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August 2, 2024 | News
2nd August 2024
From The Principal
Dear students, parents, carers and staff
In our last Newsletter of Term 2, our Assistant Principal outlined an incredibly long list summarising the highlights of that term, and this term has started with a promise of an even longer list! NAIDOC in week 1; the Year 7 Ancient Egypt excursion; the Student Excellence program excursion; subject selection, course counselling and information evening; Year 9 Morrisby Interviews, and the inaugural Spelling Bee House competition. We had a wonderful whole school assembly celebrating our school values. Awards were presented recognising Excellence, and there was lots of entertainment. The Year 7 Marimba band presented a musical item at the start, and the Year 12 Rock Band closed the assembly. In between, the Student Leadership presented prizes to Excellence award winners and spot prizes to lucky students from each year level; students were able to choose from a great range of new school merchandise, including caps and scarves with the House logos.
In the first week of term, we launched the implementation of “Classroom Mastery” which is a key feature of our Annual Implementation Plan for school improvement his year. At Kyneton High School we are constantly striving to build the best possible environment for learning; safe and engaged classrooms that support both academic and social-emotional learning. Our teachers have undertaken professional learning to develop their understanding and capacity to deliver research-based teaching approaches where student can thrive and flourish. These approaches include:
– building positive teacher-student relationships
– establishing high expectations
– establishing routines and rules
Safety is essential in learning environments and high expectations, routines and rules support this by providing students with clear guidelines for the classroom. This term we started the implementation of our first three classroom routines, which are being explicitly taught school wide. They are the Cue to Start, the Entry and the Exit routines. Staff are being supported by ongoing coaching to enable the consistent application of these routines across the school. At the heart of this improvement initiative is our aim to provide every learner with the very best environment for them to flourish at school.
We look forward to many more great events and lots of learning this term. Best wishes to all those students who are participating in the Ski Camp next week; have a safe and happy time on the snow!
Ana Rees
Principal
Year 7 NGV Excursion
Clementine Nelms reports
On Tuesday the 23rd, the Year 7s were fortunate enough to travel to Melbourne, visiting the NGV, experiencing the culture of ancient Egypt, in preparation for our next Humanities unit. We went through the ‘Pharaoh’ exhibition, and were amazed by the tombs, sarcophagus, as well as so many more Egyptian artefacts, with the creative expression of the sun’s setting and rising leading us through the exhibition. Witnessing such precious things really put us in the mood for our next humanities unit!
We then got artistic, with the NGV staff guiding us, and created ancient Egyptian portraits, with a touch of gold leaf and hieroglyphics surrounding them. They looked phonemonal! During this process, we also learnt about how art was created in the Ancient Egyptian era, and played out these skills in a modernised way. The event was incredible, and we were still raving about it as we got back to school.
Nice flat surface representation self-portrait, Ms Sharpe!
VCE Art : Creative Practice
At the start of this term our Year 11 and 12 Art students had the good fortune to engage in a workshop with artist Rob McHaffie as part of their coursework.
Rob, collaborating with Airbag, created a major interactive artwork now permanently on display at the new Bendigo Law Courts.
We were lucky to catch Rob during a busy period as he prepares for his exhibition opening at the Bendigo Art Gallery, titled Rob McHaffie: We are family running from 10 Aug 24 – 27 Jan 25. We want to acknowledge and thank Rob for sharing his time with us.
Alex Ashley
Rob shared his experiences as an artist; his interests, how he goes about his practice, and the career opportunities that exist through exhibiting, mentoring, education, and commissions.
It was a valuable experience for our students who got to work with Rob to create small collage-based works – a method he often uses in composing paintings.
Year 9 and 10 Indonesian
On Thursday 1 August, Year 9 and 10 Indonesian students caught the train to Melbourne for a taste of Indonesia – both literally and figuratively. Our first stop was Enak, an Indonesian café on Lonsdale Street, where we were treated to nasi kuning, rendang, tempeh, ayam goreng and much more. It was delicious!
It was a great experience for the students and they displayed maturity and good manners throughout.
Bu Deryn
From there we caught a tram to Gasworks Theatre in Albert Park, where the Melbourne Community Gamelan staged a wayang kulit (shadow puppet) performance from the Indian epic, The Mahabharatha. After a fascinating show, the performers invited the students to look behind the scenes and have a go at playing the instruments themselves. This was a rare opportunity, as the Gamelan set is rarely taken out of its home at the University of Melbourne Music School.
School Production Update
It’s almost showtime!!
In preparation for opening night next week, the cast and backstage crew sacrificed their school holidays by attending rehearsals at Gisborne Secondary College. They were able to rehearse in their costumes, and complete a run of the entire show. It is evident that their hard work is paying off as the show is looking fabulous. Please book your tickets via this link:
https://www.trybooking.com/events/1217588/sessions?date=2024-08-17
Revolting Children
The Year 8s worked as a class to develop their own production of 10 Ways to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse. The students selected either an acting role or a design role and collaborated with each other to develop lighting, set, costume, marketing and makeup designs. The actors worked hard to memorise their lines and develop the given circumstances of the play.
It has been a lot of work but very rewarding to have both year levels working on class performances and to see each student shine in their own way.
Alex Scott
At the end of last term, the Year 7s had been developing their skills in musical theatre by working on excerpts of Matilda the Musical. They learned how to take direction, build their character and remember the choreography to the song Revolting Children.
Voices Of Country
The group in front of Maree Clarke’s glass eel trap sculpture, Ancestral Memory I, 2019.
The sculpture is a bit hard to see in the photo above, so here it is when it was hanging in another gallery.
This week the Year 11 Literature class got the opportunity to experience the indigenous art exhibitions on display at the NGV, as a part of our Voices of Country unit of study. The class consisting of only eight students allowed for a freer experience, permitting students to spend their own time exploring the many forms of art at their own leisure before gathering for a guided tour by one of the galleries experts. On this outing we were able to gain a deeper understanding of indigenous culture and history, linking everything we learnt back to the text ‘Swallow the Air’ by Tara June Winch, an Indigenous Australian author, which we are currently studying.
There is no doubt that this excursion has furthered our comprehension and sense of respect on the often confronting nature that is our country’s past and unfortunately still shows in parts of our present. This unit of study is bound to make a large impact on the class, bettering students’ sense of respect and sparking an interest in the history and culture of the indigenous Australian peoples.
Alongside being highly educational, we were able to enjoy some time perusing the many exhibitions of breathtaking artworks the gallery had to present, spanning from paintings to sculpture, from countries and cultures all throughout the world, across hundreds of years of creation. Our class was able to enjoy time individually spent throughout the gallery and group bonding during lunch and bus trips. Thanks to the trust our teacher, Mr Bedford, placed in us, and the responsibility and respect our class presented whilst in the city, it was an enjoyable and fruitful experience for all, certain to show once back in the classroom.
Allegra Vanderkley
DNA Barcoding
On Monday 22nd July, a group of Year 9 and 10 students, known for their accomplishments and keen interest in science, embarked on an educational excursion to the Gene Technology Access Centre (GTAC). The visit focused on a hands-on investigation of DNA barcoding of tick species, providing students with a unique opportunity to engage in advanced scientific techniques.
During the day, students were introduced to the process of DNA extraction and gel electrophoresis, critical steps in analysing genetic material. They learned how to carefully extract DNA from tick specimens and prepare the samples for analysis. The practical experience was complemented by a detailed explanation of the principles behind gel electrophoresis, a method used to separate DNA fragments by size.
The highlight of the excursion was the hands-on experience in the lab, where students actively participated in the processes under the guidance of expert instructors. They observed how DNA barcodes can be used to identify different species of ticks, a crucial aspect of studying biodiversity and tracking the spread of diseases.
The excursion not only provided a deeper understanding of molecular biology techniques but also inspired many students to consider further studies and careers in the field of biotechnology. The day was a resounding success, leaving students with a greater appreciation for the complexities of genetic analysis and the importance of scientific research in addressing real-world issues.
Ms Swinden
Design By Nature
A group of Year 7 and 8 science enthusiasts attended the Design by Nature excursion at the Royal Botanic Gardens in the second week of Term 3.
They unpacked the concept of biomimicry, its importance in modern design and engineering, and discovered design stories of plant species grown at the gardens.
They wondered about how intricate nature’s designs are using scientific tools, and applied their wonderings to design a product that would solve a human issue based on nature’s inspiration.
The students produced some very cool ideas, such as hydrophobic gutters, eucalyptus-inspired fire barriers for buildings, water resistant park benches, and skyscrapers inspired by sturdy tree roots that have solar panels branched in Fibonacci pattern.
Ms Quynh
Report Cycle 3 Award Recipients
The following students were presented with awards for
Academic Excellence and Outstanding Attitude & Effort
at our whole school assembly on Monday 29th of July.
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
Year 7
Tahli McGregor
Silki DiMaggio
Samantha Oborne
Year 8
Samuel Waters
Miranda Gayfer-Lawrence
Rose Coleman
Year 9
Riley Crozier
Amelia Farmer
Rahni Wilson
Year 10
Keely McColley
Yasmin Balsillie
Jessica Chase
Year 11
Oliver Needham
Bradley Wright
Joel Turner
Charlotte Phelan
Year 12
Olivia Hedge
Evie Robert
OUTSTANDING ATTITUDE & EFFORT
Year 7
Jack Cheshire
Cindy Thompson
Jaimen Laird
Year 8
Tiana Cardinal
Mason Hardiman
Charli Zanussi
Austin May
Year 9
Adelaide Jones
Hailey Gunther
Year 9 Applied
Jaxson Cole
Phoebe Campbell
Year 10
Oliver May
Zara Hosking
Connor Irving
Bianca Oborne
Year 11
Phoebe Bespalov
Sophie Frankland
Amelie Wild
Year 12
Cameron Egan
Fern Thompson
Amelia Gunther
VM 11
Flynn Witkowski
Zack Wood
Jeremy Norris
VM 12
Kiara Vallance
Royce Sharp
Sport
The Intermediate boys basketball team had a very busy day playing 3 games. We unfortunately lost our first match to Sacred Heart. Our second game was a better contest, but we weren’t able to get over the line against Mt Ridley. Our last game was against Craigieburn, we stayed calm, cool and collected and were able to beat them in a great game. This was a great way to finish the day. Our MVP for the day was Bailey Jeffrey for his captain-like leadership. Kingston Price was awarded our defence player of the day for his efforts. Overall it was a super day!
Mr Eddy
Boys Awards
Most Improved
For working hard and locking down opponents players with his tough defence
Riley Swinden
MVP
For using his basketball IQ to score efficiently and play tenacious defence
Digger Barnett
Coaches Award
For bringing a fantastic attitude to team play and positive morale and bringing confidence when handling the ball
Odin Cumming
The Year 7 boys and girls basketball teams had an extremely successful day on Wednesday. Both teams have trained hard over the last 4 weeks in preparation for this event. The boys team worked well together and were lucky enough to win all their games. The boys will now compete at the Regional Year 7 basketball event later in the year. The girls team worked hard and made it to the grand final. Unfortunately they weren’t successful in winning. We are extremely proud of all the Year 7 students’ efforts, they led by example and made Kyneton High School proud.
Mr Turnbull & Mr Brohm
Girls Awards
Most Improved
For working hard, digging deep and even putting some points on the score board
Maddi Ferguson
Coaches Award
For bringing a fantastic attitude to team play and positive morale
Aria Stagoll
MVP
For dominating both defensive and offensive rebounds and making a huge impact on the score board
Ivie Plambeck
Well done!
Mr Turnbull
School Notices
What?
Beat the winter blues @ the SLT Lounge
w/ the Year 11 VM Work Related Skills Applied Learning Project –
Pop-Up Coffee Shop!
Coffee $3
– available to Senior students Years 10-12
Hot Chocolate w/ Marshmallows $3
– available to all students Years 7-12
Milkshakes $4
(Chocolate, Strawberry, Vanilla or Caramel)
– available to all students Years 7-12
Choice of milks available
When?
Monday lunchtimes
Where?
@ the SLT Lounge
How?
Cash or card accepted
Why?
Because coffee
Dear valued supporter
Gisborne Secondary College, in collaboration with Kyneton High School, is excited to announce their production of the darkly comedic ‘The Addams Family’ will be showing at the Barcham Theatre, Gisborne Secondary College, in August 2024.
As a valued member of our school community, we have reserved two complimentary tickets for you or representatives of your organisation for the VIP Gala on the evening of Friday 16th August.
Our VIP Night includes souvenir program and treats for the 6:30pm show, followed by refreshments, post-show speeches and an opportunity to meet the incredible cast and crew.
If you are able to accept this invitation to the VIP Night please RSVP via return email by close of business on Monday 5th August.
If you are unable to attend on the 16th, but one of our other show dates suits, please let us know by return email and we’ll allocate you tickets for the date that suits you. Other show dates/times are:
– Friday 9th August @ 7pm
– Saturday 10th August @ 2pm (relaxed performance) and 7pm
– Sunday 11th August @ 2pm
– Saturday 17th August @ 2pm and 7pm
– Sunday 18th August @ 2pm
Further tickets can be purchased online https://www.trybooking.com/CRHEI
We look forward to seeing you at the show.
Kind regards,
Kitty Skeen, Production Coordinator
Gisborne Secondary College
kitty.skeen@education.vic.gov.au
Twilight Market 2024
Head Start assists students to gain school-based apprenticeships or traineeships.
The program provides students an opportunity to start an apprenticeship or traineeship while working toward a Year 12 completion.
School-based Apprenticeship opportunities:
Flexischools Canteen App
View/download detailed information below:
A Message From The Cancer Council
Many parents and teachers are raising their concerns about children and young people vaping, and asking what can be done. At Cancer Council we too are hearing from parents and community members about their concerns. With support from partners across the health and education sectors, we have developed an easy online form to help people find and write to their federal representatives, and express their support for vaping reforms currently going through parliament. You can find the form at the link here. We encourage you to write to your federal representatives to express your concerns about vaping and show your support for the reforms.
If you have any questions, or for more information, please contact our team at actiononvaping@cancer.org.au.
Coming Events
| Sunday August 4th | Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day |
| Monday August 5th – Friday August 9th | Year 10 course counselling Year 10 into 11 subject selection opens Production tech run 1 (all day) |
| Tuesday August 6th | Production tech run 2 (all day) |
| Friday August 9th | Production tech run 3 (all day) Sport: Division athletics Year 7-12 Year 12 Literature MTC excursion Production performance 1 : 7pm at Gisborne Secondary College |
| Saturday August 10th | Production performance 2 : 2pm Production performance 3 : 7pm |
| Sunday August 11th | Production performance 4 : 2pm |
| Monday August 12th | VCE Checkpoint week Year 8&9 into 9&10 subject selection opens Production rehearsal P5 onwards |
| Tuesday August 13th | Production rehearsal P5 onwards |
| Thursday August 15th | Pupil free day |
| Friday August 16th | National day of action against bullying & violence Production performance 5 : VIP 6.30pm |
| Saturday August 17th | Production performance 6 : 2pm Production performance 7 : 7.30pm |
| Sunday August 18th | Production performance 8 : 2pm |
| Friday August 23rd | OED Navigation / bushwalk excursion Year 7 Didgeribone music incursion P5 |
| Monday August 26th | Year 8 basketball, table tennis |
| Friday August 30th | Wear it purple day |
| Monday September 2nd | Student free day |
| Wednesday September 4th | Year 10 Battle for Australia excursion Spring soiree 5pm |
| Friday September 6th | Year 7 “All hands on ukes” music incursion |
| Thursday September 12th | RUOK? day School council |
| Friday September 13th | OED boudering excursion |
| Friday September 20th | End of term – 2.30 finish |
| Monday September 30th to Friday October 4th | Year 12 practice exams |
| Monday October 7th | Term 4 begins |
| Thursday October 10th | World mental health day |
| Friday October 11th | Drama high ability incursion Twilight market |
| Thursday October 17th | Year 10 life science GTAC excursion |
| Friday October 18th | Arts evening |
Full & Part Time Courses
Now taking enrolments to commence July 2024, October 2024,
or January 2025.
Accredited courses – CII, CIII, CIV, & Diploma Courses in Dance, Dance Teaching, Musical Theatre
All standards welcome – Beginner to Advanced
Day, Night, & Saturday classes available for Part Time students
CRICOS registered for International students
For more information or to enrol:
Email us – dancefac@netspace.net.au
Call us – 03) 9429 9492
Visit our website http://www.dancefactory.com.au/
Macedon Ranges Field Naturalists Logo Competition
MRFN is a group based in the Macedon Ranges Shire which aims to share and develop knowledge of the flora, fauna, fungi and geology of our area.
We don’t yet have a logo for our group, and need to rectify that.
So we invite members of your school community to get out your paint brushes, pencils, digital stylus or whatever else you create with and come up with a design.
Submit your design to
macedonrangesfieldnaturalists
@gmail.com
Entries close
Friday, September 20th, 2024
The MRFN committee will decide on a shortlist out of which the membership will vote for a winner. The winner will receive a $50.00 book voucher and 5 years free membership of the MRFN. Shortlisted entries will receive a year’s free membership. The winning logo will be used in all future MRFN marketing materials, including the website and event banners.
Some ideas to help you get started:
Iconic species of flora, fauna and fungi in the region (e.g. snow gum, clover glycine, phascogale, wombat, antechinus, sugar glider, powerful owl, deadman’s fingers, mycena interrupta, etc.)
Iconic geographic features (e.g. Mt Macedon, Hanging Rock, etc.)
We look forward to seeing the creative works received as entries for this competition.
KYNETON HIGH SCHOOL