Issue 8 Term 3 2021

The Year 7 students have kicked off their joint STEM/HUMS Project Based Learning in style with an excursion to the Botanic Gardens and South Australian Museum. The students are drawing inspiration from an Ancient World studied in HUMS to design and create a piece of jewellery in STEM.

Last week they set off to explore some hidden Ancient Egyptian wonders right here in Adelaide. We began by following the Ancient Egypt trail in the Botanic Gardens, which showcases ancient plants that were grown by the Egyptians. 

The students learned that herbs like rosemary and thyme are not only delicious in the bolognese we cook today, but were also used by the Ancient Egyptians to cook, create perfume, and even treat medical conditions.

We were able to see beautiful lotus flowers in bloom and heard the Egyptian creation story of the golden child-God, who emerged from the centre of a lotus and gave light to the world.

After a well-earned recess, the students walked to the South Australian Museum for a special visit to the Ancient Egypt gallery. The students were amazed to learn that there are two real mummified bodies in our museum, a man and woman who lived over 2000 years ago!

We had an inspiring day and the students are already discussing which symbols, plants and objects they might like to include in their jewellery design.

We look forward to seeing their completed jewellery pieces.

STEM/HUMS Teachers

During adolescence, the human brain undergoes significant change with developmental processes still occurring until around the age of 26. Add this to all the other changes that happen during adolescence, and it is no wonder that this developmental period is sometimes referred to as a period of “storm and stress”. 

Unfortunately, some teenagers become victims of bullying and/or harassment, while others become perpetrators or bystanders.  

What is bullying? 

Bullying is an ongoing or repeated misuse of power in relationships, with the intention to cause deliberate harm. Bullying behaviours can be verbal, physical or social. It can happen anywhere – at home, online, with friends, in a group, on the bus, at work, or at school. 

What can you do as a parent or guardian? 

Bullying and harassment are never OK. The behaviours are hurtful and can impact someone for life. 

If your child is a victim, listen to them; be empathic; contact the school, and ask your child if they have informed a teacher. Reassure your child that you are there for them and that they are not to blame (i.e. if they are the victim). Work with the school and seek support from a counsellor or psychologist. 

If your child is the perpetrator of bullying, it is important to reinforce the message that their behaviour is not OK, and that you are there to help them. Seek the support of the school and a counsellor or psychologist. Modelling kindness and assertive communication skills consistently is a powerful teacher. 

Sometimes individuals choose to be bystanders: they witness bullying and/or harassment occurring and do nothing about it. Such behaviour is also not OK. We need to empower our children to speak out against injustice, and let them know that we are there to support them. Encourage your child to speak to a teacher or trusted adult so that action can be taken to stop the bullying. 

Fact sheets about bullying and violence can be accessed in many languages by clicking on the link below: 

https://bullyingnoway.gov.au/Resources/FactSheets/Pages/For-parents-and-carers.aspx  

Bullying and cyberbullying - beyondblue 

www.youthbeyondblue.com/understand-what's-going-on/bullying-and-cyberbullying 

An important message: when someone is being bullied there are two important things to think about – looking after yourself or the person being bullied, and taking action to try to stop the bullying. Tell them to stop. Walk away or ignore them. Talk to someone. Keep a diary. Report the abuse. Focus on looking after yourself. 

Glenn Clifford
Director of Wellbeing 

Every person has the ability to lead in their own way, however formal leadership positions allow students to develop confidence and leadership skills that can promote positive change in culture and collaboration within the community. Weeks 5 and 6 saw the commencement of the student leadership election process for the 2022 Student Leadership positions.

While it is the responsibility of all members of the school community to promote and foster leadership, students have the opportunity to further this commitment through formal leadership positions within a variety of leadership portfolios across all year levels.  Participation in student leadership is encouraged in order to promote student voice, collaboration and student-led decision making.

Two College Captains are elected each year and hold the senior position within the Student Leadership structure. The College Captains work collaboratively to lead the student leadership body, engage in all aspects of the College community and liaise between the students and staff. Each House within our community has a portfolio of student leadership positions, including Year Level Captains, Sports Captain, Arts Captain and Living Justice Captain who make up the remainder of student leadership group. Peer Support Leaders are also elected in Year 10 to support the transition of new students into the community. As a group, the Student Leaders aim to work together to achieve goals, promote a positive culture and sense of belonging within the school.

Students are encouraged to consider and take on a student leadership role as it will allow them to make a difference within the College, learn new skills, work with new people, and represent the College at community events.

New College Captains will be inducted to the College at the Graduation Assembly in Term 4. Information regarding applications for House portfolio and Peer Support Leader positions will be released to students in the coming weeks.

Emma Ward
Senior Years Coordinator

We have a busy calendar of Performing Arts events coming up in the next few weeks and we would love to see our Kildare College community in attendance at the COVID safe events.

Rehearsals have been in full swing for the 80s Mixtape Dance Production which will be presented this week, on Wednesday 1 September and Thursday 2 September at Tandanya. Shake off the legwarmers, hit play on the Walkman and join our dancers as they celebrate the 80s! 

Our Music students are also taking a step back in time to present a showcase of 70s music for your listening pleasure (and a bit of hum-along nostalgia). The Brigidine Centre will be transformed into a live music venue on the evenings of Tuesday 14 September and Wednesday 15 September - relive your earlier years…or experience the 70s for the first time!! Grab your tickets at: https://www.trybooking.com/BTOUS

The Senior Drama class have been working hard to perfect their stage presence so audiences can enjoy 'I’m Not Henry Lawson’s Mother' at The Parks Theatre on the evenings of Thursday 16 September and Friday 17 September. Purchase your tickets at: https://www.trybooking.com/BTQXU

To our wonderful student performers, your efforts and talents are very much noticed and appreciated, thank you! And the enthusiasm and dedication of Ms Sue Nairn, Ms Julia Horne, Mr Russell McGlone, Mrs Hannah King, Ms Carolina Salvo and all supporting staff are present in everything that is performed. To our Kildare College community thank you for supporting Performing Arts at Kildare College and we look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events!

Rebecca Sarvas
Learning Leader Performing Arts

During the course of Term 3 the Learning Enrichment Team have finalised data for the Nationally Consistent Collection of Data (NCCD). This data is collected annually by all schools nationally and includes students who receive reasonable adjustments to ensure equitable outcomes to access education on the same basis as a child without a disability.

The benefits of this data collection is to support teachers, schools, and the government to assist students with disabilities within education. The data, once analysed is used by the College in monitoring and reviewing support systems, processes, and staff professional development to ensure quality improvement in planning, and assisting students who require adjustments.

The NCCD helps empowers staff at the College to enhance their understanding of legislative obligations and the Disability Standards for Education 2005. All information within the data collection is de-identified to protect the privacy and confidentiality of all students, integral to the NCCD collection. For further information please access the website https://www.nccd.edu.au/

This term we welcome Mrs Tricia Crowley who will be employed as an Education Support Officer (ESO) within the Learning Enrichment Team. Tricia has a wealth of experience as a primary school teacher and in the position of an ESO.

Cherrell Murray
Director of Learning Enrichment

Students in Year 7 and 8 STEM are learning to code using the CS in Schools Program. Throughout this program, which has been created and facilitated by industry professionals, students learn the fundamentals of coding using the Python language.

After a series of engaging workshops, students then code their own game, based on a 'choose your own adventure' storyline. This program aims to bridge the gap that Australia will face in the near future. It is estimated that there will be over 100,000 new IT jobs created in Australia by 2024, but Australia has fewer than 7,000 university-qualified IT graduates each year. This could be due to students not getting the opportunity to study engaging digital technology courses at school.

Julia Groutsch
Learning Leader

Students in the Year 12 Child Studies class have investigated the importance of children developing problem solving skills through play. Play allows children to use their creativity while developing imagination, dexterity, and physical, cognitive and emotional strength. It allows children to create and explore a world they can make mistakes in and learn from.

Technologic toys allow children to further develop these skills, while also developing problem solving strategies. The simplest form of technology is the development and use of basic tools to apply skills, techniques or knowledge.

The Year 12 students used their research to design and create a range of technologic toys including: magnetic fishing games, alphabet maze, puzzles, a shopping kit, a weather station, a clock puzzle and weaving kits. Students used a range of materials and utilised their own technology, such as sewing machines and laser cutters, to create safe and inclusive toys that promote problem-solving thinking.

The Year 12 students develop their own problem-solving skills to create original and outstanding toys, and demonstrate clear understandings of how to practically apply their research.

Emma Ward
Child Studies Teacher

Katie Joyce from Cadence Pilates ran a Mat Pilates class with the students in Year 9. The students have been learning about fitness components, training methods and training principles.

Throughout the unit the students have been exposed to many different types of fitness and a Pilates class was a great way to conclude the unit.

The students had a lot of fun, embraced the challenge, and expressed how great it was to experience a type of training no one had done before.

Alicia Whitton
PE Teacher

 Kildare College vs Nurioopta High School 

A beautiful sunny morning and a magnificent Thebarton Oval deck welcomed our Kildare for their big dance; the AFL knockout Grand Final!

It was perfect conditions for footy and our team approached the first bounce with excitement, energy and determination. Nurioopta made an impressive start with early consecutive goals. The match was a battle until the very end, and a calamity of injuries for Kildare unfortunately made it too difficult to bridge the early gap that Nurioopta set.

The team never gave up though and showed some inspiring grit, even when all the chips were down, to push through to the last siren and show everyone why they were deserved Grand Finalists. 

Georgina, our runner for the day, had this account of yesterday's game:  

"Before getting out on the field, coaches Miss McAteer and Miss Hughes gave the team a good pep talk. Kildare did not have the best first quarter which got into their heads, but they kept playing which is all we could ask for. The second quarter was much better and we managed to get a score on the board. Everyone was trying their best and had lots of encouraging words. 

By half time, unfortunately there were a few injuries and we were left with no subs. In the third quarter Kildare was still giving it their all and stopped Nurioopta from kicking any goals. In the last quarter the Superstar Liv scored the goal of the game. Overall, the team gave it everything they could and unfortunately could not bring home the flag. 

Miss McAteer and Miss Hughes are so proud of the team and cannot wait to bring home the flag next year!"

Carmine Caroso
Sports Developemtn Officer

Open As Grand Final Winners

Kildare 2 defeated Sacred Heart 1 in the Grand Final of the Open A Soccer Competition.

The team played an amazing game with all players working hard. It was a very close game with Aleisha (Goalie) making a couple of incredible saves to help the team come away with the win. Monique scored both goals for Kildare - one from the penalty spot. 

This is the third year in a row the Open As have made it to the Grand Ginal - and finally they won it!

Open Cs

Kildare 4 def Loreto 2 to finish 6th in the Open C Soccer Competition.

While they had not managed a win all season (only a draw previously) the team was  determined not to finish bottom - they gave a convincing performance against Loreto with Loralai scoring 3 goals and Fershta scoring 1 goal.  Well done to all players. 

Junior /Middle Cs

Kildare 2 lost to Cardijn 7 to finish 2nd in the Junior/Middle C Soccer Competition.

The final score line did not reflect the effort from the players, coming up against a strong Cardijn team, Kildare scored within the first 2 minutes! However, this seemed to spark the opposition into life - and the team found themselves 1-5 down at half time.

To the team's credit they re-grouped and rallied, scoring again in the second half and narrowly missing converting a penalty. Cardijn managed another 2 goals but certainly didn't have it all their way in this half. Special mention to Ashley in goals - even a bee sting at the half time did not stop her from pulling on the gloves and facing the opposition again. 

A great effort from all the players and look forward to next years successes.

Carmine Caruso
Sports Development Officer

Battling through a tough schedule consisting of 5 separate games in one day, Kildare finished the round robin tournament with an impressive 3 wins and 2 losses!

After a shaky start and an unfortunate bus delay that affected preparation for their first game, the players rallied brilliantly to win the last 3 games of the day. Their mighty effort puts them in contention to make it to the next round of the knockout phase! 

Coach Molly Hynes had this to say about the student’s effort: "I was able to coach the amazing Year 7 Basketball team. By the 3rd game, the team began to display great teamwork gaining their first win of the day, 18-8 playing Northfield. From there, Kildare won their 4th game 10-2 playing Aldgate. For the final game, the score was close, but the team pushed through winning 13-10.

We are all so proud of the team for their exceptional sportsmanship and for representing Kildare throughout the day."

"What a fantastic effort!" 

Carmine Caruso
Sports Development Officer

The environmental committee participated in a day out with KESAB, to further develop our knowledge around recycling and more importantly gain ideas about how to improve Kildare’s sustainability and waste management.

The group took a guided tour with Wendy from KESAB around various landfill and recycling centres. It was really interesting to see firsthand the methods used to recycled household rubbish and items into reusable objects.

On our return to The Parks Recreation Centre, Wendy helped better educate us about what should go into the various waste and recycle bins; it was very interesting to learn how easy it can be to recycle our household and school waste properly.

As a bit of fun, we all participated in a recycling relay to test our understanding of what we had learned about recycling and waste management. Overall, the day was a huge success and very informative; the students gained insight about what happens behind the scenes in the recycling process. This definitely helped educate everyone about how we can improve our school environment and consider the sustainability of resources.

Angie Selga
Enviromental Committee

After our recent excursion to various landfill and recycle centres with KESAB staff, the Environmental Group and Year 8 students currently studying sustainability, were invited to participate in a bees-wax wraps making session.

Wendy from KESAB explained why sustainable wraps like those we made are friendly to the environment; they can be cleaned and reused, have a life expectancy of approximately 12 months, and can be re-waxed. More importantly, they are a better alternative than plastic cling wrap.  

The colourful wraps include hand drawn designs as well as brightly coloured patterns; they are made with all cotton fabric and brush-coated with organic beeswax. The group intend to sell the wraps on Brigidine Day – so look out for them!

Angie Selga
Environmental Committee

Congratulations to our Year 9 debate team for their win against Nazareth Catholic College in their fourth debate for the season.

Students Kavishi, Abby and Katya presented compelling arguments against establishing a nuclear waste storage facility in regional Australia, elegantly rebutting their opposition and impressing the adjudicator. 

Please wish them luck for the next round where they will be arguing that the Julie Bishop barbie doll sends the wrong message!

Linda Dolling and Zefi Pezos
Debating Coaches

Positive Partnerships is a national project funded by the Australian Government Department of Education, Skills and Employment helping families, children and schools deliver diverse and tailored programs by Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect).They are the largest provider of services for people who have been diagnosed with Autism.

In September Positive Partnerships is implementing some new webinars for parents, carers, teachers, or anyone working with or supporting a young person with Autism. Please find additional information about these programs by accessing the website https://www.positivepartnerships.com.au/

Cherrell Murray
Director of Learning Enrichment.