5 2 . o N e u s s I 10 Oct, 2014 th .au m o .c e g e l l o c y ondar c e s a ir k l .a w w w 500 Phone: 5991 3 8874 Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 1 “A room without books is like a body without a soul.” Marcus Tullius Cicero Welcome Back! And so the final term for the year has arrived. In 11 weeks the academic year will end; but more importantly this is the last few weeks for our year 12 students before they sit for their final exams and complete any projects. Our school and our teachers have prepared them well for what is ahead. During the holidays they spent time in revision exams, and catching up with teachers for individual or group tuition in topics of their choice and putting finishing touches to their projects. The Valedictory Dinner has been arranged and yesterday they were informed of the date for the Final Assembly [Parents welcome] and their Celebration at the last day at school. As founding Principal it has given me enormous pride and joy to see our year 7 ducklings turn into magnificent Swans. We have achieved much in the last 6 years, and our Year 12 students have been very good role models for the rest of the school. The Parents have played their part too in shaping the culture of the school. Please find a few “early” photos: Day 1 at Hillsmeade and Year 7 camp. Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 2 CALENDAR October 2014 November 2014 Term 3 & 4 - 2014 • • • • • • • • • • 13th: Year 9 Scienceworks - Space 13th - 14th: Cathedral Ranges Year 9 Outdoor Education 13th - 17th: Health and Physical Education Week 15th - 17th: Duke of Edinburgh Award - Cycling Camp 20th: Year 9 City Excursion 21st: State Athletics 8G, 8H, 8J, 8K China Town Excursion Year 9 City Excursion nd 22 : Year 12 Final Assembly 23rd: 8A, 8B, 8D, 8S China Town Excursion 27th - 28th: Cathedral Ranges Camp Outdoor Education 27th Oct - 21st Nov: VCE Year 12 Examination Period • 10th - 17th: Year 11 Exams • October 31st - 2015: Yr. 11 and 12 students due date for booklist orders • November 20th - 2015: Yr. 11 and 12 collection day for books • December 12th - 2015: Yrs. 7 – 10 students due date for booklist orders. • January 22nd - 2016: Yrs. 7 – 10 collection day for books Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 3 Week 4- China Trip review Hi Ian and the Alkira Community, Due to Mid-Autumn festivities, our scheduled Saturday tour was transferred to Monday, where students attended Jin Niu Lake, Nanjing. The lake and surrounding area is beautiful; with landscaping trees, monuments and sculptures. The students walked several kilometres prior to climbing a steep ascent towards reaching a landing where a beautiful Buddhist temple stood. Classes dominated the majority of the week, as scheduled, with the Alkira students demonstrating their skills by undertaking a cross- talk role play in Mandarin after watching an animated film (popular in China). They performed exceptionally well. The Alkira girls excelled once again in their mandated weekly testing; with all girls attaining results between 85 - 90% for their Listening and Speaking and three girls attaining 100% for their Reading and Writing. During this week, students undertook the following activities: 1: The group attended the Xudong Middle School to undertake Maths lessons with their language buddies. It was found that the Chinese curriculum and textbooks for like-year (Yr.9) were comparable for both countries, as was found for Science the previous week. 2: We attended the local primary to watch the students undertake their skip rope practise, who were very skilled and very impressive. This particular school are the Nanjing champions and runner up at the national championships for various skip-rope techniques. The entire school (equivalent of our Prep to Grade 6) practise for half an hour prior to commencement of class (healthy Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 4 body equals healthy mind approach). After the student demonstrations were complete, the VYLC program students had their turn to reciprocate some of the skiprope skills, to the humorous applause of students who were allowed to watch from the multi-levelled classroom balconies. 3: The group attended an Art museum in the farming and fishing district of Luhe (about an hour’s drive from our host school). The villagers are encouraged to be involved in this museum and the local (expert) artisan assists them with their sketches, paintings, sculptures; many which are displayed. A great community spirit. 4: The group took an extended bus trip to Suzhou and Shanghai over the week-end, where students visited: Fisherman’s Garden, the NO.1 Silk Factory, Ping Jiang Road, the Bund, cruised down the Huangpu River (with a beautiful view of the Shanghai lights) and did a little shopping at Old Town, Nanjing Road (shopping street). Stinky tofu was sold a lot via street sellers at these two locations; where the title does not do the stench any credibility. Chicken feet was another delicacy, which to the excitement of the locals was offered; however, declined. Quite interestingly, Shanghai has 25 million people and more than 4000 buildings with 30 stories of more. With less than two weeks to go, students are preparing for various ceremonies that we will be involved in: (1) The Yangzi Sports Ceremony (2) The 30th anniversary of the affiliation between Yangzi High School and Nanjing Normal University and (3) The Graduation Ceremony. Until next week ... Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 5 Congratulations to the following students on their nominations for the Principals Award. They met Mr McKenzie on Friday 19 September 2014, to discuss their achievements. Gul Dasta Ali, Sadiqa Amiry, Chantelle Bressan and Nily Naim: For writing blogs in English Literature. Their blogs were incredibly reflective of their own life experiences. They showed high level analysis and they were exceptionally written. Fantastic work. Nominated by Kristine Wolfe Jacob Reinders & Tayla Rollens: They did an exceptional job at being the MCs for the 2nd annual Holocaust Remembrance Ceremony at Alkira. Not only were they well-rehearsed and prepared, but they adlibbed where appropriate to make the ceremony flow naturally. They spoke clearly and confidently and were in definite control of the proceedings. Even more impressive was their hosting at the conclusion of the ceremony where they answered interview questions and engaged freely in conversation with our distinguished guests. Jacob and Tayla were excellent representatives of our college and are very deserving of a Principals Award. Nominated by Kristine Wolfe Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 6 Central Australia Camp 2014 In September a group of Year 10 students travelled to Central Australia to discover more about this wide, brown land of ours. The trip involved many hours on board a bus, and we all discovered just how far it is from Melbourne to Alice Springs and parts central. The tour took in a night in Adelaide, underground accommodation in Coober Pedy, camping at Uluru and Kata Tjuta, two nights out of phone and internet reception in Kings Canyon, and three days in Alice Springs, before a 30-hour bus ride to return home. The best way to see this important part of our country is to get out and take a look for yourself. Students walked around Uluru and into Kata Tjuta; took a gentle stroll along the creek bed in Kings Canyon, followed the more substantial three-hour walk along the Kings Canyon rim the next day. The view was spectacular as was the unexpected quiet calm of the Garden of Eden. Each of us, students and staff like, learned more about the wonders of the central desert and enjoyed the hospitality of the tour company. “Central Australia was an amazing experience. We traveled from Melbourne to Adelaide, Coober Pedy, Uluru, Kings Canyon and Alice Springs. We got to walk around Uluru, the Olgas (Kata Tjuta) and Kings Canyon. I really enjoyed the trip and walking around Kings Canyon would have been my favourite activity.” Sam Abbott 10G “Central Australia Camp 2014 made lots of lasting memories. Looking back I only focus on the moments spent laughing with my friends and the inside jokes I will forever remember. Yes there were down sides to Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 7 camp, but being able to get away with my closest friends and explore my country is something I’ll never forget.” Cassie Patman 10G “Central Australia Camp was honestly the most amazing experience of my life. My favourite part was Kings Canyon, the view from the top was beautiful. I made so many new close friends and memories that will last a lifetime.” Hannah Steel 10E “Our group’s adventure through the heart of our country, building values, knowledge and life experience within us. We visited some sacred sites and museums; abundant with thousands of years of our beautiful country’s history, as well as tourist attractions to cover a broad range of activities.” Jorja Henry 10B “Central Australia Camp 2014 was an amazing experience for me and everyone who went. Honestly I don’t have a favourite experience because I loved the whole camp. I’m so glad that I chose to go.” Tom Buhagiar 10H “Central Australia Camp was an experience I will never forget. Getting up at 4am on my birthday was just what I wished for!!” Zayne Allen 10H “2014 Central Australia Camp was an amazing experience where I made some amazing memories with my closest friends and some new ones I made for the trip.” Mikayla Dingle 10I Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 8 Literacy Week Spelling Bee Recently at Alkira Secondary College the annual “Literacy Week Spelling Bee” was held to find the best speller in the school. Students are able to read and learn the words from our website and then compete in their age groups and Subschools. This is followed up with the final “Spell Off” to ascertain the best speller across the Subschools and finally the best speller in the college on an assembly in front of the whole school. This year there was very high standard with many re-runs to find the eventual winner. • Year 7: Ethan Natawidjaja – Yaan • Year 8: Melay Belasupreamanian – Cowarr • Year 9: Gul Dasta Ali – Yaan • Year 10: Oliver Wong – Cowarr • Year 11: Tom Morgan – Malloo • Year 12: Declan Kennedy – Cowarr. • Champion Speller for the school 2014: Gul Dasta Ali – Yaan Well done to all the competitors. Gul Spelling Bee Mr D. Mockridge Mr S. Stevens Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 9 They’re off to Gallipoli Posted on 25 September 2014. Cranbourne News By CASEY NEILL TWO Cranbourne students will attend commemorations in Gallipoli to mark 100 years since Australian and New Zealand troops landed at Anzac Cove during World War I. Gul Dasta Ali from Alkira Secondary College in Cranbourne North and Samantha Chapman from Casey Grammar School in Cranbourne East were among 76 students and 14 teacher chaperones chosen to represent Victoria at the Anzac Day dawn service in Turkey on 25 April next year. South Eastern Metropolitan Region MP Gordon Rich-Phillips said more than 630 students and 104 teachers applied. “We want our younger generations to experience and establish connections with this important place, and share the lessons they learn with family, friends, colleagues and classmates,” he said. The intensive selection process asked students to demonstrate a connection to their community and an understanding of the spirit of Anzac. Gul, 13, said she was “exhilarated just to be able to take part in such a momentous event with other likeminded young people”. “It will be an extraordinary opportunity to make a physical connection with Australia’s history,” she said. She said the trip would provide her with an understanding of the surroundings in which WWI was fought. “I took up World War I as a history elective. We went through the theory,” she said. “It will just really put context to what I learnt in class. “To physically see everything, I think I’ll have a renewed gratitude for what the soldiers went through.” Gul has a middle-eastern background. “I think my family don’t quite understand what the Gallipoli campaign was and the contemporary significance,” she said. “I’m quite excited to come back and to share that.” Samantha, 17, is a Royal Australian Air Force Cadets member with her sights on joining the defence force as a combat paramedic. Her sister is serving in the Army and her great uncle, Percy Billingham, fought in Gallipoli. “I did a bit of research on him before I applied for Gallipoli and found out that he was in the First Light Horse Battalion,” she said. “My grandfather rode, and my dad trained horses. “I ride as well, so it was great to find out he was in the light horse brigade. “He didn’t die overseas, he returned. It will be just amazing to see where he was.” Samantha will research Gallipoli and other stops on the trip before making the journey. “I think it will just be surreal,” she said. “I’ll just be in awe I think.” Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 10 Sub School News RAEME CEREMONY – Callan Parlanti 9G Callan Parlanti from 9G was a part of the group of students who went to the Shrine of Remembrance on Tuesday the 9th of September to honour Alkira’s association with the Royal corps of Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (RAEME) through running a ceremony there. Callan says of the day: “It was a different experience and nerve wracking to speak in the sanctuary at the Shrine. The view of Melbourne from the top of the Shrine was spectacular even though we felt that we could be blown away.” Towera Subschool Games Friday September 19th On the last day of term 3, the annual Towera games was held. The day was full of mentally and physically challenging activities ranging from Mental Math and 9 letter word games, to the water balloon toss competition. The mental math competition winner from the entire Towera subschool was Eddie Suon from 8H. CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2014-2015 TOWERA STUDENT LEADERSHIP TEAM Eddie Suon, 8H Sarah Lord, 11S Mental Math house Champion Longest kick girls Champion These students have stepped-up to represent their peers as year level leaders for Towera. From left to right: Year 7Marc Balonyi (7G), Year 8 Tage-HoskingGregory (8G), Year 9 Callan Brinkman (9G) and for Year 10 Talyor Crivari (10G). Congratulations to all of our student leaders and we look forward to their contributions to the Towera and school community. Students also participated in the Gumboot toss, the longest footy kick and best basketball throw. Sarah Lord 11S was the longest kick champion for the girls of Towera. The home group who won the day over all, and for the third consecutive year, was 11Hcongratulations! Thank you to all of the Towera staff and students for your participation and enthusiasm on the day. Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 11 Dear parents and Students Expressions of interest are sought from Years 10-12 Students in 2015 (Current year 9-11 Students) Alkira Secondary College are seeking expressions of interest for an upcoming tour of Gallipoli and the Western Front to take place from the 26th March 2015 – 10th April 2015 to coincide with the centenary celebrations. The Tour will be 16 days and include • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Tour polo shirt Return economy class international airfares: Melbourne / Istanbul // Paris / Melbourne Current airlines taxes: One-way economy class internal airfare: Istanbul / Paris guided tour of Istanbul, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Basilica of St Sophia, Turkish Islamic and Art Museum, Topkapi Palace Eceabat (Gallipoli area) Eceabat with English speaking guide tour of Old Anzac front line positions, Lone Pine, Nek and Anzac Heights, Chunuk Bair, Rhododendron Ridge, northern outposts, Ataturk memorial and cemetery of the 57th regiment Full day guided tour to Anzac Cove, North Beach, Shrapnel Valley, Beach Cemetery and driving tour of the Gallipoli Coast Eceabat – Istanbul via Troy Paris - Eiffel Tower, Seine River Cruise, Louvre Coach Paris to Lille via Compiegne and Peronne Armistice Wagon and Historical de La Grand Guerre, Fromelles site Lille- Ypres – Lille Flanders Fields museum, Zonnebeke, Broodseinde, Tyne Cot Cemetery, Hill 60, Messine Ridge Menin Gate ceremony Lille Amiens via Pozieres, Albert, Sailly le sec, Villers Bretonneux Pozieres, La Boiselle, Somme 1916 museum in Albert, Bray sur Somme and le Hamel Amiens – Paris via Villers Bretonneux The Franco Australian museum, Adelaide Cemetery The approximate cost at this stage will be as about $7000 (based on 12 students) – the more students of course the cheaper it will be. Maximum students will be 20. If you would like to take part in this tour of a lifetime please fill out the form below and drop it in at the office or see Mrs Venables in the Malloo Sub School – office 2 Expression of interest – Gallipoli & Western Front Tour 2015 Yes I am interested in joining the Gallipoli tour in 2015 Name Year level 2015 PC Teacher Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 12 September 10, 2014 WE WILL REMEMBER THEM Akira Secondary College has paid tribute to the 6 million Jewish people who perished in the holocaust at a moving remembrance ceremony earlier this week. The ceremony was organised and run by students and staff to honour the memory of the many innocent lives lost and to ensure this tragedy is never forgotten. “Once again the outstanding Alkira school community has come together to respectfully honour those who were taken from us during the holocaust,” “I was particularly impressed by the students who spoke and their resolve to ensure we never allow this to happen again,” “Well done to everyone involved, it is through efforts such as your own that we will keep alive the memory of those we have lost.” Holocaust Survivor Visit On the 8th of September holocaust survivor Paul Grinwald came in to share his story of survival and strength throughout the Second World War. Paul spoke in a captivating way detailing his experiences fighting for his life against the invasion of Nazi soldiers and anti-Semitism. Between the ages of 6-12, Paul was constantly in hiding; both with and without his parents; not sure when his time would run out and his discovery made and be sent to the infamous concentration camps. For an individual like myself who has not experienced prejudice or inequality to much extent throughout my lifetime. Paul’s story was moving and poignant presenting the raw emotion that must of been incomprehensible for such a young child in a violent scene. I know that Paul’s story will stay with me forever and has definitely impacted on the way I perceive situations and actions involving both myself and others. Rachel Roff Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 13 HOLOCAUST SURVIVOR – PAUL GRINWALD Paul Grinwald, a survivor of the Holocaust, spoke to some Year 10 students on Monday the 8th of Septembe. “The story about Paul’s life was confronting. The life he lived was so different from ours. He was so fortunate that his whole family survived.” Jayden Brown “Paul gave us a unique insight of an event that was highlighted by values of pure evil. He told us of a time where chaos engulfed Europe and Paul’s family escaped the German clutches. He added a personal perspective to the period.” Ben Little College marks the Holocaust horrors A SURVIVOR from the Holocaust appeared as a guest speaker during a remembrance ceremony at a Cranbourne secondary college. Alkira Secondary College in Cranbourne North held a Holocaust Remembrance Ceremony on Monday 8 September to honour those who lived through this and others who were lost. Teacher Nicole Scott said this was the second ceremony of this type that the school had held run by the year 11 VCAL students. Left, Kyle and right, Jake during the candle ceremony. Nicole Scott. Special guests who spoke included Labor Narre Warren South MP Judith Graley, survivor Paul Grinwald, Dr Norm Tendler and teachers Kristine Wolfe and Ms Graley said this was a fitting ceremony to honour those lost in the tragedy. “Once again the outstanding Alkira school community has come together to respectfully honour those who were taken from us during the Holocaust. “I was particularly impressed by the students who spoke and their resolve to ensure we never allow this to happen again. “Well done to everyone involved, it is through efforts such as your own that we will keep alive the memory of those we have lost.” As part of the ceremony, student’s lit candles and the names of the victims of the Holocaust were remembered and read out by the students. Jordan, a student from Alkira, said the idea behind the ceremony was to ensure the victims and those involved were never forgotten. http://cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au/news/2014-09-25/ college-marks-the-holocaust-horrors/ Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 14 A ALKIRA SECONDARY COLLEGE ANNUAL ART/DESIGN EXHIBITION 5.00 - 7.30 pm D 23.10.2014 DATE: 23rd October TIME: 5.00pm - 7.30pm (Film festival screening at 6pm) WHERE: Red Building Foyer / Theatre ________________________________ EVENING AGENDA 5.00pm Exhibition opens to public ___________________________________ 6.00pm Opening introduction Fashion Parade Film Festival The annual Art and Design show is a celebration of all students artwork from Years Seven to Twelve. The evening will also have a strong focus on our talented Media students as we host the Film Festival promptly at 6pm in the College Theatre. Alkira’s Film Festival demonstrates all student talent within Media electives. A range of awards are being offered throughout the evening as well as an opportunity for guests to vote for ‘Best Artwork’ and ‘Best film’. Special thanks to our sponsors Eckersleys, ZART Art and Cavalier who provided a range of awards and assisted the College throughout the year. proudly supported by Cavalier Art Supplies 15 nurture ave cranbourne nth Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 15 5991 3500 Booklists and resources for 2015 Ordering books and resources for 2015 via Campion will be open shortly. Hard copies of the booklist will be distributed to students during pastoral care or online booklists will be available on our school website under the enrolments tab. For students doing Yr. 11 and 12 subjects in 2015, All booklist orders need to be placed online via the school website or returned to school by Friday October 31st. If you choose to order online, our school code is CZ4B You will able to collect your order at the school on Thursday November 20th from 2.00pm – 6.00pm in the Dance studio, access is via the top staff car park. This is to ensure you have your books for Head Start, which is December 1st For Years 7 – 10, your final ordering date will be December 12th and collection day will be January 22nd from 9am - 2.45pm in the Foyer of the Red building. For any further information, please contact: Campion Education (Berwick) Factory 1, 5 Intrepid Street, Berwick 3806 Hours – Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm (extended hours during the back to school period) Customer Service Phone Number – 1300 433 982 Email – sales@campion.com.au Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 16 CAREER NEWS Free informationsessions forCulturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) community groups Free information sessions for CALD community groups - The PACTS (Parents as Career Transition Support) training is for parents and community members who are supporting young people in their career pathways. The training will cover: • understanding available education pathways • career assessment tools • career services within community or at school • tips on how to support young people with career ideas and transitions and/or transitions to secondary school • learning to use the Job Guide website • further education options • tips on supporting young people to apply for jobs. The information sessions can be delivered at group meetings, by arrangement with Council’s Youth Services Team. The sessions are delivered over two hours. For further information please contact Yohana Jury on 9793 2155 or by email toyjury@cgd.vic.gov.au CAREER NEWS Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 17 REMINDER: VTAC 2015 KEY DATES Scholarships through VTAC close Closing date for 1st Change of Preference COP for Early International Offers Change of Preference (COP) Early International Offers Main International Offers Main Domestic Offers 17 October 24 October 24 November – 16 December (4pm) 24 November – 22 December (12noon) 22 December (2pm) 9 January 2015 (2pm) 19 January 2015 (2pm) For a full list of cancelled, amended and new courses, visit http://www.vtac.edu.au/coursesinst/courseupdates.html Year 12 students are reminded yet again that they cannot enrol in a CSP university course without a Tax File Number (TFN). To ensure that students get their TFN before Christmas, completed application forms must be received in the Australian Taxation Office by Friday 21 November 2014. There are application forms in the Career Centre and students should submit their TFN application to the general office no later than Wednesday 19 November 2014. www.vtac.edu.au VCE PLUS PROGRAM VCE Plus is an opportunity for high achieving VCE students to complete two first year university subjects and have them recognised as part of their VCE. Students enrolled in VCE Plus choose a pair of first year university subjects to study whilst completing Year 12 (one subject per semester). VCE Plus is offered at all La Trobe campuses and subjects are delivered online, face-to-face, or a combination of both. For a quick glance of VCE Plus subjects on offer, visit http://www.latrobe.edu.au/study/vceplus/vce-plus-subjects. KEY DATES FOR THE 2015 VCE PLUS PROGRAM Applications open Now open Applications close Sunday 30 November 2014 Year 11 results due to the university Friday 12 December 2014 Final Day for Acceptance of Offers Friday 19 December 2014 Find out more at http://www.latrobe.edu.au/study/vce-plus CAREER NEWS Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 18 NEWS FROM DEAKIN UNIVERSITY VCE Extension Studies VCE Extension Studies program offers students studying VCE Health and Human Development and VCE Psychology the opportunity to take on two university units and start their Deakin University experience sooner. The two university subjects are Health Practice & Research for students who have completed, or will studying concurrently, VCE Units 3 & 4 Human Health and Development, and Psychological Science for students who have completed, or will studying concurrently, VCE Units 3 & 4 Psychology. To be considered for the programs students will need above average results and a recommendation from the school. Permission from a Parent/Guardian is required. Besides the challenge of taking on a university subject, this subject will also count as part of the VCE and contribute towards the ATAR as the fifth or sixth subject. Classes are available online or by attending classes on the university campus. Applications are open and close on Friday 5 December 2014. Find out more and/or download the application form at http://www.deakin.edu.au/study-at-deakin/study-options-and-pathways/vce-extensionstudies-program New Bachelor of Nursing (Clinical Leadership) This new three year course has a focus on mentored clinical leadership. The course includes all core units of the Bachelor of Nursing and three units entirely focused on enhanced leadership knowledge and skills. Consultation with health care partners indicates that graduates of the course will be highly sought after because of their demonstrated skills in managing supervision and delegation activities, their understanding of research excellence and ability to educate others. Additional information: There is an expectation that students be available to undertake clinical practicum outside of University trimester dates. The major studies on offer will include - Acute care, Aged care, Anatomy and physiology, Behavioural science, Child and adolescent health, Clinical practice, Community health, Mental health, Mentored leadership and Professional studies. Find out more at http://www.deakin.edu.au/health/nursing/prospective.php CAREER NEWS Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 19 NEWS FROM MONASH UNIVERSITY Extension Studies Monash Extension Studies allows high achieving Year 12 students to get a taste of university before finishing school - and be rewarded for it. Students complete a pair of first year university subjects as part of their final year school studies, allowing them to extend and enhance their learning in an area of interest. Students also received credit towards their ATAR. Students wanting to learn more are encouraged to attend an upcoming Information Evening Date: Time: Venue: Registration: Wednesday 15 October 2014 7.00pm Monash University - Clayton Campus, Wellington Road in Clayton Register at http://www.monash.edu/extension/information-evening/ Units offered in 2015: accounting, biology, biomedical science, computational thinking, chemistry, mathematics, mobile applications development, and physics KEY DATES FOR THE 2015 EXTENSION STUDIES Applications open Mid-October 2014 All applications close Friday 5 December 2014 Year 11 results due to the university Thursday 18 December 2014 Offers released Friday 9 January 2015 Orientation Day Thursday 15 January 2015 For more information about the Extension Studies program visit www.monash.edu/extension Brilliant Advice for Parents and Students Alike! Monash has made available a range of valuable videos on the Monash YouTube channel, offering tips and advice from students and parents who have survived the VCE. Visit Brilliant Advice https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZlkBlu3Hqx8&list=PLjZkU1vM_0aXbWGjrQNu2OxlCX c4qYtCg and find out what they have to say! CAREER NEWS Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 20 NEWS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE Women in Physics Careers Meet accomplished women in Physics & Technology, and look at the opportunities studying physics provides! Date: Time: Venue: Tuesday 14 October 2014 6.00pm Laby Theatre, Melbourne Graduate School of Science, the University of Melbourne Admission is free, however confirmation of your attendance will be appreciated by emailing info@unimelbpss.org Individual Consultation Sessions for International Students in Year 12 The University is running 30-minute individual consultation sessions for International Students every Tuesday and Wednesday, from 2.00pm – 5.00pm until 17 December 2014. International Students studying Year 12 are invited to meet University staff in person at our Parkville campus. This is a great opportunity to discuss your study options, obtain advice about your VTAC application, and find out more about international support and services. To register to attend an International Consultation Session, visit www.futurestudents.unimelb.edu.au/consultations2014 Extension Program at Melbourne The Extension Program is an opportunity for high achieving Year 12 students to study a university subject whilst at school which counts towards their ATAR, as well as experience university life. Students considering enrolling in an Extension Program in 2015 are invited to attend an Information Evening where the Extension Program will be elaborated on. Over 26 subjects are on offer in 2015, in different humanities, language, mathematics, science and commerce subjects. When: Time: Venue: Registration: Tuesday 21 October 2014 6.00pm—8.00pm Sidney Myer Asia Centre, University of Melbourne, Parkville campus Students should register to attend this event at www.futurestudents.unimelb.edu.au/umep KEY DATES FOR THE 2015 EXTENSION PROGRAM Applications open Now open Applications close Friday 28 November 2014 Year 11 results due to the university Thursday 18 December 2014 Offers released Mid-January 2015 Welcome Day Late January 2015 For more information about the Extension Studies program including subject information, application instructions, class locations and timetables, visit www.futurestudents.unimelb.edu.au/umep CAREER NEWS Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 21 or ia ' 5 Layie5 1-- and in osf niCi t i ±1 City of Casey • Explore the three levels of Government in Australia (including a four day all expenses paid trip to Canberra). • Learn more about being involved in your community. • Represent the voice of young people in Casey when meeting Councillors, Members of Parliament and maybe even the Prime Minister! To be eligible, you must be in Year 11 or equivalent and aged 16 years old or older by March 2015. To find out more, speak to your Year 10 Coordinator or contact City of Casey Customer Service on 9705 5200. www.casey.vic.gov.au/caseyyouth "Representing Casey in Canberra made me feel like an Olympian representing her country. It's built my confidence in general, my people skills and inspired me to be and to do so much more!" Past Award Recipient "Everything we did and everywhere we went was one of the greatest experiences one can ever have!" Past Award Recipient ominations close Friday 14 November 2014 NRS: 133 677 (National Relay Service) TIS: 131 450 (Translating and Interpreting Services) Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 22 ‘HOT TOPICS’ ‘Hot topics’ are the most requested parenting topics. Sessions are suited to parents and carers of primary aged children. Choose to attend any one or more sessions! Technology and Our Kids When to limit it, and how? Monday 27th October 6.30pm – 8.30pm Tired of Yelling? How to get kids to listen, without having to yell Monday 10th November 6.30pm – 8.30pm Dealing with Anger Helping parents, helping kids deal with anger and frustration Monday 17th November 6.30pm – 8.30pm Sibling Rivalry Strategies for when the fighting, squabbling and arguments get too much! Monday 24th November 6.30pm – 8.30pm - Refreshments provided Where: Who: Bookings & Enquiries: Berwick Neighbourhood House 112 High Street, Berwick Parents, grandparents, step-parents or carers – NO COST – but bookings required for all sessions Sandra Phillips at Parentzone Ph: 1300 984 011 or 0447 500 355 sandra.kelly@anglicarevic.org.au Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 23 www.windermere.org.au ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) Part of Windermere’s Suicide Prevention Program, ASIST teaches participants to recognise when someone may be at risk of suicide, how to respond in ways that help increase their immediate safety and link them to further help. Aims. For. • Reflect on attitudes and how this affects our ability to intervene • Explore the behaviours, expressions and feelings of someone at risk of suicide • Learn specific strategies - suicide first aid • Share self care tips Facilitators. ASIST is run by registered LivingWorks trainers and uses internationally standardised learning materials. We would encourage everyone over 15 years to be ASIST trained Date & Time. 9.00 - 5.00pm 26-27 February 2014 28-29 May 2014 27-28 August 2014 25-26 November 2014 Venue. 48 Webb Street, Narre Warren Cost. $350* per person (inc GST). * Thanks to community donations, a limited number of heavily subsidised places may be available to volunteers and students. For bookings and more information please contact: Program Officer 5995 4655 or info@windermere.org.au This flyer refers to a community education activity only. For urgent assistance please call Lifeline 13 11 14 CFC0053 Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 24 Windermere’s Suicide Prevention Programs Windermere General Awareness Program An exploration in suicide awareness The session is a great first step into the topic of suicide. It encourages you to consider your attitudes on this topic and to gain an understanding of suicide facts. It is approximately a one hour presentation on suicide awareness: • Evidence • Myths • Attitudes Imagine a suicide safer community. It begins with you. • Risk factors Who can attend? This is an important community awareness session that is targeted towards schools, parents and the broader community in the hope that it will generate greater numbers of people who are ‘suicide alert’. Together we can reduce the numbers of people who die by suicide or are injured through attempting suicide, if we know what to look for and how to respond. Awareness • Alertness • Intervention • Prevention The General Awareness Session is an essential first step for your ‘toolbox’ if you are a teacher, parent of a teenager and/or a concerned community member. How is the General Awareness Session delivered? The session is delivered by qualified facilitators. A DVD and Power Point are used to present information. This is followed by a brief activity, discussion and questions. “Love, Love, Love the workshop. I hope you succeed in taking this into schools everywhere!! I would definitely reconsider my children’s school of choice if this program was part of the curriculum.” CFC0030 Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 25 SafeTALK Workshop ASIST Suicide alertness for everyone Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training Safe TALK is a half day (4 hour) workshop where you will learn how to: ASIST is a two day workshop that teaches participants to recognise when someone may be at risk of suicide and respond in ways that help increase their immediate safety and link them to further help. You will: • Recognise the person’s distress and the ways they ask for help without actually asking • Respond to the warning signs and not be afraid if you get it wrong (it is better to get it wrong than not ask the question in the first place!) • Apply some basic Safe TALK skills: Tell them what you have noticed Ask if they have considered suicide Listen to what they say and involve a trusted adult to help Keep them safe and link them into professional help Safe TALK is about becoming ‘suicide alert’. Like ‘R U OK Day’, it is about learning some basic skills to feel more able to ask the question… “Are you having thoughts of suicide?” Doing the Safe TALK workshop doesn’t mean you will be qualified to provide first aid intervention yourself, but you will be more likely to recognise the signs of someone who is suicidal and connect them with someone who can help. Who can attend? Safe TALK is for young people and adults. The more young people that are ‘suicide alert’, the greater the chances of reducing the number of people who die by suicide or are injured through attempting suicide. However, it is important to understand that sometimes despite our greatest efforts, people still complete the suicide. This is their choice, and not anyone else’s fault, so never blame yourself or others. • Reflect on attitudes and how this affects our ability to intervene • Explore the behaviours, expressions and feelings of someone at risk of suicide • Learn specific strategies – what to say and what not to say, and what you need to do (suicide first aid) • Share ‘helper self care tips’ with other participants. Who can attend? Everyone should be ASIST trained to recognise the warning signs in our family, friends, neighbours, peers and work colleagues. If we all had some basic skills and knowledge, together we could reduce the number of people who die by suicide or are injured through attempting suicide. ASIST is restricted to participants aged 15 and over. How is ASIST delivered? Windermere’s ASIST workshop is limited to 24 participants, who are divided into two groups by the facilitators. The two smaller groups work through their individual ASIST workbooks under the direction of a trained facilitator. This involves reflection, discussions, activities and some role play. All participants are supplied with resources to take with them and the contact details of support services. How is Safe TALK delivered? Windermere’s Safe TALK workshop is delivered by qualified facilitators and is limited to 30 participants. You will watch DVD clips that show the importance of being ‘suicide alert’, followed by discussion, questions and role play. You will get a pocket card to take away with you that outlines some basic steps to saving lives, and the contact details of people who can help if you come across someone who is suicidal. “As a result of the workshop I now feel that I would be able to speak about suicide without freaking out! Plus I feel very confident in being able to help others, and use this training as an everyday tool.“ Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 26 About the Suicide Prevention Programs Contacts 24 hour Crisis Services • Emergency – Police, Ambulance, Fire Brigade 000 Have you ever been concerned about the behaviour of one of your friends, a neighbour, student, or a family member? Have they said anything to you that has concerned you that they may be suicidal? Would you know the signs to look for and what to say or do? Becoming ‘suicide alert’ and having some basic suicide first aid skills may make a difference. • From a mobile with no network coverage 112 Talking openly about suicide does not increase the risk. This is a myth. It actually raises awareness and suicide alertness, which is more likely to reduce the suicide rate. • Women’s Domestic Violence Crisis Service 1800 015 188 Windermere’s suicide prevention programs are based on LivingWorks suicide training programs. These are internationally recognised prevention and first aid programs that have been in operation for 30 years. During each workshop, you will be asked to not leave without advising the facilitator. A contact number is supplied so that participants can talk with a qualified person outside of workshop hours if they need to debrief. • Lifeline 13 11 14 • Kids Help line (5-25 years) 1800 551 800 • Salvation Army 24hr Care Line 1300 363 622 • Mens Line Australia 1300 789 978 • Poisons Information Centre 13 11 26 • Telephone Interpreter Service 13 14 50 • National Relay Service 1300 555 727 (for people with a speech/ communication impairment) • Beyondblue information line 1300 22 46 36 (24 hr info & referral service). For information on depression visit www. beyondblue.org.au Counselling & Support Services • Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467 • Salvation Army – The National Hope Line 1300 467 354 • SANE Australia (Referral & Info Service) 1800 187 263 • Parentline Victoria 13 22 89 • Relationships Australia 1300 364 277 • Dads in Distress 1300 853 437 • Griefline 03 9935 7400 • Compassionate Friends 1800 641 091 (for bereaved parents & suicide survivors) • National Association for Loss & Grief 1800 100 023 • Gay & Lesbian Counselling Service 1800 184 527 • Carers Victoria 1800 242 636 • Vietnam Veterans Counselling Service 1800 011 046 Windermere Details 48 Webb Street, Narre Warren, VIC 3805 Phone: (03) 9705 3200 Fax: (03) 9796 7650 Email: info@windermere.org.au Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 27 www.windermere.org.au Resilience For Life. My FRIENDS Youth. The “My FRIENDS Youth” Adolescent Program is an 8-week course that provide adolescents with the tools to build resilience and confidence, to learn skills and techniques to manage difficult or anxiety provoking situations. Aims. For. F = Feelings (Understanding feelings in ourselves and others) Adolescents between the ages of 12 and 17 years of age R = Relaxation I = Inner Helpful Thoughts E = Explore step plans N = Now rewards yourself D = Don’t forget to practise S = Stay strong inside Date & Time. It is an 8 week course that runs Mondays from 4.00pm – 6.00pm October 6, 13, 20 & 27; November 10, 17, 24; December 1 Note: There will be no session on Monday 3rd November due to Melbourne Cup holiday. Venue. Windermere, 48 Webb St, Narre Warren Cost. Free For bookings and more information please contact Nenita Batica on 9705 3200 or nenita.batica@windermere.org.au COU0027 Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 28 www.windermere.org.au Resilience For Life. A four week program about learning positive ways of dealing with day to day problems, life stresses and life changes. Resilience for Life is an interactive program developed to give adults positive coping skills to better navigate challenging life experiences, and effectively manage the associated feelings – to be resilient for life! For. We would encourage parents, carers and those over 18 years to attend Dates. 22, 29 Oct & 5, 12 Nov 2014 Aims. • Develop the skills of mindfulness and relaxation • Explore thinking in positive ways • Develop problem solving strategies • Learn ways to deal with conflict • Understand the meaning and importance of resilience Venue. 48 Webb St, Narre Warren Time. 12.30 - 2.30pm Cost. $20 • Find out the benefits of a healthy mind and body For bookings and more information please contact: Program Officer 5995 4655 or info@windermere.org.au CFC0063 Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 29 Issue No. 25 - 10th October 2014 30