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NEWSLETTER Term 1 – 2019
Issue 3
W
WHAT’S COMING UP AT SILKWOOD?
Thursday 4 April Autumn Festival Last day of Term 1
Tuesday 23 April First day of Term 2
Thursday 25 April ANZAC Day (Public Holiday)
FROM THE PRINCIPAL’S DESK
Thank you to the many parent volunteers who have assisted in making the first term an awesome experience for our students!
As we head into the final weeks of this term, it is timely that we remind our Silkwood Community about the organisation of holidays and vacations.
Whilst we appreciate that sometimes individual family needs do not align with our Silkwood Learning Programs, we believe and strongly recommend it is in the best interests of a child’s learning development that vacations be taken to line up with School holidays.
I refer you to page 14 of the Parent Handbook, available on the School Website, where we ask for families to apply for leave of absence during the term, prior to finalising travel arrangements.
Family holidays are not an absence that is viewed by our Governments (State and Federal) as authorised, and any student absent at Census data collection times, will not attract Government Funding. Silkwood is reliant on this funding. Hence, any unauthorised absence during the following times will attract additional fees to cater for this shortfall.
Absence Times Funding ^
For 5 or more days in the first month of the school year
$1800 per student (Primary School)
$2800 per student (High School)
For the first 2 weeks of Term 3
$7300 per student (Primary School)
$8000 per student (High School)
^ Funding varies from year to year based on Government statistical collection data
Enrolled families who choose to take holidays at these times will be charged the above additional fees to make-up the funding loss to Silkwood School.
NB: This does not apply to families who have applied to the school and have an authorised absence for genuine family or culture reasons.
ANZAC DAY
I have had a number of requests from our students and parents to be involved in the ANZAC Commemoration which is held in Nerang each year. I made contact with the RSL last year and was able to secure a place for Silkwood to participate in the March Past this year. There is a limited number of spots for us (about 20). Some of the seniors will be looking at leading the March Past, and we invite other students to join. Should you be interested, please send an email to [email protected] and we will collate those wanting to be part of the ANZAC March Past.
Terry O’Hanlon-Rose PRINCIPAL
Secure your place to advertise in our Business Directory, a beautiful magazine distributed bi-annually to over 400 Silkwood Families and the wider Silkwood community. All money raised will go to supporting two financially disadvantaged students with a scholarship to attend Silkwood High School.
Make a difference and book by March 30 https://www.trybooking.com/BBCYY For more info email: [email protected]
SILKWOOD NEWSLETTER 25 MARCH 2019 2 | P a g e
LEARNING COMMUNITY LEADER NEWS FROM THE HIGH SCHOOL
University Pathways at Silkwood School
I am receiving a number of inquiries about university pathways at Silkwood.
I have presented this topic at a number of information sessions in 2018 and will schedule further sessions in Term 2. However, I also have plenty of information I can email to you if you would like to have a read. Please email me and I will forward this information on.
There are 4 pathways to university at Silkwood School. Many traditional schools provide only 1 entry pathway: an ATAR (formerly OP) ranking from studying 5 subjects.
We have a growing number of Alumni heading to university from Silkwood and we are in the process of documenting their pathways.
“The question parents, students and teachers should be asking today is, if ATAR doesn’t matter for three quarters of undergraduate admissions, why is it treated as the most important outcome of 13 years of schooling? To be successful in future jobs and participate in society, young people need a broad range of knowledge, skills and capabilities that might not all contribute to a high ATAR. Schools could play a leading role in growing students’ talents and developing capabilities that are important for lifelong success, but this is often overlooked in favour of teaching content for high ATARs.”
For further information about the research underpinning our approach at the High School, I recommend the following publications:
Foundation for Young Australians. (2017). The New Work Mindset: 7 job clusters to help young people navigate the new work order. Foundation for Young Australians, Melbourne. Vic. Available at: https://www.fya.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/The-New-Work-Mindset.pdf [Accessed 10 June 2018].
Holm. M. (2011). Project-based instruction: a review of the literature on effectiveness of prekindergarten through 12th grade classrooms. Insight Riviera Academic Journal, [online] 7 (2). Available at: http://www.bie.org/object/document/project_based_learning_a_review_of_the_literature_on_effectiveness [Accessed 10 Jun. 2018].
Pilcher, S and Torii, K (2018). Crunching the number: Exploring the use and usefulness of the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR), Mitchell Institute paper No. 01/2018. Mitchell Institute, Melbourne. Available from: http://www.mitchellinstitute.org.au/papers/crunching-the-number/ [Accessed 10 Jan. 2019].
Cara Shipp Learning Community Leader 9-12 [email protected]
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NEWSLETTER Term 3 – 2018
Issue 2
AUTUMN HARMONY & HARVEST FESTIVAL THURSDAY, 4 APRIL
Our Autumn Harmony and Harvest Festival will be held on Thursday, 4 April.
The usual start and finish times apply.
Normal break times apply throughout the day. Students will need morning tea and lunch.
Students are to wear normal school uniform (orange t-shirts for Primary students).
Our festival celebration is a student-centred event. Students will stay in their class groups and be involved in a full day of activities designed to provide a variety of enriching experiences.
PREP
Our Prep classes have a special day planned; information has been emailed separately to families.
YEAR 1 - 5
Parents and family are welcome to join us for the opening of the Festival. The timetable is outlined below:
8.30 am Students assemble at classrooms and classes make their way to Hall.
8.45am Festival opening
9.15am Rotational Activities in Class Syndicates
10.20am Morning Tea (own food)
10.50am Rotational Activities in Class Syndicates
12.40pm Lunch (own food) and playtime
1.45pm Rotational Activities in Class Syndicates
3.00pm onwards Normal after school pick-up procedure and school bus service operating
Please book your children into OSHC if you are unable to collect them at normal pick up time.
FOOD BANK DONATIONS
Traditionally, autumn is a time of harvest, a time to restock our pantries and prepare for winter. In this harvest spirit we are taking the time to recognise that there are many people in our local community who are struggling more than others. To support our wider community, we kindly ask that each family provide a nutritious small food donation - tinned or dried foods, grains, sauces (anything non-perishable) and hardy, fresh vegetables and fruit such as pumpkin, potatoes and apples. Donations are to be put in boxes on the locker outside of the classrooms. SCCA Class Carers will be helping with organising the collection of food items.
The proceeds of our food collection or ‘harvest’ will be donated to the Nerang Neighbourhood Centre, which provides food boxes for the most vulnerable and needy members of our local community. The Foodbank Service is run by volunteers and feeds over 60 families a week.
We would like to remind everyone that the Arrowsmith part-time after school classes are running and we still have spaces available Tuesday and Thursday from 3.30pm to 5.30pm weekly in term time.
On offer are the following programs:
Motor Symbol Sequencing Program
This program involves exercises that aim to strengthen the capacity for automating motor plans used in reading, writing, spelling and communication skills.
Symbol Relations Cognitive Enhancement Program
This focuses on the cognitive function involved in processing concepts across all academic disciplines, understanding and quickly grasping what is read and heard, gaining insight, logical reasoning, seeing connections between ideas, cause and effect processing and mathematical reasoning.
Part-time Cognitive Function Program
This program will vary based on the individual learning profile of the student after the Arrowsmith full cognitive assessment. One cognitive function is addressed in the after-school class.
For more information about any of these programs please contact Tracy, the Arrowsmith Teacher directly by email
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NEWSLETTER Term 3 – 2018
Issue 2
BUSINESS NETWORKING EVENT
The SPACE business networking event was a successful night in which many businesses gathered to socialise, and share their expertise and potential mentoring opportunities. As students, we found the night beneficial and educational in the sense that we gained insight into diverse business operations and the importance of making connections. We valued the opportunity to step up and share our individual project explorations and leads we’re following to the business audience. After our presentation, we had a number of business owners approach us to offer mentoring support!
We hosted an entrepreneurial guest speaker, Jack Corbett, who spoke of his journey from simple beginnings to owning multi-million dollar businesses. He was passionate when telling his story, and conveyed his knowledge effectively to his audience. While talking business, he also gave insight to his thoughts and emotions behind the decisions he has made along the way. This impacted students, business owners and school staff on both a personal and entrepreneurial level. Following his speech, Jack offered to take on the presenting students to mentor them and pass on his skillset in turning a passion into a successful business. We’ve already confirmed a date and very excited to be attending Jack’s full day SWISH Business Bootcamp in April!
Overall, the event was a brilliant opportunity for students, business owners and the Silkwood community to network and mingle. All who came walked away with inspirational stories, and connections to further their personal and professional growth. As students, we created new relationships with others in our local community to continue the amazing opportunity we have for mentoring and business support as part of our learning program at Silkwood.
Joella and Tristan (Year 12)
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NEWSLETTER Term 3 – 2018
Issue 2
CLASSES IN THE SPOTLIGHT THIS ISSUE…
STARBRIGHT PREP NEWS
This term in Prep Starbright we have been learning about how to add more detail to our drawings. To gain more experience with drawing we had Sachin from Year 9 come and give us a guided lesson on drawing a Panda Bear. We learnt about shading, how to add fur and drawing bamboo. Our pictures are really starting to look amazing and we are proud of how much they have improved since the beginning of the year.
In Craft we are finishing off our meditation pillows and are very excited to complete these and use them in class for meditation. We also have been practicing our finger knitting and like to work on these whenever we have some quiet time. Thank you again to all the parent and family helpers we have had during craft this term. It is so lovely to have so many helpers from Starbright community.
Miss Melanie and Miss Michelle
YEAR 8 NEWS
Over the past few weeks Year 8 have been exploring the Industrial Revolution and some of the great revolutionaries of the industrial world. Through the spirit of inquiry we have been learning how the words and actions of people have paved the way for the three ideals of liberty, fraternity and equality.
We have also been having fun experimenting in the science lab as part of our Chemical Reactions experiential unit. Along with developing lab techniques and safety, the students have been busy exploring indicators of chemical and physical change, investigating the factors influencing the rate of reaction. From using Bunsen Burners to experimenting with dry ice, it is great to see our students engage in hands-on science activities.
As part of our Outdoor Education experiential unit, Year 8 have been orienteering and bushwalking in some of the Gold Coast’s most beautiful scenic spots. As well as learning how to navigate using maps and compasses, we have been developing our teambuilding and communication skills whilst having a lot of fun along the way!
Anna, Kymberly and Kate
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NEWSLETTER Term 3 – 2018
Issue 2
YEAR 10 NEWS
Year 10 have kicked off 2019 developing Advisory and whole grade community. Students have jumped into self-directed learning by creating individual tasks to compete across the five learning areas of communication, social reasoning, research skills, quantitative reasoning and personal development. In reflection so far, students have adapted well to the level of work required in Year 10 and in some cases are exceeding our expectations. All of the student’s self-management has improved including planning, time management and seeking help or feedback.
Recently, we have focused on critiquing draft work and handing in personalised written, assessments. Students are also constructing their mini Term 1 Exhibitions to both show off personal achievements and seek feedback from Advisory peers. Some projects explored this term include; a camping trip, fashion business set up, wood carving, health care, diving, sports coaching, journalism, anatomy, trade tasters, and environmental activism.
Helena and Shaun
MULTI-AGE ADVISORY NEWS
Community Project
The Advisory initiated, planned and executed a thank you lunch for the site and reception staff. As a group they agreed on a chosen project. They allocated roles and responsibilities and together created a buffet lunch which was healthy, visually appealing and very tasty. They had to ensure there was a good variety to cater for personal tastes, not too much sweet or too much savoury, but a balance of both. They organised the day and venue and individuals had to be responsible for ensuring their food item was ready for the day. The Advisory rose to the occasion and created a visual wonder that tasted as good as it looked.
Tracy
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NEWSLETTER Term 3 – 2018
Issue 2
PARENT EDUCATION ARTICLE
Responding constructively to the Christchurch shooting
By Michael Grose (www.parentingideas.com.au)
The recent shooting of innocent people in two Christchurch mosques is an event that has shaken people to the core worldwide.
While we’d like to protect our children from such events, in reality it’s impossible, as the news coverage is so widespread and the event itself has impacted so many people. The personal nature of this particular tragedy makes it even harder to stomach than some recent natural disasters that have made the news, as awful as they have been.
So how do you approach this with your children? What do you say to a young child who wants an explanation? How do you respond to a primary school child trying to come to terms with the fact that one person could commit this offence? How do you respond to a teenager who is angry that a gunman could target one particular community group? There are no easy answers to these questions, but be assured that your child will benefit from talking to you. These ideas may help:
Be available
Let your child or young person know that it is okay to talk about the events in Christchurch. Listen to what they think and feel. By listening, you can find out if they have misunderstandings, and you can learn more about the support that they need. You do not need to explain more than they are ready to hear, but be willing to answer their questions.
Filter the news
While we don’t advocate censorship, we do suggest that you take particular care about your child’s exposure to news events. The consistency of images can be frightening for young children who don’t understand the notion of distance and have difficulty distinguishing between reality and fiction. Older children and teenagers will probably be interested in news events, but they probably need an adult available to answer their questions and reassure them.
Engage in the news with older children
Many issues are now arising from this event that may be of significant interest to older primary-aged children and teenagers. Be prepared to engage in discussions about political leadership, gun laws, the coverage of the event itself by the media and other issues that will emerge. Increasingly, young people are demonstrating that they want to have a voice in shaping the world
they live in. Give them a chance to air their concerns and formulate their ideas in the safe confines of home.
Manage emotions raised
The Christchurch tragedy may raise many emotions for children and young people including sadness over the loss of life, confusion over how such an event could happen, and outrage over injustice. Take your cues from your children and follow the threads that emerge. Demonstrate that you understand how that they may be upset and clarify their emotions if possible: “It’s understandable to be angry when you hear news like this.”
Moderate your language
Currently, we live in very divisive times. The fact that this shooting was carried out on one particular group demonstrates just the extent of the divisiveness of our community. Encourage kids to be inclusive, steering clear of valued-laden, extreme language such as ‘terrorists’, ‘evil’ and ‘horrors’ when describing the events and the alleged perpetrators. Not only does this type of language encourage children and young people to take a position rather than focus on the problems, it risks desensitising them to the reality of the impact of this event. The use of more sedate, yet descriptive language such as ‘gunman’, ‘awful’ and ‘tragedy’ can take remove the emotional sting, while demonstrating the enormity of the event’s impact.
Keep to a normal routine
Your child may feel powerless. You may feel the same way as that’s what events like the Christchurch shooting does to us. Maintaining the same sleeping, eating and daily routines can help to restore a sense of control over our daily lives.
Show them how to change the world
Arguably, these are the worst of times in terms of social divisiveness. Our children in many ways are letting us know that they don’t want to continue living this way. So how can they have an impact? Recently a timely clue came my way in the form of a notification from Facebook. Over the weekend, a parent shared an existing message to her Muslim friends as a message of hope. The quote reads:
“Don’t become too pre-occupied with your child’s academic ability, but instead teach them to sit with those sitting alone. Teach them to be kind. Teach them to offer help. Teach them to be a friend to the lonely. Teach them to encourage others. Teach them to think about other people. Teach them to share. Teach them to look for the good. This is how they will change the world.”
We get that power back when we start to impact the people around us in small ways, making positive changes for the better.
‘Kindness’, ‘helping others’, ‘encouraging’, ‘sharing’ and similar concepts don’t make great political slogans but they form the basis of every strong community- which is precisely what kids need.
Michael Grose
Michael Grose, founder of Parenting Ideas, is one of Australia’s leading parenting educators. He’s the author of 10 books for parents including Thriving! and the best-selling Why First Borns Rule the World and Last Borns Want to Change It, and his latest release Spoonfed Generation: How to raise independent children.
http://www.parentingideas.com.au/
SILKWOOD NEWSLETTER 25 MARCH 2019 8 | P a g e
NEWSLETTER Term 3 – 2018
Issue 2
The Silkwood School has a Buy Swap and Sell Facebook Group where parents can sell or give away their second-hand goods including second-hand school uniforms. Please click on the link to join. This is an SCCA initiative.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/700798820062787/
COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD
CARPOOLING REQUESTS
- I am looking for someone living in Lower Beechmont to take my 2 children in Year 5 at Silkwood to school each morning, as I have to leave early for work. If you are able to assist, please call Jane on 0413692568
- From Crescent Ave, Hope Island; Year 7 student; both morning and afternoon; contact Caroline [email protected]
- Cottesloe drive in the Mermaid Waters / Robina area; can do
mornings, but need help with afternoons; happy to help and contribute money for fuel and time; contact Stefanie and Dustin on 0406242746
- We are hopeful to arrange a carpool for our daughter, Blaine (Year 3), leaving Brisbane. We are in Camp Hill but can meet at a more central location. Please contact Melanie Bickford if you can help. [email protected]
DISCLAIMER The advertising sections of this newsletter have been submitted by individuals. Silkwood School does not take any responsibility for the content. The opinions expressed in the advertisements and notices do not necessarily represent the views of the school.
https://www.facebook.com/events/355373861718951/
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NEWSLETTER Term 3 – 2018
Issue 2
Total Football Academy (TFA) will be delivering football (soccer) camps in the School holidays at various locations. TFA have camps for all ages including a social holiday camp from 5 years to 12 years, development camp for Under 8's to Under 11's and a week of a pro camp for Under 12's to Under 16's. To register view the TFA website www.totalfootballacademy.com.au, email [email protected] or call Danny Morton on 0473 344 778.
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