10
Mercedes College Newsletter Key Dates Principals Report Friday 30 June Frog Jog Crosses and Crowns Tour (until Sunday 16 July) END OF TERM TWO Monday 17 July Home Study/Service Day Thursday 20 July Interhouse Athletics Carnival Friday 28 July The Little Mermaid (Opening Night) Service to Others – in giving we receive Last Friday our College Assembly had as its theme Service – in giving we receive. It was an opportunity for students and staff members to reflect on a core Mercy value – Service. Some of our students spoke about what we mean by service, stressing that it is where we give of ourselves, time and gifts to help others. We do this without expecting a result, reward or praise for our actions. The Gospel reading at Wednesdays Mass also highlighted serving others without expecting something in return. When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. Matthew 6:3-4 Yet in serving others we also gain so much. Our College Prayer, attributed to St Francis of Assisi, states for it is in giving that we receive.We also heard personal accounts of Mercy Service experiences from students. All girls spoke positively about their experiences and the benefits they gained from helping others. They felt as if they had a real purpose and could make a positive difference to the lives of others. They were privileged to be let into the lives of others and made new friends. Helping others is something we can all achieve. We have family commitments, links with the community and places of work. In all of these areas we can help improve peoples lives and leave a positive legacy. In this way we will, as Catherine McAuley said, be shining lamps giving light to all around us. Part of service is also using our God-given gifts and I witnessed this in abundance at the Music Evening held at Trinity College on Friday night. I was so proud of our students. The quality of their performances was outstanding and it is hard to believe that such a high standard can be achieved at a young age. We are very fortunate to have a Music Department with such expertise under the leadership of Ms Claire Glendinning. The partnership between both schools is strong and nurtures the talents of all students. Insight from Catherine McAuley: We can never say, it is enoughVol. 44 Number 10 / Week 10 Term Two / 29 June 2017 The Year 9 students danced the night away on Tuesday 20 June at their 1950’s Social with Trinity College.

Key Dates Principal s Report - Mercedes College, Perth€¦ · Mercedes College Newsletter Key Dates Principal’s Report Friday 30 June Frog Jog Crosses and Crowns Tour (until Sunday

  • Upload
    others

  • View
    16

  • Download
    0

Embed Size (px)

Citation preview

Page 1: Key Dates Principal s Report - Mercedes College, Perth€¦ · Mercedes College Newsletter Key Dates Principal’s Report Friday 30 June Frog Jog Crosses and Crowns Tour (until Sunday

Mercedes College Newsletter

Key Dates Principal’s Report Friday 30 June Frog Jog Crosses and Crowns Tour (until Sunday 16 July) END OF TERM TWO

Monday 17 July Home Study/Service Day

Thursday 20 July Interhouse Athletics Carnival

Friday 28 July The Little Mermaid (Opening Night)

Service to Others – in giving we receive

Last Friday our College Assembly had as its theme Service – in giving we receive. It was an opportunity for students and staff members to reflect on a core Mercy value – Service. Some of our students spoke about what we mean by service, stressing that it is where we give of ourselves, time and gifts to help others. We do this without expecting a result, reward or praise for our actions. The Gospel reading at Wednesday’s Mass also highlighted serving others without expecting something in return. “When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Matthew 6:3-4

Yet in serving others we also gain so much. Our College Prayer, attributed to St Francis of Assisi, states “for it is in giving that we receive.” We also heard personal accounts of Mercy Service experiences from students. All girls spoke positively about their experiences and the benefits they gained from helping others. They felt as if they had a real purpose and could make a positive difference to the lives of others. They were privileged to be let into the lives of others and made new friends.

Helping others is something we can all achieve. We have family commitments, links with the community and places of work. In all of these areas we can help improve people’s lives and leave a positive legacy. In this way we will, as Catherine McAuley said, “be shining lamps giving light to all around us.”

Part of service is also using our God-given gifts and I witnessed this in abundance at the Music Evening held at Trinity College on Friday night. I was so proud of our students. The quality of their performances was outstanding and it is hard to believe that such a high standard can be achieved at a young age. We are very fortunate to have a Music Department with such expertise under the leadership of Ms Claire Glendinning. The partnership between both schools is strong and nurtures the talents of all students.

Insight from Catherine McAuley:

We can never say, “it is enough”

Vol. 44 Number 10 / Week 10 Term Two / 29 June 2017

The Year 9 students danced the night away on Tuesday 20 June at their 1950’s Social with Trinity College.

Page 2: Key Dates Principal s Report - Mercedes College, Perth€¦ · Mercedes College Newsletter Key Dates Principal’s Report Friday 30 June Frog Jog Crosses and Crowns Tour (until Sunday

Mercedes College Newsletter

2

Reflection

This year’s Frog Jog is focusing on aspiring to be the best you can be and one of the beneficiaries of the money raised is Songa Mbele na Masomo. Songa Mbele na Masomo is an Informal Education Centre situated in the Mukuru Slum and is the only centre of its kind. An initiative of the Sister of Mercy, the centre has been operational since 2010 and caters for children with disabilities. The Mukuru Slums is one of the largest slums in Nairobi, with an estimated 700,000 people and life is incredibly difficult for those living in the area. Children with disabilities are often abandoned or left at home, locked away, as families are unable to care for them. Songa Mbele provides these children with the schooling and physical therapies needed for the students to unlock their potential and provides them with valuable socialisation. The school also provides education for the parents of these children, helping them to cope with their children’s needs. I have been incredibly lucky to spend some time at Songa Mbele and to assist with the education of the children. The staff and students have such joy and enthusiasm for all they do and a deep love of God and all He has given to them. They show that having a disability does not mean they can not contribute to their community or families and that despite their difficulties they can strive to be the best they can be.

Dear God,

Let me always strive to do my best.

When times are hard or my burdens feel too heavy,

help me to draw on Your love and the gifts you have given me.

Let me always remember Catherine’s message;

‘Be good today, and better tomorrow’.

We ask this prayer in Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.

Mrs Susan Macdonald Deputy Principal - Faith & Mission

Mrs Kerrie Fraser, Principal

I thank all students for their hard work throughout the term and their preparation for examinations and in-class assessments. Thanks also to parents for their support of the College and the many events they attend throughout the term.

For parents who may be interested, please click HERE for the 2016 Annual Report and the Federal Funding Announcement.

Enjoy the holiday period.

Friday 28 - Sunday 30 July / The Regal Theatre, Subiaco

Tickets are on sale from ticketek.com.au Tickets cost $35 each or 3 for $100. Access code for Mercedes families,

booking tickets is “kissthegirl”. Disabled seating available. (Includes

complimentary companion ticket.)

Ticket holders can extend their experience with ‘Friends of the Regal’, by presenting your evening tickets at participating restaurants

to receive a special offer.

More information can be found at http://regaltheatre.com.au/functions.php.

Vol. 44 Number 10 / Week 10 Term Two / 29 June 2017

Page 3: Key Dates Principal s Report - Mercedes College, Perth€¦ · Mercedes College Newsletter Key Dates Principal’s Report Friday 30 June Frog Jog Crosses and Crowns Tour (until Sunday

Mercedes College Newsletter

3

Pastoral Care News

Year 7/8 Community Year 8 - Miss Lara Fresson This Friday is the annual Frog jog, an event that involves the entire College community walking or running around the bridges. The theme for this year’s event is “Aspire to be the best you can”. The day will begin with a talk from Brant Garvey, an Australian Paralympian who competed in the Rio 2016 Paralympics. I have heard Brant speak and found him to be extremely inspiring and engaging, recalling a life full of challenges and achievements. The students will then move down to the river to complete the Frog Jog, with funds raised going to The Sisters of Mercy who have established a school in Nairobi, Africa that cater specifically for children with disabilities.

We have reached the half-way point of Year 8; it is important that the girls reflect on the year to date. Your daughter’s reports will be available through SEQTA on Friday afternoon, I strongly encourage you to discuss your daughter’s report with her, so that she can come back for Semester 2 focused and prepared to achieve her goals.

I wish you all a safe and happy holiday break and look forward to seeing your daughter’s back for Term 3. Year 9/10 Community Year 9 - Mrs Alicia Sharpe It is difficult to imagine that we are already half way through the academic school year. I would like to applaud the Year 9 students on their behaviour, their willingness to participate in College activities and work ethic during this past semester. It is important for the girls to reflect on their Semester One reports and set some new personal goals, ready to tackle another busy term ahead. As we head into the holidays, I would encourage the girls to make sure they take some time out to rest, relax and spend time with family.

Last Tuesday, 20 June saw the Year 9 Mercedes and Trinity students have their 1950’s Ballroom Dancing social. The girls had been bursting with nervous excitement leading up to the evening and what an evening it was. The students from both Colleges put their dance lessons to good use, dancing the night away to the Cha Cha, Hucklebuck, Jive, Bus Stop and the Progressive Jive, just to name a few. The standard of dress was exceptional and the girls looked stunning in their handmade or sourced creations. They are also to be commended on their outstanding behaviour. It was an enjoyable night for all and I am sure the memories will last for years to come. Many thanks must go to all the wonderful helpers, who helped facilitate the evening – Year 9 PC Team, Parent helpers, Year 12 Prefects, Susan Macdonald, Chris Cole and Jackie Stacey.

Tomorrow sees the annual Frog Jog, which is a whole school fundraising event. The main theme this year is “Aspire to be the best you can” and we are fortunate enough to be hearing from Brant Garvey, a motivational speaker. The funds raised from the 2017 Frog Jog will support two worthy causes – The Sisters of Mercy who have established a school in Nairobi, Africa, that caters specifically for children with disabilities and secondly, a Western Australian group called ‘Ability Centre’ who offer a range of services and support for people with disabilities and their families. I ask that you strongly encourage your daughters to raise/contribute the minimum donation of $25 (or $40 per family) for this event. Sponsorship money will still be collected at the commencement of next term.

Finally, I would like to take the opportunity to wish everyone a safe and relaxing holiday. I look forward to seeing all the girls back next term.

Vol. 44 Number 10 / Week 10 Term Two / 29 June 2017

Year 10 - Mrs Bernadette Dell The prospect of a restful break at the end of a very busy term is welcome and most of us can look back on a ‘job well done’. For those who are dissatisfied with their results, or who recognise that a change of direction is needed in aspects of their behaviour, the holidays can be a chance to reflect and channel energy into making a positive change. Mercedes, like all Catholic schools, is committed to Gospel values and we all believe that everyone is capable of change and improvement. We also recognise that it is part of the role of family, educators and friends to challenge each other to make that improvement. All members of our community will be challenged, at times, when his or her behaviour is less than we expect from a member of a Christian community and this can be the prompt that helps us to develop our full potential. The Year 10 Pastoral Care team wish everyone a safe and happy holiday break.

Over one hundred of the girls were involved in the Guildford dancing lessons and the very enjoyable social that was held at the conclusion of this activity. The behaviour of every girl present was a credit to themselves, their families and the College and

Page 4: Key Dates Principal s Report - Mercedes College, Perth€¦ · Mercedes College Newsletter Key Dates Principal’s Report Friday 30 June Frog Jog Crosses and Crowns Tour (until Sunday

Mercedes College Newsletter

4

Vol. 44 Number 10 / Week 10 Term Two / 29 June 2017

the staff were very proud of the girls. The staff from Guildford and those from the dance studio, Humphrey’s in Victoria Park, have been lavish in their praise for the girls throughout the program and Friday night confirmed their views. Congratulations to all the participants!

Next term, all the girls will be able to participate in a social hosted by our ‘brother’ school, Trinity, and I am sure that the girls will appreciate another opportunity to have an enjoyable night of dancing and mingling with boys. Our hosts will give us more details closer to the date.

Curriculum News

Semester One Reports These will be available on SEQTA from 3pm Friday 30 June. Please ensure you have your login details for SEQTA so you can see these reports.

Course Counselling – Monday 17 July Parents of Year 10 students have been emailed this week regarding bookings for Course Counselling sessions on Monday 17 July. Bookings are made through PTO. If you are not able to make this date and need to reschedule another time, please contact the Administration Assistant Angela Ngaata on 9323 1323 or email [email protected] during business hours.

Year 12 Semester Two Exam Timetable Semester Two (Trial ATAR) exams are to be held from Wednesday 27 September until Friday 6 October. The timetable is available HERE.

Year 11/12 Community Year 11 - Mrs Sherrin Adams We have now reached the half way point of Year 11 - Semester One has provided a huge learning curve for many of the girls, who have realized the vast difference between Upper School and Year 10. I commend those who have put 100% into their studies and have embraced the need for consistent work. They can be very proud of their efforts. I also commend those girls who have seen the need to change their subjects/ overall pathway of study and have listened to the advice of Mrs Strutt and Mrs Alach.

For some of the girls the holidays should provide the opportunity for a reassessment of their goals for the second half of the year – we have completed a review of First Semester in PCP periods – it is now up to each of the girls to act on recommendations from her teachers to maximize her potential.

Yesterday the girls travelling on the Crosses and Crowns Tour received a special blessing at Mass, as did Eva Davidson and Abigail Maroney (travelling to Dublin on the Mercy Pilgrimage) and the three girls who will attend the National Leadership Camp in Sydney during the holidays (Sophie Hadfield, Maddie O’Brien and Maya Matty). I wish all girls well for the wonderful opportunities these experiences will bring.

We will be having our Reflection Day on Monday 31 July (Week 3) – a letter has been distributed about this day. The focus is on Justice, as well as providing the girls with the opportunity to look at Leadership in Year 12, in the contexts of both Justice and Service. I remind all students that there are events which must be attended, unless there is a compelling reason for non-attendance, the Reflection Day, is one such occasion.

I wish all Year 11 students a refreshing holiday and I hope to see them all back fit and healthy next term.

Children Family and the Community - Ms Gina Frost On Monday 12 June all Year 11 and 12 ATAR Children Family and Community (CFCC) students were involved in a school based session working with young children. The Year 2 class from St Gerard’s Primary School arrived at the College to participate in activities the CFCC ATAR classes had prepared.

Two, one hour sessions were organized by the Year 11 and 12 classes. The Year 11 ATAR group have been focusing on cultural diversity, learning and inclusion and had developed activities centered on cultural themes. The Year 12 ATAR class prepared activities about sustainability, including making a worm farm, biodegradable seedling pots for planting and recycling of household waste. Both themes have a major focus in the National Curriculum and provide students with valuable skills for careers in teaching, nursing and for working with children and families in the community.

Page 5: Key Dates Principal s Report - Mercedes College, Perth€¦ · Mercedes College Newsletter Key Dates Principal’s Report Friday 30 June Frog Jog Crosses and Crowns Tour (until Sunday

Mercedes College Newsletter

5

Vol. 44 Number 10 / Week 10 Term Two / 29 June 2017

Mathematics - Mr Peter Mee, HOLA Year 7 Academic Challenge and Extension (ACE) Mathematics class The Academic Challenge and Extension (ACE) program is aimed at providing lateral extension to students who have demonstrated an excellent level of achievement. An ACE class will be formed in the learning areas of Mathematics, English, Science and Social Sciences, and a student may be selected in one, or a multiple number of these classes. Most ACE classes will begin in Year 8 (2018); however, the Mathematics class will begin at the start of Semester 2.

Students who have been placed in this class have been informed verbally (and by letter). The teacher will be Mr Tony Pham and lessons will be held in Room 20. Students will be studying the same Year 7 Australian Curriculum as the mainstream classes, and will be sitting the same assessments. However, they will also have some of their learning devoted to lateral extension topics, with a significant focus on problem solving. This class will also have a greater exposure to participation in Mathematics competitions and do not require any additional materials. Students who currently have Mr Pham as their mathematics teacher and are remaining in mainstream will be placed with one of the four other mainstream Year 7 Mathematics teachers (they have been informed verbally and by letter).

From year to year the composition of this class may change dependent on student performance and thus placement in an ACE class will be reviewed annually. Please note: Full streaming for this cohort will occur at the start of 2018 (where we will form two Extended, two General, one General Applied and one Modified mathematics class). Year 8 Mathematics Streaming Mathematics streaming will be happening this week. We will be forming two Extended and two General mathematics classes (alongside the ALP, the General Applied and the Modified mathematics class). This streaming will be based on the students ’ performance over their first three semesters of schooling (with a higher weighting being given to the most recent semester). Further details on streaming can be obtained from the Streaming policy on the SEQTA Mathematics Portal page. The intention will be to inform students by the end of this week. Letters will also be sent home for students who are being re-streamed. Mathematics Pathways Information Evening Parents and students interested in gaining a greater understanding of possible Mathematics pathways through upper school are invited to attend a free information evening hosted by the Mathematical Association of Western Australia (MAWA). For details, visit: http://mawainc.org.au/product/mathematics-pathways/

Mrs Vivante, Assistant Principal and teacher of the Year 2 class was impressed with the thought that went into the activities and the way the students interacted with the class. She said her students “had the best day ever, and learnt so much from the students”. My “big girls” also enjoyed themselves and I was very proud with their efforts to make the day so worthwhile for everyone.

Thank you to, Mr Dave Green for driving the bus, Mrs Joanne Harrington for lunch preparations and Sister Breda for taking the children on a quick tour of the Cathedral. Thank you especially to Mrs Josephine Vivante for being open to this invaluable shared experience for both our classes.

General News

Careers - Mrs Cheryl Alach Check out the new Year 11/12 Careers Newsletter!

Page 6: Key Dates Principal s Report - Mercedes College, Perth€¦ · Mercedes College Newsletter Key Dates Principal’s Report Friday 30 June Frog Jog Crosses and Crowns Tour (until Sunday

Mercedes College Newsletter

6

Vol. 44 Number 10 / Week 10 Term Two / 29 June 2017

The Arts - Mrs Kathleen Cocks, HOLA Production The Little Mermaid rehearsals will be happening over the holidays with the cast and crew being committed to the second week of the holidays. Girls please check your rehearsal schedules carefully so you know what is happening each day.

We are getting very excited to be performing this show very soon for you all! If you haven’t already bought tickets, please do so very soon as the shows are filling up.

Music - Claire Glendinning, Director of Music Thank you to the students and Music Staff involved in the recent performances at Trinity’s Senior Music Night and the ABODA festival over the weekend. It has been a very busy term preparing for performances with Year 10, 11 and 12 students on exam breaks at various times and we thank students and parents for keeping the energy and enthusiasm high! A full list of award results will be published with Catholic Performing Arts results next term.

Diary Dates A separate calendar for Catholic Performing Arts and other Term 3 music events has been emailed home. Dates will be published in the newsletter during Term 3.

eSafety conversation for the holidays? - Mr Paul Reid, Director of Learning Technology Snapchat has a new opt-in location feature, that can share the exact location of your child. “Snap Map” was launched this week as a way to share locations with friends and “see where they’re at and what’s going on around them”. Some child safety groups have shared concerns and warned against using the location feature, due to stalking and bullying. But Snapchat say the map initially operates in “ghost mode” and needs to be enabled to work. Users can select three operational modes – “ghost mode”, “select friends” or “my friends” via the settings gear in the map. Depending on when your daughter downloaded this app they may have turned on location-sharing in the past. Snapchat isn’t the first social media company to allow location tracking. Twitter lets people add their locations to tweets, while Facebook check-ins and the “share location” Messenger function allow people to track their contacts. The eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, says the new feature is a great opportunity for parents to have conversations with their children about the pros and cons of location services. “It’s important to discuss the hazards of sharing your precise real-time location, especially if that information is being shared with strangers and potentially nefarious users”. Australia’s eSafety Commissioner also says the best way parents can help their children is to be engaged with their online lives. “Know the apps and services they’re using and help them set up their accounts and devices so services like location-sharing can be disabled or used safely”. Snapchat says its app is for users aged 13 and up. For more information please refer to the “How can I protect my information” on Snapchat section of the eSafety commissioner website: https://www.esafety.gov.au/esafety-information/games-apps-and-social-networking/snapchat

Health and Physical Education - Mr Greg Smith, HOLA Interhouse Athletics Carnival Due to the weather on Thursday 22 June we were unable to conduct the Interhouse Athletics Carnival. However, we have secured a booking on Thursday 20 July at the WA Athletics Stadium, Stephenson Avenue, Mt Claremont. The first event is scheduled to start at 9.45am and the Carnival will conclude at 2.30pm.

The pre-carnival events, 1500m and Javelin, have been conduct and the team results after these events are as follows: Cooper 214 Frayne 253 McAuley 290 McDonald 173 Serisier 224 Wright 181

On the Interhouse Carnival day students are to wear their House shirt, as part of their sports uniform, to school and to bring their sports bag, as space is limited at the Stadium and on the buses. So, your daughter does not lose any clothing, please ensure that all items are clearly labelled. Students will be transported to and from the WA Athletics Stadium on hired buses in their respective House groups.

As there will be no canteen facilities on the day at Mercedes College and there is no student access to the Stadium kiosk, students will need to bring their own lunch, some snack food and drink bottle. The Kiosk will be available to parents and wil l be open from 9.30am – 2.00pm on the upper level of the stadium.

Our gorgeous Chorus Fish with their special ‘fish’ makeup.

Page 7: Key Dates Principal s Report - Mercedes College, Perth€¦ · Mercedes College Newsletter Key Dates Principal’s Report Friday 30 June Frog Jog Crosses and Crowns Tour (until Sunday

Mercedes College Newsletter

7

Vol. 44 Number 10 / Week 10 Term Two / 29 June 2017

ACC Hockey Challenge - Ms Lorraine Brown What a tiring day - 7 games in a row, and we won every game! With a team of Year 11 & 12 and a couple of Year 9 students we scored 34 goals, and only 1 against! After finishing the round games on top of our pool we defeated Mandurah Catholic in the Semi Finals and then Newman College just 1-0.

The team played outstanding games all day and demonstrated great team work from defence to attack. The reward is that now we go on to play Buchanan Cup later in August against the top state, independent and country schools in WA.

Languages - Mrs Angela Velletri, HOLA French Assistant (Semester 1, 2017) We have been very fortunate in the Languages Department to have been supported by a very talented French Language Assistant in Semester One. Chloé Legueil proved to be a wonderful asset to the department. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Banks family who kindly hosted Chloé and helped make her stay a memorable one. We wish Chloé bonne chance et bonne continuation and all the best! Merci beaucoup!

Australian Regional Final Bridge Chinese Language Proficiency Competition Year 10 Chinese student, Sophie Taylor recently participated in the Australian Regional Final Bridge Chinese Language Proficiency Competition at the Confucius Institute. She competed against students of Chinese from WA and eastern states schools.

After competing in two preliminary heats, Sophie was one of only four students who were selected to be finalists from WA in the National Competition on Saturday 20 May. Even though Sophie did not win a prize, we are very proud indeed of her impressive efforts in preparing for the competition which enabled her to progress through to the finals - an outstanding achievement! We all congratulate Sophie on her terrific achievement and on being such an excellent ambassador for the College.

Italian and French Exchange arriving soon This week we welcome two Italian Exchange students; Debora Di Francesca hosted by Georgia Comerford and her family and Naike Maiorano hosted by Georgina Di Chiera and her family. At the beginning of Term 3, we will also have two French Exchange students: Zoé Brizard and Maelle Aguenier hosted by Hannah Porcaro and her family. We wish them all an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Interschool Debating - Mrs Amanda La Pegna The final round of Interschool Debating, Round 5, has drawn to a close with the following results: Mrs Chiellini ’s Year 8 Novice team (speakers Sofia Ward, Jessica O’Brien, Aliyah Fedec) were defeated by Perth Modern, as were Mr Beare’s Year 9 Juniors (speakers Vy Tran, Gabriella Miocevich, Sophia Wood) against Christ Church, and Mrs O’Toole’s and Mrs Dell’s Year 11 Seniors (speakers Teehani Ralph, Alysha D’Souza, Kelli Kang) against Perth Modern. Mrs Marando’s Year 9 Juniors (speakers Erica Galloway, Caitlin Brazil, Georgia Gillibrand) finished the competition on a high with a win against Perth Modern, as did her Year 10 Juniors (speakers Sarah Hillyer, Rosey Savage, Jasmine Formato) against St. George’s.

Once the point scores for each division have been collated at the end of the round, we will be informed if any of our teams have been successful in entering the ‘knockout’ final rounds, leading to the Grand Final.

Darcy Guazzelli (Year 10) reflects on her Confucius Institute Study in China I had an excellent time on the Study Tour to China. I really enjoyed meeting new people and experiencing life in China for several days. I found the Chinese classes very useful and I learnt more about the structure of conversational speech and what people talk about on an everyday basis.

Staying in the Zhe Jiang University dorms was very exciting and it was great to be around all my new friends all the time. Going to the West Lake was memorable as the view was spectacular and it was interesting to hear about the ancient stories that go along with landmarks in the area.

Parents are welcomed to attend and support on the day. If parents intend on taking their daughter home from the Stadium they will need to provide a note addressed to their daughter's homeroom teacher by Tuesday 18 July, first day back Term 3. Students who are being picked up from the Stadium must be collected from their House area, in the Athletics Stadium.

The program for the day can be viewed HERE.

Page 8: Key Dates Principal s Report - Mercedes College, Perth€¦ · Mercedes College Newsletter Key Dates Principal’s Report Friday 30 June Frog Jog Crosses and Crowns Tour (until Sunday

Mercedes College Newsletter

8

Vol. 44 Number 10 / Week 10 Term Two / 29 June 2017

Seeds of Justice - Mrs Senika Gunawardena On Tuesday 20 June, the Seeds of Justice girls and the other Mercy Schools gathered at Aranmore College to learn and dis-cuss the topic of Food Miles. We watched an informing PowerPoint, played some fun and interactive games including a very educational kahoot as well as a food activity in which we made fruit sticks using a range of fruit and at the end we learnt just how many Food Miles the fruit we used had travelled. It was a very enjoyable evening that taught each and everyone of us something new about food and the impact it has on the environment.

Taking the bullet train to Shanghai was a terrific experience, and once in Shanghai, we shared many wonderful moments together exploring the new city. Going up to the 100th floor of the World Financial Centre was unforgettable and the acrobatic show was spectacular. We spent Easter at the markets and had so much fun bartering for the things we wanted to buy!

Upon arriving back in Hang Zhou we visited Song Dynasty town where we saw a famous show depicting war and romance. Every night we attended cultural lessons where we learnt about the correct order to write the strokes of Chinese characters and how to tie traditional Chinese knots.

It was very interesting to visit a Chinese middle school and speak to students about their life in China whilst answering questions they had about Australia. We exchanged gifts and WeChat codes before saying goodbye. We also visited museums of umbrellas, scissors and swords which was definitely a unique experience.

I had a wonderful time in China and will remember the opportunity and all the friends I made in the years to come. I would definitely recommend this tour to any student wishing to improve their Chinese, make new friends and be immersed in Chinese culture.

Magis Carnival - Ms Callie Steven After a blustery day at school on Thursday 22 June, six intrepid young philosophers travelled to John XXIII to discuss important questions of the day with other Year 11 and 12 students from schools in the metropolitan area. Jessica Bidwell-Gregory, Aisling Incerti, Hannah Skinner, Celeste Muscat, Jasmine Muscat and Lauren Wolters engaged in deep debate on topics such as ‘Caring about the environment is a first world luxury’ and ‘The Law needs to recognise human rights and the fundamental interdependence of all biological (and some abiological) entities and their essential diversity’.

After a well-earned break they debated whether ‘Thinking is impossible without any form of language’ and if ‘Agriculture is a mechanised food industry divorced from nature’. After that warm up came the highlight of the evening, the mystery question.

Dr Annette Pederson introduced ideas about truth and history, so important in this era of ‘post-truth’ and Donald Trump. Students engaged in a very broad and deep discussion about truth and the nature of reality, commenting particularly on their generation’s obsession with social media. For instance, is social media used as reassurance that you are real, a validation that your reality corresponds with that of others? The entire evening was very stimulating with students really engaging in these topics. Each student was a credit to themselves and the College.

Top: Magis Carnival; L to R: Dacry Guazzelli during her Confucius Institute Study in China; students at the Seeds of Justice talk on Food Miles.

Page 9: Key Dates Principal s Report - Mercedes College, Perth€¦ · Mercedes College Newsletter Key Dates Principal’s Report Friday 30 June Frog Jog Crosses and Crowns Tour (until Sunday

Mercedes College Newsletter

9

Prefects’ Corner

Wellbeing

Vol. 44 Number 10 / Week 10 Term Two / 29 June 2017

Free and confidential parenting help with ReachOut Parents Coaching ReachOut Parents Coaching provides busy parents of teenagers with free, confidential one-on-one parenting help. Delivered using a mix of online and pre-booked phone sessions, it gives parents the flexibility to easily access support from anywhere in the country. Any parent who is worried about their relationship with their teenager, or concerned about their teenager ’s wellbeing or behaviour, can access up to four phone sessions with a professional parenting coach as well as a range of personalised digital resources. Parents looking to better understand their teenager or wanting general parenting support would also benefit from the service.

All phone sessions are delivered by trained professionals from The Benevolent Society – experts in helping families build strong relationships – and tailored to an individual’s specific goals and situation. This means that parents will receive practical strategies they can put to use immediately after their first call. Visit the website to watch the introductory video to learn more about the program: https://parents.au.reachout.com/coaching#/

Frog Jog on Friday 30 June marks the end of Term 2 and we would like to remind students to contribute $25 or $40 per family for Mercy Ministries projects; the Songa Mbele na Masomo school in Africa and the Ability Centre in Perth. Keep an eye out for the Prefects handing out lollies and water at the checkpoints!

The Prefect Council are also running a “Guess how many lollies are in the Jar”, fundraiser with, $1 for 1 guess or $2 for 3 guesses. The winner will be announced at the Athletics Carnival on Thursday Week 1 of Term 3.

On Tuesday 20 June, the Year 9 ballroom dancing Social was held at the College and it was great to see the girls enjoying their night dancing with the Trinity boys and getting into the theme in their 1950s skirts and dresses! Thanks to the Trinity Prefects for helping at the social and joining in the dances. Congratulations to Ellen Van Beek and Phoebe Pugh who won best dressed on the night!

We wish all staff, students and their families a safe and enjoyable holiday and safe travels to the Crosses and Crowns Tour who leave this Friday.

Student News

Speech and Drama Congratulations to Atira Shack (Year 11), who recently participated in the Perth Speech and Drama Teachers ’ Association Festival. Atira placed 1st in the Year 10/11 Prose and 2nd in the Year 11 Poetry.

Dancesport Congratulations to Sabrina Serra (Year 11) who competed in the Dancesport Australia National Championships. Sabrina and her partner placed 1st in U21 New Vogue, 2nd in U21 Ballroom, 3rd in U21 Latin and 2nd in U19 Ten Dance. The pair also danced exceptionally well in the Adult field, placing 9th in Ballroom (out of 34 couples) and 7th in Latin (out of 16 couples).

Pierre de Coubertin Award Congratulations to Georgina Versteeg (Year 12) and Morgan Aquino (Year 10), who were two of 22 students awarded the Pierre de Coubertin Award, after displaying the Olympic ideals of fair play and sportsmanship. All secondary schools are

invited to nominate a recipient from Year 10, 11 or 12. Nominees must participate actively in the school’s physical education program with a consistently positive attitude and must have represented the school in a sport. Students are also required to submit a piece of original art or literary work (essay, poetry, sculpture, painting) which demonstrates the student ’s appreciation

and understanding of the Olympic Movement.

Page 10: Key Dates Principal s Report - Mercedes College, Perth€¦ · Mercedes College Newsletter Key Dates Principal’s Report Friday 30 June Frog Jog Crosses and Crowns Tour (until Sunday

Mercedes College Newsletter

Noticeboard

Archdiocese of Perth Events -

Vertas 2017 - WA Youth Festival / 30 June - 2 July / Notre Dame University , Fremantle. For more information please visit www.veritasperth.com

End of Naidoc Week Mass - Sunday 9 July / St Mary’s Cathedral. For more information click HERE.

Paraiso - Evangelisation Concert / 10 July / St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, Maida Vale. Click HERE for more information.

ACM Koorlangka’s/Children’s Day - 12 July / 11am - 2pm / Holy Trinity Church, Embleton. For more information please click HERE.

Behaviour Tonics - 1-2-3 Magic and Emotion Coaching to help parents manage difficult behaviour in children in 2 10 12 years. For more information click HERE.

Funarium - Winter School holidays (7 - 9 July) / Claremont Showgrounds / Children aged 4 - 12 years. Over 40 activities in 10 themed zones. More info and tickets are available at www.thefunarium.com.au or www.facebook.com/thefunariumperth.

Trinity College - Robin Hood / 20 July & 21 July / 6.30pm / Gibney Hall, Trinity College. For more information, please click HERE.

Thank you to Parents

Year 9 Social A big thank you to Kathryn Godwin, Josie Tricoli, Nat Mistilis, Lorena Townsend, Anne Fraser who helped with transforming the Hall in to a wonderful rock & roll dance hall! Thank you to Karen Mitchell, Jenni Wong, Jen Nicholas, Marian de Souza-Scott & Laura Galloway who assisted during the evening with food, drinks & cloakroom. Thank you also to all the dads who assisted with Security, Wes Sutton, Tim Nicholas, Mel Tricoli, Sean Henbury, Jared Graves, Paul Bond, Ian Stuart-Combe & Jeff Davies for patrolling the grounds to ensure all students were kept safe during the social. The staff & students really appreciate your help.

Vol. 44 Number 10 / Week 10 Term Two / 29 June 2017

Parents and Friends’ Association

Screenager Film Screening Tuesday 25 July / PAC / 6.30pm for 7pm start / $5 per person Parents and their daughter(s) are invited to attend the special screening of Screenagers. This feature documentary explores the impact of screen technology on kids and offers parents proven solutions that work. Seats are limited and bookings are essential. Click HERE to book now.