3 July 2019

Editor: Jenny LeSouef
Technology: Nola Regan

Newsletter Articles

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

My time as Acting Principal will soon be coming to an end. It has been a privilege to serve the school in this capacity over first semester while the selection of our new Principal occurred. I sincerely thank all the staff who have supported me in the role. It is with great pleasure that I announce the new Principal of Willetton SHS is Trevor Hunter. Trevor has extensive leadership experience at both the school and system level. We welcome Trevor, who will be starting early Term 3, to our community and I’m sure the school will continue to flourish under his guidance.

Term 2 is an extremely busy time in the life of a secondary school teacher with the added workload of creating, supervising and marking of Year 10-12 exams and the writing of Semester 1 reports. I acknowledge and thank all the staff for their diligence and hard work during this term. As we know the reports are an extremely important source of information for parents and students; in particular, for Year 10 and 11 students who are considering subject selections for next year.

Each year we undertake an extensive process to assist students and parents in their selections, including workshops for students and parent information evenings. While we always encourage students to challenge themselves; it is also important to be realistic with subject selections. Past performance is generally the best predictor of future success and there is no point condemning a child to years of poor results and stress as a result of unrealistic choices.

We are fortunate to have a large number of outstanding teachers at our school who are dedicated to the care and education of our students. While all are worthy of recognition, this year, under the auspices of the School Board we have nominated Wayne Baseden, Head of Health and Physical Education for the annual WA Education Awards in the category of Teacher of the Year. Wayne is an outstanding educator and leader and well deserving of this nomination. We wish him all the best in the selection process.

As always there have been a lot of events this term, including the launch of the new Entrepreneurship and Innovation Internship course in Year 10 and the Business Management and Enterprise course in Year 11. These courses, which begin next year, mark a ground breaking partnership with Murdoch University and provide a range of benefits and opportunities not available to other schools.

Also this term, students have taken part in Lightning Carnivals, interschool sport teams, the Mid-Winter Music Concert and Drama performances. A special congratulation to the students who attended the Meraki Festival and won the award for Best Choreography. We have held the World’s Greatest Shave fundraiser and during the school holidays dedicated staff will be giving up their time to conduct excursions to Canberra and Mt Hotham Ski trip.

On a concerning note, there are an increasing number of reports of students walking through carparks and across streets with their eyes glued to their phones unaware of the potential dangers around them. There have been a number of near misses so I ask parents to please speak with your children, as we have done, about the safe use of phones and encourage them to Look Up while walking.

In conclusion, I would like to wish all students, parents and staff a safe and happy holiday.

Colin Marshall

INTRODUCING TREVOR HUNTER

My name is Trevor Hunter and as the incoming Principal of Willetton Senior High School, I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself and tell you a little of my career and previous roles that have brought me to the position of Principal at this outstanding secondary school.

I have been employed in public education in Western Australia, undertaking roles both within secondary schools as well as centrally with the Department of Education for over 30 years. My career has seen me promote from teaching Humanities in both city and country schools, through to positions as a Head of Department, Deputy Principal and finally, for the last 12 years, as Principal of two secondary schools. My latest position being that of foundation Principal at Byford Secondary College.

Centrally, I have held positions as Director and Principal Adviser within three pivotal projects. These being the implementation of the Master of School Leadership program for aspiring principals in partnership with the University of Western Australia, as Director responsible for the transition of Year 7 students into secondary schools across Western Australia and finally in 2018 as the Principal Adviser in the Violence in Schools Initiative.

In 2017, I was, along with your previous principal Chris Booth, selected to attend Harvard University as a Public School Principal Fellow. Coupled with this program, I completed a State wide review of Gifted and Talented Education in Western Australia in 2018.

I believe that I bring to the principalship at Willetton a wealth of experience in both school operations and system knowledge and look forward to working with the Willetton school community to enhance what is already an excellent school.

I look forward to meeting you on my commencement at the school during Term 3.

BOARD CHAIR REPORT

Dear Parents/Caregivers,

I especially thank Jo Collier for stepping up while I have been overseas with work commitments. Jo has stepped in seamlessly to chair the past two Board meetings and worked behind the scenes with Helen Wong to make sure matters keep ticking along with the support of members. It is timely to acknowledge the extra time all Board members volunteer to the school not only for each meeting, but also in responding to emails and coordinating matters outside of our usual sessions, to enhance the educational environment to maximise learning opportunities for all students at Willetton.

Winter Showcase

I am always amazed at how talented the students are and the diversity of talent. Thank you again to the big team (300 students) behind the performance who made this a very enjoyable evening to the 400 strong audience; our teachers Jenni Templar, Ina Boxshall, Chad Campbell and Pip Peake, Certificate II and Certificate III Music students, and Front of House team (who braved the cold and windy conditions to greet us with a smile).

As this goes to print, the lower school drama students are busily performing in week 10. We are no doubt in for a treat and thank all staff and students involved.

The Board recently called for expressions of interest for community representatives to Board positions who support the Board in its function over a 12-month term. This year we had several extremely competitive expressions of interest submitted and we welcome back Trudi McGlade (Murdoch University Secretary) and Shezah Arif (Federal Prosecutor), and extend a welcome to new member Keryn McKinnon (media and communications). We also thank the outgoing community representative, Sarah Borg, a former student, who recently had a baby and so is otherwise occupied enjoying motherhood.

June marks a time where our Year 10s are contemplating their senior school subjects. This is both an exciting and confusing time for both students and parents. It also involves thinking beyond school life to what they might want to do post-secondary, which can be quite daunting, particularly if they have no idea. Coming from a tertiary background, I like to reassure students (and parents) that there are now so many pathways for further education and employment that the key to success lies with tackling subjects that are enjoyable and most importantly achievable. Life really is just one long learning journey adapting to new experiences, challenges and different people.

The end of June marks the mid-point of our year, half way through the academic calendar and a well-earned break for students, teachers and parents (no early morning lunch preparation for two weeks). On behalf of the School Board, we hope that you all have a relaxing and safe break, and come back rested and ready to tackle the second half of the year with our new Principal Mr Trevor Hunter.

Dr Paola Chivers

All young people are loved and safe, have material basics, are healthy, are learning and participating and have a positive sense of identity and culture.’ ARACY The Nest vision.

HEAD BOY AND HEAD GIRL REPORT

Congratulations to everyone for finally finishing their Semester 1 exams. Whether you’re in Year 10, 11 or 12, I’m sure you are relieved to be done with them, so give yourself a well-deserved rest these holidays and come back in Semester 2 ready and refreshed.

Aside from exams, this has been another exciting month. The first councillor forum of the year went smoothly thanks to the efforts of the Year 12 Council, and culminated in the conception of a number of projects which are in their early planning stages, each being developed by one year group’s council with the assistance of a Year 12 mentor. Following the forum’s focus on community, each project is being planned with two main goals in mind; to further student involvement in the community and service towards it, and to achieve a greater sense of school spirit by unifying students towards common goals. Each year group will have the chance to run their project on a designated day within what we are calling Charity Week, which will be held in Term 3. We hope this can become a tradition for the school in years to come, and continuously widen its scope over time.

A number of other exciting events are coming up which we encourage all students to get involved in. The Year 9 Drama Club is doing a performance of Aladdin which we are excited to watch. NAIDOC week is also coming up so keep your ears sharp and your eyes open for information about the activities which will be running to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The courageous students who have cleverly dubbed themselves the Willo Bald Stars have completed the World’s Greatest Shave for everyone’s viewing pleasure after an absolutely tremendous fundraising effort, raising over $11,000. We are so proud everyone who volunteered to shave and everyone who contributed to the fundraising. Our school continues to trump its own efforts year after year, and we’re sure this trend will continue into the future.

Another significant upcoming event is the Interact Club’s major fundraiser for 2019, Upendo: Charity Night for Africa, a night of food, socialising and entertainment to raise funds for two charities, Mercy Ships and Water for Africa. Get in quickly and purchase your tickets before they sell out. You can find more information about this event in the Interact Club’s section of the newsletter.

So as usual, there are a myriad of opportunities being presented to the students at Willetton, and despite many having passed already, we are barely halfway through the year and so there is still so much time for you all to get involved in something special. There is so much to learn through extracurricular activities, so we highly encourage everyone to get involved as much as you can. You might find opportunities to give back to the amazing school and community which we are so privileged to be a part of, or find a new passion and new friends who you can share it with. When you reminisce on high school it won’t be your standard classes that you remember, it will be the special things which you participated in. So deviate from your standard routine for once, and go see what the school is offering out there for you. You might be pleasantly surprised with what you find.

Araan Kousari and Jae Brieffies Head Boy and Head Girl

CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations to Mihan De Silva Ambalangodage, Year 12, who has progressed to Stage 3 of application for the prestigious Tuckwell Scholarship to the Australian National University in Canberra where he hopes to study medicine.

He will be flown to Canberra where a rigorous weekend interview process will take place. Twenty-five scholarships are awarded to students from around the nation.

We wish Mihan all the best.

GENERAL

YEAR 7-10 ASSESSMENT AND REPORTING POLICY

The School Curriculum and Standards Authority (SCSA) requires schools to provide our community with an assessment and reporting policy that is based on the Principles of Learning, Teaching and Assessment.

An updated policy has been developed for Willetton in 2019 and staff have been using Term 2 for familiarisation with it. Students have been advised of the main points of the policy at assembly and were asked to read the full policy on the website. The policy will come into full effect from the start of Term 3.

I would like to draw your attention to the student and parent responsibilities from the policy. It is only by working together as a team that we can help all students achieve their personal best. I encourage you to become familiar with the full policy on our website:

Student responsibilities

It is the responsibility of the student to;

• complete all in-class assessment tasks on the scheduled date and submit all out-of-class assessment tasks by the due date
• maintain an assessment file for each course studied which contains completed, returned written assessments for study and revision purposes
• initiate contact with teachers concerning absence from class related activities, missed lessons, missed in-class assessment tasks, and other issues relating to assessment.

Parent/Carer Responsibilities

It is the responsibility of the parent/carer to;

• contact the teacher in the first instance (then the appropriate Head of Learning Area if necessary) if there are concerns about performance in a specific course
• contact Student Services if there is a general academic, social or emotional problems that could affect assessment or achievement
• inform the Deputy Principal responsible for Assessment and Reporting of any disability, learning difficulty, injury or cultural belief that may affect their child’s learning and/or assessment performance
• provide evidence for absence when their child is absent from an assessment or test e.g. Medical Certificate.

Nathan Harvey Deputy Principal

INTERACT PRESIDENT’S REPORT

To begin, I must pass on my congratulations to the Interact Club members of 2018 and 2019. On May 25, their tireless work, passion and dedication was rewarded, as the Interact Club of Willetton Senior High School was named the WA Young Achiever of the Year, in the youth group category. For Interactors, the biggest reward is always the knowledge that our thoughts and our actions can make a difference in our local and global communities. Yet this wonderful award is a tribute to the selflessness and abilities of our young leaders, and a recognition of the time and effort they have consistently contributed to the club, and to building a better world around them.

Term 2 has been another busy term for Interact, in planning two large-scale events, an inter-club tree planting event organised by the Horizons Committee, and an upcoming charity night which will be the major fundraiser for Interact this year.

The Horizons Committee is a group of Year 7-9 students within Interact who have demonstrated potential in leadership, innovation and planning. Together, this committee organises events for the club that draw us closer to the ethos of Rotary, build on communication and teamwork skills, and provide new and exciting opportunities for the club. This term, Horizons has worked tirelessly to organise and host a tree planting event that brings together Interact Clubs and Rotary members from across the Perth area, the first of its kind in WA.

On Sunday June 23, around 70 members from six different organisations and schools, alongside members of the Canning City Council and local community members, came together to plant over 4000 trees along the Lambertia Creek Living Stream project in Ferndale. The event enabled members to connect, to share ideas and projects, and to strengthen the Rotary network across Perth. Horizons members ran the day with great efficiency and maturity, raising an additional $86 by selling homemade curry puffs. The money will be donated to the Perth Children’s Hospital Foundation. The event was a great success, enjoyed by all, and providing a fantastic forum for inter-club communication, cooperation, and collaboration. Congratulations to the students of the Horizons Committee for their planning and execution:

Angela Thompkinson, Annabelle Turner, Jade Regel, Mehvish Mehboob, Ellen Brieffies and Roshni Malvathu, and their mentors, Duli Jayalath and Mihan De Silva. They are exemplary and inspiring young people, whom I am sure will become leaders both within the club and in their wider community.

In upcoming events: it is with great pleasure that I announce our newest fundraising venture, which will be held on the evening of Friday August 9 in Term 3, at the Performing Arts Theatre at Willetton SHS. Upendo, in Swahili, is the term for both love and charity. In this spirit, Interactors have organised Upendo: Charity Night for Africa, an event set to raise funds for two organisations working in the Africa region - Water for Africa, an Australian-based charity installing and maintaining new water projects in remote African communities, and Mercy Ships, an entirely volunteer-run hospital ship that ports around Africa, performing life-changing surgery for people who would not otherwise have access. Interactors have been working tirelessly to organise this event over the last month, with each member taking on a specific role within their respective committees. I commend the club on its work thus far, and also encourage the community to get involved in any way possible to support this worthy cause.

Here are just a few ways you can show your support:

Book tickets for the night! Tickets will be $25, with a 10% earlybird discount until July 19, and are available via the link below.

If you own, or know anyone involved in a local business who may be willing to donate funds, vouchers or goods to be auctioned on the night, please pass on the expression of interest via the link below.

If you are able to donate items for one of our two hampers, please deliver them to Helen Wong’s office in our Health Centre. We are looking for donations of chocolate items (bars, biscuits, gift packs, truffles etc.) and pamper items (soaps, candles, lotions, scrubs, bath bombs etc.) for two hampers to be auctioned off on the night).

As always, thank you to our facilitators, and all our club members for their leadership, communication and endless dedication to the cause. At Interact, we are always seeking new members, those who are passionate about giving back to the world around them, want to connect with a network of compassionate and like-minded individuals, or are seeking different ways to be involved in community service. We meet Thursdays at recess in classroom F13 - bring your friends, passion and great ideas, and we can’t wait to see you there.

Jae Brieffies Club President

SCHOOL TOURS

School tours can be booked through the school website.

We welcome all parents and relatives to our tours.

ARE YOU MISSING SOMETHING?

Your stuff misses YOU too.

CANTEEN – URBAN CAFÉ

When your child is cold and hungry this winter, our school canteen has a winter warmer menu of healthy affordable choices with two hot food meals specials daily, one hot soup special daily and hot coffee, milo and hot chocolate every day - plus the regular menu of meals and snacks.

The two hot meal choices for $5 small and $6.50 large include paella, risotto, sate chicken, Thai green curry, stir fry noodles, chicken curry and rice, chicken pasta, spaghetti bolognaise, butter chicken, chilli beef, curry laksa and chicken casserole.

The choice of a hot soup every day for $3.50 includes pumpkin, potato and leek, minestrone, chicken and vegetable and mushroom.

Hot drinks, coffee, milo and hot chocolate, are available every day for $3.50.

Opening hours of 7am to 2 pm to include breakfast, recess and lunch. While over-the-counter purchases are welcome, students can order before school or at recess for quick pick-up at recess or lunch. EFTPOS is available.

The lovely ladies from Urban Café

GIFTED AND TALENTED

YEAR 10 ASTROCHEMISTRY

Dr Chenoa Tremblay has kindly signed up to be a part of our growing group of CSIRO scientists who share their expertise and knowledge with us.

Year 10 Science students were introduced to the world of Astrochemistry, that is, how is astrochemistry done. Dr Tremblay is part of a team who analyse terabytes of data signals collected by the Square Kilometre Array radio-telescopes in the Murchison desert in Western Australia.

Students also had the opportunity explore two interactive websites.

Mita Munshi Science Teacher

YEAR 8 TECTONIC AND ATMOSPHERIC FORCES

During Semester 1, Year 8 Gifted and Talented students studied many of the tectonic and atmospheric forces that are responsible for the damage and destruction of the environment and loss of lives each year. Students then set about creating models of cities that could withstand a range of natural disasters such as cyclones, tsunamis, floods, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Their models incorporated a wide range of city design and technological strategies to reduce the potential impact of tectonic movements and extreme weather events. Some of the students elected to create physical models and others chose to use computer programs to generate their disaster-proof cities.

Jenny Chow HaSS Teacher

YEAR 7 3D POETRY

This term, the Year 7 Gifted and Talented English classes have been working on discovering poetry in different forms. Everyone in the two classes created a 3D blackout poetry project to be displayed around the room once completed.

Blackout poetry is where the poet uses an already written story or text and selects certain words that appeal to them and that they would like to include in their poems. In this case, all of us were given an old book to use for both the poem and 3D aspects of the project.

Over a week and a half, we wrote, created and constructed our 3D blackout poetry projects, and the finished products proved to be very impressive and each could be easily distinguished due to everyone’s unique style. There were trees, flowers, towers, waterfalls, ballerinas, eyes, secret lands, signs, fires and tear drops (not real ones obviously).

This project incorporated many different skills, including creative thinking, perseverance and the ability to make their imagination come to life.

Everyone had a great time in this project, and we give a big thank you to Mrs Saunders and Miss Sabriye for helping us and giving us the opportunity to express our creativity and personality through the art of poetry.

Ellen Brieffies and Sunny Li Year 7

YEAR 7 ANCIENT ROME

The Year 7 classes have been intensively studying Ancient Rome through the research and presentation of Readers’ Theatre and poster making.

The readers’ theatre was a successful and exciting assignment. In groups, students researched a concept in Ancient Rome. Some of the concepts were the military, religion, social classes, water and daily life. After researching their topic, the students formed an entertaining yet educating play. We brought blankets, which we used as togas and made some props. In my opinion, the Readers’ Theatre was a fun activity, a lot better than studying out of a book and I really hope I get the chance to do it again.

Ayaan Tomar Year 7

Margaret Hale HaSS Teacher

THE ARTS

OUR TOWN

Our Town was an eclectic three-act play performed by the Year 11 and 12 ATAR Drama students along with the Year 12s directing.

Our Town shared the story of a small town, Grovers Corners and the everyday life of the townsmen. It focused mainly on the life of Emily Webb and George Gibbs and her life, displaying themes of new life and growing up in Act I, Love and Marriage and Act II and Death in Act III.

It was performed in a dinner theatre seating with the Certificate II Hospitality students providing the audience with an appetising entree, dinner and dessert which received high praise from the audience.

It was a phenomenal experience from a Year 12 perspective - being given the freedom to direct our own act and have our ideas come to life and it strengthened the relationship between the Year 11 and 12 students. We are very thankful for the experience as it helped us grow further develop our social skills as well as being able to work cooperatively within the cast.

Lauren Cherry Year 12

DRAMA SHOWCASE

On June 24, the Year 7, 8 and 9 drama classes put on an entertaining showcase in the school's theatre.

The Year 7s shared with us, four different plays on the seven deadly sins and how we should treat each other with kindness. The Year 8s performed four plays on current social issues; racism, homelessness, and technology along with a thrilling, fire camp story. The Year 9s brought a sense of mystery to the stage with two groups performing a different murder mystery. The audience was involved, interrogating a number of suspects and together, solved the case.

We were provided with a delicious assortment of finger food during the interval, cooked and served by the Year 11 Certificate II hospitality students. It was a show that a lot of the students should be proud of as they worked very hard and it was the first time that some students performed in front of an audience.

Stefan Brand Drama Teacher

Our Drama Students

MUSIC NEWS - PACKED CONCERT NIGHT A BIG SUCCESS

Our Semester 1 Music Concert featured around 300 music students in 13 big acts, playing to a packed audience of parents and family. Thank you to;

• our conductors Jenni Templar, Iain Robbie, Joe Bonini, Mark Tooby, Wayne Slater, Kate Hare and Ryan Huxley.
• IMSS and WSHS staff for supervision: Tania Swan, Deanne Rochat, Joanne Bell and Ina Boxhall.
• Mr Brand’s Front of House team
• Mrs Templar’s wonderful Certificate II and III Music students who managed the stage.
• Ethan Lim, Ben Cromie and Mrs Bell’s cello ensembles for pre-concert music.
• Chad Campbell for his backstage coordination, and to our two MCs, Wei Seet and Dev Venugopal.

Pip Forster, Jenni Templar and Pip Peake Music Teachers

UPCOMING EVENTS

Term 3 is busy with Band, Orchestra, Choral and Guitar Ensemble festivals. Most of our ensembles will perform at Churchlands SHS on a range of dates. Full information will be provided by each ensemble’s conductor.

Please note the relevant dates

ENGLISH

YEAR 7 NOVEL STUDY

This Semester, Year 7 students are undertaking their novel study. Often described as the bread and butter of English, the program allows students to enter magical fantasy worlds; learn about fascinating characters; investigate language patterns; and explore themes about the world around them.

This year some of the studied novels include Harry Potter, Narnia, Coraline and Hatchet. Students are working on activities including writing diary entries from the point of view of characters, creating character bookmarks, creating brochures and, in one class, participating in the Harry Potter House Point Challenge!

One Year 7 student was even heard saying the book is much better than the movie.

Next term, students will apply their knowledge to their first ever essays. This will give them the opportunity to consolidate their understanding of the stories in their first extended piece of formal writing. Teachers and students alike are excited to get their teeth into this challenging task, not to mention finding out what happens at the end of the book.

Please find below photographs of the students enjoying their novel study. Can you spot the class with their books upside down? Or Miss McCauley looking cool as a cucumber in her wizard robes?

Year 7 English Teachers

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION

YEAR 9 LIGHTNING CARNIVAL SOCCER – GIRLS

A team of 14 girls played five games against John Curtin, Melville, Rossmoyne, Applecross and Safety Bay on Wednesday June 19, at Winthrop.

The girls played hard and ended up with three goals for the tournament. There was tough competition, but the girls never dropped their heads, and most importantly, the team finished strongly. Congratulations on a fine effort and special mention to the following girls who showed tenacity, leadership and great team spirit to help others in the team who had not played much soccer before - Shaima, Evie, Senadi and Mia. Thank you for our lines girls for the day Chiana and Mei Ling.

Judith Fapani HPE Teacher

Year 9 Lightning Carnival Soccer Team
Back L-R: Mariam Khan, Shaheen Khan, Senadi Ahangama Walawege, Mia Calderbank, Jade Woods, Jazmine Toalisa Westphal, Mariam Nadeen, Wen Zhang
Front L-R: Roshna Mathew, Evie Coghlan, Shaima Razzaq, Shirley Ng, Joowon (Stella) Lee, Genevieve Yii

Linesgirls - Chiana Ong & Mei-Ling Ong

WA SECONDARY SCHOOL SPORT - JUNIOR TOUCH FOOTBALL CARNIVAL

YEARS 7, 8, 9 - June 2019

This year, four teams were taken to the WA School Sport Carnival at George Burnett Park in Manning, playing alongside approximately 35 other teams from all over the Perth metropolitan region. The weather was kind to us, considering the bleak forecast!

The Boys A team played exceptionally well, and improved throughout the day, finishing at the top of their pool. This team showed a strong bond, reading and creating plays to allow over 25 touchdowns for the tournament, with everyone in the team getting over the line. Unfortunately, they were knocked out in the semi-finals against a well drilled Atwell College team, but the boys can hold their heads high with an outstanding performance on the day.

The Boys B team drew, won and lost over the course of the day, and seemed to gel well towards the end of the tournament. It is always a steep learning curve for our students who are not exposed to the speed and finesse of touch football like many other schools playing at the carnival. Congratulations to the two capable Year 7s– Blake and Jude, who played with the remainder of the team mostly being Year 9 students. Thank you also to Georgia Shearer, the super coach of the team.

The two girl’s teams finished 9th and 11th overall. Both girl’s teams had some tough competition during the day, particularly from Lakelands SHS. The Girls A team consisted exclusively of a group of Year 9 students. They had a great win against Melville SHS but unfortunately were overrun by some very fast and experienced teams from local schools. The Girls B team were a group of very capable and athletic Year 7 students coached by Hasan Rizvi. They played their hearts out all day long, and tried their very best to get more wins on the board, but like the Year 9 team, they finished a very respectable 3rd in their pool. This meant in the playoffs, to everyone’s amusement, both Willetton SHS girls teams had to play against each other. The Year 7 girls were pumped to take on the Year 9s and get a win, but unfortunately the older girls were just too strong and more experienced and the Year 9 team came away with a big win.

Credit must go to all the students on the day. The behaviour and sportsmanship displayed was exemplary and it is always a pleasure to take our students away because of this. It is hoped everyone enjoyed playing in the tournament and representing their school, and weren’t too sore the next day.

Ms Fapani and Ms Greenham HPE Teachers

HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCE

YEAR 11 POLITICS AND LAW STUDENTS VISIT NOTRE DAME UNIVERSITY

On June 18, the Year 11 Politics and Law classes enjoyed a trip to the historic west end of Fremantle to attend a symposium at Notre Dame university. Accompanied by Mr Michael Ialacci and Ms Marg Hale, the students enjoyed attending various lectures and workshops as well as a scrumptious lunch. Willetton SHS was one of many schools which attended this very successful day.

Marg Hale HaSS Teacher

Students enjoying a photo opportunity at Bathers Beach

Students were engaged by interesting university lecturers

YEAR 11 MOCK TRIAL TEAM

Our Year 11 Mock Trial team performed impressively throughout the competition and were a great advertisement for our school with their dedication, professionalism and good manners. Thanks to Astrid Sweeney for coaching the team.

Marg Hale HaSS Teacher

YEAR 7 ANCIENT ARTEFACTS

Over the past two weeks the Year 7s in Miss Del Rosario’s class have been researching and re-creating Ancient Chinese artefacts to present in the Year 7 Ancient Chinese Mini Museum. The artefacts consist of many different things such as The Great Wall of China, Terracotta Warriors, dings, coins and many more beautiful creations.

At the mini museum grand opening all the students presented their artefacts to visitors. The visitors were from all over the school, Year 7 – 12 students, administration staff and even the VIPs of the school. The mini museum was a great success. So great in fact that the display has now been moved to the library. When you visit the library you must have a look at these AMAZING artefacts.

Laura Del Rosario HaSS Teacher

LANGUAGES

STUDY TOUR TO ITALY 2019

When I first started learning Italian, I had no understanding of the language at all and hence I really struggled with it. But as time went past, slowly but surely my Italian improved and I suddenly grew a love for the language in which I became fascinated with Italian. Even though I was never top of the class, I loved not only the language but the culture too and the very idea of going to the very country only seemed like a far-off dream.

But there I was in the flesh in the very country I sought to go to for so long. Rome, Sicily, Casoli, Sorrento, Pisa, Verona, Florence, Venice and so many other beautiful places. I did so many things but some of the definite highlights for me were doing a night walk of Rome and Sorrento, visiting the Colosseum and Vatican City, climbing Mt Etna in Sicily, seeing all the beautiful pieces of artwork at the Uffizi gallery in Florence, staying with my lovely host family in Casoli, riding in a gondola in Venice and mainly just spending all three weeks with such an amazing group of people and our fantastic teachers in charge.

This once in a lifetime experience has been so much for not only me but everyone who went on the trip. I have created so many memories and had a blast. Italy as a whole, is so beautiful and I loved every single moment just being there in the country. I have learnt so much and have come back being closer to people I barely knew before leaving for Italy. On the trip, so many laughs were shared and so many memories I wish to hold very close to my heart and never forget. If anyone is starting or in the midst of learning a new language right now, I urge you to give it your best shot because you never know where language might take you because for me it has opened so many new paths and options that I never had before.

Tiffany Allen Year 11

During the April school holidays, 26 students and two Italian teachers left Australia for Italy. We spent three beautiful weeks traveling around Italy and visited many of the country’s most iconic places. On April 5, we arrived in Rome, where we spent three days visiting the historical sites, such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, and appreciating the beautiful works of art in the Vatican museums. From there, we took the plane to Sicily, where we stayed for four days. We took a walking tour through the streets of Palermo and we saw the beautiful markets that sold fruit, fish, herbs and spices and a ton of Sicilian dishes and drinks, including arancini and spremuta (freshly squeezed blood orange). The next day, we continued by coach to Calatabiano, found in the East of Sicilia, where we stayed for a few days at an Agriturismo (farmstead). Whilst we were there, we did a number of day trips to the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, to Modica, to Mt. Etna and to Taormina. Some students saw snow for the first time, it was a very special moment.

From Sicily, we took an 11-hour coach journey to Sorrento, where we visited Pompeii, after which we travelled to Casoli (a small town in the Abruzzo region). We stayed there for almost a week and students lived with Italian host families. We attended the local high school and got to know their culture and their way of life, it was an unforgettable experience.

After this stay, we continued on our journey. We made our way to Florence where we attended language school, we visited the Uffizi gallery and also did a bit of shopping. Then, we reached our final stop on the tour, Venice. It was beautiful, it was gorgeous weather, not too warm or too cold. We visited the ancient theatre of Verona, St. Mark’s Square and the Doges Palace, where we did the Secret Itineraries Tour and crossed over the Bridge of Sighs, then took a beautiful gondola ride through the Venetian canals.

The trip was unforgettable for everyone. We saw and learnt so much and we are all very fortunate to have had this opportunity. Many thanks to Prof. Palermo and Prof. Carrol for having made this fabulous experience possible. We all hope to return to Italy in the near future.

Andrew Liang and Jack Killoh Year11

MATHS

From the Maths Department

Society urgently needs to shift its view of mathematics. Eddie Woo

Why is Mathematics the key to Human Flourishing?

Eddie Woo, who currently teaches mathematics at Cherrybrook Technology High School and is Leader of Mathematics Growth for the NSW Department of Education, has written an article to answer that question.

For anyone who doubts the importance of Mathematics and its place in our ability to understand the world around us, please click on the link below to read his insightful article in the Sydney Morning Herald.

Eddie Woo points out the importance of education, … to make you into someone who could think logically, creatively, critically and insightfully about the world around you.

The purpose of study is not a product, but a person.

RESOURCE UNIT

LIFE SKILLS SCIENCE

The Science class in the Resource Unit has a very hands-on approach to the curriculum. This encourages the students to engage with a focus of application of life skills into their learning Other than the usual worksheets, quizzes and assessments, these activities include experiments, research, craftworks, making up posters, models and excursions. The students have visited the Perth Zoo, Scitech, AQWA and recently the Caversham Wildlife Park.

In class, the students have made models of the solar system when they studied Earth and Space and they also made dioramas of different habitats when studying Biology. This interactive approach to learning has been very positive and the students have gained a greater understanding of the concepts presented.

Our recent visit to Caversham Wildlife Park was very enjoyable and educational. The weather was wonderful and the students applied the knowledge they had learned in class. They discussed and identified different classes of animals and were able to identify species characteristics, animal classification and adaptation. For example, they learned that kangaroos dig shallow holes in ground to cool themselves. This learning opportunity was very positive and allowed our students to have a practical and relevant approach to science.

Deb Lievense and Sweet Chee Chang Resource Unit Staff

At Caversham Wildlife Park

SCIENCE

BIOLOGY EXCURSION

On June 20, the Year 11 Biology students went on an excursion to the Perth Hills Discovery Centre to practise identifying and recording data of organisms, do quadrat work, and have an up-close encounter with some endemic Australian animals.

Separating into two groups based on classes, our group started with learning how to appropriately record the data of animals and make sure we knew how to treat them ethically. We made them feel as safe as possible while we recorded their details such as their head width, gender, and pes. Of course, this was all done using stuffed animals.

Soon, we were in the forest, learning the difference between the Prickly Moses and the Honey Bush and how Jarrah trees were taller compared to the Marri trees. Using our new set of knowledge, we were then able to work on our quarter of the quadrat by carefully calculating canopy cover, creating keys, and copying down crucial information.

After a short lunch, we were all excited to finally meet the little native inhabitants of the land. Walking into the room, we were met with two forest red-tailed black cockatoos. After we sat down and were taught the adaptations of each species, we were introduced to a woylie and were allowed to hold some joeys while Lulu, the echidna, waddled around and said hello to everyone.

During this excursion, we were able to reinforce our knowledge, learn how to record data on animals and familiarise ourselves with quadrats. What we experienced seemed truly unlike any other and there were many highlights in the day. It would be hard to forget how our instructor, Mike, scared a student with a plastic lizard, how confusing the words humus and hommus are, how excited Mrs Wynhorst was to take photos of us and how it felt to hold a joey in our arms. We look forward to another enriching experience like this one and hope to be able to look back on it the way we would with this trip.

Marina Xiao and Arghya Wibowo Year 11 Biology Students

KALGOORLIE GOLD MINE

In May, I was offered a trip to the WA School of Mines graduation ceremony in Kalgoorlie with three other teachers from different schools.

A very busy weekend started with a tour at the Northern Star Kanowna Belle Processing Plant. We learnt about the process of converting gold ore to pure gold. I was surprised to discover that it takes about one tonne of gold ore to produce four grams of pure gold and that is on a good day.

Environmental Scientists spoke to us about the work they do ensuring air quality and rehabilitation plans for mines at the end of their life. We were then taken to the underground mine were we saw drillers drilling for gold and remote operated machines moving ore in unsupported mines. It was an amazing experience being underground but I don’t think I could be there for twelve hours a day.

At the graduation ceremony that night, about twenty students graduated in Mining Engineering all of whom had a graduate job they had already begun. The next morning, we viewed the Super Pit before breakfast with Curtin University staff.

I had an incredible weekend and learnt so much about the gold mining process that I cannot wait to share with my Year 12 Chemistry class when we study electrochemistry. I also hope to inspire them to consider a lucrative career in mining

Grace Hamilton Science Teacher

TITRATION STAKES

On the June 25, Willetton entered two teams in the Titration Stakes competition at Curtin University with Ms Hamilton as their supervising teacher. Our two teams trained for a month at recess and lunch with the help of Mr Ta.

Seventy-seven teams entered from more than 30 schools to standardise a sodium hydroxide solution, then determine the concentration of three samples of ethanoic acid to four significant figures. The Willetton teams came in 15th and 38th which means one team will be invited to the finals at Murdoch University in August. The results were so close that between the 1st and the 15th ranks there was a maximum difference of 0.0006 mol/L between one of the samples.

The students worked so well in their teams and beautifully represented the school. They had a great time being in the university lab and met lots of chemistry students from other schools.

Grace Hamilton Science Teacher

Sonali Grover, Janvi Mittal, Cady Chan, Leticia Leo, Isha Nagar and Nandana Binu

WILLETTON’S RECENT CONTRIBUTION TO SCIENCE TEACHING

The Willetton Science Department is known for developing novel experiments and learning activities. Here is the fruition of the Tissue Culture Club from 2018.

Based on what Dr Harris and Mrs Rajor first organised as an after school club, Dr Harris presented professional learning at the annual CONSTAWA conference to show how simple and cutting edge tissue culture of native plants could be brought to the class room. Our plants treat our insects like mating slaves, and physically beat them over their heads with anthers that are loaded with pollen! Teachers from across the state now know how to clone them cheaply with their students, and study this exciting and engaging world of Plant Biology.

In the same fashion, Dr Harris presented a workshop on protein chemistry at a combined-school professional learning at Murdoch University on June 4 this year, and showed off our new class sets of eight calorimeters (first trialled this year by the Year 11 Chemistry team) in a laboratory session designed to engage and excite our Year 11 and 12 students.

One of the great pleasures of working at Willetton Science Department is the high level of attention given to the craft of teaching science. The exemplary level of skill and subject knowledge means that there is always a professional conversation to be had at tea break, and which together with exceptionally insightful feedback and refinement of ideas, makes it possible to excel in resource development. We generously share that with colleagues across the state.

Dr Leon Harris Science Teacher

YEAR 9

YEAR 9 LEADERSHIP DAY

On Monday June 10, twelve Year 9 student councillors and thirty peer-leaders spent the day with Mark Clayden from 4theTeam in the lecture theatre learning how to be better and future leaders.

We were taught some useful content about teamwork, problem-solving and how being influential, brave and many other qualities that are advantageous in being good leaders. In order to improve our teamwork and problem-solving skills we did many different activities like building a bridge, that can allow a small ball to pass under and to be able to support weight, out of only newspaper and tape. We also did some hands-on activities like passing a marble through pipes and getting it safely into the bucket at the end. Although we all thought that we could do the activities easily it proved to be a lot harder than we anticipated and working with one another was one of the major difficulties for most of us. The most important thing that I got out of the day was to work hard to get what you want and to “do things your own way because everyone leads differently, and that difference is good.

This Leadership course was excellent, and I know many of the participants enjoyed the day and we all got something out of it even if it was just working better with others. Mark was an incredible lecturer and was very helpful.

Jemma Walker Student Councillor

Here are some other comments by students who participated on the day:

I, and many others, thoroughly enjoyed the Peer Leadership Day and believe that it and the guest speaker really taught us significant and important individual, collaborative and daily life skills, and made us more aware of, realise and recognise ourselves, our thoughts and actions, and surroundings better.

Most importantly, we were made to understand and identify what being a leader truly is which I think is crucial not only in nowadays' society but even in general and from day to day. We were taught how to appreciate and embrace those around us, ourselves, our efforts, our strengths and weaknesses, which ultimately lead us to being able to learn that to be a leader it isn't always or only about yourself

The day, I believe, provided a strong sense of empowerment and was a confidence boost and time for self-reflection for all of us. It strengthened already existing bonds, bringing us closer together through entertaining and challenging team games. By the end of the day, we were able to begin forming and flourishing our paths as leaders and create ideas in which we could bring others along towards success together.

It was a successful day and effectively fulfilled its purpose. We were welcomed and made comfortable with each other which allowed us to work more efficiently and take in and understand the information we were discussing. I enjoyed the day because I was exposed to new knowledge which was easy to comprehend, because it was made relevant to come up with ways which it could be applied in our life.

Gwendelyn Chee Kim Ling

The leadership incursion was interesting and inspiring. I enjoyed it thoroughly and learnt lots from it; such as how it is sometimes easier/better to lead from the back of the group, not the front. I also learnt that delegating can make everyone feel important, and part of the group.

Olivia Anderson

The peer leadership day was very hands-on and interactive. It was a great help in developing my role as a leader.

Meghana Gowda

I felt that overall the day was great and helped me to improve my teamwork and cooperation skills.

Tom George

I thought the day was very organised and fun. Mark taught me a lot of things.

Kristen Yong

YEAR 11

In weeks 5 and 6 of Term 2, the Year 11 students had their first set of senior school examinations. This was a new and rather nerve-wracking experience for all of us, but thankfully everyone made it through the two weeks without too many issues. Congratulations to all Year 11 students, this was a big milestone in your senior school journey. A big thank you to Elevate, who came to the school three weeks before the exam period and presented to Year 11 students about time management and organisation when preparing for exams. The session was very helpful in terms of learning how to prioritise goals and ensure balance, giving equal importance to all aspects of life. There was overwhelmingly positive feedback from the students who attended and it really gave us the confidence necessary to tackle our first lot of exams, whilst not losing sight of all the other important aspects of a good life balance.

On Wednesday June 11, a large number of students attended the Year 11 Dinner Dance, which was held at Tompkins on Swan. The event was held as a celebration of the completion of our first semester exams, and gave everyone the opportunity to relax and have a good time. On the night, many students took the dance floor to show off their awesome moves, whilst others took the opportunity to spend time with friends. There was a professional DJ who played requests from students as well as an assortment of popular music. Throughout the night, an array of finger foods was provided for students, from spring rolls to burger sliders and fruit kebabs. There was also a photo booth which allowed them to take photos with their friends, which they could keep as a memory of the event. Everyone who attended had an amazing time and it was great to see to many people come. A huge thank you to the Year 11 councilors, in particular the Social Committee, who put a lot of effort into organising the event.

On June 25, young leaders within the school community from Years 10 to 12 had the opportunity to attend a leadership presentation by Damian Martin, the captain of Perth Wildcats. Amongst those who attended were the Year 11 councillor group, as well as members of the Basketball Scholarship Program. The presentation was extremely motivating for all those who attended and provided an alternative view on the importance of leadership. Damian combined many inspiring and often humorous anecdotes with a much wisdom and advice. He took us on a journey through his upbringing and his beginnings in professional basketball, and along the way he taught us many important lessons about perseverance, effective communication and commitment. Another idea that wove through his presentation was the importance of being grateful for the sacrifices family and loved ones have made, and continue to make, in order to give you the best possible chance in life. Damian’s presentation was engaging, but what made it so effective was the level of participation he required, with students getting involved in a number of activities that tested communication and leadership skills. Huge thanks to him for taking time out of his busy schedule to come and talk to us.

Jack Killoh Year 11

YEAR 12

It seems unbelievable that we are nearly at the end of Term 2 and there are only nine weeks next term until the ‘mock’ Semester 2 school exams. Leavers jackets, the school ball, relay for life, semester one exams and externally set tasks are already in the past. End of year events, ATAR and graduation await just around the corner. Year 12s continue to participate in the sporting, academic, community and artistic parts of school life and the achievements of some of our students are noted below:

• Lauren Cherry Drama Captain
• Hasan Rizvi, Georgia Shearer coaching lower school Touch
• Abbey Cilia competing in the Secondary school’s cross country,
• Will Sherriff coaching and playing in the school baseball team with Oben Mc Houll and Harishan and the Year 11s.
• Georgia Shearer, Issie Shearer, Danni Barnes, Kayla Martin, Maria Miller and Christine Kinotti who competed in the State School’s Softball competition
• The Year 12 tennis team captained by Nigel Lee
• Willetton Interact team who won the Channel 7 WA Young Achievers Youth Group Award 2019 and includes most of our Year 12 Student Council
• The Health and Well-being reps Duli Jayalath and Kelvin Poulraj who lead the Health and Well-being committee for all the year levels
• Oben Mc Houll who shaved his head as part of the Year 7 fundraiser
• Tom Walker, our fabulous saxophonist who played at assembly recently and who will be playing at our graduation ceremony

Some of the school leaders had the opportunity to see Damien Martyn, captain of the Wildcats speak about leadership and commitment in Week 9.

Isabelle and Georgia Shearer & Damian Martyn

While our main focus is students performing at their best academically, it is fantastic to see many of the Year 12s lead by example and engage in the all aspects of schooling even at this level.

As we head into the pointy end of the year, we join with parents to support all students who are working hard to achieve their best. Sleep, good food, time management and being able to identify when help and support is needed and where to go is the key to making this a smooth Term 3 for all year 12 students.

Wishing everyone a happy and safe break

Andrea Wheeler Year 12 Coordinator

SCHOOL BOARD NEWS

SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS

The next School Board meeting will be held on Wednesday August 7, 2019 in the conference room. A list of Board meetings for this year can be found on the school website, under the School Board information. All are welcome.

SCHOOL BOARD COMMUNITY REPRESENTATIVES

It is with great pleasure that the Board has appointed three community representatives to the Board for the next 12 months. The calibre of applicants received was very high and we are so pleased to have members of the community so keen to contribute to our school. We welcome back Shezah Arif and Trudi McGlade who have been re-appointed, and we look forward to working with newly appointed member Keryn McKinnon. We are certain that in working with them, we can benefit from their expertise to maximise outcomes for the school.

Introducing: Keryn McKinnon

I currently hold the role as Director of Strategic Communications at PLC Perth, a Uniting Church School for Girls PK – 12, and have more than 25 years’ experience as a communications and media manager, newspaper editor, public relations account manager and senior journalist.

I graduated from Willetton SHS in 1989 and maintain strong connections with my graduating cohort, many of whom I count as lifelong friends. Many of my fondest memories are from my years at Willo.

Willetton SHS provided me with a fantastic springboard for life after school and I am honoured to show my appreciation for that by giving back to Willetton through my knowledge and areas of expertise.

We would also like to thank Sarah Borg for her contribution in her role as a community representative over the past year. Sarah has recently expanded her family and will be focussing on her family commitments. We wish Sarah all the best with motherhood and in her future pursuits.

SCHOOL BOARD FUNDING

Through the Board’s operation of the second hand uniform shop and bookshop, we are pleased to be able to direct the funds raised back towards staff funding applications for projects around the school. To date, the Board has approved funding applications from staff for projects that enhance your child’s educational experiences. We thank you for your support of the Board’s operations that enable this to occur.

Funding applications approved to date this year support:

• Software for the eSports Club
• Additional board games and storage for the Tabletop Club
• Year 10 end of year transition program
• YOH Festival
• Willo All Stars awards
• Two way radios for Health and Physical Education

The Board will consider a final round of funding applications later in the year.

ENTERTAINMENT BOOK FUNDRAISER

The 2019/2020 Entertainment Books are now available to purchase through the School Board. For enquiries, please contact Helen Wong on helen.s.wong@education.wa.edu.au or make a purchase via the link below. A limited supply of books are available for collection immediately (during school term), and digital memberships can also be activated for use immediately.

Profits raised from the sale of these books will go towards a Student Leadership Development Program initiated by the Board. Your support will be much appreciated.

SUPPORT OUR SCHOOLS (SOS) PROGRAM

We have registered with Gilbert’s Fresh Market, Southlands to be part of the Support Our Schools Program. Please sign up with them and for every purchase you make in-store, 1% of your purchase spend will be donated to the school. It does not cost to sign up, and it’s a great way for you to support the school. Funds raised through this program will go back towards projects around the school that enhance your child’s educational opportunities.

HOW TO CONTACT THE SCHOOL BOARD OFFICE

To find out more about the School Board or how you might get involved, please contact the School Board office on email helen.s.wong@education.wa.edu.au

WILLO PARENT GROUP

WILLO PARENT GROUP NEWS

MEETINGS

The Willo Parent Group meets each term, coming together for parent information sessions or get-togethers socially over morning tea, lunch or dinner. This is a great way to meet with members of the school community and find out what is happening around the school. Suggestions for meetings are always welcome. For details of Willo Parent Group events, please contact helen.s.wong@education.wa.edu.au or refer to the school website.

TEEN TRIPLE P SEMINARS

This term we have had school psychologist Nina Mastrantonio conduct the Teen Triple P seminars for parents.

This was a three-part series which consisted of:

• Raising Responsible Teenagers
  How do we as parents, encourage our teenagers to develop the skills they need to become independent? This is best done as a gradual process as the teenager grows from being a child into an adolescent. The formula for success includes encouraging teenagers to be involved in family decision making, be respectful and considerate, be involved in family activities, have a healthy lifestyle and be reliable and assertive.
• Raising Competent Teenagers
  How do we know how best to encourage our teenager to make the most of their time at school? It is often difficult to know what teenagers will find interesting and rewarding, and what skills they will need to get a job. During this time, some conflict is normal and some disagreements over discipline are inevitable. Parents can encourage their teenagers to develop self-discipline, be a good problem solver, establish good routines, get involved in school activities, follow school rules and have supportive friends.
• Getting Teenagers Connected
  A challenge for parents of teenagers is knowing how best to help them become positively involved with groups and individuals in the wider community. It is often difficult to know what teenagers will find interesting and rewarding, and who they will get on with. Parents can help by encouraging teenagers to be confident, be socially skilled, plan ahead, meet their commitments, keep in touch, and take care of others.

A thorough presentation was given by Nina, with plenty of opportunity for parents to ask questions or share their own success strategies. This was a good platform for parents to share ideas and support one another.

SAVE THE DATE - NEXT COFFEE CATCH-UP!

Our next Willo Parent Group meeting will be held on Friday August 16, 9.00am in the staffroom. Please keep an eye on the website for further details of topic and presenter closer to the date.

MAILING LIST

If you would like to be included in a mailing list for Willo News and upcoming events, please contact Helen Wong at helen.s.wong@education.wa.edu.au