interesting developments occurring within the CSIRO, and Professor Fred Watson gave an account of the exciting images recently obtained of Pluto.

The 2015 Feast of Pi was again a very beneficial and successful initiative which was well received by students and staff. Many thanks go to the presenters who generously gave up their time to prepare and design workshops and presentations that truly enriched our students.

” It is days like these that our students really remember and can be crucial in influencing their future”.

Pictured from top: Dr Fred Watson; Mr Harry Langes; Mr David Humphrey.

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Single Cup Continued from front page.

Round 2 of the day saw the girls turn at Basketball where they recorded a win against Coonamble and a loss to Gil and the boys at Soccer were very dominant as they recorded two wins. In round 3 our 15s and Open Netballers recorded big wins against both schools and the 14s league went down in both games despite defending stoutly

As round 3 progressed news started to filter in with the other results and with both the Golf and the Tennis winning both their games and the Bowls recording a win and a loss things were looking very positive for Coona High. Each win at Single Cup secures four points for your school, with a draw resulting in two points and a loss gaining one point. It was at this stage that the numeracy skills of each school’s sports organiser were tested as they ensured that the adding up was accurate and that the final tally reflected the results at each sport.

With an overall total of 65 points Coona easily won the 2015 Single Cup. This is the eighth year in a row that we have won and we look forward to defending our title in Gilgandra next year.

Round 1 Win for the U15 Girls Basketball Team

The Coonabarabran girls had a great win against the Coonamble U15 Basketball team last week, beating them by 7 points in the 1st round of the NW Knock Out competition. They have made a great start and will just keep on improving. The girls pulled out some great moves and played together as a team beautifully. ‘Best on Ground’ goes to Molly Atkinson who was a force to be reckoned with at both ends of the court (top scorer and rebounder), closely followed by Ale who really started to get her Basketball on by the end of the game.

The team is Molly Atkinson, Alison Green, Mary Barac, Kiara Hawkins, Natalie Young, Ale Van Schalkwyk and a big thank you to Hollee Watts, Sophie Stinson and Hayley Korff for boosting the numbers at the very last minute.

Year 10 Coffs Coast Adventure On Tuesday 12 August, Year 10 students travelled to Coffs Harbour for their Year 10 camp. They stayed at the Coffs Coast Adventure Centre and were involved in activities that challenged them to face their fears through conquering the Giant Swing, the Match Stick, Sumo Zorb Ball Challenge and the Ultimate Commando Training. Students demonstrated positive emotional and physical support of each other and learnt the benefits of teamwork to achieve a successful outcome. They visited “The Big Banana” and competed in a laser challenge and learnt vital beach safety and successfully completed a surfing lesson. A big thank you to Mr Armstrong and Mr Moffat for supervising the students, staff at the Coffs Coast Adventure Centre and Pat from Prugger’s Bus & Coach Services who makes the trip a fantastic experience.

Go to the school’s website to view larger group photos.

10


North West Athletics 2015 On Friday 24 July, 53 Coonabarabran High students made the annual trip to Tamworth for the North West Athletics Carnival. This was more than usual due to a change from North West where nominations are taken at school level not zone, bringing it into line with Swimming and Cross Country Carnivals. Predictions of wind and rain came true making for difficult conditions and a long day as events were delayed due to safety concerns a few times over the day. It was not a day for setting records, rather than one for gritting teeth and persevering with the conditions, where just competing was a victory in itself. We wish the best to the following students who will represent North West at the State Carnival in Sydney on 2 -4 September:

Annabelle Park 1st 200m, 2nd 400m

Kadesha Ayoub 2nd Shot Put

Jordan Johnson 2nd 3000m

Gus Elton 1st 400m

Harley Wood 1st Triple Jump, Long Jump, 2nd High Jump

16 years Boys 4 by 100m relay: Harley Wood, Peter Evans, Cody Whitty, Zak Kelly

North West Grand Final Open Netball

On Wednesday 5 August, Coonabarabran High School’s Open Girl’s Netball Team played Inverell in the Grand Final of the North West Knockout. The girls had convincing wins against Baradine, Moree and Tamworth High to make it to the final stages of the draw.

It took a while for the girls to warm up in the first half of the game and Inverell took advantage of this by taking a 7 goal lead. During the second half of the game the girls showed strong determination and perseverance and fought back with some excellent shooting, defensive and mid court skills. However, the girls were narrowly defeated in the grand final 31 to 34.

The team consisted of Molly Atkinson, Maddy Baglee, Jenna Cormie, Liesl Fretwell, Caitlyn Green, Bree McNeilly, Maddie McNeilly, Sophie Stinson, Hayley Walton, Hollee Watts and Lakeyia Wood. Thank you to Deb Korff for refereeing and congratulations girls.

Back: Lakeyia Wood, Molly Atkinson, Liesl Fretwell, Jenna Cormie, Hayley Walton Front: Hollee Watts, Sophie Stinson, Maddie McNeilly

Winter Warrior The Year 11 Fitness class competed in the Winter Warrior Inter-School Team Challenge at Lake Keepit on 11 August. The Winter Warrior is a challenging obstacle and initiatives race that goes through 20kms of tough terrain, water and mud. 27 teams of 6 students competed in the event. Teams needed to work together through a series of obstacles throughout the 20km course. These obstacles included canoeing, maths problems, navigating through a maze, slipping slide, climbing walls and cargo nets. The team challenged themselves both physically and mentally to complete the 20km course in 2hr 51mins. This placed them 3rd overall in the teams of 6 and 2nd overall in mixed teams. The team that took these challenges head on included: Blake Cain, Liesl Fretwell, Edward Martin, Hayley Walton, Ethan Whipper and Harley Wood.

coonabarabran high school and p&c...

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