WORTH READING IssUe 13 1 4 T H S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 2

www.wrc.vic.edu.au

Parent/Teacher/Student InterviewsFriday 21st September9am - 10:50pm & 11:30am - 12:50pm

Last Day of Term 3 Friday 21st September(No formal classes for students due to Parent/Teacher/Student interviews)

Term 4 CommencesMonday 8th October

WORTH READINGwww.wrc.vic.edu.auWORTH READING

A Proud History, a Bright Future

LOTe acTIVITIesYear 8 Indonesian students have been making lucky birds and bird cages in recent weeks. This follows on from reading ‘Sarindi and the Lucky Bird’- a novel set in the Javanese city of Yogyakarta.

Parent/Teacher/Student InterviewsThursday 20th September4pm - 5:50pm & 6:50pm - 8:20pm

3

new staffThe College is delighted to announce the appointment of Naomi Coleman as our Leading Teacher in charge of e-learning. Naomi has been working for the whole of Gippsland Region assisting schools in rolling out netbooks as part of the federal governments Laptop Program. Naomi is very highly regarded across Gippsland and it is a real feather in our cap that she has chosen to come and join the staff at WRC to assist us in the innovative work we are

undertaking in e-learning. Naomi commences duties in term 4. I am sure you will all join me in welcoming her to our school.

Parent Opinion surveyA big thank you to all parents who completed this year’s Parent Opinion Survey, we were very happy to receive over one hundred returns which should provide useful feedback to us on the things we are doing well and areas we need to improve. This data should be collated by the department and returned to schools next term. I will share the highlights and messages from this with all parents when this data arrives at the school.

naPLanWhile NAPLAN Testing for Literacy and Numeracy for Year 7 and 9 students was completed in May, we do not receive the results until next week. Once we have received student results we will mail this information to parents. NAPLAN is a great opportunity for us to track student learning and pick up on strengths and address weaknesses

in Literacy and Numeracy. As always, with any form of assessment we must keep in mind that this is only one data set and generally your child’s teachers will have a range of assessments which generally provide a more rounded picture of where each student is in their learning journey.

student, Parent Teacher InterviewsProgress Report 4 is currently in production and will be mailed to families just in time for Student, Parent Teacher Interviews. These interviews are probably the best way we can support our students by ensuring that the school, the family and the student are all heading in the same direction in terms of setting and working towards improvement in each student’s learning goals. As a school our focus is on learning growth. That means we do not dwell comparing students to each other, rather we are interested in comparing students to themselves, that is, how much growth have they made. Can I encourage all student, teachers and parents to make this the focus for the conversations during the interviews.

Uniform and PresentationCan I once again thank all parents who have been supporting the College in our focus on ensuring all students are wearing correct school uniform everyday. Mr Ponton, Mr Luck and I have been conducting spot checks and taking notes. It is pleasing to see that on each of these occasions we have seen correct school uniform being worn by 98% of students across the school. Can I ask that students continue their good work in this area.

Rob JuratowitchPrincipal

PrIncIPaL’s rePOrTThe College is delighted to announce the appointment of Naomi Coleman as our Leading Teacher in charge of e-learning. Naomi has been working for the whole of Gippsland Region assisting schools in rolling out netbooks as part of the federal governments Laptop Program. Naomi is very highly regarded across Gippsland and it is a real feather in our cap that she has chosen to come and join the staff at WRC to assist us in the innovative work we are

There have been a whole lot of things going on in Student Service Land during Term 3, with plenty to follow in Term 4. Aside from the ongoing Anti-Bullying Program, our students have been participating in:ross Trust ‘Hands-on’ Program for Year 8 Boys. This Program gives the boys an opportunity to get involved in building projects, landscaping and tree planting, as well as other projects through the Baw Baw Shire. A positive fl ow-on effect has been observed back at school.

‘no Limits’ Program for 13-15 Year Old students (Boys and Girls). 15 Students take part in this Program for two terms, learning about Communication Skills, Time management, Goal setting, Positive Behaviours, Leadership, Life and Social Skills. They also engage in Challenge activities designed to boost their self-confi dence and self-esteem.VBaf (Victorian Bushfi res appeal fund) Program 15 students have developed different ways to express their opinions on how they view bullying. This includes work on a song, acting in a brief drama and fi nding different video clips about the issue. During Term 4 students will organize an awareness day about bullying and their fi nished products will be presented to their peers. They will also be visiting local primary schools to raise awareness.Health Heroes By 2015 all health organisations that employ over 500 people will need to have 1% of Indigenous employees. Lisa Price from BBLLLEN is liaising with health organizations in our shire to try and gain positions for students to commence traineeships/apprenticeships and/or further training. Leading Teams (Dain fay) This organisation is generally credited with initially changing the player culture at Geelong Football Club. Dain Fay has been working with our junior school students. During Term 4, selected students will undertake another training day with Leading Teams to fi nalise details of a Community learning project.Beacon school ambassadors Ambassadors are elected from within the participating cohort to provide a link to the organisation and running

of the Beacon program within the school and community. BSAs are involved in organising, preparing and hosting events, and have many opportunities for self-development.Our Beacon School Ambassadors are currently working on a short fi lm about how the Beacon program activities has integrated into the Yr 10 group for the Beacon Film Festival, as well as fi nalising the organisation for the Charter signing.Beacon speed careers Workshops are run to enable students to obtain up to date and fi rsthand information about their future options. A range of businesses present to students about their industry and career paths. Our Speed Careers day was a great success,with students very impressed with the range of businesses represented. Beacon Business Blackboard (collaborative classrooms) The Business Blackboard embodies Beacon philosophies – creates connection with local business, context for curriculum, engages students and ensures sustainability of the Beacon program into the future.Beacon Polish Program at sKM engineering (Melbourne) Polish Is a one day workshop that helps young people prepare for their careers through personal presentation and communication training, giving students the skills to conduct themselves appropriately when entering the world of work and throughout their employment. Core to the program is a sit-down lunch that gives students an opportunity to network with potential employers and use their newly found communication and culinary skills acquired in the morning tutorials. On Tuesday, 11th Sept, 25 Year 10 students travelled to Melbourne to participate in this fabulous program at SKM Engineering. Feedback from the students was extremely positive.Beacon charter signing Beacon’s signature event where our Year 10 students publicly make a pledge that by the following year they will be in further education, employment or training. Supporting adults attend the charter signing, including members of local, state and commonwealth government, Beacon corporate partners and local business and community members.Our Charter Signing will take place on the 8th of November. Our BSAs are endeavouring to fi nd a high profi le guest speaker for the event.

Iain LuckAssistant Principal - Student Services

assIsTanT PrIncIPaL’s rePOrTThere have been a whole lot of things going

with plenty to follow in Term 4. Aside from the ongoing Anti-Bullying Program, our students have been participating in:ross Trust ‘Hands-on’ Program for Year 8 BoysThis Program gives the boys an opportunity to get involved in building projects, landscaping and tree planting, as well as other projects through the Baw Baw Shire. A positive fl ow-on effect has been observed back at school.

assIsTanT PrIncIPaL’s rePOrT

3

refl ectionsThe end of Term 3 is always a challenging and diffi cult time for all students, particularly those completing Year 12. It’s the end of winter, students are often being confronted with assessment in a number of classes and the end of the term (or the end of school in the case of Year 12) still seems a distant dream. I believe at this time it is important for students, parents and staff to pause, take stock and refl ect on past achievements and focus on immediate short term

goals. Two signifi cant initiatives the school has implemented in that last week to assist this process have been the Year 7 Resilience Day and the presentation and to Year 7-10 girls on body image and the media. These two events, organised by the Year 7 Team and Chaplain Lee Tilley respectively, engaged students in important issues, promoted discussion and supported students develop positive and respectful relationships at school.

student wellbeingOver the last two weeks I have visited a number of classes in which education support staff and teacher’s aides have been assisting students in their classes. I have been very impressed with the way these staff members have supported students and worked cooperatively with the teachers. In comparison to other schools I have visited, I believe the extent and quality of support provided by the Integration program at Warragul Regional College is outstanding and the school deservers to be proud for its’ efforts supporting students with a range of diffi culties obtain a quality and meaningful education. I have also witnessed teachers differentiating learning experiences, modifying expectations and providing challenging work for all students in their class. I believe this approach to curriculum development and teacher practice is at the heart of engaging students at school and providing a meaningful and worthwhile learning experience for our students.

student LearningOne aspect of life at Warragul Regional College that has stood out to me most is the school wide culture and individual teacher focus of critically refl ecting on teaching practice to improve performance.

On Thursday 30th of August, Warragul Regional College participated in a program known as ‘Instructional Rounds’. Instructional Rounds is a high level process of school refl ection that has been in place and supported across Gippsland for the last fi ve years. The program involves the school participating in the rounds identifying a ‘Problem Of Practice’, which is an aspect of the classroom learning environment that the school would like some feedback on. On the day, 24 teachers and Principals from other schools come to the school and spent the fi rst two hours analysing the Problem Of Practice, discussing and designing questions they will ask of students and observations they will make of the class to gain evidence on the issue. Groups of 3 teachers/Principals then visit classes, speak to students and make observations throughout one period. The remainder of the day is then spent discussing the evidence and importantly, identifying consistent patterns of good practice and areas for improvement that were evident across the majority of classes. This process culminates in the articulation of agreed patterns that are then presented back to the school, and identifi cation of strategies to address issues.

For the Thursday 30th August Instructional Rounds, our identifi ed Problem Of Practice included two key questions:

1. How well could students link what they were doing to what they were learning?

2. How often, and in what form, were students receiving feedback on their progress?

The patterns from the Instructional Rounds were very encouraging, with students in a number of classes exhibiting a high level of understanding about the skills and knowledge that were being developed through the task they were doing. There was also some excellent examples of ongoing teacher, peer and self assessment providing valuable information to student on how they could improve. The next step is for staff and members of the leadership at the College to can maximise student learning by considering the suggestions for improvement, and looking at ways teachers and the school can implement the strategies suggested. Once again, the thing that stands out most to me is the schools eagerness to encourage a process of critical refl ection with the intention of improving learning opportunities for all students.

Mike ShoneAssistant Principal

assIsTanT PrIncIPaL’s rePOrTYear 12 examinationsYear 12 examinations commence on 1st of November and the fi nal day for our Year 12 students is 25th October. That leaves only 18 schooldays for students to catch up with their teachers for support in their exam preparation. It is vital that students use the holidays wisely and factor in 20-25 hours of examination preparation per week.

china Tour 2013We recently hosted a Chinese Delegation from our sister school in China. Next year we will be joining Drouin SC, Neerim District SC, St Paul’s AGS and Chario CS and taking a group of students to China to visit our respective sister schools. The College has eight places available for students that may be interested in taking part in this two week tour.

The Tour will cost approximately $3000 not including Passports, immunisations, travel insurance, spending money. At this stage

we are expecting the Tour will leave Melbourne on the 24th March 2013 and return on the 9th April 2013. These dates are subject to change. Students will visit Beijing, Shanghai, Jiujiang and Xi’an with a homestay in Jiujiang for fi ve days. Iain Luck and Les Ponton will be the WRC staff attending. If you son/daughter is interested they can pick up an application package from Mr Iain Luck at the student services offi ce. This package will explain the selection process and payment details.

new fitness equipmentThe Parents and Friends Committee recently provided the funding for the College to upgrade it fi tness training facility. The gym know has brand new matrix cardio machines i.e. 2 treadmills, 2 exercise bikes, 1 rowing machine plus a 3 stack multi gym , dumbbells, medicine balls, barbells and new rubber matting for the fl oor. The students and staff are very appreciative of the hard work that this committee puts in and have been using the new equipment regularly.

Les PontonAssistant Principal

Year 12 examinationsYear 12 examinations commence on 1st of November and the fi nal day for our Year 12 students is 25th October. That leaves only 18 schooldays for students to catch up with their teachers for support in their exam preparation. It is vital that students use the holidays wisely and factor in 20-25 hours of examination preparation per week.

4

On Tuesday the 28th of August an information night for the Duke of Edinburgh program was held in the Flexible Learning Centre. The aim was to give students and families an understanding of the program and the way it will be conducted at Warragul Regional College.

The Duke of Edinburgh award is an internationally recognised award for youth aged 14 to 25. The award contains four sections, three of which are the skill, fi tness and volunteering. These must be completed by the student in their own time – an hour a week for an extended period of time dependent on the level of the award. The fourth component is the adventurous journey, a camp of some form, such as hiking, canoeing, cycling or an onsite exploration of a topic such as conservation.

The completed award is a great addition to any resume, and allows students to develop and demonstrate their commitment, leadership and teamwork.

Roger McKinnon, the CEO of Awards Victoria, gave an overview of the Duke of Edinburgh program, its benefi ts and what it entailed. The evening was then opened up for Duke of Edinburgh stories from past students.

Hilary Harrington, who completed Year 12 at WRC in 2008, gave a presentation about her journey with Duke of Edinburgh. Hilary completed her bronze, silver and gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards through the school and stated that she ‘could not imagine what her life would have been like if she hadn’t taken part in the Awards.’

Other past students who took part in the program during their time at school were available for discussion after the presentation, including Natalie Tyson, Melissa Young, Mel Crookston, Matt Keeble and Nathan Young. Nathan has been the driving force behind the resurrection of the Duke of Ed program at Warragul Regional College. He felt that Duke of Ed made such a valuable contribution to his own life that he decided to volunteer to coordinate Duke of Ed at WRC for the next two years and ensure that current students were able to share the same opportunities that he experienced. The long term aim is that the Duke of Ed becomes a student lead activity at the college, with Silver/Gold participants coordinating the program to complete their volunteering component of the award.

The Duke of Ed program will be run after school on Tuesday nights from 3:20 – 4:30pm and will guide students to achieve awards at either bronze, silver and/or gold level.

Any student wishing to take part in the program can collect an application form from the General Offi ce or speak with Mrs Richards in the Year 8 offi ce for more information. The fi rst Duke of Ed meeting will be on Tuesday 11th September, 3.20 – 4.30pm in the Flexible Learning Centre.

Nathan YoungDuke of Ed Coordinator

DUKe Of eDInBUrGH InfOrMaTIOn nIGHT

Samantha RichardsSchool Contact

Year 9 www enVIrOnMenT @ HeaLsVILLe sancTUrYAs part of Year 9 WWW Environment, students attended an excursion to Healesville Sanctuary on the 22 August. The students were required to visit various species and gather research and information in regards to Habitat destruction, Invasive species, Population growth, Pollution, Climate change and Overexploitation. It was a very pleasant day and the students agreed that the Spirits of the Sky fl ight show was the highlight.

Climate change and Overexploitation. It was a very

LaTTITUDe GLOBaL VOLUnTeerInG

5

Sarah Tuffen who completed Year 12 in 2011 recently returned to the school to speak to interested students about her recent Lattitude Global Volunteering Project. Lattitude Global Volunteering is an international youth development charity. Their mission is to provide unique opportunities for young people to make a positive difference to their lives and the lives of others. Sarah was placed in India and her role was teaching English and Personal Development to a group of boys aged between 15 and 20. The project

has had a big impact on Sarah, those at her presentation left feeling inspired to consider international volunteering as a possible scenario after completing year 12. Students or parents wishing to fi nd out more information regarding the program can make contact with the careers offi ce.

The Unit 4 Photography students recently went on an excursion to the Latrobe Regional Gallery in Morwell and to Monash University Gippsland. The Trip was part of their Unit 4 studies, where they needed to visit at least two different galleries and see how they function.

Students fi rst went for an art industry lecture at the LRG, where they learnt about how the gallery sets up an exhibition and the people involved. We were lucky enough to have the senior curator take the students on a behind the scenes tour of the gallery.

We then hopped back onto the bus and drove to Monash University in Churchill. After a quick lunch, students listened to the curator of the universities Switchback gallery, speak about the current exhibition and what his roll is in the gallery.

We were then given a tour of the Art and Design Factually and explored the many different studios of current students. The highlight of the day for most students was seeing to the studio of photographer Neale Stratford. Neale showed the students how he sets up his images using lighting and backdrops, and how he uses different fi gurines to create scenes.

A big thank-you to Brett Smith for being our bus driver, and to the Latrobe Regional Gallery and Switchback Gallery for letting us visit.

Mel CrookstonYear 12 Photography Teacher

Year 12 PHOTOGraPHY eXcUrsIOn

Sarah Tuffen who completed Year 12 in 2011 recently returned to the school to speak to interested students about her recent Lattitude Global Volunteering Project. Lattitude Global Volunteering is an international youth development charity. Their mission is to provide unique opportunities for young people to make a positive difference to their lives and the lives of others. Sarah was placed in India and her role was teaching English and Personal Development to a group of boys aged between 15 and 20. The project

career news

6

reminders

• ParenT eVenInG aT MOnasH – caulfield campus, Building H116 Date: 6.30pm, Thurs 6 sept. register : www.monash.edu.au/parent

• eXPLOre OccUPaTIOnaL THeraPY - Thurs 13 sept; austin Hospital, email Kathy.MaGGs@austin.org.au

• rMIT nUcLear MeDIcIne TOUr – 27 & 28 sept; www.rmit.edu.au/medical-radiations/nucmedvisits

• rMIT scIence In THe cITY – LaB TOUr – 26 sept; register: www.rmit.edu.au appliedsciences/discover

Year 12 sTUDenTs – A reminder that you need to apply for courses through VTAC for 2013 by 28 September. The cost of applying up to that date is $26.00. If you apply after this date the charge rises to $89.00. You can apply without paying at the time, but remember that if you do not pay you will not receive an offer of a place in January 2013. Remember that once you apply, you can change your application.

InTeresTeD In MInInG enGIneerInG? A fantastic opportunity exists for you to get inside the Minerals Industry as part of the annual 4-day residential UNSW Minerals Summer School. Learn about study, careers, lifestyles and opportunities for professionals and current students. Start at the UNSW in Sydney then travel to the Hunter Valley for 3 nights to visit underground and surface mines. Who: Students currently in Year 10/11 interested in science or engineering and studying subjects like physics and advanced maths. When: Mon 7-Thurs 10 Jan, 2013; Cost: $200 (heavily subsidised); Apply by: 14 Sept at www.mining.unsw.edu.au/UMSS2013.

wOMen In enGIneerInG caMP – Do you want your career to be at the forefront of positive change for society? Do you enjoy using lateral thinking, creativity and design? Do you love problem solving and working in teams? Do you have an aptitude for maths and science? If yes, and you are a young woman in Year 10 or 11, join a 4 day residential experience and find out more about the careers available for professional engineers. Who: Women with a genuine interest in finding out more about engineering careers and at least 16 on 13 Jan 2013; When: Mon 14- Fri 18 Jan, 2013; Cost: $200; Apply by: 30 Sept at www.eng.unsw.edu.au/WIEC.

MInInG aT MOnasH UnIVersITY – Monash has developed a new undergraduate mining degree for 2013. The B. Mining Engineering (Honours) has been established in response to industry requests to increase the number of Australian mining graduates. Graduates will be able to work in a range of tasks in underground, pit and open mines, as well as in a corporate environment. The emphasis in on the ‘Mine of the Future’ relating

to automation, people and community, and the environment resulting in a minimal mining footprint. Mining engineers work in Australia and throughout the world. Info: eng-future.student@monash.edu or see www.eng.monash.edu.au. There is an information session about the new degree. When: 7-8.30pm, Tues 11 Sept; Where: Lecture Theatre E7, Building 72, Clayton; Book: eng-rsvp@monash.edu by 7 Sept (ph 9902 0108).

wILLIaM anGLIss InsTITUTe news –

Missed The Open Day? William Angliss (555 La Trobe St, Melbourne) is holding Information Sessions from the end of August until mid-September. Visit www.angliss.edu.au/Info-sessions.

william angliss Institute resort Management –

William Angliss receives many requests for qualified Resort Management graduates and it is becoming harder for businesses to attract staff. The Institute has modified fees to ensure that the program remains accessible to as many students as possible. VET Fee-Help is available (see www.studyassist.gov.au). Information on price changes can be found at www.angliss.edu.au/Resorts (Note: apply direct at www.angliss.edu.au as the current VTAC listing is no longer applicable to the new training packages in 2013.

swInBUrne news –advice night – With so many higher education options, things can become a little confusing. Advice Night can provide clarity for parents and Year 12 students and assist them in making the right preference choices. When: 5.30-7.30pm, Wed 12 Sept; Where: TD Building, Hawthorn campus; Register at: www.swinburne.edu.au/advicenight.

One-On-One appointments – Swinburne’s Recruitment Team is providing parents and Year 12 students with 30 minute appointments to assist with general questions regarding preferences and courses. When: Each Wednesday and Thursday, 4-7pm during August and September; Book at: http://www.swinburne.edu.au/study-at-swinburne/events/one-on-one/

Year 12 seminars – Swinburne is holding information sessions where you can meet lecturers, tour facilities and ask questions. More info: 1300 275 794; www.swinburne.edu.au/2013; When/where:

• Aviation/Aviation Management - 4 Sept (Hawthorn)

• Biomedical Engineering – 30 Sept (Hawthorn)

• Communication Design – 26 Sept (Prahran)

• Digital Media Design – 25 Sept (Prahran)

• Film and Television – 25 Sept (Prahran)

• Health Science – 27 Sept (Hawthorn)

• Industrial Design – 27 Sept (Prahran)

• Information Technology Scholarship program – 6 Sept (Hawthorn)

• Interior Design – 27 Sept (Prahran)

• Product Design Engineering – 27 Sept (Prahran)

Law aT aUsTraLIan caTHOLIc UnIVersITY (acU) – ACU is introducing Law in 2013. The Faculty is hosting a panel of law graduates who will discuss the benefits and opportunities from studying law at university. Find out about the diverse range of careers that ACU law graduates may undertake. The panel includes Sir James Gobbo (former Governor of Victoria), Emma Page Campbell (Licensing and Governance Manager ACMI), Daniel Crennan (Barrister), Brendan Apostolova (Partner, Gadens Lawyers), Bendan Sykes (CEO Environment Defender’s Office) and Eve Lester (Human Rights Consultant). When: 6-7.30pm, Wed 12 Sept; Where: ACU Melbourne, Christ Theatre, 115 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy; Register: www.acu.edu.au/law/events.

sTILL UnsUre wHaT TO sTUDY? La Trobe Uni is offering a Future Students Advisory Day where you can chat to students and staff about courses and pathways. When: 11am-2pm, 25 Sept (Bundoora); 27 Sept (Bendigo); Register: www.latrobe.edu.au/school/events.

arcHITecTUraL TecHnOLOGY aT DeaKIn – New in 2013, the Bachelor of Architectural Technology is a unique offering from Deakin University’s School of Architecture and Building in partnership with The Gordon’s Advanced Design and Building Department. The course is made up of three years of full-time study – the first two primarily at The Gordon and the final year at Deakin (Geelong Waterfront Campus). On completion students are conferred with the degree from Deakin University. Graduates will be professionally qualified architectural technologists with diverse and practical skills, giving them the capability to be involved in commercial, industrial or domestic projects covering the scope of construction. Architectural technology is a highly regarded profession in the UK, Ireland and Europe and architectural technologists play a major role on construction projects in these regions. With career opportunities opening up in Australia, the B. Architectural Technology can provide graduates with an exciting career path. Prerequisites: 3/4 English; To find out more go to: www.deakin.edu.au/scitech. To apply for the course for 2013, the VTAC Code is 16101 (CSP).

Access Monash

AUGUST 2012

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: www.monash.edu/access

CONTACT US: Access Monash Officers

Melissa New Tel. 03 9903 4551 melissa.new@monash.edu Joanne Matthews Tel. 03 9902 6127 joanne.matthews@monash.edu

It’s all about the senior students…

Parent Information Evening

We’ve got lots of information and assistance for Year 11 and 12 students who are currently focused on their VCE. Read on to find out more…

Have you liked our Access Monash Facebook page yet? It’s a great place to stay up to date with all the SAM news!

Under-represented Schools

Year 12 students from under-represented schools are strongly encouraged to complete a SEAS application, as part of the VTAC process. To confirm whether your child’s school is on the list, or to find out more about what it means, you can speak to your school’s Careers Coordinator or Year 12 Coordinator. You can also email us at accessmonash@monash.edu - be sure to include the name of your child’s school.

Science Education Immersion Day

Access Monash and the Monash Science Centre invites mature age future students to learn more about the possibilities associated with studying science. The Science Education Immersion Day will be held at the Monash Clayton Campus on Friday 21 September, 9.45am - 4pm. For more information, please visit www.monash.edu.au/access/event-immersion.html

VTAC Applications now open! VTAC applications are now open and it’s important for Year 12 students to plan ahead and ensure all applications and supporting documentation are in on time. Students should also be applying for SEAS (Special Entry Access Scheme) and Scholarships, all of which can be completed through the VTAC system. Year 12 Coordinators and careers teachers are a great source of information about the VTAC process. Students are also welcome to contact us at accessmonash@monash.edu. Timely VTAC applications close on 28 September at 5pm. This is during the term holidays, so plan ahead and make sure your child gets all the support they need from their school before the end of term!

VCE Revision Lectures

Access Education delivers VCE Revision Lectures at a number of Monash campuses throughout September and October. Information about the revision lectures can be found at www.accesseducation.com.au Monash is pleased to provide FREE and/or discounted to students from SAM schools when booked in bulk by the school. Speak to your Careers Coordinator and/or Senior School Coordinator to find out more.

Monash is holding an information evening for parents of Year 11 and 12 students, providing an opportunity to find out more about the VTAC application process; scholarships and fees; and course options. The information evening will be at the Monash Caulfield campus on Thursday 6 September from 6.30pm. To register or find out more, please visit www.monash.edu.au/parent or call 1800 MONASH. Monash has also recently published our Parents’ Guide. If you would like a copy of the Parents’ Guide, send your name and postal address to accessmonash@monash.edu.

Access Monash Tutoring Looking for some personalised help with final assessments? Access Monash Tutoring is provided by current Monash students, to students studying Biology, Chemistry, English, Maths (any) or Physics. We will be providing tutoring/study support for Year 12 students in the Gippsland region on the 24/25 September (school holidays). More information about this will be provided to schools in the coming weeks.

7

8

How do students book from home?

BOOKInGs fOr ParenT/TeacHer/sTUDenT InTerVIews are nOw On-LIne

Below is a set of instructions of how students and/or parents can make bookings for the upcoming interviews on Thursday 20 September and Friday 21 September. Bookings can be made from home on the Internet or students can make bookings at school using the school’s Intranet. We are aware that some students have had trouble getting on the School’s Intranet from

home and the most common causes are older computers and/or not having pop-ups enabled in Internet explorer. If home access is not possible then students should make the bookings at school or contact one of the technicians at school for help. If parents have any concerns then they are welcome to ring the school.

Go to the school web page

www.wrc.vic.edu.au and click on the “Intranet” link as shown.

Student login using their network username and password as if they were at school.

Click the “PT Interviews” link as shown.

Choose the day(s) then click on the date using the pull down list.

All the classes for that student will be shown as well as available timeslots for each teacher.

Click on any available timeslot and the booking is made.

To view bookings for that day click “View All My Appointments”

This can then be printed.

Thursday 20 september 2012 4:00pm – 5:50pm and 6:50pm – 8:20pmfriday 21september 2012 9:00am - 10:50am and 11:30pm – 12:50pm

where: Poowong Football RoomsDrouin Rd, Poowong

21st October 2012@ 7:30pm sharp

cost: $10 each

Drinks at bar prices, B.Y.O. Nibbles, Tea and coffee available. 8 people per table recommended.

R.S.V.P to Krystal for table bookings by 18th October on 0407476368

TrIVIa & GaMes nIGHT Presented by:

All profi ts go to the

acOUsTIc MUsIc nIGHT

No amplifi ers, no microphones-

just you, your voice and your

instrument, if you play one.

‘Singaround’ format; sing us a song, play us a tune, or just sit and listen.

st. John’s church, nar nar Goon7.30pm, friday October 5th

All ages and skill levels welcome.

Gold coin admission; tea and coffee provided.

contact: Malcolm on 0422 611 373

9

cOMMUnITIes THaT care arTIcLe 1Discussion Education Family influencesEngagement RegulationsDISCUSSIONChildren under the age of 15 are at the most risk of harm from consumption of alcohol and there is no ‘safe’ level of use for this age group. The evidence shows that the risk of accidents, injuries, self harm and violence are higher for drinkers under the age of 18 than for adults and that those under the age of 15 are most likely to experience risky or antisocial behavior connected with their drinking. Evidence also suggests the early initiation of drinking alcohol may lead to increased consumption later in adolescence and that this pattern increases the risk of problematic alcohol use later in life.

The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) released guidelines about drinking alcohol when under 18 years in 2009:

'...children under 15 years of age are at the greatest risk of harm from drinking and that for this group, not drinking alcohol is especially important.'

'For young people aged 15-17 years, the safest option is to delay the initiation of drinking for as long as possible.'

Alcohol is a drug that is classified as a central nervous system depressant because it slows down the central nervous system – in particular slowing the heart and breathing rates and reaction time. It may feel like a stimulant due to it’s effect on the way we think and feel – more confident, less self conscious, less concerned and aware of risks. In adolescence the brain is still developing and consumption of alcohol can effect this development. In particular the areas of the brain that control decision making, memory and emotions which in turn can have an impact on a young persons’ ability to learn and remember new information, the development of problems solving skills and mood and mental health issues, e.g. increased risk of depression. It can also affect the development of healthy coping strategies for managing negative emotions such as anxiety.

One of the reasons that young people are particularly at risk from alcohol is because they do not have a physical tolerance to its effects. In addition they are less able to judge levels of intoxication and to establish safe levels of intake, thus increasing their risk of accidents and alcohol poisoning. Alcohol also affects young people in a different way compared with that of adults. In adults it has a sedating effect but the opposite often occurs with young people and it can have a stimulating effect that is likely to lead to an increase in risk taking behavior (in females this is also strongly linked to poor decision making around sexual behavior). When this is combined with a reduction in control of motor skills and co-ordination, the likelihood of accidents is greatly increased.

Further information is available on the following websites:

http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/your-health/alcohol-guidelines/alcohol-faq

http://www.druginfo.adf.org.au/fact-sheets/australian-guidelines-for-low-risk-drinking-web-fact-sheet

Whatever! The science of Teens DVD Episodes on Risk/binge/sex/mood/sleep ABC Shop

On the last Thursday in August the Year 12 team of teachers and students got together for a lunch in the annexe. The aim of the day was to celebrate the great year so far and to provide some motivation for the final run home. We were lucky to have James Harkess, past student and 2010 Dux, come and share his story with us as well as hearing some sage words of wisdom from Mr Ponton and the current student leaders.

With roughly 20 days of formal schooling many of the Year 12 students are starting to feel under the pump to end the year on a good note – competencies to meet, final SACs to prepare for, SAT deadlines fast approaching and of course the prospect of the exams is looming just around the corner.

Passing exams is not all about intelligence; however, intelligent people know that preparation and examination technique can make a huge difference to academic results. It is important for students to approach the revision period with a clear plan, a set study system and a willingness to do all they can to achieve their personal best. This will go a long way towards them finishing their school career with the results they want.

On behalf of the Year 12 Team I would like to wish each and every student “luck” in their future endeavours, both in the coming weeks and beyond their schooling lives. We look forward to celebrating your achievements at the Valedictory Dinner on the 23rd November and would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr Lewis and the Val Committee for all the work they have put in to making the night one to remember.

Hopefully I have enough room to fit in one more quote… “I am a strong believer in luck and I find the harder I work the more I have of it” (Thomas Jefferson).

Year 12 HaPPenInGs

We are heading towards the end of the year and Parents and Friends are starting to organise the second hand book sale. As there is a great deal of work involved in preparing the books for sale, Parents and Friends welcome anyone who is willing to assist on these days. Volunteers for helping may contact Louise Young on 5626 1474 or 0418 531 445.

Parents and Friends Club arranges the sale so that parents have the opportunity to sell text books and to save money when purchasing next years’ books. A 20% commission is charged which is handed on to the school for the benefit of the students.

Dates, booklists and other information for the End of Year Second Hand Book Sale will be available in Term Four.

Any parents or students who still have second hand books for sale in the Uniform Shop and wish to keep them, need to collect them from the Uniform Shop by Wednesday 31st October 2012. Any books remaining at the Uniform Shop after this date become donations to Parents and Friends and WRC.

Books that are still able to be sold on this years’ booklist can be resubmitted for the upcoming sale in December.

ParenTs & frIenDsend of year second hand book sale

CATION

1911 - 2011

CEN

TENARY OF EDUCATION 1911

- 20

11

COLLEGE

COLLEGE

CCCCOOOO

TENA

NA

N

RARA

YRYROF EDUCACAC TATA ION 1911

-2

CEN

TE 2011

CCCCOOOOLLLLLLLLLLEEEEGGGGEEEE

communityachievementrespecteffort

DIarY DaTes

Quote of the weekLeadership is unlocking people’s potential

to become better.

Bill Bradley

Thurs 20 SeptParent/Teacher/Student Interviews

4pm - 5:50pm &

6:50pm - 8:20pm

Fri 21 SeptParent/Teacher/Student Interviews

9am - 10:50am &

11:30am - 12:50pm

Fri 21 Sept Last Day of Term 3

Mon 8 Oct First Day of Term 4

P.O. Box 213 | 55 Burke Street Warragul 3820 | Ph: (03) 5623 9900 | Fax: (03) 5623 4473 | Web: www.wrc.vic.edu.au E-mail: warragul.co@edumail.vic.gov.au

| A.B.N. 19 320 417 831 | CRICOS Provider Code: 00861K

Uniform shop is open every Wednesday of the term from 12:30pm – 4:00pm

UnIfOrM sHOP OPenInG TIMes

This term has seen some changes to our Year 8 program.

In response to our student’s answers on the ‘Student Attitude to School Survey’, we have introduced a series of lessons around relationship development and peer support, with a focus on resilience against bullying and harassment.

A number of our boys have begun a three year program of hands-on, vocation focused learning through the auspice of the Ross Program and McMillan College. Once a week these gentlemen represent the Warragul Regional College, and themselves, whilst working on environmental projects. Their new trainer has more of a building history so they will be able to add to their skills set by working on projects with him. It makes the Year 8 Team very proud to see our boys dressed in their safety work gear, eager to begin their day of tree-planting and riparian restoration.

Twenty of our students sat down to dine with some of our local business people. They were gathered at the Wattleseed Restaurant for a luncheon of networking and light conversation. It can be daunting to have to show excellent table manners and hold up your end of a conversation at the same time. Our ambassadors can be very pleased with their efforts. They made a very positive impression on the local employers who volunteered their time to send it with our students.

We are looking for more experiences like these, especially ones that involve our girls. If any of our readers know of such programs and experiences please share the information with us so we can explore as wide and varied a learning experience as possible.

Year 8 rePOrT

Cheques have arrived for Semester 2 and can be collected at the General Offi ce. Only the bearer of the cheque is permitted to collect it, unless written authorisation is given.

eDUcaTIOn MaInTenance aLLOwance