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ILLAWARRA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL TONGARRA CAMPUS

snapshotstongarra

ISSUE 5 2016

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In this Issue:A Birthday Party 4

Celebrating 20 Years of the Tongarra Campus Site 5

The Big Event 6

Prinicipal’s Semester 1 Academic Awards 8

‘Smoky ’ and the Rural Fire Service 9

Music for Little Hands Workshop 10

Prep to Year 4 Foundations and Growth in 2016 and into 2017 10

Prep to Year 4 Mini Olympics 12

Year 12 Farewell Article 14

A message from our Year 12 School Leaders 15

Year 12 Reflections and Prayer Points 17

Year 12 and Kindergarten Buddies 25

Kindergarten - Year 2 Swimming and Gymnastics Program 26

Kindergarten - Year 2 Tying Shoelaces! 27

Hands on Ukulele Workshop 28

Primary Sporting Highlights 29

Paper Planes Galore! 33

Welcome to STEM Festival of Flight 34

Kindergarten - Year 6 Interest and Expert Groups 35

Tournament of Minds 36

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In this Issue:Year 6 Art Spends Time in The Agriculture plot 38

Year 6 Learn About Music in Aboriginal Culture 40

Secondary Sporting Highlights 41

Secondary Chess Competition 45

Stage 5 in Sydney 46

Year 7 Mathematics Excursion 47

Year 9 Mathematics Excursion 48

Year 12 Mathematics Curriculum Day 49

Masterclass 50

Hamlet Symposium 50

Shakespeare on Trial 51

English Creative Writing Workshop 51

Year 9 WWI Trench Digging Day 52

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award 53

Years 7 and Year 11 Faith in Action Breakfast 54

Ski Trip 2016 55

Warrigal Care Retirement Village Visit 56

Combined Christian Schools Music Festival 2016 56

Digital Manipulation of Images with Satire to Present a Serious Message 57

What’s been happening in the Hub 58

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A Birthday Party

What is better than a vibrant and loud birthday party to start off the term?

At the first assembly of Term 3, all current Tongarra staff and students celebrated the physical place of Tongarra being established 20 years ago, to the week. Not ones for letting a milestone go unnoticed, key staff involved themselves in making sure Tongarra had a party. And a party it was, with balloons, guests, music, the blowing out of a candle and of course lots of people. Many parents attended and we enjoyed celebrating with them.

We were also blessed to have the Mayor of Shellharbour City Council, Marianne Saliba and Board Representative, Andrew Spence, both sharing their thoughts of the school with us. The birthday cake was distributed to each of the students and not one complaint was heard. However, the star of the show truly was Mr Cleall, who rose above everyone else in the elevated lift to take a photo of the occasion.

It was a perfect way to recognise and thank God for his blessings and provisions for this school, and prayer was offered for his continued hand and blessing for the next 20 years.

Mr Garry Hol, Stage 4 Facilitator

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Celebrating 20 Years of The Tongarra Campus Site

Our Campus Site and all our Staff, 20 Years ago in 1996...

A bird’s eye veiw of the hall filled with students. A small selection of our staff, the Mayor of Shellharbour City Council and The Student Council gathering around the 20th Anniversary Birthday cake.

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The Big EventAt the end of last term on Friday, 24 June, Kindergarten to Year 12 participated in a day of activities organised by the Student Council called The Big Event. The Big Event was designed by the Student Council to be an opportunity to promote building community within the entire student body. The students got to mix across age groups and learn how to serve others as well as having heaps of fun.The day began with a variety of activities that were designed, organised and operated by each year group between Years 5 to 12. Each year group was tasked with creating an activity that would be fun and exciting and encourage team work. After a few weeks of thought and preparation, the following outstanding activities were run on the day:

• Year 5 – Epic Dodgeball (a game of teams, obstacles, throwing balls and a lot of energy)

• Year 6 – Indoor Soccer• Year 7 – Miscellaneous Games and Chill (giant chess, giant

jenga and table tennis)• Year 8 – Pancakes, Cakes and Slices• Year 9 – Dart-Throwing Balloon-Popping and Pizza-Eating• Year 10 – Temporary Tattoos and Edible Jewellery• Year 11 – House Challenge (lots of Tug-O-War)• Year 12 – School Band (providing musical entertainment)

All of these activities were a major success, with enjoyment across all ages. We were also very fortunate to welcome Unleashed Youth Band for a brief set of music on the day.After the morning activities and the competitive House Challenge, the Student Council gathered all the students from Years 5 to 12 into the school hall for a surprise activity. The students were split into six teams across all ages and genders and began to play a site-wide game of Capture the Flag. At this time, the students from Kindergarten to Year 4 were participating in some fun team building and leadership activities that had been organised by members of the Student Council and Kindergarten to Year 4 staff.

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The site-wide game of Capture the Flag ran extremely well, even with the sheer size of the activity. Students played fairly and honestly and there was a clear sense of teamwork and community building within each of the six teams. To our great surprise, one team managed to win the game. The Student Council would like to again, congratulate the red team for their outstanding efforts during the game to become our victors.After the game of Capture the Flag and the Kindergarten to Year 4 activities had concluded, all students were brought back to the hall to hear from our guest speaker. It was our great pleasure to welcome the singer David Taylor to the school to perform and address the students. He is very talented and treated the students to an exceptional performance. David talked to the students about his story and the importance of building community and what it meant to him. We would again like to thank David Taylor for giving up his time and travelling down from North Sydney to perform and address the students.In the afternoon, we said goodbye to the Kindergarten to Year 4 kids and the rest of the students participated in Years 5 to 12 sport with Mr Hol. Mr Hol ran a number of activities that related to The Big Event’s theme of building community. Each game required the students to use initiative, innovation and working together to complete the activity. After a very long but successful day, the students all travelled home to enjoy their weekend.I would like to congratulate all students from Years 5 to 12 for their outstanding efforts in designing, organising and operating successful and fun activities for the entire student body to enjoy. Your incredible enthusiasm and passion to ensure that your activities ran smoothly and effectively was very admirable and encouraging. Your contribution to the day really made The Big Event the success it was.I would also like to thank every member of the Student Council for their astounding efforts in going above and beyond to ensure that The Big Event ran smoothly, fulfilled its purpose and that all issues were resolved quickly. I would like to commend and thank you for your tremendous and continued excitement and perseverance over the six months that it took us to organise The Big Event. The day would not have succeeded in any form if it were not for your passion for the school and the students.After the success of The Big Event, I am looking forward to seeing where the Student Council will progress over the next few months and into the future, but most importantly, I am looking forward to seeing the direction of the student body as they consider the importance of building community and serving others in their everyday lives.Liam B, Student Council President

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Principal’s Semester 1 Academic AwardsThe following list of students recently received a Principal’s Award for Academic Excellenceat assembly to congratulate them for an outstanding Semester 1 report.

Kindergarten: Kyra DJake K

Year 1:Elias AAnna B

Brooklyn BReaghan R

Year 2:Rebecca F

Lily KEli W

Year 3: Mia B

Lachlan de JBenjamin G

Sienna S

Year 4:Rachel B

Hannah K

Year 5:Ellie S

Emily S Alex G

Year 6:Emily B

Cameron B George J

Year 7 : Anna IAlicia R Joel J

Jessica L

Year 8: Caleb W Sarah F

Boston D Summer I

Year 9 : Ben W

Thomas K Jeremiah J

Lydia F Abby S

Amelia S

Year 10 : Hannah G

Sarah H Benjamin M Greg De B

Year 11: Liam B

Alexandra W

Jonathan CAndrew I

Year 12:Holly W

Naomi BTeah F

Hayden DJoy C

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‘Smoky’ and the Rural Fire Service On Thursday, 11 August 2016, the Prep and Kindergarten students gathered in the Prep room, excitedly anticipating the arrival of ‘Smokey’ the Rural Fire Service’s fire fighting koala. There was a loud cheer as ‘Smokey’ arrived with his helpers. Sue talked to the children about good and bad fires, smoke detectors, emergency evacuation plans and family meeting points using large colourful posters and short rhymes.

The children laughed as Sue asked one of her other visiting firefighters to demonstrate “Stop, Drop, Cover and Roll” which is the technique used if someone is on fire. The children asked insightful questions and also surprised Sue with their answers to the questions she asked. Fire fighters Kevin and Cheryl Blissett (past Prep parents) arrived in the fire truck from Calderwood Rural Fire Station.

Highlights from the day included sitting in the fire truck and squirting the fire hose pretending to put out a fire in the tree. We would like to thank all of the volunteer fire fighters who gave their time to assist our children to gain valuable knowledge about fire safety. We would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate Kevin Blissett (who also works for the Metropolitan Fire Brigade) on his nomination for a Bravery Award. Kevin will receive his award at Government House on Friday, 9 September.

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Music for Little Hands WorkshopOn Wednesday, 7 September Tom Harding visited Prep. Many inquisitive pairs of eyes looked through the doors watching rows of drums appear in the room. When everyone was ready Tom picked up his guitar and started singing the “Boom Boom” song. He told the children it was to help them get their listening ears ready, because you can’t be a musician without listening well.

He told the children that during the show they were going to sing songs together, play the drums together and dance like monkeys together and that’s what we did!

Tom was surprised that some of the children already knew how to use signs for the names of the animals as we sang “Old Macdonald Had a Farm.” Tom helped us use body percussion to learn simply rhythms before we played his drums.

The children listened well and were able to copy his patterns including stopping for a pause. Many enthusiastic drum players were discovered. To end the time together Tom played the drum and the children danced around playing musical statues. An enjoyable and noisy music morning in Prep!

Prep - Year 4 Foundations and Growth 2016 and into 2017Prep - Year 4 Foundations and Growth is a remarkable part of the school to work in. Last term, our Kindergarten - Year 4 students amazed an AIS literacy consultant during her visit to our campus. The consultant was astounded to see all of the students reading during Period 1, after Devotions. She could not believe that in every room she visited all of our Kindergarten - Year 4 students were actively engaged in their reading and she commended several times on her amazement. They were reading in either their literacy intervention groups, silently reading in the Studio or supporting younger students through peer reading. The consultant said that the students were a credit to their school along with, the routines that have been established.

God’s word and strong literacy and numeracy skills are a key priority in Prep - Year 4 Foundations and Growth. The K-4 common timetable is evidence of this. So too is the staff’s commitment to explicit teaching, feedback and the assessment that guides teaching and learning. Prep - Year 4 staff are very thankful for the parent helpers who assist with K-4 literacy.

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This year, Kindergarten - Year 4 staff have been tracking students’ literacy and numeracy progress on the students’ LaND Profiles and on a Kindergarten - Year 4 progress chart. It has been exciting to see the overall student progress. The initiatives and teaching practices introduced through the NSW Literacy and Numeracy Action Plan have started to produce fruit. Students who have needed support have made progress and a large number of other students are exceeding literacy and numeracy goals.

One highlight of Prep this year has been our “Get Ready for School” program taught by Mrs Oliver. It has been exciting to listen to and observe prep students developing phonemic awareness skills through Mrs Oliver’s instruction. Students have been seen playing in the kitchen corner segmenting food words into syllables during play. These skills are ensuring that the prep students are well prepared to learn to read in kindergarten.

In 2017, Prep – Year 4 staff will continue to:• Have Christ at the forefront of their teaching.• Keep Devotions as a priority and continue to develop the K-4 devotions program.• Develop our Prep- Year 4 Foundations and Growth identity with biblical principles. (Foundations –

Christ as our cornerstone and growth – God is the vine and we are His branches). • Work to develop Year 4 students as leaders amongst Prep – Year 4 students• Nurture and continue to develop the caring community of students who encourage and support

each other in their learning

In 2017, Prep - Year 4 staff will continue to sustain teaching and learning initiatives from the NSW Literacy and Numeracy Action Plan, by:• Teaching explicit literacy and numeracy lessons (including phonemic awareness instruction in

Prep)• Focusing on the 5 Big Ideas of Early Literacy: phonemic awareness, alphabetic principle, accuracy

and fluency with texts, vocabulary and comprehension• Focusing on explicit phonics and grammar instruction for writing• Working with a common timetable that supports literacy and numeracy intervention• Continuing to use teacher and student feedback that

ensures students are both supported and challenged academically

• Continuing to create learning environments that encourage students to excel and serve others with their skills and knowledge

• Providing opportunities for peer reading• Working to continue the Cool Cat Reading Club and

M.A.L.T (Maths At Lunch Time) initiatives to provide extra literacy and numeracy support to Kindergarten - Year 2 students

• Monitoring student literacy and numeracy progress through diagnostic assessments

• Reporting to parents with LaND Profiles

Mrs Sian Barnes, Prep - Year 4 Coordinator

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Prep to Year 4 Mini OlympicsStudents in Prep - Year 4 celebrated the Rio 2016 Olympics by having their own Mini-Olympics on Tuesday, 9 August 2016. Students learned about the opening and closing ceremonies of the Olympics, and what kinds of events happened (with our own Prep – Year 4 twist).

Our Year 4 students were given a new level of responsibility that they have previously not had. They acted as leaders of groups of Prep – Year 3 students as well as having the responsibility of running the activities for all of our students. This was quite a large task for those students, however they met the challenge. Year 4 is to be congratulated on their outstanding patience, persistence and effort in looking after their peers and instructing them on how to participate in the activities.

Our Prep – Year 4 students represented a range of countries including: Australia, India, China, Japan, Great Britain, South Africa, Canada, Brazil, France and Italy. Students loved the opportunity to be a part of a group that was represented in the Rio Olympics and identified well with the country they were placed in as well as their peers within their groups.

The events that students participated in included an obstacle course, using the parachute, jumping over hurdles, throwing beanbags in shotput, running with friends in the three-legged race, skipping, sprinting, pulling at the tug-of-war and jumping the long jump. Staff were very encouraged in students participating at the best of their abilities and giving their best go every moment during the Mini-Olympics.

Prep – Year 4 staff would like to thank all the parents who attended the Mini-Olympics as supporters, volunteers and participants. We are encouraged by your willingness to come alongside your children and participate with them to engage and encourage them in their endeavours.

Mr Geoff Chesher, Year 1 Teacher

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Year 12 Farwell Article

Every year we are sad to say goodbye to our graduating class, and this year is no exception, as we farewell the graduating class of 2016. This Year 12 leaves behind a remarkable legacy of Christian service and has contributed greatly to the school community. The sheer number of Year 12 students who have been responsible for running and serving in our Friday assembly is evidence of this. Many of these students have stepped up easily into leadership positions where they have taken responsibility for leading through their Christian faith by taking school devotions. They have also served in the area of music and sound over many years and on many different occasions. Finally, in the area of sport, they have set an example by many of these students representing the school individually and in team contexts at high levels.

One of the other marks of the class of 2016 is the way they impact the student body. This group of students has always been interested in and concerned with caring for and supporting each other as a cohort. Beyond this though, they have also been concerned with the whole of the student body. Over their school life many of the students in this class have faced some very challenging times, but the strong friendships that exist within this group ensured that every person was cared for and supported through these times. It is clearly evident that this group of students has a deep love for each other and that each member of the class is valued because of the unique personality and gifts they bring to the group. One of the greatest blessings of being their roll teachers has been watching them grow up together and mature into the young adults we now say goodbye to.

It is also not uncommon to see the Year 12 students hanging out with and building relationships with students from other years. At the beginning of Year 12, the students discussed as a class, what kind of impact and legacy they wanted to leave. Some of the things they wanted to achieve were that they would be approachable to other students and that they would be able to set an example of positive and encouraging relationships. It has been a privilege as their roll teachers to know that the students want to have this impact, but an even greater delight and pleasure to watch them achieve it.

Additionally, this group of students has created many great memories together -memories that they will treasure for many years to come. Some of these include the Fiji Service Trip in 2014, the overnight Sydney excursion, Slum Survivor, the many sports carnivals and days, the Year 10 end of year celebration, Year 11 study camp and may more.

As their roll teachers it has been a blessing and pleasure to spend the beginning part of everyday with this amazing group of students over the last six years. We want to acknowledge and thank each student for their contribution to the school community as a whole but also their contribution to the class and the fantastic journey it has been travelling with them. Our hope and prayer for each of these Year 12 students as they leave ICS is that Christ would be the most important part of all their lives – for those who know and love Jesus already and also for those who are still growing in their understanding of God’s grace for them.

Mrs Cassie Gold, Year 12 Roll Teacher

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A message from our Year 12 School Leaders

There are a number of people who have supported us throughout our schooling, and who have worked alongside us amidst all our craziness. First and foremost, our parents. Thank you so much for putting up with our stress, helping us with struggles and encouraging us in our plans for the future. You are always there for us, making sure that we have everything we need. It is through your teaching and care that we have made it so far. You have helped us mature and become more responsible, and now we are ready to head out into the world. We also want to thank you for choosing to send us to this school. It has been such a blessing to be taught at such a supportive school, where God is the focus, and we can understand the amazing world He created in light of that.

Our teachers, who have watched us grow and flourish, most of the time. Thank you for all the time and effort you have put into teaching us. We know that we can be a little crazy at the best of times, so thank you for your patience. Thank you also for imparting us with your wisdom regarding the future and also about the random ideas that we come up with. We praise God for your insight and patience; we really appreciate all you have done for us. Thank you most of all, for the Godly role models you are to us. It is truly a privilege to see God working in your lives, and impacting the students and others around you.

To all of you, in the years below us; we pray that you may continue to grow under God’s love. Take advantage of the Christian influence and listen even though it can seem like you’ve heard it a thousand times before. Learn and question it for yourself, as that’s how you distinguish the truth.

Now we come, the Year 12’s of 2016. What a time it has been! The last two years have made a huge difference to our friendships. We have been through some intense times, and yet here we are, closer together because of it. You guys are truly an encouragement to us.

Eden W, Vice Captain

We love you all and are super thankful to God for blessing us with such an awesome class, teachers included. Both Eden and I wanted to leave you with a Bible verse that will hopefully stay with you when you go out into the big bad world after school. That Bible verse happens to be my favourite Bible verse. The verse is Romans 1:16 and it says “For I am not ashamed of the gospel for it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believe. First to the Jew, then to the Gentile.”

The reason we want you to really think about this Bible verse is because as we all go off on our various adventures, our sincerest hope is that you will take the incredible message of the gospel with you, treasuring it and owning it for yourself. Not being ashamed of the gospel, as the verse mentions, but instead making it the foundation of your identity. Seek a relationship with God, the Creator of everything, as He is the most important thing you could ever set your heart upon. He will last, and stay the same no matter what your future holds.

Sandy L, Captain

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It is an honour to deliver a farewell message to Year 12 on behalf of the Student Council and the student body. It is an honour, as President of the Student Council, to be congratulating you all on this massive achievement and wishing you farewell as you move into the next stage of your life, wherever that may be.

I would like to take some time to thank you for all the things that Year 12 has been involved in, within the school over the past year. I think I speak for all the teachers and students when I say that you all really made a difference to our school. If we look back, we would like to thank you for leading and giving devotions at assemblies; thank you for your involvement and enthusiasm at sports carnivals, with exceptional swim suit choices from Sandy, Adam and Mr Walker. We would also like to thank you for all your informal mentoring. As someone who has been in class with some of you over the past two years, I have always been encouraged by the Christian witness you display in your actions and your studies. It hasn’t stopped there! We, as a school, have been encouraged by your willingness to interact with the other students, from Kindergarten to Year 11, and encourage them to do the best to love and serve Jesus. You have always helped and served, by looking after all the other students, either in a big way or a small, and that is something that I would like to greatly thank you for.

I would like to leave you with a few Bible verses as you graduate and begin the next stage of your life. The first is Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge to him, and he will make you paths straight”, and the second Bible verse is from Isaiah 41:10, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand”. Both of these Bible verses tell us to rely on God always, through the good and the bad. The third Bible verse I want to share is the first half of Genesis 50:20. Over the next few weeks, as you are studying at home and thinking a lot about the Board of Studies, try to remember this one, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good”.

I want to wish you all the best for your HSC and for your future, wherever that may be. May Jesus be guiding you and have His hand over you during this final stretch and through the years.

Lastly, I want to leave you with just one more Bible verse. It is from Hebrews 13:8. As you prepare for your HSC, I want this verse to be a constant reminder that, unlike your motivation levels, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever”.

Congratulations Year 12!

Liam B, Student Council President

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Year 12 Reflections and Prayer Points

Michael De Battista What are your best memories or moments at ICS?

Some of my best memories are the continuous hu-mour-ridden moments throughout the entirety of school. Also excursions and time out at breaks- basically any-thing and everything we have done together as a class including Year 10 Formal, the Sydney excursion and Study Camp.

What will you miss about school at ICS?

Being around Robbie’s jokes and Sandy’s pranks in a daily basis. I will also miss my Teachers, playing with chemistry chemicals, aircraft occasionally flying overhead and run-ning the sound system (which is always fun).

What are you planning on doing post-school?

Go to university and study Mechanical Engineering.

What can people be praying for you?

Prayer that I can retain motivation to continue to study for the HSC and then at university in the following years.

Jordan Rochester What are your best memories or moments at ICS?

Some of my best memories are a combination of City vs. Country days, Michael’s amazing puns, Mr Imo’s cat and it’s amazing ability to do anything, Jonathon tripping over nothing and Daniel’s dank memes.


I will miss playing cards with the entire class, Mikayla’s amazing puns, morning coffee’s and playing capture the flag in PE over the entire school.


Go to Tafe or get an Apprenticeship in the area of elec-tronics.


That I can continue to be motivated to study for the HSC and that I am able to get an apprenticeship in the area of electronics.

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Hayden Dodds What are your best memories or moments at ICS?

My best memories include Michael’s puns, conversation in Biology especially about Mr Imo’s cat and the numer-ous fun times with my classmates over the years.


I will miss the fun times with classmates especially hang-ing out at break and playing UNO and of course Michael’s puns. I will also miss the teachers who care personally about you education.


Bachelor of Arts/ International Studies at UOW.


I would appreciate prayer that I will be able to figure out what I want to do once I complete university. Also that I can keep motivated during the last leg of the HSC.

Eden Williams What are your best memories or moments at ICS?

My best memories because there are many include the Fiji Service Trip where we got to play volleyball with the whole group and attend church all together. Also any camps where we got to hang out with our friends, like playing laser tag at year 11 Study camp. Finally any sports day, especially City vs. Country.


I will miss the supportive and encouraging environment at school, seeing my friends everyday and Biology class conversations.


Study Occupational Therapy at Western Sydney Universi-ty- Campbelltown.


That God will use me to glorify Him in the contexts I am placed in, in the future.

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Holly Waples What are your best memories or moments at ICS?

Some of my best memories are teacher tangents, any chance to get off topic and have interesting conversa-tions, with the added benefit of avoiding doing school work.


I will miss the people in my class, over the last 13 years we have developed as a class and so it will be strange not everyone.


Go to university and study Law, then I would like to work abroad somewhere much colder than Australia.


Prayer for the motivation to continue studying and for future university and career opportunities.

Sandy Lowcock What are your best memories or moments at ICS?

My best memories include the Fiji Service Trip in 2014 and the last few weeks of school post the Trial HSC ex-ams.


I will miss going on and participating on all the plethora of sport days throughout the year. The person I will miss the most is Adam.


Study at university somewhere in the sport science/phys-iotherapy area.


For courage and perseverance when I enter a much more secular world at University.

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Adam Chittick What are your best memories or moments at ICS?

My best memories are participating in all the different sport days with my teammates.


The thing I will probably miss the most is the close rela-tionships that have been formed between the students and teachers.


Study at university in the area of agriculture.


For courage as I enter the Big Wide World.

Robert Mete What are your best memories or moments at ICS?

My best memories are being able to see my beautiful classmates every day,


I will miss being able to see my beloved teachers and I will also miss being able to see Adam every day.


My dream job would be to be a coffee farmer in South America, however my more realistic goal is to study engi-neering at University.


That I complete my HSC well with enthusiasm and for any of my future adventures.

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Daniel Coward What are your best memories or moments at ICS?

Some of my best memories include watching Myth-bust-ers in the science room, due to my technical mastery.


There are number of things I will miss, some of these things are having a constant audience for my comedy routine, Biology memes, Michael’s puns and stealing Ad-am’s subway cookies.


Go to Tafe and help my Mum run her business.


That I can start being motivated to study for the HSC.

Teah Fulton What are your best memories or moments at ICS?

My best memories include are the Fiji Service Trip, play-ing what are the odds on the bus as we annoy the Cord-eaux kids (because they think we are crazy), laughing a lot and not being embarrassed to be weird.


I will miss the lovely teachers, the fun times and the fun people in my class. Also Biology class conversations that range from gymnasty to the meaning of life, and finally Daniel and Michael’s jokes and puns.


YWAM gap year then studying to become a social worker or councillor and then being able to have cute children.


Pray that God will make it clear to me what he wants to do with me in the future.

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Mikayla Jenkins What are your best memories or moments at ICS?

I have lots of great memories; they include hanging out together at break, Standard English with Mr Hol and all his advice, laser tag at year 11 study camp and the times when the whole class has hung out together.


Probably the thing I will miss the most is seeing my friend’s every day.


I would like to study to become a veterinary nurse.


Pray that I continue to study for the HSC.

Drusilla Moala What are your best memories or moments at ICS?

My greatest memories surround playing volleyball and other sports and also hanging out with friends.


I will miss playing sport, friends and the solid Christians environment, which includes the teachers always sup-porting you and investing in you.


Not too sure at this point but maybe doing something design based or go into the fitness area.


That God will guide me and that I will get a career ac-cording to his will. Also, that I will not be tempted by the things of this world.

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Joy Chayna What are your best memories or moments at ICS?

My best moments at ICS include the Fiji Service trip, mu-sic related activities, joking in class and hanging out with my peers.


I will definitely miss the social aspect, friendships, rou-tine, meeting with my mentor and the Christian commu-nity.


Focus on ministry, both locally and internationally. Hope-fully pursue a career in music.


Pray for my gap year next year, as I evangelise around Sydney and that God will give me strength and wisdom as I do that.

Naomi Boulton What are your best memories or moments at ICS?

Some of my best memories are study periods spent with others in the class where no study actually gets done, also winning the talent quest.


The things I will miss include friendships and the struc-ture and routine of school, also the caring teachers.


I am planning to go into engineering in the biomedical field, also having a family.


That I will find a career in the area of my choice and that I will continue to be active in my faith.

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Gabby Whittaker What are your best memories or moments at ICS?

My best memories included going to Fiji for the school service trip, which was pretty awesome. Also the old country fairs went off!!!


I will miss having something to do everyday and I’ll miss my teachers and friends. Most of all I’ll miss my roll call teachers!


I am planning on going into hairdressing and then moving into interior design.


Pray that opportunities come my way, just like the flies do in summer.

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Year 12 and Kindergarten BuddiesIt has been a pleasure to see the relationships develop between our Year 12 and Kindergarten students as part of the buddy program at Tongarra. Recently Year 12 came to help Kindergarten celebrate 100 days of school. The students worked together to make a 100 cheerio necklace, hundreds and thousands fairy bread and a 100-day crown with 100 stickers.

Kindergarten has adored their Year 12 buddies and are always excited to see them when they visit, whether it be in the classroom, learning hub or playground.

We will miss our Year 12 buddies when they graduate and finish school. We will continue to pray for them as they sit their exams in Term 4 and decide on what they will do next.

Thank you, Year 12 for being our buddies! – Kindergarten.

Miss Jessica Yeo, Kindergarten Teacher

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Kindergarten – Year 2 Swimming and Gymnastics Program

During Term 3, Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2 students enjoyed their swimming and sports program at Kiama Leisure Centre. They attended an eight-day program that consisted of a 40-minute swimming lesson, 20-minute gymnastics lesson and a 20-minute aerobic circuit lesson each day.

Qualified swimming instructors with the support of our staff and parents taught the swimming lessons. We are thankful for the parents who assisted in the change rooms, assisted with the activities (particularly the swimming lessons) or provided encouragement by coming to watch their child swim. The instructors commented on the great gains that the students were making with their swimming skills as quickly as day three of the program. The swimming lessons at Kiama catered to all of our students’ needs, from those who were beginners, learning to be confident in the water to those needing stroke correction.

While in the gymnasium, the students participated in gymnastic and aerobic activities. Each day, the students started by practising using their ‘bikes’ to land safely when jumping. Then they moved on to balancing on beams, jumping on trampolines, jumping through hoops, swinging on ropes and rolling down different mats. When the students moved through to the aerobic area they participated in activities to get their bodies moving and their blood pumping. Students used skipping ropes, badminton sets, hoops, beanbags and other equipment to continue practising their fundamental movement skills. They even practised sit ups, crunches and push ups.

Our students were exemplary ambassadors for their school and Christ throughout the program. The instructors, people in the community and their bus drivers commented on their manners and the excellent way they conducted themselves. Staff were told it was a pleasure to drive our students and that while at the centre they were well behaved and attentive students.

Well done, Kindergarten – Year 2. It was a pleasure for your teachers to take you to Kiama Leisure Centre and a delight to see your progress and enjoyment throughout the program.

Mrs Barnes, Prep – Year 4 Coordinator and Mr Chesher, Year 1 Teacher

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Kindergarten – Year 2 Tying Shoelaces!

On a very wet Friday, 2 September, Paul and Laura from the Athlete’s Foot in Shellharbour visited Kindergarten – Year 2 to teach them how to tie their shoelaces. They spent about half an hour with each class showing them an easy to follow, 9 step process for tying their own laces.

Paul talked through a video demonstration, while the children practiced on a shoe in front of them. Both Paul and Laura spent time working with the children to correct technique and give them suggestions for making it easier.

The students then got to play some fun games such as races at tying their laces, tying the lace with the shoe on their head, and trying to tie the lace with their eyes closed. Each student was also given a certificate for completing the lesson and an Athlete’s Foot show bag.

It was a very worthwhile experience for the infants’ students and left them feeling more confident about having a go at tying their own laces.

Mums and dads - they have no excuses for not trying now!

Mrs Sheree Barker, P-4 Teacher

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Hands on Ukulele Workshop

On Wednesday, 17 August, students in Kindergarten through to Year 10 had the opportunity to attend a Ukulele workshop. All students in Kindergarten - Year 6 along with music students in Years 7 -10 had an hour session with Tom from the Young Australia Workshop to learn how to play the ukulele. Students learned how to hold a ukulele, strum to a beat, different chords and they played a short song. Students played simple two and three chord progressions. It was a fantastic workshop that enabled all students to have individual access to an instrument at the same time.

The workshop complemented the work that Kindergarten - Year 2 students have been doing in Science and Music. They have been learning about sound waves in Science and pitch in Music. Mrs Barnes asked the performer to explain to the students how he changed the pitch of the ukulele. The students learned how the length and tension of the string could change the pitch. The students then asked about the hole in the ukulele and the effect it has on the sound. They learned that music is very mathematical and Year 2 explored how to change pitch back in their classroom by doubling the tension on elastic bands.

In recent times the ukulele has become a popular instrument and the students were able to learn chords and finger picking in a very short time. These skills will be used in the future, as the students can continue developing their ukulele playing in Stage 4 & 5 Music.

Miss Jessica Yeo, Kindergarten TeacherMrs Sian Barnes, Prep – Year 4 Coordinator Mrs Nerylee Deans, Music Teacher

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Primary Sporting Highlights

There have been a number of very exciting things that have occurred in the past term in relation to Primary Sport, please continue reading to find out about everything that has been happening over the past term.

Primary Metro Cup

Junior Soccer Team

The junior Soccer team had a great day. They won 3 out of their 5 games and just missed out on going through to the next level. They won one of their games 12-0! I am super proud of the efforts. Praising God for great weather and no injuries!

Mrs Rodwell (Team Manager), Year 4 Teacher

Metro Cup Senior Boys Soccer

Senior boys’ soccer travelled to Southern Highlands to compete this year in the Metro Cup local round robin tournament. The ICS Tongarra Senior team played a series of games against Southern Highlands, Cedars, ICS Cordeaux, Nowra Christian School and Nowra Anglican. ICS Tongarra played well and managed to win one game and draw another, but were beaten in their other games. This meant they were not able to qualify for the next round of the competition.

The team played their hearts out but on the day missed a couple of extra quality subs which would have allowed us to rest key positions and critical times in our matches. The boys scored a number of goals and played more strongly against the quality teams from Cedars and Nowra Anglican School. The game against ICS Cordeaux was one of our most exciting games and very even right through the game. Despite being a goal down for most of the game the team never gave in and acquitted themselves proudly.

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A small group of parents provided a good support base on a cold but sunny, windy day and everyone enjoyed our day away. The team also want to thank Lachlan R the team coach who put in a great deal of time and effort preparing the team.

Mr Maina (Team Manager), Year 6 Teacher

Netball

Both the junior and senior teams played with a lot of enthusiasm and heart during the entire day. Well done to the girls that stepped out and showed leadership throughout the day, leading their teams by giving directions and encouragements. While both teams did not finish in the top 2, they still demonstrated good skills and teamwork. It was greatly pleasing that for some students this was their first taste of playing netball competitively and these players picked the game and rules up well.

Thank you especially to Alicia R in year 7 who assisted with coaching the junior girls’ netball team.

Mrs Bell (Team Manager), Year 5 Teacher

Orienteering

For the duration of Term 2, primary students in Years 3, 5 and 6 got the exciting opportunity of being able to participate in Orienteering, run by an expert in the field Mrs Salme Fuller, who has competed in Orienteering competitions all over the world. This involved students learning many new skills including; directional skills and navigational skills. The students learnt how to read a map and interpret a key and also how to use a specialised orienteering map and how the different colours meant different types of landscapes.

This was done through a variety of fun games that built teamwork and communication skills in the students who participated. Additionally, students got to complete several orienteering courses around the school that tested their problem solving abilities and fitness, as many opted to run the course. Many students enjoyed Orienteering so much they are considering participating in it outside of school.

Mrs Cassie Gold, Primary Sports Teacher

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School Athletics Carnival Report

For the first time ever the combined ICS Primary Athletics Carnival was held at Beaton Park. It was a perfect, sunny day providing the best context for the day. The day begun sharply at 8am with competitors lining up to compete in the 800m. The day continued from there with both campuses competing with spirit and enthusiasm.

The competition between the five houses was fierce, but Tongarra again was victorious with both houses placing in the top 3. The final points order was:

1. Calderwood2. Kembla3. Yallah4. Keira and Nebo

Congratulations to Calderwood, who were the overall victors of the day, but Yallah coming in 3rd is also to be commended for their huge effort.

There were some wonderful individual efforts on the day. None more so than the students who were named age champions across the campuses, these students include:

Boys:

10 years- Benjamin C11 years- Elijah B

Girls:

9 years- Sienna S10 years- Hannah K11 years- Emily S12 years- Courtney S

Also congratulations to the following student who broke the school record, beating both the record for Tongarra and Cordeaux:

Emily S: 800m

A special thankyou to Allison B and Kylie W who stepped in at last moment to assist at the carnival and run long jump!!! Thankyou to all the parents, family members and supporters who came and watched, which contributed to a great overall feel and wonderful day.

All the students are to be congratulated for their excellent behaviour and enthusiastic attitudes that made the day an excellent experience for all. It was wonderful to see so many students dressed in their house colours, to support their houses and participating to get points for their house.


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Zone Primary Carnival Report

A talented team of Primary students competed at the Zone Athletics Carnival at Beaton Park on Monday, 1 August and enjoyed a day of wonderful competition. Well done to the following students who progressed to the State Carnival: Elijah B, Ben C, Adah H, Ayla H, Hannah K, Courtney S, Emily S and Sienna S.

Congratulations to each of these students, and especially too Sienna S who was named 9-year-old girl age champion on the day. Parents and teachers were impressed with the way students performed and behaved.

Mr Maina, Year 6 Teacher & Mrs Morton, Year 3 Teacher

State Primary Carnival Report

On Friday, 19 August, 8 students travelled up to Blacktown Athletics Centre to compete against the other students from the other Christian schools in NSW.

The most notable achievements of the day went to:

- Courtney S who came 1st place in 12 Years’ Girls High Jump

- Adah H who came 3rd place in 11 Years’ Girls Discus.

Both of these girls have qualified through to the Primary CIS Athletics Championships, at Sydney Olympic Park.


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Paper Planes Galore!

Students from Kindergarten to Year 6 recently, enjoyed watching the movie ‘Paper Planes’ in the Learning Hub. The large and very enthusiastic group settled in for a terrific family movie that follows the story of 12-year-old Dylan who discovers a talent for making paper planes. The discovery takes him all the way to the World Championship. The activity was part of a day of fun and excitement that started with the Tongarra Campus Site 20th Birthday Celebration at the morning assembly and then continued with the movie after first break.

At the end of the day all classes gathered in the Hall where we proceeded to make and fly our own selection of paper planes. Older students assisted younger, as they busily folded and creased. It was then time to begin testing our creations.

The air was thick with whizzing, floating, soaring paper planes. The students had great fun as they dashed after their steadily receding craft. The afternoon concluded with the Tongarra Paper Plane distance challenge. After a series of eliminations, Boaz M and John M filled 1st and 2nd place, with Cameron B in 3rd place. The event was lots of fun and a terrific learning experience for our younger students, with a demonstration of cross-grade/stage learning at work. It also linked into a STEM unit being done by Stage 3 (Years 5/6) students, during Term 3. All of which is part of the exciting new ideas being rolled out here at ICS.

Mr Greg Maina, Year 6 Teacher

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Welcome to STEM Festival of Flight

During the early part of Term 3, Years 5 and 6 took part in a STEM learning unit on Paper Planes. This unit combined Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics in looking at and learning about paper plane construction and modifications. The unit was absolutely jam-packed and throughout the three weeks the students learnt a great deal about paper plane model making, principles of flight, the engineering that is associated with actual plane manufacture and much much more!

Students read and wrote reviews, learnt about measuring speed and completed equations to demonstrate that they had assimilated the learning put before them. The Years 5 and 6 classrooms were renamed Aviation Design Centres and each student became Aviation Designers for the three weeks, complete with their name badges and all.

We learnt so much and the increase in the level of ability in paper plane manufacture was quite astounding. Students also researched an area of special interest and passion during the unit, some of which included The Red Baron, Spitfires, parachutes, Nighthawk bombers, Principles of flight and a fascinating range of topics.

The unit came together at the end of the third week with the Stage 3 Stem Festival of Flight. Parents and friends were invited to a special afternoon where students presented their research, conducted test flights, taught parents how to really fold a paper plane and showcased experiments showing the Bernoulli Principle, one of the basics of flight.

Everyone enjoyed the presentations, laughed at some of the parent attempts at plane folding, and generally showed what we had been doing over the three weeks of our unit of study. There were lots of smiles and high fives as all joined in the learning and fun.

Mr Maina, Year 6 Teacher

Stem Festival of Flight Student comments...what they said!

Malachi M (Year 5) - It was fun, everyone had a choice of what they wanted to do and the planes were pretty awesome.

Taiya K (Year 5) - It was good that the kids got to run things. We showed lots of things that we learnt this term.

Sienna H (Year 6) - It was great being able to show the parents how to fold the paper planes, so they could get a good idea of what they looked like.

Daniel W (Year 6) - I liked seeing what other people had researched and finding out about their planes.

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Kindergarten – Year 6 Interest and Expert Groups

During Week 1 of Term 3, on Friday, 29 July, we gathered together to celebrate the life and achievements this school has seen. Amongst the activities on the day was our Interest and Expert group assembly. Interest and expert groups are an extension to our buddy program, that enables students from Kindergarten – Year 6 to participate in activities they are particularly interested in or have a special talent in.

The groups provide opportunities for students to learn from one another. Thus encouraging students to use their gifts to serve others. It offers enrichment activities that will enable students to develop skills in higher-order thinking, problem solving and teamwork.

It is also a great way for parents, family and friends to be involved in students learning, and we are so grateful to all of our volunteers who took the time to come in and help wherever it was needed.

During term 1 and 2, we ran the following activities:

• Art• Stop Motion Animation• Old School games• Drama

During the next two terms we are running the following groups: • Cooking • Book club• Paper craft

• A walking group. If you are interested and able to help out, we would really love you to come and join us on Fridays at 11:50am. Just talk to one of our Kindergarten - Year 6 teachers or one of the Campus Office staff about how you can be involved.

Mrs Sarah Rodwell, Year 4 Teacher

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Tournament of Minds

Tournament of Minds (T.O.M) is a problem solving programme for teams of students. They are required to solve demanding, open-ended challenges from a chosen discipline. This year our team has chosen the Science and Technology challenge. It is entitled – ‘Ground Control to Major TOM’.

“The world has gone through an unpredictable major catastrophe. Our team has survived! There are a couple of downsides to this though. We are all trapped in our school and have lost our hearing. From our vantage point in the school grounds we receive a signal from afar.” The team realises that this is a message and needs to respond in a similar manner to let others know that there are survivors.

Our challenge was - Using non-verbal communication skills our team must work out what the signal means through the recreation of making a machine that may have sent out the message. This machine must use sound scientific and technological principles with only materials easily located in any school around the world.

August 21 was a great day for our Stage 3 Tournament of Minds team. They joined 42 other schools at the South Coast Regional Tournament of Minds Competition Day at the University of Wollongong. The team overcame the obstacle of a lot of sickness amongst the team in the lead up to tournament day. They did themselves and their school proud.

Some of the encouraging feedback from the judges in relation to the long term challenge included:

- The creativity of your machine and its usability was excellent.- Excellent use of multimodal presentation- Excellent evidence of team planning and practice.- Very good dramatic performance- Very good use of props and costumes

In the spontaneous challenge the judges said that our team displayed very good audibility and clarity in their discussions. They also commented on the team work displayed.

The team were asked how they felt they had grown through the Tournament of Minds process and what they felt they had achieved. Some of their responses included:

- It built my confidence- I improved my patience, confidence and ability to not break down if things don’t work.- I now have a better understanding of technology- It made me better at problem solving and I learned to just keep trying- I learned to understand the challenges and think quicker. I also got to do the challenges with

my friends and team.

Well done to Oliver, Alex, Ellie, Adah, Taiya, Charleigh, and Montana. You all displayed the true spirit of Tournament of Minds.

Mrs Jo Knight, learning Support

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Year 6 Paddock to Plate Update

Year 6 have been working throughout the year to create a small business, selling eggs. In the process of this endeavour they have suffered the quite major setback of having their eggs fail to hatch and then on the second time around, having most the chickens die as they hatched. They have taken this in their stride though, and have made sure that the year will not be wasted.

They have researched entrepreneurs and looked at what it takes to be one in life. They have prepared a detailed business plan that looks at everything involved in starting up a business, from the original thought, to growth and future plans. They have learnt about chooks and how to look after them. They have utilised a vegetable patch and learnt about numerous common vegetables and herbs. They have been creative with their ideas and respectful of each other whilst working together. They hope to start selling eggs on a small scale during term 4 and are determined to leave behind the makings of a successful enterprise for the years to follow.

Here are some pictures of the students working on various activities.

Mr Mitch Walker, Yr6 Sustainability

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Year 6 Art Spends Time in The Agriculture Plot!

The new school structure of grouping Years 5 to Year 8 into a learning community has been very exciting for the Visual Arts Department. Students will have 4 years to develop their God-given creativity utilising the specialty resources available from the high school. It has been challenging and exciting to find new ways to connect students in these year groups with learning across their subjects and to program with an emphasis on experimentation and collaboration.

Our professional development week encouraged us to focus on giving students more choice in the classroom and building projects of investigation and creation overtime. My personal professional learning goals support the whole school professional goal of improving feedback to students and elevating the potential of all students in our classrooms. Below is an outline to a unit of work that attempts to bring all these elements together.

This Year 6 unit begins with students taking photos in the agriculture plot of our growing chickens and our visiting cows. From these images students will build their artistic composition. They will do this by choosing 3 to 4 options from the choice matrix depicted below. The art class will also work closely with the work the students who are doing in the Paddock to the Plate unit with Mr Walker. At the end of this unit we will collaborate for a show and tell Art Market of both units of work to a Year 5 audience and interested parents.

Hope to see you there!

God’s Creatures of the Land and Air Year 6 DEVELOPING COMPOSITIONS INNOVATE WITH RECYCLED MATERIALS APPLY KNOWLEDGE

CONNECTING to Year 6 Chickens and the Visiting Cows in the Agriculture Plot.

EXPERIMENTING with new art materials.

STEM use of iPads and adventurous materials.

COLLABORATING Teaching Pairs.

ELEVATING YOUR POTENTIAL by doing one artwork in detail or two artworks to experience more variety.

CaPA Creating artworks from the ‘Choice Matrix.’

FEEDBACK BOOMERANG used for 1 x 2D artwork and the bird sculpture.

ART MARKET Sale of completed artworks to raise money for the ‘Egg a Day Program’

There will be a presentation by students of completed work to Year 5, staff and parents will be invited to attend and there will be flavored milk and quiches to munch on. More details to follow closer to the date.

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CHOICE MATRIX – Students highlight 3 to 4 options for designing an artwork.

Subject Matter

COW

Composition

WHOLE BODY

Materials

ACRYLIC PAINT AND MODELLING COMPOUND

Materials

WATERCOLOUR PAINTS

Subject Matter

CHICKEN

Style

DECORATIVE i.e. Zentan-gle inspired, unrealistic

colours, patternsComposition

CLOSE UP of HEAD and EYE/S

Style

COLLAGE with paper, buttons etc.

Materials

CHALK or OIL PASTELS

Mrs Di Gillett, Art Teacher

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Year 6 Learn About Music in Aboriginal Culture

Year 6 having been learning about the Aboriginal culture and the impact of Music. The students were recently, given an opportunity to hear how a didgeridoo is played. Some students brought their own didgeridoo to school to perform with the class.

Here are some of the students’ comments regarding the song we learnt.

Mackenzie S - “Aboriginal music is really cool. They use lots of different instruments. We used keyboards, clapping sticks, singers and didgeridoos. The song is about how we carry on the stories from one generation to the next.”

Emily B - “Koolori is about how the Aboriginals shared stories through corroborees – dancing and singing. In our version we included didgeridoos, clapping sticks (drum sticks), vocals, drums and keyboards. My part in the performance was the clapping sticks and vocals.”

Harry W - “Koolori is an Aboriginal song that is about respecting and looking after each other. We included the clapping sticks,

didgeridoos. I was singing and tapping the sticks. I really enjoyed it and I think we went well.”

Samuel B - “Koolori is an Aboriginal song. The Aboriginal instruments we used were the clapping sticks and the Didgeridoo; I used my own and blew it. The Aboriginal language was also used in the song.”

Joshua L - “This song is about the land and the culture. We included the instruments, the language. Some of the instruments included were the clapping sticks, didgeridoo, and keyboard. My part on the keyboard was playing the keyboard, representing the didgeridoo sound.”

Sienna H - “The words of this song are part of their festival or celebration. The celebration is called a corroboree and is performed from sunset to sunrise. I sang in the traditional language as a duet as part of this song.”

Year 6 students and Mrs Deans, Music Teacher

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Secondary Sporting Highlights

CSSA State Touch Football

In Term 4, 2015, combined South Coast teams were selected at the zone gala to travel north for the 2016 CSSA State Touch Football gala day, which was again held in Coffs Harbour.. This is a much loved trip by students as they are able to be part of highly competitive teams, comprising the most talented touch players in our region and enjoy the time away spent with both new and old friends.

The senior boys side, were the dominant team at the zone gala day, in 2015 and consisted of 5 students from Tongarra - Sandy L, Adam C, Mitchell I, Harrison C and Isaac H. The U15 Boys, U15 Girls and Open Girls teams had pleasing representation from Tongarra also with Jeremiah J, Jacob H, Lachlan R (U15 Boys), Summer I, Mikayla de J (U15 Girls), Drusilla M and Karen H (Open Girls).This gave Tongarra the equal highest representation within the South Coast Teams at Coffs Harbour CSSA State Touch Football gala day.

The South Coast teams had mixed results at the gala day, with the U15 Boys team being the outstanding performers, finishing 3rd in the state. In recognition of their sterling efforts for the U15 Boys, both Jeremiah J and Jacob H were selected in the CSSA State team. Also selected within a CSSA State team was Sandy L (Open Boys).

All students from Tongarra demonstrated the highest level of character throughout the 2-day trip, being courteous to all we met, showing sportsmanship on the field and were valued team members who built team spirit. Well done to all students involved in the trip, particularly the students from Tongarra.

Mr Ross Graham, South Coast Team Manager / Secondary Sport Teacher

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Secondary Athletics Carnival Reports

School Athletics

The ICS Secondary Athletics Carnival was held in pleasant conditions at Beaton Park Athletics Park in Wollongong. The combined carnival brought some stellar results for students from both Yallah and Calderwood houses. The greater number of competitors resulted in students needing to push themselves harder and further than ever before, with many rising to the challenge. There was also a great level of house colour, team spirit and support for students as they competed in track and field events.

Some of the standout results came from the Age Champions, listed below:

- Mikayla de J U14 Girls

- Eden W U17 Girls

- Joel J U13 Boys

- Jeremiah J U15 Boys

- Spencer B U17 Boys

- Sandy L U18 Boys

With little separating the 5 competing houses on the track and in the field, the final points score certainly reflected this, with houses finishing in the following positions:

1. Kembla (Cordeaux)

2. Yallah (Tongarra)

3. Keira (Cordeaux)

4. Calderwood (Tongarra)

5. Nebo (Cordeaux)

My thanks to all involved in this carnival - staff, students and especially the parents who attended to cheer on and support the students throughout the day. A special thanks also goes to Mr Jason Clifford from Cordeaux for his efforts in co-convening the carnival.

Zone Athletics

On a stunning August day, the Zone Athletics Carnival was held at the same venue as our ICS combined school carnival, Beaton Park Athletics Track. Students from Cedars Christian College, Nowra Christian School, Snowy Mountains Christian School, Southern Highlands and both campuses of ICS were present and ready to perform to their best. Tongarra was well represented in

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the junior age groups, but unfortunately, had a large number of senior students absent from the zone carnival.

However, students again took their opportunity to perform against the best from our South Coast region and the increased level of competition brought out many personal bests, new zone records and age champion performances. The standout performers included:

- Mikayla de J (U14 Girls Age Champion, Zone Record 800m)

- Jeremiah J (Zone Record U15 Boys 800m)

- Benjamin M (U16 Boys Age Champion, Zone Record 100m, 200m)

- Adam C (Zone Record 18-19 Boys Discus)

The Stage 5 PASS class needs to be commended for their assistance at the Zone Athletics Carnival, assisting staff members from all the schools represented in facilitating the track and field events. Special thanks also to Mrs Di Gillet, Mrs Cassie Gold, Mrs Catherine Fairbairn and Mr Garry Hol for their attendance and assistance in organising students, resources and events throughout the carnival.

State Athletics

While an early start to the day was required for a number of families in order to attend State Athletics at the Sydney Olympic Park Athletics Centre, the recently re-layered track at SOPAC brought promising signs for a fast track and good results.

The day began with an excellent performance from Mikayla de J in the U14 Girls 800m, with her finishing in 2nd place. Continuing her fine form from both the school and zone carnivals, Mikayla went on to win the 1500m and placed 3rd in the 400m, qualifying for CIS Athletics in all 3 events and also winning the Age Champion at State Athletics! This was a sensational performance from Mikayla especially as she was feeling unwell during the carnival, resting and sleeping in the stands between events! Imagine what Mikayla could have done if she was feeling well! We wish her well as she competes at the Combined Independent School (CIS) Athletics Carnival during this final week of the term.

Strong performances, which were only narrowly missing out on qualification for the CIS, were also achieved by:

- Benjamin M (4th in Long Jump, 5th in 200m)

- Patrick S (4th in Shot Put)

- Peter C (6th in High Jump)

Well done to all students involved in State Athletics, your desire to perform to your best, regardless of where you placed are a credit to you.

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Girls Soccer

This is the fastest growing girls sport in Australia, which makes it hardly surprising that Tongarra also has a growing number of girls eager to play soccer. This held us in good stead at the Zone Gala Day, in which the Open Girls Soccer team performed to a high standard and finished 2nd – an excellent result!

The girls had a hard fought 0-0 draw against the competition favourites and eventual winners Cedars, comfortable victories against Cordeaux and Southern Highlands and a disappointing draw with Nowra Christian School, which saw them finish in a close second, with only 2 points off first place. The team were lead well by their captain, Drusilla M who was a rock in defence alongside Tayla J. The midfield was given energy by Karen H and Eden W and goals were scored up front by Mikayla de J.

The cohesion of the team was impressive, with all girls willing to put in a shift for their teammates. The team’s willingness to listen and learn certainly aided their performances.

Backrow: Eden W, Tatum B, Jasmine S, Chloe C, Karen H, Drusilla M, Mikayla J, Mr Ross Graham

Front row: Lara B, Abi M, Monica T, Tayla J, Mikayla de J, Gabby W

Mr Ross Graham, Secondary Sports Teacher

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Secondary Chess Competition

The chess season has come to a close for Tongarra after going down in the last away game to a talented Holy Trinity Catholic College team from Goulburn. The Tongarra Chess Team, consisting of Michael and Greg De B, Joshua R, Jack G, Melinda P and Aydan F have battled hard in this year’s competition and all improved throughout the tournament.

After winning the first four rounds they progressed to the 1st division semi-finals where they came up against a strong Smith’s Hill team. Michael and Joshua both played games lasting well over an hour and the quality of Chess was high. Joshua managed a draw but it was not enough as the team bowed out of 1st division.

They then went into the semi-finals of the repechage. A massive blow was dealt to the team when Michael, our number 1 player, could not make the event. This was an obstacle the team could not overcome and the team’s stellar season ended after a loss to Goulburn. It was Michael’s last competition but he has left the team in good hands, with high hopes being held for next year’s event.

Mr Mitch Walker, English/History Teacher

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Stage 5 in Sydney

The Stage 5 excursion to Sydney was an opportunity for students to visit a location already very familiar to them, yet see things, visit locations and hear information about aspects of Sydney that they could have heard very little of before.

Stop 1: NSW State Parliament

Having completed the 2-hour train ride from Oak Flats to Martin Place, students were guided through the ornate and immaculately presented state parliament building. With time spent in the Legislative Assembly (Green Room) and the Legislative Council (Red Room), students were given role plays to work through, helping to explain how laws are created, debated, refined, rejected and passed. Our local member Gareth Ward also stopped by and addressed years 9 and 10 helping to answer questions about state parliament.

Stop 2: Cockatoo Island

Following a traverse across the CBD of Sydney and a lunch stop, students boarded a ferry to travel to Cockatoo Island. Reopened and accessible to the public since 2007, Cockatoo Island was rich in history and stories to be told. Because of it’s use as a men’s and women’s gaol and shipbuilding and dockyard facilities the stories, buildings, tunnels and historic personal associated with Cockatoo Island was exceptionally wide ranging. Irrespective of it’s past history, Cockatoo Island has a sensational view of the Harbour Bridge and would be an ideal location to view the New Year’s Eve Fireworks!

Stop 3: Sydney Tower Eye

Formerly known as Centre Point Tower, Sydney Tower Eye provides a view of the city and surrounding areas that no other building in Sydney can offer. This unique, 360° view of Sydney afforded students the opportunity to retrace their steps throughout the day as well as identify key landmarks and locations across the greater region of Sydney.

Stage 5 are commended for their behaviour while in Sydney and are encouraged to continue to be curious about many areas of life, including places and things that they are already familiar with.

Mr Ross Graham, Secondary Sports Teacher

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Year 7 Mathematics Excursion

Year 7 recently went on an excursion, where we learnt about the importance of mathematics and applied what we had been learning in class to our own ‘Amazing Race.’

In the morning we went to Wollongong University science centre which taught some things about where maths originated from and why it is so important to learn. In one show we went to we learnt how important it is to appreciate mathematicians who have made many discoveries about this world and God’s creation.

It was great to go to Hungry Jacks and eat together as a class but it was even better to go to Stockland Shellharbour mall and do an ‘Amazing Race’ of our own. We got to race around the mall and do different challenges like comparing prices, figuring out how much something was per 100g, converting percentages into prices and many more challenges. All in all the day was full of fun and we all loved racing against each other and learning about how maths was first discovered.

A special thank you to all parents and volunteers who assisted with the day.

By Anna I and Alicia R, Year 7 students

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Year 9 Mathematics Excursion

On Thursday, 18 August Year 9B Maths with Mrs Struthers and Mrs Laird climbed into the school bus and headed for Kanahooka.

Once we arrived in Kanahooka we unloaded our tape measures, trundle wheels and high jump scale, so the students could go and work out the volume of Mrs Struthers’ pool. The pool was a kidney shape so they had to be creative in order to work out the area of the pool surface. Then a number of measurements were made to determine the average depth of the pool. This allowed the students to calculate the volume of the pool.

They also calculated the area of turf needed to refresh the grass by working out the area of the block of land and removing the house, garage and pool area from this area.

This was the culmination of our unit on Surface area and Volume and allowed the students to see the practical application of the concepts they had studied in class. The students rose to the challenge and learnt some new skills at the same time.

The students enjoyed the activity, especially the visit to Hungry Jack’s on the way back to school.

Mrs Ros Struthers, Head Mathematics Teacher

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Year 12 Mathematics Curriculum Day

On Friday, 29 August, Year 12 Maths students participated in a Mathematics curriculum day at school. To begin the day the General Maths class completed a puzzle to revise different types of graphs. Following this, students learnt about Z scores (ie how we can compare individual students scores between different subjects) and the Normal Distribution. The students worked conscientiously throughout the day to finish this topic.

The Mathematics and Mathematics Extension 1 class spent time revising topics they had struggled with and made presentations to the class on those topics. The presentations were quite creative, some even used Kahoot, an on-line quiz program, to present exam questions in a fun context. Naomi, our Extension 2 Mathematics student, had a session with Mr Horsley while the other students were focusing on 2 Unit content.

Meal breaks throughout the day provided students with a great opportunity to meet together as a large group. At lunch students were able to relax and enjoy fellowship together while they had a delicious meal of Nachos and salad.

Year 12, Mrs Struthers and Mrs Bartley would like to say a special thank you to Liam R and Mrs Royters for shopping for the food. Students used their time well throughout the day to learn more about the content of their course and revise their work. Mrs Bartley and Mrs Struthers would also like to thank, Year 12 for their willingness and enthusiasm to participate in the day.

Mrs Bartley, Mathematics Teacher and Mrs Struthers, Head Mathematics Teacher

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MasterclassSix students were selected from both years 9 and 10 to attend a one-day event in North Rocks at Saesoon Presbyterian Church. These students were, David. C, Peter. C, Abbie M, Desmond. M, Benjamin. C and Benjamin. M. The event was attended by 900 students from all over NSW. Its aim was to provide students with a Master class which, both inform and inspire students about the needs of the world in which they live, the truth of the Gospel and the requirement for personal conviction and action.

The first speaker was John Dickson, a renowned, Author, Speaker, Historian, and Minister. He presented the historical evidence for the existence of Jesus cleverly and in a clearly articulated manner. He illustrated that the evidence for the existence of Jesus and who He claimed to be is overwhelming and the historical sources are, in fact, more reliable than any other historical figure of Jesus’ time.

The second speaker was Mike Frost. He spoke about the need for both conviction and action in regards to students being agents of change in the world. He drew on his vast experience of mission work throughout the world and inspired the students to consider how they are going to make a difference for the gospel in their chosen careers. He left the students with a clear challenge. – “How are you going to choose your career for life in light of serving Jesus and serving humanity?”

The final speaker was Patricia Weerakoon. We had the delight and pleasure of hearing Patricia earlier this year at Tongarra speaking about the realities of pornography and how to best protect our children from it in a highly digitalised world. Patricia spoke to the students about right and healthy sexual relationships and challenged them to consider how they are using their bodies for the Glory of God.

All three speakers were challenging and left a significant impression on the students who attended. We look forward to seeing how this day has influenced them to be agents of influence and change here at Tongarra.

Mr Jonathon Nicholls, Years 9 – 12 Coordinator

Hamlet SymposiumTowards the end of Term 2, on Wednesday, 25 May, Year 12 Advanced English travelled to the Seymour Centre for a Hamlet Symposium. Mrs Batten and the students were accompanied by Mr Batten, who drove the bus for them. The students were challenged by an alternative way of addressing a performance of the play. The actors of the play spoke to their performance and confronted the students with different presentations of the selected scenes. This symposium enabled the students to explore how context and different readings of a character will impact an audience’s response to the characters.

Each student received detailed notes from the symposium to assist their continued exploration of the textual integrity of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. The excursion was an invaluable experience in their study of the text.

Mrs Bev Batten, English/HSIE Head Teacher

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Shakespeare on TrialYears 7 – 10 were privileged to be a part of an interactive Shakespeare workshop, put on by a Sydney company at the end of Term 2. They performed a comical modern version of the classic ‘Romeo and Juliet’. It worked to make Shakespeare accessible to all through looking at the major theme of the play, love.

There was sword fighting, gang warfare (that involved the students), insults, an election and action galore as the students were taken through the important scenes and left to judge for themselves: Is love a good thing?

The students’ involvement in the performance of the text and the interaction with the actors enabled the students to explore their personal response to Shakespeare’s plays, which have still remained popular today.

It was an engaging session that showed that Shakespeare and his plays are not out dated or irrelevant, but speaks through the ages, as the themes addressed are common to us now. At the end of the day, the students were almost unanimous in their belief that love, although not easy at times, is a good thing.

Mrs Bev Batten, English/HSIE Head Teacher and

Mr Mitchell Walker, English/History Teacher

English Creative Writing WorkshopThe English Department introduced a new initiative for Years 7 to 10 this term. Mr Hol and Mr Walker facilitated a creative writing workshop to challenge our students to think deeply to develop their ideas for their creative writing stories.

To help students get in touch with their creative side, and to assist in preparing them for their assessment task, Mr Garry Hol, led the workshop. He used exercises to get students to tap into their own experiences in life, in order to create vivid and imaginative stories. We learnt how, with clever writing, you can make the ordinary, extraordinary. Students shared in mixed groups of varied ages and years and were able to see they each have a unique lens through which they view the world and through which they can write with perspective understanding. In their regular classes, students are now being equipped with the skills needed to write creative stories with clarity and imagination.

We are excited about encouraging our students to mentor each other across the stages in similar ventures in the future, with the goal to explore and extend their skills.

Mrs Bev Batten, English/HSIE Head Teacher and

Mr Mitchell Walker, English/History Teacher

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Year 9 WWI Trench Digging Day

On Wednesday, 10 August, Year 9 participated in a fantastic learning experience, at the Lowcock property on North Macquarie Road. The Year 9 students enthusiastically engaged in each of the activities, working well as individuals and as a team.The day focused on providing the students with some insight into the experiences of WWI soldiers on the Western Front. Each group partook in activities such as attempting to dig a trench, establishing a hospital station, lighting a fire using flint and making a stretcher for the wounded. Thankfully the unexpected 25 degree winter’s day did not provide the conditions appropriate for developing trench foot! Food for the day included, Anzac biscuits and spam for those students who were able to open their tin without breaking the key! Sergeant Walker and Major Batten were both encouraged by the efforts and the positive attitudes of the whole group. Each of the students are thankful for the opportunity and the experience. It prepared them to respond with greater understanding to a documentary on WWI, which they viewed at the end of the day. All enjoyed the reward of pizza when they returned to school. The spam did not prove particularly popular or flavorsome.

Mrs Bev Batten and Mr Mitchell Walker, English/History Teachers

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Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

The Training Day for the new Duke of Edinburgh’s Award students was held recently. The students studied map reading, bush safety, navigation and group dynamics in the classroom. Then used the ‘bushland’ at the end of the oval to set up individual campsites and make cooking fires for their lunches. Most of Year 9 has enrolled in the Program and they are meeting each Tuesday 1st Break in Room A2 to plan their first Adventurous Journey. They will be following the Coast Track from Bundeena to Otford and need to plan all aspects of the trip themselves – transport, food, camping and navigation … the works! We hope to have an Awards Ceremony at school in First Term 2017 when the diligent and committed students will receive their Bronze Awards and Certificates.

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Year 7 and Year 11 Faith in Action Breakfast

...Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.

James 2:17

On Thursday, 28 July, Year 11 joined Year 7 for a ‘Faith in Action’ breakfast and devotions session. This was part of their mentoring program. Together we had been studying the book of James. In this book, James talks about serving each other. Year 11 showed this service by cooking pancakes and serving hot chocolate. Year 7, in turn, were encouraged to serve others by bringing in a canned meal and making a donation to World Vision.

Altogether we donated 21 canned meals to Anglicare and made a donation to World Vision’s Multiply the Gift program so that about 400 others could be fed!

And, as a bonus…Year 7 got to enjoy eating pancakes, drinking hot chocolate and spending time with Year 11….Jessica, Alicia & Katherine.

Mrs Kylee Kerr, Year 11 Pastoral Care Teacher

On Thursday, 28 July, Year 11 hosted a pancake breakfast for Year 7 where we looked at the book of James. In the book of James it talked about serving each other, which Year 11 showed us by cooking pancakes and serving hot chocolate to us.

Year 7 also served others by bringing in a can of soup which was donated to World Vision, so people in other countries that don’t get food will have something to eat.

Year 7 enjoyed eating pancakes, drinking hot chocolate and spending time with Year 11.

Alicia R and Jessica L, Year 11 Students

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Ski Trip 2016

In late July, 20 students from Cordeaux and Tongarra embarked on the second combined Senior Ski Trip to Thredbo. The students were accompanied by 2 teachers from both campuses. The first day consisted mainly of driving to Jindabyne where we would stay for the next 3 days and getting fitted out with all the equipment and gear we would need to take on the slopes for the next two days.

There was a mixture of skiers and snowboarders ranging in ability from first timers to advanced. Students spent the majority of their time on the first days in lessons learning the particular skills and being challenged in their chosen activity. The beginner’s class spent their time on Friday, on the flats perfecting the art of basic skills such as balancing, stopping and not falling over. While, the more advanced lesson groups had the opportunity to explore the whole park, going up to some of the highest runs with their instructor’s and seeing all that Thredbo has to offer.

The second day began much the same as the first, in lesson groups, but after lunch students were given the ability to break into small buddy groups of people of similar ability and explore the park a little more. Many students chose to go up to higher parts of the mountain, taking advantage of the ski lifts so they could challenge themselves and see more of Thredbo with their friends. Both nights the students were able to hang out and relax; playing a mixture of pool, watching TV or playing cards.

Over both days the conditions were excellent, with snow falling overnight and then during the day to give a nice coverage of powder. It was also quite cold over the trip reaching -7 degrees on the first day with the wind chill factor making it feel much colder than that, especially when you were on the higher chair lifts.

Praise God for the wonderful weather and that He kept the students and teachers safe on the trip. There were no injuries and the students and teachers definitely had a very memorable experience. All the students are to be commended for the responsible and mature way they conducted themselves on the trip and for making it such a wonderful time.

Mrs Cassie Gold Secondary Sports Teacher

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Warrigal Care Retirement Village Visit

At the end of last term, Stage 5 and 6 Music and the Secondary Vocal group had the privilege of performing at the Warrigal Retirement Village in Albion Park Rail. The residents were very pleased to see us, and they appreciated the variety of pieces that we sang and the instrumental pieces we performed for them.

We had an opportunity to have a sing-along with some of the songs the residents were familiar with. All of this was well received. We look forward to visiting Warrigal Retirement Village in the future.

“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” - Colossians 3:17Mrs Nerylee Deans, Music Teacher

Combined Christian Schools Music Festival 2016

On Thursday, 11 August, nine ICS Tongarra students together with students from Cordeaux Campus travelled to Orange to participate in a Music Festival with other Christian Schools from all over New South Wales. Although the trip was long it was time to get to know each other. When we arrived at Orange and stepped out of the bus, the conditions were a little chilly to what we were used too. The students were divided into their musical groups and then sent to various practice spaces to commence learning music and meet other musicians from the different schools. The Musical groups we were involved in were a Combined Choir, Vocal Group and a Worship Band.

After the school day we headed to our accommodation to set up our beds and prepare for an evening of fun activities. This was also a time to relax and get to know students from other schools. Thursday evening after a meal at Orange Christian School, we went bowling, which kept us all warm and we enjoyed the friendly competition.

Friday was a rehearsing day and time to mingle with other students at meal breaks. Although it was very cold it did not dampen our spirits and everyone enjoyed the day. In the evening we participated in a ‘social’ that was lots of fun.

On the final day, the rehearsal and Concert were held at Turners Winery, surrounded by the vineyards. It was a great celebration of all the hard work and musicianship of the students.

Mrs Nerylee Deans, Music Teacher

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Digital Manipulation of Images with Satire to Present a Serious Message

Students in Year 9 and 10 Information and Software Technology have been looking at the use of digital manipulation of images.

Students looked at a selection of images and had to work out whether they were real or doctored.

From this, students investigated the role of doctored images to manipulate the truth, and also to make social comment.

Students grappled with whether freedom to say anything (including something racist or offensive) is ok, what is absolute truth, and how social media can influence public opinion.

Proverbs 12: 18-20

“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the

wise brings healing.

Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.

Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil, but those who promote

peace have joy.”Students learned how to manipulate images themselves and create a modified image that had a serious message to tell, with a social comment.

Can you tell what the serious message is behind these images?

Here is the explanation for one of them:

I did this [manipulation] to poke fun at Apple MacBooks for having the equivalent running power of a toaster. My personal laptop, a MacBook, has started to take 5 minutes to load a single web page.

Mr Stephen Babbage, Deputy Principal & Information and Software Technology Teacher

Please note, the school does not endorse nor support the views portrayed in these images.

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What’s been happening in the Hub!

Week 6 and 7 of Term 3 have seen a very busy time in the Learning Hub.

Firstly, Week 6 was Book Week. This term students engaged in literature activities based on the 2016 Book Week’s Shortlisted books and the Book Week theme ‘Australia! Story Country‘. The students took part in a Book Week parade on Tuesday, 23 August. They came dressed in something from the theme or a character from their favourite book.

After the parade students, family and community members participated in a complimentary healthy morning tea prepared for by some of our school mums – A HUGE thank you! A visit to the Learning Hub revealed work completed by the students based on the Short Listed Books.

On Friday, 26th August students in Kindergarten-Year 6 were treated to a dramatisation by Warilla Library Staff of two of the Short Listed Books. The books were ‘Piranhas don’t eat Bananas’ and ‘The Cow tripped over the Moon’. It was very entertaining and the students and staff thoroughly enjoyed their visit. Students have been encouraged to join their local library and develop their love of reading.

Week 7 commenced with a Scholastic Book Fair. The students were able to purchase a book with a percentage of the sales going back to the school to purchase fresh new books for the Learning Hub. Thank you to all who purchased books.

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Mrs Phillippa Cleall-Mierendorff, author and illustrator of ‘Pepperpot’, presented two sessions based on her book, for Prep – Year 2 and Year 3 - Year 6. Mrs Cleall explained to the students the process of writing and illustrating a book and the many hours involved. She encouraged the students to use their God given talents and abilities to pursue their dreams whether it is in writing or another area of chose. Mrs Cleall kindly donated a beautiful illustration of Pepperpot and a copy of her book to the Learning Hub.

234 Calderwood Road, Albion Parkwww.ics.nsw.edu.au

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