Annual Report - The Southport School

Annual Report
2007
Our Vision
The Southport School will be
acknowledged as a world class
day and boarding school for boys,
a balanced and holistic Christian
learning community in the Anglican
tradition, working with families to
create outstanding young men who are
confident, happy and responsible, with
highly developed skills in the areas of
leadership, thinking, creativity and
emotional intelligence.
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Annual Report 2007
Annual Report
2007
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Contents
4
About The Southport School
5
Strategic Priorities
5
Headmaster
6
Chairman of the School Council
10
Deputy Headmaster/Dean of Students
12
Dean of Studies
13
Dean of Learning and Teaching
14
Senior School Head of Departments
16
Art
16
Business and Enterprise Education 16
Drama
17
English
18
English Communication
18
ESL (English as a Second Language)
19
Film, Television and New Media
20
Health and Physical Education
20
Humanities
20
Information Technology
21
LOTE (Languages Other Than English)
21
Learning Support in English
22
Mathematics
22
Music
23
Outdoor Education
23
Religious Education
24
Science
25
Technology
25
Master of the Preparatory School
26
Old Southportonians’ Association
28
The Southport School Foundation Limited
29
Parents & Friends Association
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Annual Report 2007
About The Southport School
Founded in 1901, The Southport School (TSS) is an
Renowned for our balanced and holistic approach
Anglican day and boarding school for boys from Prep
to boys’ education, we recognise that boys think and
Year to Year 12 with boarding available from Year 5
learn differently from girls. Cutting-edge educational
TSS is a member of the Great Public Schools’
Association (GPS) and it is the only boys’ school and
boys’ boarding school on the Gold Coast.
practices include Leadership Development, Emotional
Intelligence and Thinking Skills. We also provide
integrated programs of co-curricular and academic,
with a low student-to-staff ratio.
Strategic Priorities
• Strengthen our academic ethos
• “Learning to Lead”, the creation of a Leadership
Development Framework for all boys from Prep to
• Provide a safe and secure environment where all our
Year 12 with strands in:
boys are valued, and bullying of any kind is seen by
staff and boys as unacceptable
• Develop world class programs specialising in
education for boys
o Emotional Intelligence
o Thinking Skills and Problem Solving
o Experiential learning of leadership in Cadets,
Outdoor Education and Service programs,
• Enhance Prep to Year 12 themes and initiatives; one
example is the teaching of Science, Mathematics,
Engineering, and spatial intelligence through
Specialised Lego™ and Robotics
… aiming to empower our young men to responsibly and effectively serve their
families and communities.
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Headmaster
Mr Greg Wain
“Five years ago in Year 8, I joined a School and a House …
in two week’s time I will be leaving a family”
(Dorian, Valedictorian 2007)
with current boys and Old Boy fathers, uncles and
grandfathers proved to be a festive family occasion
which was appreciated by all.
Friday’s Older Old Boys’ Assembly attracted more
than 40 men who started at TSS more than 60 years
“TSS is a place where we grow, not just learn”
ago. All were very excited about returning with one
(Mitchell, Valedictorian 2007)
86-year-old reportedly bursting spontaneously into the
“This has been the best year of my life, with the best bunch of
mates you could want”
(Daniel, Valedictorian 2007)
Comments such as these from our graduating class,
quoted from a number of House Supper speeches this
year, give life to the view that The Southport School
(TSS) is indeed a community; a community where
boys feel connected to their School, and support
and encourage one another. It is well known that
war cry ‘Tokio’ as he was driven up the driveway and
spotted the clocktower!
Saturday was made even more exciting for all by the
wonderful game against a talented Ipswich Grammar
1st XV which was the play-off for the outright 2007
GPS Premiership. The TSS 1st XV, buoyed by the
massive home crowd support, played one of their best
games of the season and provided further cause for the
Old Boys to celebrate.
connectiveness to school is an important protective
Year 12 Leading the Way - Be it the spirit
factor for young people, and an important way to build
shown at sporting events, at the Older Old Boys’
confidence in adolescents.
Assembly, or during the Queensland Core Skills test,
TSS is committed through our Vision to provide
a ‘balanced and holistic’ program and to build a
‘Christian learning community’. Our boys have a
myriad of opportunities to connect with their School
through involvement in a wide range of academic,
spiritual, sporting and cultural activities. This Annual
Report outlines many of these activities and programs.
OSA Centenary - Many of our activities and
programs are strongly linked to another distinctive
characteristic of TSS, our history and traditions.
The Old Southportonians’ Association celebrated
congratulations are due to our 2007 Year 12s. The
School has been ably led by School Captain Brodie
Cunningham, Vice Captain Angus Lockhart, the
Prefects and Wardens and many, many other Year
12s who stepped up when needed and also set a fine
example by the mature and responsible manner in
which they conducted themselves at all School events
this year.
The 2007 Seniors will be well remembered for their
cohesion as a group and the spirit they contributed to
the School community.
its Centenary this year and we congratulate OSA
Prep School Growth - My thanks to Dr Wood
President, Mr Jay Carter, and all involved in
and the Prep teachers on another wonderful year of
organising the myriad of events associated with the
learning, fun and development for our ‘Preppies’. We
OSA Centenary Weekend. The 600 plus guests present
now have more than 500 boys at the Prep campus
at the black tie dinner on the Saturday night had a
and April 2007 saw the opening of the new Pearson
most enjoyable evening.
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The Generations Dinner on the Thursday night
Annual Report 2007
Preparatory Year Building named to honour Mr Ron
mark this important time in the Christian calendar.
Pearson, past Master of the Prep.
Special services also were held at Prep. The washing of
Mr Pearson and his family and friends appreciated
the opportunity to view the building during school
time as the 60 new Prep Year boys brought it alive. Mr
the feet of 12 boys by the Chaplain, Headmaster and
School Captain symbolises the servant leadership we
aspire to at TSS.
Pearson talked of his times at TSS and caught up with
On the occasions when boys are offered Prefect or
many of his past students, one of whom was Mr Derek
Warden positions, we meet in the Chapel to remind
Murphy, Chairman of the School Council.
the boys that we are a Christian school and we must
At the beginning of the year, the following internal
appointments were made.
Ms Nicole Dewley - Curriculum Coordinator
Mr Andrew Philp - Sports Master
Mr Stewart Eglington - Coordinator of Students and
Staff
Ms Trisha Matthias – Music Master
Anglican Ethos - The Chapel of St Alban, built
on the highest part of the grounds, is the spiritual
and community heart of TSS. To continue a recent
tradition started in 2006, the School Council Chapel
Service was held in June as part of the School
Council’s commitment to faith development and the
mission of the Church.
Earlier in the year the School Council Chairman,
Mr Derek Murphy, the Head Sacristan, Alexander
McDonald, and I represented TSS at the consecration
of Bishop Geoff Smith (previously the Archdeacon of
the Gold Coast) as the new Bishop of the Southern
Region. Several of our parents also were present as we
conveyed the prayers and best wishes of the School to
our new Bishop.
At Easter time, School Chaplain Father Bryan and
Father Harry from St Peter’s Southport officiated at
our End of Term Eucharist. It was a most suitable
way, especially with the feet washing ceremony, to
model our leadership on the example set by Christ.
Meeting in the Chapel also reminds us of the history
and traditions of this School and lends further
significance to the commitment the boys are making
in taking up these positions.
The commitment of the School to community service
is often highlighted by virtue of our Round Square
membership, but fundamentally it flows from our
Christian, Anglican ethos. From the Shave for a Cure
Leukemia Foundation which raised many thousands
of dollars across Prep and Secondary, to Queensland
Guide Dogs, and on to the variety of community
service and fundraising ventures completed by Prep
classes and secondary Houses, TSS boys rightly can
feel that they are making a difference in the lives of
many people less fortunate.
Academics - It has been particularly pleasing to
note the number of Year 12 students who completed
an exit survey this year and mentioned the steady
development in the area of academic ethos. Certainly
it has been noticed by teachers and parents. This has
been a key strategic priority with Dean of Studies,
Mr Michael Turley, as a significant driver of academic
development.
At the time of writing, the OP results are still some
weeks away. However, I was pleased to be able to
compliment the Year 12s on their effort and focus
during the Queensland Core Skills Test. The high
level of application by all boys in the Centenary
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Centre, in particular on the afternoon of the second
XISupports and contributes to our cultural
day, was a most pleasing sight and a credit to the boys
themselves.
programs.
XIISupports and contributes to our physical
During this year the Dean of Learning and Teaching,
Mr John Stir, and I have been working with the
teachers to continue to develop our ‘Model of the
development /sporting programs.
XIIIModels outstanding professionalism in terms
of:
Ideal Teacher at TSS’. This model will include a
number of ‘Domains’, each of which will have a clear
responding
descriptor for ‘competent’ level performance, and a
descriptor for ‘ideal’ level performance for teachers to
work towards.
I
School
(emotionally intelligent) relationships within
the community.
II
Possesses the required literacy, numeracy and
essential knowledge in their teaching areas.
IIIMakes learning relevant and applicable to
real world situations.
IVKnows, understands and can effectively teach
thinking skills.
VKnows, understands and can develop boys’
o Development and sharing of ideas and
resources with colleagues
o Contribution to the professional
development of colleagues.
Sport, Music and Cultural Programs - The many
interests and achievements of the boys across our wide
range of sports and activities are well documented
herein, and in the Southportonian magazine. The
opportunities in this area are an integral part of the
balanced and holistic TSS program and I urge parents
to encourage their son(s) to look anew at all that is
on offer at the start of next year to ensure each boy
is availing himself of these opportunities to grow, to
intelligent dispositions such as persistence,
learn new skills and to learn to work cooperatively
metacognition, controlling impulsivity and
with others.
other Habits of Mind.
VIEstablishes a boy-friendly classroom
Rowing 1907 - 2007: A Proud Heritage - After
last year’s Centenary of Cadets, and as a fitting lead
environment, has positive and productive
up to the OSA Centenary, March saw the festivities
relationships with boys, an understanding of
associated with the Rowing Centenary.
boys’ brains, child and adolescent development,
and how to develop boys’ emotional
intelligence.
VII Understands each boy’s learning style and
thinking style.
VIII Monitors student progress and provides
effective feedback.
IXPlans and organises effective curriculum units
and lessons.
XSupports and contributes to the leadership
development of the boys.
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Supports and contributes to our Christian
community and the safe and encouraging
o Pursuing professional goals which are
aligned with the Vision and Strategies of the
The model includes the following Domains for
teachers:
o Reflective practice – seeking feedback and
Annual Report 2007
The Old Boys invited the 2007 First VIII as the guests
of honour and the past rowers in attendance included
members from the 2006 First VIII all the way back to
men in their eighties who rowed for TSS in the 1940s,
an amazing and fascinating gathering.
Those present were lucky enough to have three
Headmasters present on the night, and even luckier to
hear speeches from all three! Mr Isla Lee, legendary
TSS rowing coach during the 1980s and now Head
of Rockhampton Grammar School spoke, as did Mr
Ian Lambert, stroke of the winning crew in 1978 and
recently appointed Head of The Scots College in
Sydney and myself. I thank and commend Old Boys
later. Not all in the community are able to contribute
Mr Jeremy King and Mr Bruce Wright on organising
more than school fees, but many are lucky enough
the dinner, the souvenir magazine, the DVD and the
to be in a position to help develop and advance the
entertaining speeches to honour both TSS Rowing
school, and thus benefit the boys.
and the many people who have contributed to this rich
part of our history
Many of our Old Boys and parents already are
philanthropic towards TSS, giving of time, money,
It was equally a privilege the following night to attend
goods or services to benefit the School and the boys,
the post-Head of the River Rowing Dinner on the
both current and future.
Saturday night as Headmaster of a school, which
does not just have an incredible history and revered
traditions, but also includes a large group of current
boys who have the character and fortitude to sign up
for, and complete, a full season of one of our most
arduous and demanding tests of physical and mental
abilities, and train hard enough to be competitive
with much larger schools who have many more boys
rowing.
Over the past two years, under the guidance of the
Fundraising Steering Committee, c haired by School
Council member, Old Boy and current parent Mr
Bruce Wright, we have been consulting widely to plan
an effective way forward in terms of philanthropy. We
have received much good advice, and have certainly
received the message that parents and Old Boys
want the opportunity to be part of building a Capital
Investment Fund where the capital base is invested
Headmaster’s Trip to Country Queensland -
wisely, but never used for current projects. This Fund
Having visited Longreach and towns in between in my
has been established and the earnings will be utilised
first year at TSS, I committed to returning every three
for approved projects. A clear commitment has been
years to renew contacts and talk to local people - Old
given by the Council, Foundation and Headmaster
Boys, current parents and future parents.
that the donated capital in this fund will not be
The three years came around quickly and, during
touched.
September, I drove to Dalby, Barcaldine and
The vision is that the Capital Investment Fund will
Longreach to meet current and prospective parents,
both endow and ensure the long-term future of this
and then attended the Isolated Children’s Parents
great School.
Association Conference at Tambo. On the return
journey I hosted a function at Roma.
Obviously some parents and Old Boys will wish to
have the option to donate to a current project; for
The presence of country boarders at TSS is an integral
example, the new rowing and water activity centre
part of our history and a key aspect to our unique
on the river, the Sheil Building replacement, or the
spirit and we are acutely aware of the sacrifices our
Leadership Development Centre and lecture theatre.
country parents make to have their boys attend TSS.
This option always will be available, in addition to the
As I see the boys enjoying their time here and growing
option of donating to the Country Boarder Bursary
into outstanding young men, I know it is a very
Fund or other scholarship funds.
worthwhile effort that all our parents are making.
Director of Philanthropy Appointment - To be
Building a Culture of Philanthropy -
a key driver in generating a culture of philanthropy
‘Philanthropic’ refers to an altruistic, benevolent,
in order for us to provide world-class facilities and
charitable approach to others, a willingness to help
programs and to ensure the long term future of TSS,
others in a practical way.
we have appointed a Director of Philanthropy, Mr
In a school setting, this usually means that people
in the school community - parents, Old Boys, staff
- understand there is a need for a particular program
Jock Beveridge. I am absolutely delighted that an
appropriately qualified, experienced, and passionate
Old Boy has been appointed to this position.
or facility, and make a philanthropic contribution to
I thank all members of the community for their
ensure the boys have the benefits sooner rather than
support of The Southport School during the past
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year. Thank you in particular to our hard working
our administration and governance, our resources
and dedicated staff and to the School Council, the
and facilities, student welfare, workplace health and
committed group of volunteers led by Old Boy Mr
safety, and our legal compliance with a vast range of
Derek Murphy, who are effectively the Board of
Government legislation. I also would like to thank the
Directors and who are the day-to-day stewards of
Headmaster, the Master of the Preparatory School,
TSS for the Archbishop and our owners, the Anglican
the Business Manager, Dr John Stir and Ms Nicole
Diocese of Brisbane.
Dewley who assisted the Committee to accomplish
Please do enjoy reading the remainder of our Annual
Report.
Chairman of the School Council
Mr Derek Murphy
2007 was a successful year for The Southport School.
After obtaining the best ever OP 1 results in the
this important task. I also would like to thank Mr Greg
Rix, President of the Parents and Friends and Mrs Jo
Kochner, President of Friends of Prep, who helped in
the validation process of the accreditation. Although
the exercise was bureaucratic and time consuming,
our first attempt at accreditation was successful, and
it will be easier in future years having undertaken this
inaugural process.
School’s history, and a significant improvement in
In September, School Council held a strategic
our academic ethos, I believe the School is now well
planning session to debate a number of key issues
positioned to build on the solid platform that the
concerning the future of the School. As part of that
senior management team has put in place to greatly
process, the Deputy Headmaster, Mr Alan Parsons
improve our academic standing in the eyes of parents
was asked to conduct a survey of Boarding at TSS,
and the whole School community. We will not rest
and I would like to thank him sincerely for his
on our laurels and continue to ensure that every boy
thorough and detailed report. We discussed academic
achieves the best he can academically.
subject offerings in light of a report from the Dean of
The pre-eminent task required of the School Council
in 2007 was the cyclical accreditation required by
the Non-State School’s Accreditation Board, a
Queensland Government instrumentality which
approves continued funding for accredited schools.
This task was undertaken by an Accreditation Review
Committee with the outstanding assistance of former
Deputy Headmaster, Mr Chris Alderson. I would
like to thank him personally for the time and effort
Studies, Mr Michael Turley whom I also would like to
thank. The senior management team has been tasked
with implementing the outcome of that discussion.
We examined our priority list of capital works and
again resolved that the most pressing project is the
demolition and rebuilding of the existing Sheil
Building to provide world-class academic facilities for
both teachers and students. This will essentially be a
School project.
he put into ensuring that the School complied with
From a philanthropic perspective, our priority is
our statutory responsibilities under the legislation in
the Aquatic centre on the Nerang River. The recent
a timely manner. It was an onerous task, requiring
appointment of a Director of Philanthropy, Mr Jock
validation of almost every aspect of our programs,
Beveridge, an Old Boy of TSS, will assist in this
both academic and co-curricular, our financial viability,
important endeavour, and plans are being drawn up to
facilitate this project.
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Annual Report 2007
Another initiative of the School Council in 2007
encourage at The Southport School, now re-branded
has been the establishment of a Capital Investment
as TSS. While some things change, our traditions and
Fund to allow prospective donors to donate capital
commitment remain constant in providing a holistic
for School projects which will be invested by an
education where education embraces the whole of life,
appointed committee such that only the income from
and where boys are encouraged to discover their full
the capital will be applied to such projects. The capital
potential. To that extent, I hope that more boys will
will remain intact and hopefully grow substantially in
become involved in Round Square activities at the
future years. This new committee is chaired by Old
School and their parents will encourage them to do
Boy Angus Douglas who is the managing director of
so. It really is a wonderful opportunity to participate
one of the largest securities firms on the Gold Coast,
in Round Square projects such as the rebuilding of
and an acknowledged expert in his field. He will
schools in Peru devastated by the massive earthquake
be ably assisted by Mr John English and Mr Peter
last year. It also provides opportunities to meet
Graham, the nominated School Council representative.
students of differing cultures and religions and foster
I would like to thank Mr Bruce Wright, Chairman of
understanding and respect for others.
the Fundraising Steering Committee who has worked
tirelessly to get this project under way.
During the year, the members of the School Council,
for the first time ever as far as I know, undertook a
During the year, a new committee of the School
personal evaluation of their own contribution to the
Council to be known as the Audit and Risk
work of the governing body and its committees. Mr
Committee was established in accordance with
Wayne Jones, a retired partner of KPMG on the Gold
guidelines promulgated by the Anglican Schools’
Coast, greatly assisted in this continuing process of
Commission. As a Diocesan-owned school, we are
improvement and refinement in the governance of the
obliged to conform to their governance model which
School in our quest to be recognised as ‘world class’.
has been drawn up after wide consultation. It is to be
independently chaired by Old Boy Mr Simon Bennett,
a partner in a Gold Coast law firm, and I would like
to thank Simon for his willingness to undertake this
important role.
At the end of 2007, Mr Scott Fraser will retire
from the School Council. On behalf of my fellow
Councillors, I would like to thank Scott for his
invaluable contribution to Council and particularly
for his special insight into the problems and issues
In October, I led the School delegation to the
relating to the Boarding Houses in which he showed
International Round Square Conference held at Daly
a particular interest. To travel all the way from
College in Indore, India. More than 600 delegates
Thargomindah to Southport to attend Building and
from 61 schools participated in a most successful and
Grounds Committee meetings and School Council
exciting conference. Our boys acquitted themselves
meetings demonstrated Scott’s commitment and
extremely well. Round Square provides both staff
enthusiasm for a such devoted service to the School.
and students opportunities for exchanges with other
We shall miss him.
Round Square Schools and promotes the Ideals of
leadership, internationalism, democracy, adventure,
the environment and service, all of which we
I would like to thank my fellow members of Council
for their enormous contribution during the year, and
in particular to the chair of the Finance Committee,
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Mr Paul Steer and the chair of the Building and
Year levels, 8 through to 12. With this new grouping
Grounds Committee, my Deputy Chairman Mr
in place, ideal opportunities exist for mentoring of
Fraser Perrin, who has stood in for me regularly
the younger boys by the senior students and the
during overseas trips.
opportunity for boys to develop relationships with
May I wish everyone a happy and Holy Christmas and
a prosperous New Year.
Deputy Headmaster
/Dean of Students
Mr Alan Parsons
2007 saw the introduction of two significant new
initiatives through the Student Services department.
The first of these was the re-introduction of the
Services program into the School Timetable,
scheduled each Friday afternoon. During this period,
all Year 8 boys meet for a program specifically designed
to meet their needs as the newest members of the
Senior School. All Year 9 and Year 10 boys participated
in the Cadet program, with the choice of joining
one of the three corps, Army, Navy or Air Force.
Many of our Years 11 and 12 boys choose to stay in
the Cadet program, providing the leadership needed
for the program’s success. These boys have attended
leadership and promotion courses that have enabled
them to develop skills with applications well beyond
school life, as they look eventually to becoming
leaders in the world of business, law, government
and the wider community. For those boys who chose
not to continue in the Cadet program, a Community
Service program has been developed by staff including
time, only minimal changes to these groups will
occur as the senior boys graduate and new Year 8 boys
join. This will naturally lead to stronger relationships
developing also between the boys and their Pastoral
Care teachers who will have responsibility for them
for their five years at the School.
As Student Services strives to best care for our boys’
welfare, further changes are planned for 2008. In
keeping with the School’s Strategic Priorities which
include to ‘provide a safe, supportive and encouraging
environment for all our boys’, we continue to follow
the guidelines set by the National Safe Schools’
Framework in designing policies and procedures to
create and maintain such an environment. A series
of brochures has been designed to outline clearly the
School’s position on providing such an environment
for all our community. Parents and staff will each
receive a copy of the brochure, Creating a Safe School
Environment while all boys will receive the brochure
How I can be Safe at School. Additionally, early in 2008
all boys in Years 8 and 9, as a part of the Pastoral Care
Program, will receive a brochure entitled Are You
Being Treated Unfairly by Others? The contents of this
brochure will form the basis of several Pastoral Care
sessions.
initiatives such as mathematics tuition provided for
Boarding at TSS continues to be strong, with a
students at the Preparatory School, courses in first
community of about 275 boarders made up of 190 full
aid and life saving, support for local, national and
boarders and 85 weekly boarders. In addition, many
international charities, involvement in Round Square
day boys each year take advantage of the occasional
projects and many others.
boarding opportunities offered to gain a new and
The House system at TSS is fundamental to the
workings of the School and the sense of belonging
and security our boys enjoy. This tangible feeling of
belonging to a group outside of the immediate family
has been recognised universally as a most significant
protective factor for boys. The second major initiative
designed to enhance student welfare at TSS involved
a re-organisation of the Pastoral Care groups within
each House. Rather than boys being assigned to a
group of boys in the same Year level, each Pastoral
Care group now consists of boys from each of the five
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boys from Year groups other than their own. Over
Annual Report 2007
unique life experience. Under the guidance and
leadership of Mr John Wallace, new innovations to
the boarding community include supervised prep
for the junior boarders three evenings per week.
At these sessions, in addition to boarding staff
supervisors, tutors are available to assist the boarders
with problems they may encounter with homework
or assignments. The improvement in the academic
outcomes for these boys this year has been quite
noticeable and pleasing.
Several new initiatives will be introduced in 2008 in
reporting process is completed appropriately. This
the areas of Community Service, the Cadet program,
can result in students completing their summative
the House system, boarding and pastoral care all aimed
assessment some weeks before the end of a semester.
at enhancing our student welfare focus and catering
Some schools address this problem by moving the
for the needs of our boys.
reporting into the following semester, so that parents
Dean of Studies
Mr Michael Turley
Within the Studies Department, 2007 has been a year
of implementing and consolidating changes that were
introduced last year and initiating new directions
and students do not receive the Semester One report
until well into Semester Two. We do not consider this
to be an appropriate solution since we feel that reports
are action documents that should provide feedback
and advice that can be acted upon right at the start of a
new semester.
for next year. Last year was my first year here at TSS
In order to provide parents and a student with a report
and so it was incumbent upon me to quickly identify
that gives accurate and well-considered feedback and
those areas in the academic sphere where the need
without having a reporting process that unduly eats
for change was most widely recognised. It was readily
into academic time, we have, this year, revamped
apparent to me at the time that Year 10 was an area in
our reporting system. A senior school environment
particular need of attention. Changing the structure of
is one where students have a range of specialist
Year 10 was motivated by two principle aims: to better
teachers for each of their subjects. Experienced senior
prepare Year 10 students for the subjects we offer in
school teachers have a very clear understanding and
Year 11 and 12 and to give Year 10 students a much
knowledge of the challenges students face in their
clearer understanding of the nature of these subjects,
subjects and can easily give specific and targeted
so that subject selections could be made with much
advice to students who are looking to improve their
more confidence at the end of Year 10. This year each
performance. Towards the end of last year and early
elective subject that we offer in Year 11 and 12 has
this year, teachers in the Senior School have been
been represented by a one-semester elective in Year
working, within faculty groups, to produce a bank
10. The structure of each Year 10 electives mirrors the
of recognition and advice comments that are specific
structure of its corresponding Year 11 and 12 subjects,
to their academic area. The members of each faculty
in both delivery and assessment. In order to help with
were given the challenge of ensuring that comments
subject selection, Year 10s were issued with a mid-
produced would be able to cover all of the areas of
Semester Two progress report, in addition to the mid-
their subject where advice could be meaningfully
Semester One and end-of-Semester One reports. As
and helpfully given. As a result, the comment banks
a result of this preparation and reporting, the process
produced are large and diverse. Once these banks of
of selecting subjects for Year 11 ran far more smoothly
comments were completed, they were passed through
this year, with most boys selecting their subjects with
a rigorous checking and proofreading process to fully
confidence. It is my belief that, as a result of this
ensure the advice being given was clear and free of
initiative, far fewer students will look to make subject
educational jargon. Completing this proofreading
changes in Year 11 next year.
process carefully and properly at this time means that
Last year a significant amount of time was devoted
to preparing for a change in the reporting processes
that we have been using in the Senior School. This
change was implemented this year. In preparing the
academic calendar for a new year we always are faced
with the challenge of ensuring that the classroom
time is used effectively. An overly cumbersome and
time-consuming reporting system requires teachers
to complete their assessment early to ensure the
the same proofreading process does not have to be
completed at the end of each semester, significantly
reducing the amount of time that has to be committed
to the reporting process. The Pastoral Care reports,
written by Tutors and Housemasters, that accompanies
the Academic Report, continues to be written in
free-hand since these reports do not depend upon
the completion of assessment to be written. The
new reporting format also gives a greater amount
of information about what each student has been
13
learning during the semester and also gives the total
in the Senior School has been through a long process
number of grades awarded for each subject, in order
of choosing new furniture for their classrooms and
to compare the student’s progress with the progress of
have been consulting colour charts to find ways to
the rest of the students engaged in that subject.
make the inside of their classrooms more appealing
In the Senior School at TSS we do our best to meet
the academic needs of all of our students, wherever
they lie on the academic spectrum. For students with
leaning difficulties it is important that the School is
open and clear about the limitations of our facilities
and expertise in this area. While we have a number
begin 2008 with new classroom furniture and a fresh
appearance to the inside of their classrooms.
Dean of Learning & Teaching
Mr John Stir
of systems in place to help students with learning
During 2007, a sustained emphasis has been placed
difficulties, TSS is not a school that specialises in
on effective and ongoing professional development
helping students with high-level learning difficulties.
of teaching staff. While keeping teachers abreast
On the other end of the spectrum, 2007 has seen a
of current research that has relevance for boys’
number of developments targeted at our academic
learning, we have attempted to build on existing
high achievers. In Year 10 this year, we have had a class
teacher expertise and to promote additional sharing of
of students studying Year 11 English and a class of
examples of successful teaching practice.
students studying Year 11 Mathematics B. Most of the
students in these classes have continued to perform
very well throughout the year and are very keen to
continue on to Year 12 in these subjects next year. This
will give them a range of interesting options when
they progress into Year 12 in their other subjects.
During this year we also have been looking at ways
in which we can improve our identification of Gifted
& Talented students and the assistance that we can
provide them. A much broader range of measures has
been used this year to identify these students and to
develop programs that meet their needs. In addition
to this, our Honours Program has gained greater
Teachers have been encouraged to attend relevant
conferences and to reflect on their experiences in
light of their own classroom practice. The sharing
of these experiences and reflections forms the basis
of many of the professional development sessions.
A good example would be the introduction of
interactive whiteboards and the accompanying
teacher workshops. At the Prep School, emphasis
also has been placed on increasing the opportunities
for student enquiry. This has been accompanied by
teacher workshops on teaching strategies essential to
enhance boys’ creative and lateral thinking.
focus this year by reducing the number of assessment
This year a substantial element of professional
items given to each student while, at the same time,
development has been familiarisation with the new
increasing the level of quality required.
Standards for Teachers set out by the Queensland
Towards the end of this year my focus has turned
towards the interior of the classrooms here at TSS. I
have had a long-standing belief in the importance of
the physical environment for good learning. The staff
14
and interesting. Most of the Senior School will
Annual Report 2007
College of Teachers. The standards are not new
requirements for teachers, they simply articulate
what good teachers commonly do and give all
teachers a benchmark for reflection, and career-long,
professional growth.
More than 30 of the more experienced teachers have
The Prep G&T program has focused on higher
planned and implemented Senior Teacher Projects
order thinking skills and extensions in numeracy and
that have the express intention of furthering teaching
literacy. Senior G&T boys have worked on developing
excellence. These projects vary widely, often extend
their thinking dispositions and skills while examining
beyond normal classroom practice and encompass the
topics such as brain physiology, emotional intelligence,
whole School. An element of sharing is built into all
independent work habits, overcoming thinking blocks,
proposals.
accelerated learning and successful learning strategies.
Teachers have been kept informed of the latest Federal
Our Honours Program has increased in flexibility,
and State education initiatives, allowing TSS to be
allowing further opportunity for high ability students
proactive in upgrading curriculum at all levels. Key
to study academic subjects in greater depth and to
considerations are the new Queensland essential
enrich and accelerate their learning. Importantly, this
learnings, learning standards and ICT literacy. For
program also provides these opportunities for those
Years 8 and 9, a new format has been developed that
students who are high achievers through persistence
ensures a common language and elements of planning.
and hard work.
A comprehensive review and enrichment of the
Prep curriculum has been ongoing this year with an
emphasis on integration of subject matter, catering for
different learning needs and the infusion of thinking
skills.
This year we have embarked on a major initiative
that promotes, recognises and rewards high quality
teaching across the full range of academic, cultural
and physical activities that are characteristics of a
TSS teacher. The initial drafting of the Domains of
At all levels of curriculum development and
Boys’ Education at TSS was a result of the vision of the
professional growth, an overriding emphasis is placed
Headmaster to support and promote a professional
on boys’ learning to ensuring academic success today
culture of continual teacher self-reflection and
and effective participation in society in the future.
ongoing professional learning. Consultation with the
This means an emphasis on lifelong learning, the
teaching staff has helped to align these domains with
development of transferable skills, the ability to
Queensland teaching standards and to set the stage for
cooperate with others, and a willingness to adapt to
what is initially termed the TSS Ideal Teacher Program.
change.
It remains a priority to develop positive and
We have greatly enhanced our ability to cater for the
meaningful relationships in the TSS community.
needs of our Gifted & Talented (G&T) boys. The
Increased sharing of expertise among teachers,
appointment of G&T specialist Geraldine Townend at
enhanced partnerships with parents, and the provision
the Prep School and the establishment of the role of
of secure and caring learning environments for boys
Facilitator of Innovative Learning (Mrs Angela Foulds-
are considered imperatives.
Cook), have been instrumental in strengthening the
program. New protocols have been established for
Thinking Skills
more accurately identifying students who demonstrate
An emphasis on thinking skills has continued to gain
high levels of academic potential.
momentum across the entire School. In addition to
enhancing academic success, there is no doubt that in
15
the rapidly changing work environments of the future
with Andrew’s work shortlisted for the Education
that critical and lateral thinking will be essential.
Minister’s central touring exhibition.
It also is considered that the development of thinking
In Year 10, Jack Fox won the Art prize and had his
skills must go hand-in-hand with the development of
digital design selected for the 2007 Southportonian
dispositions to use them. Emphasis has been placed
cover. Callum Wison, Vitha Tickner, Keegan
on development of thinking habits (dispositions)
Calderwood and Tim Moorfoot produced great work
such as listening with empathy and understanding,
for the student art show. Year 9 art students to show
communicating with clarity and precision, persistence,
wonderful promise include Max Lau, Edmund Yu,
and managing impulsivity. Together, the skills and
Dominic Buckland and Jack Howard.
habits of thinking help to form the basis for the
School’s emphasis on the development of boys in the
areas of leadership and emotional intelligence.
Stephen Eardley who was on a year’s leave. Mrs
Bradford has been an enthusiastic, professional, highly
In addition to being infused into all areas of the
organised and motivating art teacher, and the School
curriculum, thinking skills are taught explicitly at
and art students wish her well for the future. The Year
several levels of the School to give boys more insight
11 non-OP art course will run for the first time in
into human brain function, multiple intelligences
2008.
and their own unique learning styles and preferences.
This also helps them develop a ‘toolkit’ of strategies
Business and Enterprise Education
for critical and creative thinking and challenges them
Mr Mark Herriman
to become better problems solvers and to make wiser
decisions. This has important implications for success
in academic subjects.
The Business and Enterprise Education Department
has continued to grow in 2007. This has been
largely due to the increased interest in the Business
This year, study skills have become more integral to
discipline, with many of our boys opting to take this
the overall program and TSS has purchased an online
pathway after their secondary education. This year,
study skills program that teachers can utilise in lessons
teaching staff have forged industry and community
and that boys can work on independently and with
links to share and enhance the teaching and learning
their parents. Prior to taking the Queensland Core
experience of boys in our core subjects on offer.
Skills Tests, the boys receive advice on the impact of
good nutrition, exercise, relaxation, and visualisation
on brain function and positive self-belief.
Senior School Head of Departments
Art
16
Mrs Bradford joined the Art staff for 2007, replacing
In 2007, the department continued to offer initiatives
and programs to engage students during their
Business studies. Students in Year 11 were given the
opportunity to participate in the Australian Business
Week (ABW) program – where students spend a week
participating in business simulations, allowing them
Mr Mike Sleeman
to acquire the skills needed to be part of a successful
The Art Department has enjoyed success again in 2007
team from the school-based competition competed at
with many students having the chance to show their
a regional level, where they achieved a first place for
work in the annual student show in the St Alban’s
their Trade Display at the Gold Coast City Council
Gallery, at Bond University in the Minister’s Awards,
ABW program. This is a significant achievement when
and at the Gold Coast City Art Gallery in ‘Energies’.
competing against nine other Gold Coast schools and
Cameron Rumball, Elliott O’Reilly, Andrew Ohmsen,
reflects the high standard of work that our Business
Mitch Cavill and Kamil Opara had their artwork
students are able to produce outside of the classroom.
selected for ‘Energies’, which includes some of the
Additionally, the department also has provided the
best work from senior Art students across all high
opportunity for students to be involved in a number
schools in southern Queensland. Josh Aylett-Jeans and
of additional competitions, such as the Beenleigh
Andrew Ohmsen had their work at Bond University,
Mooting Competition and the BEAQ Accounting
Annual Report 2007
business in the 21st century. The winning student
Competition. The boys who participated in the
achieve qualifications while completing Senior. We
Mooting Competition gained extensive experience
will continue to aim to be a department that caters
and skills and, excitingly, a graduating student of Year
for all students and opens a number of pathways for
12 received a Distinction in this year’s Accounting
completion of the senior phase of learning.
competition.
Our teaching staff has willingly participated in a
Our senior students have had a number of
number of professional development opportunities
opportunities to attend off-campus excursions, to
throughout the year and they are to be acknowledged
Parliament House in Brisbane, Southport District
for their continual learning and association with
Courthouse and to the QUT Business faculty.
professional bodies external to the School.
Students also have been exposed to a number of
opportunities to link with industry members via guest
speakers from CPA Australia and Bond University.
The Business and Enterprise Education Department
The department members are extremely excited
about this year’s initiatives and achievements and look
forward to bigger things in 2008 and beyond.
has had a restructure this year to accommodate for
Drama
our four new Year 10 subjects. The School now
Ms Di Francis
offers and allows our Year 10 students to trial senior
subjects, with Accounting, Business Organisation and
Management, Economics and Legal Studies being
The Drama department produced three successful
plays this year:
offered as semester-long junior subjects. Ultimately,
Year 12 Production Of Mice and Men (directed by
this is a good opportunity for our boys to trial these
Ms Di Francis) – famous tragedy by John Steinbeck.
courses, become aware of their strengths and areas
Entered in the Gold Coast Secondary Schools’
of passion, and make better subject choices in their
Drama Festival Senior Division (18 plays) – Runners
senior years. Additionally this year, the opportunity
Up Shield and Tai Hara and Daniel Shepherd were
to undertake Honours in Business has been offered
awarded Outstanding Actor trophies (six per division).
to Year 10 students, who have been able to choose to
complete their projects under the four new subjects.
Intermediate Play Skate (directed by Ms Corinne
Miller) – a contemporary play dealing with
Curriculum wise, the Business and Enterprise
community issues. Entered in the Gold Coast
Education Department has worked closely with
Secondary Schools’ Drama Festival Intermediate
the Senior Library and Panel Chairs to develop and
Division – Runners Up Play Shield and Tim Neville
implement programs and assessment instruments
was awarded an Outstanding Actor trophy (six per
that are of a very high standard. The department has
division).
developed a standardised format for all assessment,
where students complete a uniform coversheet and
reflection on their assessment, which allows for
consistency between all subjects. With thanks to the
Junior Play Animal Farm (directed by Mr John Shield)
– a literary classic bought to the stage by a dedicated
cast of Year 8 students.
Library staff, we also have introduced a Research
The House Drama Festival once again demonstrated
Assignment template in our Year 10 subjects, allowing
the depth of dramatic talent in the School and the
students to learn the Information Literacy process
strength of House spirit.
– for independent use at a senior level.
The TSS Theatre Crew provided invaluable support
The non-OP pathway offered by the Business
crewing the 12 House plays with only one technical
and Enterprise Education Department remains
rehearsal. They went on to host the Senior Division
an opportunity for students to complete modules
of the Gold Coast Secondary Schools’ Drama Festival
towards a certified Certificate II in Business. Students
and supported the three GCSSDF productions.
in Year 11 and 12 have experienced the benefits of
such a subject, as it offers these students the ability to
17
Both Semester One and Two Year 10 Drama classes
Memnoch the Devil and Arundhati Roy’s The God of Small
met the challenge of an improvised production in
Things. English Extension does expand the students’
Scared Scriptless.
understanding of text and, because of this, can have a
The Drama course requires students to review
theatrical performances. The boys enjoyed an
well.
irreverent production, The Messiah at The Gardens
Students, through the secondary English programs,
Theatre, QUT.
explore a range of texts from canonical literature (e.g.
English
Ms Elizabeth Venz
The English department has continued to implement
innovative programs in 2007. One class of students
has participated in an accelerated program, whereby
the boys complete the Year 11 English course in their
10th year of schooling. These boys will complete the
Shakespeare) to modern ‘classics’, films, TV programs,
advertisements and magazines, including both visual
and written texts. In our contemporary society, boys
need not only to enjoy and appreciate the beauty of the
canons of literature, but to be able to critically analyse
and interpret the messages of a wide range of literary
and other ‘everyday’ texts such as newspaper articles,
TV programs and films.
Year 12 English course in their 11th year, leaving them
English teachers are actively working to include
free to enrol in English Extension (Literature) during
thinking skills more effectively into their teaching
class time in their final year. Currently, boys studying
strategies and have all completed a thinking skills
English Extension attend classes before or after the
workshop with the Facilitator of Innovative Learning,
formal school timetable. This has been a successful
Angela Foulds-Cook. This is resulting in a very lively
innovation, with the boys in this program achieving a
and active ‘exchange of ideas’ within the department
high academic standard.
and more engaging lessons for the boys which employ
This year, 16 boys completed the QSA English
Extension (Literature), achieving nine Very High
Achievements and five High Achievements. It is a
great credit to these students that they have accepted
the self-discipline of attending classes before or after
school (7.30-8.30am or 3.30-4.30pm). The classes are
scheduled to allow the boys to fit them around their
extra-curricular programs. As well, they have read
widely and completed complex analyses of texts and
challenging assignments. In this subject, students are
largely able to explore texts of their own choice, some of
those chosen this year included Thomas More’s Utopia,
Dante’s Divine Comedy, Orwell’s 1984, Courtenay’s
The Power of One, Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, as
well as more contemporary texts such as Anne Rice’s
18
very beneficial effect on their QSA English grade as
Annual Report 2007
teaching and learning strategies that cater more
specifically for boys’ learning styles. The faculty will
continue to develop in this area in 2008.
English Communication
The English Communication program which is
offered at TSS is an alternative to Senior English
which appeals to students who are interested in
pursuing alternative pathways in vocational education
and training. Coursework has been designed to give
practical, hands-on opportunities for students to
not only explore career paths and develop the skills
and attributes they will need as part of the future
workforce, but also become active and discerning
members of the community. Simulated workplace
interviews with SCISCO, enacting roleplays in which
they needed to function effectively and confidently in
students have to demonstrate conflict resolution skills,
the School. This greatly assisted students to overcome
critically analysing movies and planning their own
any initial hesitancy or doubts.
‘Getaway’ holidays are all part of the course. One of
the highlights this year was the Year 12 excursion to
Sea World which provided an opportunity for students
to move out of the classroom in order to research and
evaluate this notable marine theme park as a tourist
attraction.
The junior program continued to develop the
students’ skills by using a theme-based approach.
These themes covered a wide variety of topics, such
as Friendship in Year 8 and Personal Identity in Year
9. In Year 10, where the academic needs of students
are higher, the topics paralleled the English program
An important initiative this year has been the
in the main and also covered areas that are needed for
introduction of a theoretical and practical module
the students to cope with the rigours of their other
enabling students to achieve their Senior First Aid
subjects.
Certificate at the end of Year 11. This is the flagship
course of St John’s Ambulance designed to impart
the knowledge, skills and attitudes deemed necessary
for giving competent care to the ill or injured until
medical aid arrives. The flexible learning option allows
students to learn some of the course content through
completion of a workbook before attending practical
training where competency-based assessment is
conducted over two half days.
Enrolment in this subject has increased during the
past 18 months as more vocational students realise
the practical relevance embedded in the English
Communication program can help them to develop
the skills and confidence necessary for success in their
future careers.
The English for Academic Purposes/IELTS
(International English Language Testing System)
Exam Preparation program effectively prepared
the students for post-secondary school study. As
in previous years, all students in this course were
able to achieve an IELTS result that allows them to
satisfy their English language requirements for entry
into university in 2008. This program has only been
available to international students studying in Australia
on a student visa.
In 2008, we will participate in the introduction of
a new trial QSA (Authority) subject, English for
ESL Learners. This will allow both overseas and
local ESL students to benefit from a program that
will develop their English skills and count towards
ESL (English Second Language)
their final school grade, but is more suited to the
The ESL Program in both junior and senior years
of study, Literature, Media Studies and Academic
continued to successfully meet the needs of our
Studies, and will be equivalent to the normal English
second language learners this year. This resulted
program while recognising the cultural and language
in improvement for these students in both general
background differences ESL students have compared
English ability and performance in all their subjects.
to Australian students. This will replace the English
New ESL students were introduced to the School
for Academic Purposes/IELTS Preparation program.
needs of ESL learners. It will cover three main areas
with a comprehensive orientation program in the early
weeks which provided them with all the information
19
Film, Television and New Media
Mr Dave Richardson
Paul Dilkes attended the ACHPER Conference in
Brisbane in August and Andrew Hawkins had the
opportunity to attend a four-day Evolution of the
Graduating students for 2007 became the first group
Athlete Conference at University of Queensland in
to complete the new Film & Television syllabus
July. Both conferences showed research supporting the
– Film, Television and New Media. The New Media
need for athlete development stemming from a skills-
deals with existing technologies and developments in
based approach in the developmental years. This has
formats, genres and ways of representing the world. It
lead to the PE Department introducing more skills-
also involves examining the new ways in which local
based to lessons and units across a wide range of sports
and global communities interact with and through
in Junior PE including Cricket, Football and Striking
the media as well as new issues associated with access,
Skills at the end of each term.
ownership, control and regulation. Year 10 students
had a semester ‘taste’ of the subject, allowing them to
complete assessment items from critique, design and
production dimensions. Elements of New Media also
have continued to be embedded in to the junior work
programs in Years 8 and 9.
During the course of their studies this year, students
have had the opportunity to study the theories of
film production and consumption as well as creating
some of their own productions. Past student Nathan
Solomon (2006) was awarded Best Cinematography at
the Bond University Film & Television Awards for one
of his senior productions.
Health and Physical Education
The introduction of a new member of staff in 2008
who specialises in Cricket and Biomechanics gives us
a possible choice in what we can offer in Term One
in Senior PE (Rowing or Cricket) that aligns with the
GPS Summer sports.
In 2008, we also intend introducing podcasting to
Senior PE units to limit the amount of disruption for
students who are away from school due to sporting
commitments in their final year. The PE Department
also is learning to lead the School in our new
Sunsmart Policy.
Finally, it would be remiss of me not to congratulate
PE staff member Matt Taylor, head coach of the TSS
1st XV, for creating TSS history in coaching the first
Mr Andrew Hawkins
ever TSS 1st XV to win back-to-back premierships.
The TSS Physical Education Department is beginning
Humanities
to see the results from long-term planning by the
staff during the past four years. We are attempting to
Mr Rob Ritchie
achieve a pathway in Physical Education that boys can
2007 was another exciting and innovative year in the
follow from Year 8 to Year 12. The implementation
Humanities Faculty. Firstly, the department underwent
of classroom-based (Sociology in Sport, Performance
a name change from Social Sciences to Humanities
Capacities, and Biomechanics in Sport) and activity-
recognising the widening scope of its subject offerings,
based programs (such as Touch Football, Volleyball
which now include Year 8 Humanities, Year 9
and Golf) into Years 8, 9 and 10 Physical Education
Geography and History, and Years 10, 11, 12 Modern
has allowed easy transition from Junior Health
History, Geography, Study of Leadership, and Political
and Physical Education to Senior Board Physical
Studies.
Education.
This year saw the first graduating class in the new
The results of the Year 12 PE cohort in 2007 show
senior course in Leadership, counting the School
that two in three boys who studied the senior course
Captain, Brodie Cunningham, among its graduates.
received a VHA or a HA on their Senior Certificate.
Three Political Studies students (Michael Graham,
Every boy also passed the Senior Course which
Brandon Lee and Tim Gadd) participated in the
includes those boys in the subject not seeking an
Gold Coast City Junior Council, with Michael being
Overall Position.
recognised for his outstanding contribution to the
Water Taskforce. Frederic Le Fanue and Daniel Ryan
20
Annual Report 2007
represented TSS at the Southern Queensland Region’s
The Year 11 Information Processing and Technology
Constitutional Convention. Senior Geography
(IPT) class studied the broad topics of Information
students also were immersed in local politics,
and Intelligent Systems, Software and System
redesigning the controversial road intersection outside
Engineering, Social and Ethical Issues and Human
the school. Geographers also went on a field trip to
Computer Interaction. As well as looking at hardware,
Casuarina Beach and Surfers Paradise to measure and
software and networks, the students studied algorithm
critically evaluate the effectiveness of the dunal buffer
design, the Visual Basic language and Structured
zone. History students studying the ‘habits of mind’
Query Language (SQL).
of famous explorers were treated to an afternoon with
Mrs Kay Sutton who in 1988, as Kay Cottee, was
named Australian of the Year for her extraordinary solo
sailing feat of being the only woman to sail around the
world aboard First Lady. The History Immersion tour
to Greece, Turkey and Egypt, planned for students
and parents by Mr John Gayton, has received an
enormously positive response and will take place in
the mid-year holidays in 2008.
I would like to commend all the teachers in my faculty
on a great year. I am very fortunate to work with a
team of such passionate and expert teachers, and, from
the Faculty Performance Review undertaken in Term
Four, I can assure parents that the boys also are finding
their Humanities’ classes interesting, challenging,
relevant and enjoyable.
Information Technology
Mr Rob Clegg
All Year 8 classes this year undertook a 12-week
rotation in Information and Communications
Technology. The Year 8 ICT students learnt skills
in word processing and spread-sheeting, along with
making their own Flash game and a series of web
The Year 12 IPT classes started the year studying
database design and their major project involved
designing and implementing a fully functioning
Microsoft Access database for the Art Department.
The students then went on to study the very
interesting topic of Artificial Intelligence and finished
the year with a project on Robotics.
The School again competed in the annual Australasian
Computer Skills Competition, with eight Distinctions
being awarded to TSS students.
LOTE (Languages Other Than
English)
Mr Steve Davies
This has been a particularly successful year for the
study of foreign languages at TSS. A group of our
Year 9 students travelled to France in June/July
and were received by their host students from the
region south of Strasbourg. The exchange was most
successful and our boys communicated exclusively
in French, attending school and visiting the region
as well as spending three days in beautiful Paris. The
improvement in their language skills was noticeable.
pages. Students were encouraged to be creative and
Earlier in the year, we received the exchange
many highly impressive games and web pages were
students from this region and it was heartening to
produced throughout the year.
see the positive relationships that developed from
Students in Year 10 were able to choose between two
IT subjects – Information Processing and Technology
this encounter. We are cognisant of the need to link
language learning to people.
/ Robotics and Information and Communications
Our students achieved some commendable results
Technology. The Robotics students developed their
in the Gold Coast Foreign Language Speaking
skills in problem solving within the context of writing
competition held at Griffith University. Daniel Ryan
Robot C programs to control their Lego Mindstorms
was awarded the Gold Medal for Year 12 French.
NXT robots. The ICT course was designed to be a
Other medals were awarded in Year 8 French and Year
more general IT course to develop skills used across
10 Chinese. Several of our students also were awarded
a range of career choices. Students learnt skills in
Highly Commended certificates for their efforts in
advanced word processing, spread-sheeting and
this competition.
databases and also looked at Flash animation and
action-scripting.
21
In a similar vein, students in Years 8 and 9 Japanese
boys was identified at the end of 2006 and invited to
based their Honours assignment on aspects of
commence Year 11 Maths B, thereby skipping Year 10,
Japanese language and culture within the household.
or more correctly doing two years of study in 2007.
The quality of their work was commendable.
These boys will finish their Maths B course while in
Learning Support in English
Ms Fiz Sutherland
in Year 12 to take up other options.
Staffing changes saw the farewell of Mr Steve Davies,
Learning Support in English this year has offered
Ms Julie Watson-Hayward and Mr Gary Fox. We
students the opportunity to improve their literacy
welcome new Maths’ teachers, Ms Janelle Ali and Mr
skills in a number of areas. A primary focus in Years
Jess Linton. I trust they enjoy their teaching here and I
8 and 9 has been a literacy project centred upon the
am excited by the experience and professionalism they
development of reading and comprehension skills
bring to the faculty.
which gives explicit practice in a number of common
curricular elements (CCEs) directly applicable
to the Year 12 Queensland Core Skills test. The
metacognitive approach gives students an awareness of
reading techniques as tools for better comprehension
and allows them to evaluate their own progress. In this
respect, many students were motivated by the digital
recording and graphing of their results and made
progress not only in their comprehension but also in
using effective multiple-choice techniques. This year,
students have demonstrated significant improvement
in reading comprehension and improved their
reading ages by at least one year. Skills in proofreading
and editing also have been targeted with the result
that most students have become noticeably more
proficient with respect to technical accuracy. The
overall aim of Learning Support this year has been
to provide avenues for students to develop the skills
and confidence to function more effectively for both
academic purposes and social communication.
Mathematics
Mr Kerry Thomas
It was an exciting year for the Mathematics faculty at
TSS. For the first time we introduced an accelerated
pathway for our brighter Year 9s. A gifted group of
22
Year 11, thereby freeing up some time when they are
Annual Report 2007
Once again we had some excellent results in various
competitions, indicating we have some truly gifted
mathematicians here at TSS.
UNSW Maths Competition:
Congratulations to all 150 boys who sat the UNSW
Mathematics Competition. The test results are
particularly pleasing across all year levels. We achieved
12 High Distinctions (top 2 per cent of Queensland),
60 Distinctions (next 10 per cent) and 52 Credits.
Considering most schools only enter their top
students in this competition, these results are even
more outstanding.
Westpac Maths Competition:
This is one of the biggest Maths competitions
in the world, and we entered all boys in the top
extension class in each year level. In summary, 142
boys competed and achieved one Prize, 14 High
Distinctions, 54 Distinctions, 53 Credits and 20
Participation Awards. The Prize (top 0.3 per cent of
the State) was awarded to Marco Volpato, Year 9.
University of Queensland Problem Solving
Competition.
We entered 23 boys in the competition which involved
attempting six extended problems in two hours.
Congratulations to Rhys Davies (Year 8) who received
say it is the only time when all GPS schools get
a prize and was seventh in the State in the Year 8
together in a non-competitive environment and work
section.
together towards one goal.
Australasian Problem Solving Mathematical
The Gold Coast Eisteddfod in August witnessed more
Olympiads
than 250 TSS boys participating as Prep or Senior
We entered two teams, Mr Linton’s Year 8 Extension
class and Mrs Inglis’ Year 9 Extension class.
Congratulations to Hossain Farhan (top of Year
8) with a score of 24/25 and Max Lau (top of Year
9). Both boys received a trophy, cloth patch and
certificates for their first place.
ensemble musicians. We are proud to say that all our
ensembles were recognised in the festival as either
receiving Very Highly Commended recommendations
or a placing. Our novice String Orchestra received
a first place on their very first public performance!
Later in the year our Prep and Senior String orchestras
performed in the Queensland Music Festival receiving
Of special note are our top 10 per cent (Australia
Gold and Silver awards as did the Big Band who
wide) Year 8 students: Rhys Davies, Wilson
gained a Gold award for their performance.
Shillingford and Ryan Christopher and Year 9 Louis
Fredheim and James Turner.
Music
Mr Rob Cooke
2007 has been a busy and productive year where
the academic music team has worked very hard to
build links between the Prep Year and Senior School
programs. We feel we have achieved many of our goals
and can now say that we are very close to creating a
smooth line of continuity from Prep to Year 12. Of
course there is plenty more to do but our initial efforts
have paid dividends.
An indication of the one-department philosophy
was evident in the Showcase concerts held each
term where TSS boys from both sides of ‘the road’
were able to come together and perform in the same
concert.
Other highlights of the year included the annual GPS
Music Day of Excellence where the best musicians
from all the GPS schools come together to rehearse
and perform a concert – all in one day. Besides being
a great challenge for all the musicians, we can proudly
Who could forget the performance by the Big Band in
Circle on Cavil where the music not only entertained
our parents but attracted a great crowd from the local
area? This was certainly a fine day as a giant video
screen behind the band proudly displayed TSS history
and the achievements of our boys.
This year has been very busy for us all, but it is so
reassuring to see our musicians feeling relaxed,
confident and proud while they rehearse and perform
in the School.
The future looks very bright for TSS music.
Outdoor Education
Mr Craig Humbley
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
One hundred and thirty-four students and two young
Old Boys have been active in the DoE Club and have
made 2007 a busy and successful year yet again.
The number of awards achieved this year by TSS
participants has continued the trend of approximately
70 awards over recent years, with the number of
Gold (11) almost matching the most in one calendar
23
year at TSS. Silver Award (nine) and Bronze Award
and Mrs Clinton and Judy Cronk join the staff of the
(23) recipients are similar to last year, with younger
department as managers at Hidden Creek and their
students attaining 34 Bridge Awards.
efforts have seen good progress made on the property.
Congratulations are conveyed to the 70 students
and two Old Boys who, through their interest, self-
activities on-site for our students.
motivation, organisation, efforts and commitment,
Thanks are conveyed to Judy, Clinton, Ms Laura
have achieved 77 awards this calendar year.
Sherman (Dux’ Straddie Manager), Mr Dave Johnson
Special mention and congratulations must go to
Walter Lomax, Angus Ledgerwood, Scott Josey, Alex
McDonald, Alex Paranthoiene, Kieran Crook, Chris
Dolling, Travis Drury and Alex Halsey for achieving
their Gold Award while still in Year 11 or 12. Angus
Lockhart also is expected to complete his Gold Award
early next year.
Sincere gratitude is extended to the multitude of
staff who volunteered to guide, instruct and assess
the students in the vast array of activities the boys
participate in for their awards.
Other highlights of the year include:
• Fifty current students joined the awards this year
taking the number involved to 140
• One of the largest groups of Gold awardees since the
awards began at TSS in 1973
• Three Gold, two Silver and four Bronze
expeditions/explorations planned and undertaken
during the year
• Five Silver awardees attended their regional Silver
Award presentation hosted in the TSS Chapel in
March.
Outdoor Education
and all of the TSS teaching and support staff, as well as
specialist outdoor education staff who have made the
program so successful this year.
Religious Education
Ms Maryanne Saxton-Hillier
Studying Religion is an integral part of the educational
process for TSS students. The course has been
designed to also complement and support other vital
programs (Leadership and Pastoral Care). This enables
the students to develop a more holistic understanding
of events and issues.
From Year 8 to 12, students are encouraged to:
a) Learn about religions:
• What people believe
• What people do
• How people express themselves
b) Learn from religion:
• Making sense of who we are
• Making sense of life
• Making sense of right and wrong
Thus, the Religious Education program provides
There have been some significant developments
the students with a balance of tradition, knowledge
within the outdoor education program this year. The
and skills. Some topics studied during the five years
camps from Year 4 to Year 11 have achieved their aims
include: Contemporary Moral Issues, Social Justice,
and student feedback indicates the majority of students
Spirituality, World Religions, Faith Confirmed and
benefited greatly from them.
Christian History. This provides an excellent platform
The Open Days at both Hidden Creek and Dux
centres again provided an enjoyable way for members
for developing students’ values, morals, beliefs and
tolerance of others.
from all parts of the TSS community to visit the
If we think of religion as a candle inside a multi-
centres in a relaxed manner.
coloured lantern, then we may see that people of
A major development this year has been the
agreement between the School and the OSA for TSS
to manage Hidden Creek OEC. This has seen Mr
24
It also has allowed us to develop additional educational
Annual Report 2007
varying faiths look through a particular colour but the
candle is always there.
Science
Mr Jeff Natt
In its second year, the Cattle Show team has built on
its success from last year. This year, TSS participated
in shows at Esk, Boonah, Beaudesert, Toogoolawah
Science at TSS is designed to provide students with
and the RNA. In all, the team won Grand Champion
experiences which will give them the opportunity
Bull (Boonah), Reserve Champion Bull (Esk), Senior
to learn science and to learn how to do science. The
Champion Cow (Toogoolawah) and a fourth placing
first increases students’ appreciation of what has been
for Cow and Calf (RNA). The great success this
achieved in science and where it is presently going.
year for TSS students has been in Cattle Judging.
It aims to make students scientifically literate so that,
Nathan Drew (Year 10) took second place in Young
independent of whether they undertake a science-
Judges at Toogoolawah. Andrew Sinnamon (Year 12)
based career or not, they will become thoughtful and
gained second place in Young Judging Stud Cattle at
critical about scientific issues and claims which will
Beaudesert, second place in Prime Cattle Judging at
be thrust before them in future years. The second
RNA and first place in Prime Cattle Judging at Esk.
is directed towards students who will become the
Tom Shaw (Year 10) won Young Judging Award for
scientists, engineers and technologists of the future.
Beef Cattle and also Prime Cattle Judge at the RNA.
It aims to develop students who will make significant
This earned him the Queensland Country Life Award
contributions to new knowledge and techniques
as Young Cattle Judge (Beef and Dairy) and a place as a
which will arise in the coming years. It is our hope
finalist in Prime Cattle Judging State.
that TSS students will take full advantage of the
opportunities which are provided for them.
This year all students in Years 8 and 9 and 25 students
in Year 10 participated in the Australian Schools’
Once again the Science department has had a busy
Science Competition. It was gratifying to see that
year. Not only have students participated actively in
seven of our students, Michael Ashwin, Ory Walker,
laboratories but also, as is traditional at TSS, there has
Christopher Withers, Keegan Calderwood, Bennet
been a variety of events, competitions and excursions
Dunne, William Matthews and Lanbo Zhang gained
available to the students. Boys have participated in
High Distinctions (top 1 per cent of the State). In
and benefited from excursions to Hastings Point
addition, 39 Distinction awards and 60 Credit awards
and the Gold Coast Hospital in Biology, a study of
also were earned by boys from TSS.
sewage treatment and wine in Chemistry, a visit to
Dreamworld in Physics, plus numerous outings in
Marine Studies and Agricultural Sciences.
2007 has seen the introduction of a new semesterbased system for subject selection in Year 10. Within
This has been a satisfying year for the science
department and credit for establishing the ground
work for this success must go to the Science staff and
our hard-working laboratory assistants.
the Science Department, Agricultural Science,
Technology
Biology, Chemistry, Marine Studies and Physics
Mr Don Ross
have been made available for student choice. Student
participation has been enthusiastic as teachers have
redesigned and polished their courses. It is our belief
that students will select senior subjects with a much
clearer understanding of what each subject entails and
how suited the students’ learning styles, backgrounds
and interests are to the subjects on offer.
The introduction of a set of laptop computers and
datalogging equipment has seen the transformation of
teaching techniques in a number of different areas. In
particular, a whole term of Year 10 Physics is devoted
to analysis of motion using this equipment and the
The Technology Department has had a very successful
year with more than 70 per cent of our senior students
in both Technology Studies and Graphics achieving
HA or above. This success is due to the excellent
resources within the department as well as a highly
dedicated teaching staff.
Our subject area continues to be well supported by the
students with two senior classes in each of the three
senior subjects on offer. Graphics was offered as a new
elective subject in Year 9 in 2006 and continues to
attract large numbers of students.
analysis of the data using Excel.
25
During this year, a new mini-lab has been set up in
our Senior Graphics room providing a further 15
computers for the Graphics and Technology Studies
programs with further expansions to come in 2008.
This year also has seen the introduction of the
latest in computer-aided design programs with the
purchase of site licences for Inventor 10 and Rivet an architectural program. All Graphics students from
Years 9 to 12 have been working with these programs
during this year.
Master of The Preparatory School
Dr Trevor Wood
ALONG PREPARATORY LINES …
Preparatory School numbers continued to grow in
2007, swelling to 512 across 22 classes P-7, previously
unseen totals, with strong wait list pressure for
admission to most levels of the School. Applicants for
places in the Preparatory Year 2008 were almost double
the number of available places. Facility development
The Robotics program has been extended this year by
continued apace, accompanied by marked curriculum
offering a Year 10 Robotics/IPT subject. In addition,
development and expanding cultural and sporting
the Senior IPT course is about to adopt Robotics
offerings.
components with ‘Robot C’ being considered as
its major programming language for future years.
Robotics is now taught from Year 6 to Year 10 with
students gaining the benefits of the courses offered.
In looking to have a growing Prep performing at its
optimum, the administration was altered significantly.
The standard Master and Deputy Master structure was
replaced by a two tier, five-position administration,
The different Year level courses are based on problem-
with the Master supported by a Coordinator of
solving tasks that take into account the differences
Students and Staff, Coordinator of Curriculum, Music
in the abilities of individual students. Students learn
Master and Sports Master, all of whom maintained
to work together on solving challenging problems,
partial teaching roles in specialist areas. Early results
providing them with opportunities to acquire a wide
of the change are reflected in a markedly improved
range of personal skills. Outcomes for students
curriculum embracing the ‘web’ to an unprecedented
include: promoting creative thinking, improving
degree and with a high level of support and guidance
communication skills, and strengthening the ability to
available to teachers across the Key Learning Areas
acquire understanding.
(KLAs). Also evident are an ever-expanding P-7
This year saw the commencement of the Young
Engineers’ Society to complement the Robotic courses
offered in the curriculum. The society had 25 boys
from Year 6 to Year 11. They continued the School’s
success in the Gold Coast Robocup Competition by
once again winning the Senior Soccer competition.
The Society members also enjoyed problem-based
tasks and the Robotwars challenge.
sporting offering, a music program of remarkable
depth and strengthening pastoral care.
Staff
Unfortunately, a tragedy must open discussion of
Prep’s wonderful staff. Mr Max Brady, much-loved
and passionate Housemaster of Dixon House, passed
away unexpectedly in November. Across his six years
with us he gave of himself selflessly in seeking only
the best for each and every boy with whom he came
into contact. Dixon boys will remember that he led
26
Annual Report 2007
them on an unprecedented, unbeaten run of six
quality of a previously hidden-by-trees TSS Prep in no
victories in the Howard Smith Trophy (House cup).
uncertain terms.
He will be sorely missed!
Music
Mrs Sally Smith returned to the fold after some
teaching overseas. Mrs Jody Rasmussen took charge of
a Year 4 class for the year. After a short but fruitful stay,
Mr Eric Sheers left us to take up a teaching position in
China. Mr Steven Hamilton rejoined us following his
leave and after a decade, Mr Robert Baker rejoined us
to teach Year 6. Mrs Ann Swanson moved into Prep as
the Learning Support Teacher, allowing Mrs Narelle
Criddle to return to her first love, class teaching. Mrs
The return of the annual Music Camp proved highly
fruitful. The days spent at Alexandra Headland
saw all groups enjoy a great deal of hard work and
make remarkable progress leading into concerts and
eisteddfods. Participation in eisteddfods reached
previously unseen levels. Prep groups were widely
acclaimed and consistently placed throughout the
competitions.
Deb Schinckel, Teacher-Librarian transformed the
Stephen Leek, acclaimed Australian composer and
Prep Library over the course of her first year with us.
choral director, ran an excellent workshop. Cremona
Mrs Geraldine Townend began our extensive G&T
Strings returned from the Brisbane Festival of Music
program, while Ms Lauren McHugh temporarily took
with a Gold award. The increase in the number of
over the speech pathology duties. Ms Jenny Gibson
boys sitting for exams in music also has been pleasing.
joined Mrs Emma Weel in making the Prep Office
Assemblies throughout the year gave an ever-
function like clockwork.
increasing number of boys’ opportunities to display
Mrs Susie Rigby left us to move to Brisbane and teach
their musical skills. Recital nights, part of Prep’s
at St Aidan’s. Mr Stewart Eglington accepted the
Concert Season 07 became ‘huge’, with long lists of
newly created Coordinator of Students and Staff. Ms
boys wanting to perform, and perform at high levels.
Trisha Matthias’s title became Music Master while Ms
The Finale Concert was of an exceptional standard.
Nicole Dewley moved into the role of Coordinator of
Sport
Curriculum P-7.
Facilities
As with Music, Sport at Prep caters for all boys P-7,
across a wide range of sports including AFL, Athletics,
In facilitating Prep’s growth, Year 1 expanded to three
Basketball, Cricket, Cross Country, Golf, Gymnastics,
classes within the Cribb building. That expansion
Rowing, Rugby, Sailing, Soccer, Swimming and
was possible as the Pearson Building was ready for
Tennis. The Sports Skills program in Years 4-7 has
occupation at the start of the school year, although
added significant depth to Prep’s skill level and overall
the outside facilities took some time to complete. The
performance.
Pearson became the jewel in the Prep School crown as
While performances across all facets of Prep sport
it is a purpose-designed roomy building housing three
Preparatory Year classes and a heavily used multipurpose room. Its commanding position on Benowa
Road announces to the world the presence and facility
saw many excellent results, several demand particular
recognition. Athletics produced seven representative
competitors, while Cricket produced five. At
the Armidale Rugby Carnival, three teams were
27
undefeated, and locally Years 5 and 7 took out their
message is being heard throughout our organisation.
respective McDonald’s Cups. Junior Rugby registered
With this in mind it has been a constant theme within
14 teams! CIC Swimming crowned Prep as U9, U12
my reports to encourage you all to ensure your
and U13 Champions.
contact details are current. This can be done via the
Supporters
school website (www.tss.qld.edu.au) under ‘school
Prep continues to be supported by a strong band of
parents through Friends of Prep (FOP) and Friends of
Music (Prep) (FOMP). Those two small but energetic
and active bodies have once again assisted us markedly
as we look to provide top flight facilities for our boys
and for that we are grateful.
Other parents provide the much needed teacher
support in reading programs and activities in the
classrooms. Teachers are always grateful when parents
commit themselves to a regular assistance schedule.
The boys certainly appreciate their parents joining
them to see what their world is really like, and how
hard they work for their teachers.
With further plans for program expansion and facility
development through more classrooms and a change
facility (P&F), Prep looks forward to yet another great
year in 2008.
Old Southportonians’ Association
President, Mr Jay Carter
We all should be proud and stand tall as this year
marked the Centenary of the Old Southportonians’
Association. It was an honour to serve the TSS
community during this important year.
In the tradition of fostering friendship among
members, the OSA and, in conjunction with the
Eagles Rugby Club, this year organised the Brian
Mullery Memorial Trophy for the Rugby Union
Challenge.
This year the OSA fielded a team against Barker
Old Boys (BOBs) Rugby. We are proud to say
that we walked away with a 37 to 16 win and have
subsequently been invited to play a return game next
year in Sydney for the Barker OBA Centenary. We
look forward to meeting the challenge.
One of the greatest functions of the OSA, in my
mind, is the assistance to the OSA community
offered through the bursaries that we provide. This
year was no different and the OSA continually seeks
applications for these bursaries and is proud to be able
to assist in this manner. This often forgotten role of
the OSA would not be possible without the trusts for
which we are merely custodians.
This year has been a transition year for the OSA and
with an almost entirely new Council we have faced
several challenges, not least being new accounting
practices and audit standards. Management of this
process has been time consuming and complex
The highlight of the year for the OSA was undoubtedly
with accounts being redone. Thanks need to go the
the reunion dinner. With more than 600 in attendance
Treasurer Mark Parry, without whose help this process
for the dinner, it was the largest reunion ever staged
would not have advanced. We are confident with the
by the OSA and could not have been staged without
appointment of the School’s auditors and accounting
the help of George Friend, Perry Cross and Pauline
processes, that the management of the accounts for the
Bridle as well as all the Year group coordinators and
OSA will be vastly improved.
supporters that contributed to the night.
This year also marks the first year that Hidden Creek,
The reunion weekend was not just about the dinner,
the outdoor education facility, has been fully managed
but also included a meet and greet on the Friday,
by the School. Reports are that this has been a success
Boatshed Barbecue on the Saturday and the all-
and the OSA looks forward to finalising a permanent
important rugby home game, this year against Ipswich.
arrangement with the School soon for the on-going
Thanks again to the coordinators of these events
management of this great asset.
especially Olwen Williams and Pauline Bridle.
These events are for all members of the OSA and it is
often difficult to ensure the Friendship and Fellowship
28
organisations’ or through the OSA office 07-5531 9803.
Annual Report 2007
The OSA is in a very fortunate position with
regard to Hidden Creek and other assets. This has
been highlighted by the Combined GPS Alumni
by donating $200 when paying their quarterly fees.
Committee (CGAC). This organisation has been
This increased philanthropic support has allowed
established to share ideas between our kindred
us to contribute significantly to the air-conditioning
associations and it is well recognised that the OSA is
of various buildings and classrooms within both the
one of the strongest alumni associations of its kind,
Senior and Preparatory Schools. In this way, current
in terms of membership and resources. We should be
parents can see their donation having an immediate
proud of this fact and thank those who have handed
impact on daily life at TSS.
the organisation along in such great shape.
For those families who have already passed through
One of the main activities of the Combined GPS
the School and now look back on their years at TSS
Alumni Committee is to encourage pastoral care
with great fondness, the Foundation is now able to
among the community through suicide prevention.
utilise a new investment fund put into place by the
This is a very real issue that the OSA fully supports
School Council. This allows donations to be endowed
and we are looking to be more involved with in the
in perpetuity by investing securely with only the
future.
interest being applied to current projects. For many
Finally, a massive thank you to all who supported the
OSA in 2007 and we encourage all members to be
involved with your OSA.
Old Boys, this investment in the future is the true
spirit and meaning of the Foundation as the Building
Endowment Fund will ensure a stable financial future
for generations of TSS boys to come.
The Southport School Foundation
Limited
The Foundation also offers annual scholarships and
President, Ms Kay Tomlinson
by the Master of Prep in consultation with the
What a wonderful year! Thanks to the generous
support of the School community, the Foundation is
pleased to report that we were truly able to ‘make the
difference’ for the boys of TSS in 2007.
The Foundation was set up in 1986 to provide
leadership and a financial foundation for the future.
My sincere thanks go to my fellow members of the
Board for volunteering their leadership throughout
the year and their dedication and commitment to
doing the groundwork necessary to bring about
change and growth in the Foundation. We all work
closely with the Headmaster and the School Council
to ensure that donations go to areas in the School
where they are most needed.
Much of the extensive work done by the School
Council and the Board of Management over the past
several years has started to reap benefits for the School
in this our 21st year and our coming of age is evident
in the many ways in which the Foundation is now
contributing to life at TSS.
The Building Fund is the cornerstone of the
Foundation and during the past 12 months more
parents than ever have given to the Building Fund
country boarder bursaries. These boys are chosen
Headmaster and we are extremely proud of our
Foundation Scholars as they consistently excel in a
variety of fields within the School and many go on to
become leaders in the TSS community.
These scholarships and bursaries are currently
funded through the popular Business Breakfasts held
monthly at the Marriott Resort as well as the annual
Foundation and OSA Golf Day. While our number
of annual scholarships and bursaries is still relatively
small, this is one area in which we hope to increase
interest from potential donors especially now that
recent changes to the taxation laws make donations for
scholarships tax deductible.
The Foundation also recently approved a Scholarship
Endowment Fund, which falls under the umbrella
of the Council’s new investment vehicle. We are
very grateful to those families of Old Boys who
have come forward with bequests to the Scholarship
Endowment Fund. The future income generated by
the Scholarship Endowment Fund can be applied each
year to scholarships and bursaries which allows us to
plan carefully for the future.
A further initiative of the Foundation was to
successfully apply for a new tax-deductible fund
29
– the Library Fund. The Library Fund is something
at TSS. Sailing now has been able to rebuild their fleet.
very new for TSS and opens up some exciting
Friends of Gymnastics received $5,000 for urgently
opportunities for tax deductible giving. One example
needed new mats. Rowing, Rugby, Cricket and Tennis
is that donations to the Library Fund may be used for
all received funds that went directly to providing
storing and archival of resources. At TSS, we have
equipment for our boys. It is not only the sporting
a wealth of resources that deserve to be archived. A
groups that receive funding from the P&F. Friends of
donation to that area would be welcomed by Old
Music was able to purchase new quarter sizes bases
Southportonians in particular as they strive to keep
and a baritone sax with the P&F’s contribution of
our wonderful heritage well preserved for future
more than $10,000. We also were proud to be able to
generations of boys.
provide new large plasma TVs to the five boarding
All of these new funds will benefit both the School
and future students as well as provide an opportunity
for past parents, past students and members of the
Houses. Walking through the Houses and seeing the
enjoyment the boys receive from their new TVs makes
our role worthwhile.
TSS community to contribute in some way to the
2007 has also been a year of undertaking historic
School. This is done with the full knowledge that their
projects. The P&F has allocated $65,000 for the
donation will be directed to the specific area of their
air-conditioning of the chapel. This project has
choice.
now commenced and the chapel will be fully air-
Finally, my thanks to TSS for providing me with the
opportunity to be a volunteer within many support
groups for the past 14 years. I have made many
wonderful friendships and I thank the Foundation for
the privilege of being President in recent years. My
sincere best wishes to the whole School community
for the future.
Parents & Friends Association
President, Mr Greg Rix
2007 has been an exciting year for the Parents &
Friends Association (P&F) and one in which we can
all be proud.
conditioned by early December, ready for our summer
season. Current students, Old Boys, teachers and
parents alike will no longer have to suffer the heat
that has been a problem in our beautiful St Alban’s
Chapel. I have asked Father Bryan (given the now cool
environment) not to extend the services, sorry boys.
The Prep School has always lacked proper change
room and toilet facilities at the oval. This situation
has now been rectified through the P&F and the
Foundation. $250,000 from the P&F and $100,000
from the Foundation will see the construction of a
first-class facility where the current tin shed sits. Boys
now will have showers, toilets and change room areas
as well as a huge undercover area to leave their bags.
The P&F derives the bulk of its income from The
Parents will have toilets (at last) and an undercover
Store and these funds are then distributed back to the
area overlooking the playing fields. The Friends of
boys through our 15 sub-committees. Ten ‘Friends
Prep has saved $25,000 to fit out the kitchen so game
of ’ groups applied for funding in 2007 and just under
days will have full onsite service. Parents can look
$82,000 was granted and distributed. Friends of Sailing
forward to the area in front of the new building which
received $16,121 for the purchase of two new ‘pacer’
will have seating for coffee and ‘prep’ talk during
boats; this commitment ensured the future of Sailing
home games. We hope this building will be finished in
the first quarter of 2008.
30
Annual Report 2007
The P&F has written to the Gold Coast City Council,
(GCCC) on three occasions this year strongly
objecting to the closure of Winchester Street and
Greer Terrace. We have requested a meeting with
Council representatives to put forth our view; Council
has not accepted this offer and they continue to move
forward without proper consultation with the School
community. The closure of either these roads will
have a dramatic effect on the ability of parents to move
in and out of the School safely, particularly those who
wish to travel north. Please write to the GCCC and
send a copy to the P&F as your input will help with
our case.
Being an Old Boy and parent of TSS, I had an
understanding of the involvement level required to
be part of the School. I have now seen first hand the
dedication of parents who give up their time to ensure
the boys’ activities can happen. My sincere thanks to
those parents, too many to name, the School could not
function without your support. It is the way of TSS
and the GPS system that seems to encourage parents
and boys alike to step up when needed. I witnessed
three parents early in the year cooking the barbecue
lunch for boys who were training on the fields. It was
just a given this would occur. This is what makes our
School special and is the very fabric of TSS.
31
‘Palmam qui meruit ferat’
Let he who deserves the palm of victory bear it.
Please contact the Marketing and Admissions department on 1300 877 269 or email [email protected] to
request additional copies of the 2007 Annual Report.
Annual Report 2007
An Anglican Boys’ Boarding and Day School
Prep Year – Year 12
Winchester Street, Southport Queensland 4215
Phone 07 5531 9944 Fax 07 5591 2124
www.tss.qld.edu.au
The Corporation of the Synod of the Diocese
of Brisbane trading as The Southport School
CRICOS Provider No. 005323F
33