PROSPECTORWeekly News and Views from Prospect High School – 5 December 2014

Principal: Mr C StocksAssistant Principals:Grade 7: Ms S De Paoli (Acting) Grade 8: Mr G JamesGrade 9: Mrs R Bingley (Acting) Grade 10: Mrs J Everson

Grade Leaders:Grade 7: Ms C Burnett Grade 8: Ms J CouchGrade 9: Ms R Brain Mr J Shepherd Grade 10: Mrs W Green Mr D Potter

Support Staff:School Chaplain: Mr P GarwoodSchool Psychologist: Mr G Colgrave Social Worker: Ms K GeardSchool Business Manager: Mrs D Chancellor

Prospect High School

From the Principal

Teachers are now in the process of finalising assessments and writing end of year reports. These summative reports are scheduled to go home with students on the afternoon of Wednesday, December 17. It is essential that students are focussed on finishing off assessment tasks to the best of their ability and ensure they are meeting the relevant deadlines. There is never a point where there is nothing to learn or some piece of work that can’t be improved upon. We are expecting students to be working right up until the end of the year and adhering to our normal rules and expectations in every regard. While some students may be distracted by the Grade 10 celebrations and their leavers’ t-shirts and hoodies, those items are for Grade 10 only and mark a significant time in their school life. Just because they are wearing these garments for a short time does not mean there is any change in our Dress Code or Uniform Policy for other students. Students in Grades 7, 8 and 9 are expected to be in full school uniform at all times.Next week is a very significant week in the school year. Apart from students in Grades 7, 8 and 9 having their end of year excursions, we have our Grade 10 Presentation Assembly, Celebration Dinner, Farewell Assembly and Grade 10 Picnic. We always hope that all Grade 10 students can be involved in all these events and finish their time at high school in a positive manner and leave with dignity. However, it is important that younger students realise that these privileges are not automatic and if students are not doing the right thing, including attending school regularly, then they are not invited to some or all of these events. Our current Grade 10 students are well aware of this situation. It is important for other students to understand this and particularly our Grade 9 students as they move forward to become our senior students in 2015. I certainly look forward to speaking to our Grade 10 students and sharing some of these celebratory experiences with them.You may have noticed some trees and shrubs have been

removed and others have had limbs removed. There are three main factors that we consider before doing this. Firstly, as we are required to be bushfire ready, part of this involves complying with recommended preventative measures. Secondly, as part of our annual tree maintenance program we have trees professionally assessed and those that are ‘sick’ and/or potentially dangerous, are removed or limbed. Thirdly, as we have expansive grounds and only one groundsman to attend to them we sometimes choose to remove certain plants to help with maintenance and clean up, particularly from leaf litter and the like. We take pride in our environment and always strive to ensure the school is aesthetically pleasing, supports learning and most importantly, is safe.We are still in the process of staffing and this will continue right up until the end of the year and possibly even into the start of next year. I am expecting a number of staff to be moving on and I will announce this in due course. We are expecting Mr Mark Nutting to be returning after a year at Scottsdale High School and he will be a welcome addition to our team. I am expecting very few, if any, new staff. If parents have any requests for class placements then please do not hesitate to contact the Assistant Principal for each grade. However, please be aware that while we value the input of parents and students with regard to class placements there are many factors to consider and requests cannot always be accommodated.Regards,

Cary StocksPrincipal

Respect Fairness Integrity Empathy Optimism

Preparing students for successful participation in a world of their time through a deep understanding of important life related matters.

PROSPECT HIGH SCHOOL NEWSLETTER2

STAS (Student Assistance Scheme)Families who received STAS this year will receive a letter advising approval status by end of this year.

Families who did not receive approval notification of STAS in 2014 will not be contacted by the Department of Education and will be required to complete a 2015 STAS Application Form. Application forms are available from the school office or online at; http://www.education.tas.gov.au/Pages/default.aspx or via email request to prospect.high@education.tas.gov.au

If you require additional information or would like to discuss this further please phone; 1800 816 057 or email stas@education.tas.gov.au.

Approved STAS students can collect a stationery pack at book sales in 2015.

Northern Regional TASSO Meeting

TASSO invites all supporters of public education to the Term 4 meeting.

Newstead College 30 Cypress Street, Newstead.Wednesday 10 December 2014 6:15pm – 8:15pm

Join TASSO representatives and President Jen Eddington, light refreshments will be provided, children welcome.

AGENDA: Tasmanian Education Budget –the impact on our schools and campaign ideas to oppose cuts Education Act Review.

Link to the discussion paper: http://tas-education.org/doe/docs/Review-of-the-Tasmanian-Education-Act-Discussion-Paper-for-Consultation.pdf

RSVP: Jenny Eddington tjeddington57@gmail.com 0427 002 211

TASSO is a committed group of volunteers, we are available to attend one of your school association meetings to provide support, guidance and advice, or to have a chat about what it is TASSO do.

Please call the office on 6234 9488 if you would like to arrange a meeting.

Secondary Schools Tax File Number Program

The Australian Taxation Office in partnership with Australia Post is making it easier for individuals to apply for a TFN. Students can now apply for a TFN online and have their identity verified through an interview at a participating Australia Post office.

Applying online is the fastest and most convenient way for students to get a TFN. More information on applying online can be found at ato.gov.au by searching for ‘QC27248’

Students who are unable to visit a participating Australia Post office will need to complete the application form Tax file number - application or enquiry for individuals form (NAT 1432). More information about lodging this form can be found at ato.gov.au by searching for ‘QC22604’. The curriculum resource Tax, Super & You is a free, easy to use, online educational resource aligned to the school curriculum of each state and territory. This resource can be accessed at taxsuperandyou.gov.au

If you require any further information you can phone 1300 130 282 between 8:00am and 5:00pm Monday to Friday.

Young Edison Study Tour - February 2015

Prospect High School is very lucky to have been chosen to participate in an exciting opportunity to host a group of young science students from China.

As a part of their Australia–wide tour, students will be at Prospect High School for four days from 6 until 9 February 2015.

The group will consist of 15 Chinese high school students aged 13 – 16. The focus of the tour will be Science, Marine Science, and the Antarctic. The group also wants to be involved in our classes and will spend each afternoon touring local attractions.

The tour is part of the Shanghai Media Group’s Young Edison program. They will be making a documentary TV program of the students’ experience in Tasmania. The students will be accompanied by a TV film crew from Shanghai Media Group at all times. This documentary will then be aired in China upon their return.

They will be staying with local homestay families during their time in Tasmania.

Prospect High School would really appreciate the support of the whole school community by hosting a Chinese student for these four days. This is also a really great opportunity for our students to learn about another culture without the need to commit to a long term placement. Homestay hosts will be compensated with $36 each day to look after their international student.

If you and your family would like to be part of this exciting program, please contact the school on 6345 7401 or email: prospect.high@education.tas.gov.auMrs Tatiana HindsInternational Student Coordinator

Trivia Night

A couple weeks ago the SLB held their annual trivia night. The gym was packed with 21 teams and the competition was intense. The scores were extremely close throughout the evening with the leading team changing multiple times. At the end of the night the winning team was “The Allsorts” which consisted of Mr Shorter, Mrs and Mr McGrath-Kerr, Gabriella Franklin and Tim and Janet Mackey. Congratulations to the winning team and a sincere thanks to all who came along and made the evening such a success. The event raised around $3500.

The success of the evening is largely due to the great efforts of the 2014 SLB, Mrs Green and our generous sponsors:

Bicheno By the BayRepcoLimeBegentsBWS (Prospect Vale Market Place)FleursOlde Tudor PharmacyPriceline Pharmacy/Johnson FamilyGreen Building SurveyingBicheno Sea Life CentreTamar River CruisesOfficeworksRichardson FamilyBaby LandHouse of CaneLinda’s Hair SalonTritechLong Point Surf Shop BichenoCard CastleBrackomVictoria’sVogue BeautyFamily support from SLB membersJessie Lee’sBunningsPhillip KuruvitaBirchallsRay’s OutdoorsWine Glass Bay CruisesBBQs GaloreLaunceston Sport and SurfJacquie Everson

Launceston College’s 2015 Performing Arts Music Summer School

Monday 12 January - Sunday 18 January 2015During the seven day Music Summer School a range of activities will be offered to primary, high school and college students who want to develop their instrumental and vocal skills. At a glance the program will offer the following music opportunities:Concert Band Programs Monday 12 to Friday 16 January 2015Catering for all levels – Primary, High School, College and CommunityConductor in Residence: Major Peter Grant (Retired)Voice for the Stage Monday 12 to Friday 16 January 2015: Aimed at high school and college singers- Essential Vocal Technique, - How to prepare for an audition, - Part singing etc.Conductor in Residence: Brett BudgeonTasmanian Bands League Brass Band Weekend Saturday 17 – Sunday 18 January 2015Conductor in Residence: Jason KatsikarisA brochure with further information (including costs) times and enrolment forms can be found at the Launceston College website: www.launc.tased.edu.au

Child Studies Class Christmas Themed Playgroup

PROSPECT HIGH SCHOOL NEWSLETTER3

PROSPECT HIGH SCHOOL NEWSLETTER4

Inter-high Athletics Carnival

PROSPECT HIGH SCHOOL NEWSLETTER5

Touch Football

PROSPECT HIGH SCHOOL NEWSLETTER6

CONTACT DETAILSAddress: Ralph Street, ProspectPh 03 63 44 4744 | Fax 03 6343 0482Email prospect.high@education.tas.gov.auProspect High School website https://education.tas.edu.au/prospecthigh/Pages/Home.aspxStudent Intranet site https://education.tas.edu.au/prospecthigh/Intranet/SitePages/Home

CALENDAR

Pool PicnicsMonday, 8 December – Grade 7Tuesday, 9 December – Grade 8Wednesday, 10 December – Grade 9Grade 10 Celebration Assembly - Door of Hope Tuesday, 9 December 6.30pmUniform Shop Open 3.15pm - 3.45pm Thursday, 11 December

Grade 10 Celebration Dinner - Country Club Resort Thursday, 11 December 6pmGrade 10 End of Year Picnic Friday, 12 December Last day of Term 4 2014 for students Thursday, 18 December2016, 2017 and 2018 School Dates can be accessed at:http://www.education.tas.gov.au/About_us/Pages/Term-Dates.aspx

2015 School DatesTerm 1Monday, 2 February (teachers commence) - Thursday, 2 April Wednesday, 4 February (students commence) - Wednesday, 1 April Easter break: Friday, 3 April - Tuesday, 7 April Term 2 Monday, 20 April - Friday 3 July Term 3 Monday, 20 July (teachers commence) Tuesday, 21 July (students commence) - Friday, 25 September Term 4Monday, 12 October - Thursday, 17 December (students finish) (Friday 23 October is a Student Free Day) Friday, 18 December (teachers finish)

PROSPECT HIGH SCHOOL NEWSLETTER7

Working WondersGrade 7

This student has been nominated this week as a Working Wonder for his help in Home Economics. This student displays a positive attitude towards his sewing projects and cooking. He always ensures the kitchen and sewing rooms are left tidy after his lessons. Well done!

Grade 8This week we would like to recognise these students for their outstanding effort in Hobart last weekend representing the school in basketball. Well done, girls.This student is a very respectful and polite student. She has continued to show her positive attitude towards learning. This term, this student has demonstrated a willingness to extend and challenge herself. She has shown an encouraging desire to better herself in class. Her work is usually carefully done, she is a very committed and conscientious student. In 8-1 care group, she enjoys participating in conversations and discussions and expresses her ideas clearly. This student has great potential and has worked hard toward achieving it. A well deserve recognition. Congratulations.

Grades 7 & 9Little Athletics Tasmania will send a team of 12 junior track and field athletes to compete in the International Children’s Games in New South Wales next week. The International Children’s Games is the largest multisport youth games in the world inspiring young people from about 80 cities and 40 countries to develop understanding and friendships on an international stage and promote the Olympic ideal. This student from Grade 7 and this student from Grade 9 have been selected on this team. The Prospect High community wishes both girls well for this event.This student has been chosen as a representative in the Tasmanian Junior Bowls Championships held in Tasmania this week. Congratulations.