Issue 10/2015 26 June 2015 - Academy of Mary Immaculate

Issue 10/2015 26 June 2015
Dear Members of the Academy Community,
At the end of a very busy term and at the midway point of the year it is appropriate that we take time – that we make
time – to reflect on the journey so far. “Embrace the Day” - how have we lived our College Theme this year? Have we
embraced each and every day and lived each day to the full, rejoicing in the achievements of the day and learning from
the things that did not go as well? Has this choice of theme made a difference to life at the Academy? Leunig’s
accompanying reflection is worth pondering.
Hopefully, the school holidays will provide some time for all of us to reflect on the past 6 months and move purposefully
forward into the future.
The end of term is a particularly busy term for teachers with the marking of examinations and the writing of reports. I
thank them for their hard work and dedication to this process and for their constant efforts to encourage and support our
students. Parents are encouraged to read these reports very carefully and to discuss the contents with your daughter.
There will be an opportunity at the Parent/Teacher Interviews in Term 3 to discuss your daughter’s progress.
Term 2 saw the involvement of students in numerous activities—Community Action Week, the Seeds of Justice
Conference, Debating and Public Speaking Competitions, Reflection Days, Year 7 and 9 NAPLAN Testing, Years 9 to
12 Examinations, and a myriad of sporting activities—just to mention a few. It is wonderful to see the enthusiasm with
which students involve themselves so wholeheartedly in College activities.
Congratulations to our six Students of the Term! The profile of each student can be found later in the Newsletter.
As this term draws to a close I would like to take this opportunity to thank staff and students for all their efforts this term
and to thank parents for their support.
I extend best wishes to Ms Marsali Slocombe who will be on maternity leave for the remainder of the year and thank her
for her contribution to the College as teacher and as Head of Performing Arts. We wish her well.
Best wishes too to Ms Olivia Hamilton who has concluded her contract at the College.
May the holidays be a time of relaxation and rejuvenation and happiness.
Dear Lord,
Each day is a blessing. May we live each day wisely and well, aware of how richly we have been blessed.
Every Blessing
Sr Mary Moloney rsm
Principal
1|
DEPUTY PRINCIPAL
Forthcoming Important Dates
Term 3
Monday, 13 July
Tuesday, 14 July
Wednesday, 15 to 17 July
Monday, 27 July
Term 3 Classes commence for all students (Day 6)
College Assembly
Year 9 Camp
Staff Professional learning Day – no classes
Student Forum – Student Leaders from Years 7 to 11
As indicated in the last Newsletter, Sr Mary and I have been meeting with the Class and Vice Captains from Years 7 to
11 in a Student Forum. The following is a summary of the issues discussed at the last meeting:
Further access to indoor seating areas on cold days – this will be addressed at the next term after discussion
in Homerooms about suitable areas and the responsibility for maintaining the cleanliness of the areas used.
Cost of printing – the amount of money credited to each student’s account will be increased and the cost of
printing has been reviewed. This is now in operation and the information has been made available to students
via the Daily Bulletin.
Use of the eDiary.
Wearing of Sports Uniform on PE days – this will be discussed at length next term.
The MasterPlan for the beautification of the Yard and Junior Yard was shown to the student leaders; and the
plans are displayed on the noticeboard outside the Flynn building.
At our next meeting early next term, the leaders will discuss these issues as presented above.
Attendance Phone Number - a reminder
The Attendance Phone Number ph: 9412 7111 can be accessed 24 hours a day and gives you the opportunity of leaving
a message detailing your daughter’s attendance status. The messages are checked regularly throughout the day,
ensuring all absences are recorded. This is a direct line so there is no need to phone Main Reception and be transferred
to Student Reception.
I wish everyone a safe and relaxing holiday.
Kindest regards,
Mr Fuller
Deputy Principal
YEAR 7 UPDATE
Beginning secondary school can be challenging, even a little daunting, but our latest members of the community have
taken it in their stride and transitioned beautifully. They have achieved so much this year already, Principal Sr Mary,
Year 7 Co ordinator and Homeroom teachers thought it would be appropriate to celebrate and what better time to do it
than on their 100th Day of Secondary school. In early June all Year 7 students were treated to cupcakes, balloons and
badges to commemorate all of the hard work and achievement thus far. It was a great time to reflect and chat about all
the highlights, the supportive relationships they have formed, and incredible knowledge they have gained this year.
2|
"As coordinator it is such a pleasure watching the girls transform and flourish into confident, capable young women and
I am very proud of each and every one of them. Well done girls. Keep up the fantastic work!!” Alexandra Cowin.
Ms Alex Cowin, Year 7 Coordinator
SCIENCE DEPARTMENT
Australian Brain Bee Challenge – State Final
Aisha Buckle (10 G), Kate Taylor (10 R), Linda Nguyen (10 R) and Olivia Do (10 S) participated in the State Finals of
the Australian Brain Bee Challenge at Melbourne University on Wednesday 17 th June. The competition is an
international Brain Science Olympiad which requires students to learn the contents of a textbook on all aspects of brain
science. The state finals means that the students get to spend a day with practising neuroscientists at University of
Melbourne and this year’s event included seeing Nobel Laureate, Peter Doherty speak about his 50 years as a science
researcher. Here’s a snippet of what they received from the day.
‘..we got to hear Peter Doherty speak, who summed up science as “learning a whole lot of stuff and then forgetting it in
order to prove it wrong”. Altogether it was a great day, I really enjoyed.’ Aisha Buckle
‘..Being able to touch plasticised organs, seeing the human body in different parts was a great learning experience, as
well as memorable.’ Olivia Do
‘..Other than the team and individual challenge, we were able to tour around some of the buildings, which I found
interesting. We got to see the professional neuroscientists’ working place. It was a great experience and I enjoyed it
very much.’ Linda Nguyen.
The Brain Bee gave me and my teammates a great opportunity to have a fun day at Melbourne University competing
with other schools for some great prizes….Overall, the competition was a great experience that I would high recommend
to anyone.’ Kate Taylor
Inspiring Women in Science: Louise Possee (11 R), Tess Devine-Hercus (11 B), Madeline Wade (10 G), Sienna
McCormack (10 G), Charlotte Mitchell (10 G), Genevieve Sherburn (10 G), Alana McKirdy (10 R), Jayde Razlog (9
Monash), Tracy Nguyen (9 Monash), Olivia Piv (9 Monash) and Ruby Whittle (9 Monash) attended the first “Inspiring
Women in Science” Conference on Thursday 18th June. The event was hosted by the Merri Creek Management
Committee and sponsored by the City of Yarra. The day was intended to give students the opportunity to meet women
involved in Environmental Science and learn about their jobs and how they got there. The following quotes were provided
by the girls immediately after the event.
“My experience of the conference was both eye opening and inspiring. I really enjoyed the program on water ways and
the practical solutions that provide both an environmentally friendly and beautiful result.”
“…I got to experience and learn about different aspects of science. I had the opportunity to identify different species of
insects under a microscope as well as the chance to learn about the environmentally friendly ways of dealing with
stormwater drainage issues in our community.”
“Science isn’t just mathematical, you can get involved in conservation aspects of science, such as conservation of
marine life.”
Reptile Care: Thank you to the 23 students who volunteered to help look after our reptile residents in the McKenna
Science Centre. A number of students were already experienced reptile keepers and were able to help those who were
less confident. In particular, it takes a little getting used to handling the crickets and meal worms – which can be a little
on the icky side.
3|
Semester 1 Reptile Keepers
The Term 3 Roster sign-up sheet is available on the ground floor Notice Board in McAllen Science Centre for students
to nominate their preferred dates. Newcomers are most welcome or please email Ms Mercuri directly.
Science Week – Coming Up in Week 6 of Term 3 and the theme this year is “The Science of Light”. There will be many
of activities on during Science classes and during lunchtime for students to join in. Students and staff will be able to
reflect on the importance of light science to our world today. Not sure how relevant light science is to you? Here’s a list
of the technology that could only have come about as a result of what we know about light: photography, mobile
technology, high speed internet, microwaves, radio, television, GPS, optometry, x-ray imaging, key-hole surgery, solar
power, microscopy, quantum computers, astronomy/astrophysics. Stay tuned for more details regarding planned events.
Ms Toni Mercuri, Head of Science
LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT
UN WEEKEND FRANÇAIS À DAYLESFORD. ON Y VA !! LET'S GO!!
On Saturday 27th June, Mme Pigo's Year 12 VCE French class will be heading off to the idyllic town of Daylesford for
a weekend filled with French music, films, games and activities, and French crêpes. The twelve students will speak
ONLY in French throughout the entire weekend. English will not be tolerated! Mme Pigo and Mme Harding will ensure
that students focus on developing their French speaking, listening and reading skills.
On a more serious note, students will commence their Year 12 French Detailed Topic on Baron Haussmann's Paris.
There will be some sessions dealing with the historical background of Haussmann's Paris.
It is anticipated that the weekend will be a huge success! The weekend will include the occasional walk around the
township and local shops rugged up in winter attire. The girls are praying for snow. Peut-être!
The AOMI would like to thank Ms Leanne Abela and Mr Angelo Montalti for their generosity in allowing the Year 12
French class to stay at their beautiful Daylesford property, Dunroman. Merci beaucoup!
Ms. Astrid Pigo, Year 12 French teacher
4|
DANTE ALIGHIERI RECITATION COMPETITION
On Monday 15th June the Year 10 and 11 students of Italian participated in the annual Dante Alighieri Recitation
competition held at Melbourne University. The girls made their way to the University with Ms. DeSarro and our Italian
language assistant, Valentina Voce. Despite their nerves, Ms. DeSarro was very proud of the way the Academy girls
recited their poems. It was a wonderful experience for the girls to speak in front of a panel of judges unknown to them,
and excellent preparation in battling the nerves that come with oral performance before they attempt Year 12 Italian in
the coming years.
Congratulations to the many girls who received Merit or Distinction Awards, but special congratulations goes Leah
Alysandratos of Year 11 who was chosen to be a finalist in the competition. We wish Leah all the best in the final
which will be held on Friday 24th July.
Ms Jodie Muller, Head of Language Department
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – FOOD DEPARTMENT
My Year 9 class finished their semester with a party this week. They created some delicious morsels for our celebration.
As we enjoyed our feast I reflected on some of the wonderful work they have been doing this year. A highlight for me
was the Australian themed biscuits and packaging which they designed and made. From wattle seed biscuits filled with
quandong jam to Aussie ‘Tim Tams’ shaped like footballs, the creativity and polish of their work was wonderful.
.
Ms Amy Pendergast, Information Technology - Food
PERFORMING ARTS DEPARTMENT
Meet the Instrumental Teacher: Academy Drums and Percussion Teacher, Sarah Galdes
Please read below for the first in our series of newsletter articles profiling our talented instrumental music teachers. We
are very fortunate to have the fantastic Ms Sarah Galdes on staff here at Academy as Drums/Percussion Teacher and
Jazz Ensemble Director. Individual and paired lessons are available in Drums and Percussion. To enquire please
contact Ms Virginia Dionysiou via email at [email protected].
Sarah Galdes is a highly experienced professional musician in both Classical and Contemporary repertoire, a
scholarship student graduating from the Victorian College of the Arts in 2010 and with honours in 2013 majoring in Jazz
5|
(Drum Kit and Tabla). Sarah currently holds three teaching positions at music schools, has conducted numerous drum
workshops and facilitated many music camps. Career highlights include performing at one of the biggest music festivals
in the world, SXSW, in Texas in 2013 with indie rock group 'Blackchords' and following this up with a string of shows in
NYC, LA, Houston and Toronto to play in Canada Music Week. Other highlights include an album launch tour to Japan
with post rock group 'Goodbye Enemy Airship' in 2014, supporting legendary artist Elvis Costello with
the inimitable Pinky Beecroft in MONA, Tasmania and attending the world renowned International Workshop in Jazz
and Creative Music at the Banff Centre in 2013.
Sarah engages with a wide variety of bands and artists which makes her quite a unique percussionist in the Melbourne
music scene. She has delved into traditional Korean percussion instruments and North Indian music traditions to further
enrich her musical syntax, undertaken intensive study tours and music workshops in South Korea, New York and
Canada, recorded and performed with many acclaimed artists and bands and composed for
cross interdisciplinary collaborations.
6|
STUDENT OF THE TERM FOR TERM 2 – 24 JUNE 2015
Edel Miskella, 7 Green - Edel has truly stepped up to the challenges of secondary school. She has
embraced all aspects of the College, involving herself in sports such as athletics and cross-country and
by playing a major and exciting role in the school musical, gracing us all with her fantastic voice. But
what has stood out this year is her mature, organised and self-disciplined manner within the
classroom. She is hard working and attentive even with the pressures of a busy extracurricular
schedule. Her peers look up to her and respect her valuable and thoughtful contributions and her
teachers have often commented on her level of maturity and commitment towards her education. She
is a kind and compassionate all-rounder and even though she is not a class captain this semester she
shows true leadership amongst her peers. We are proud of her this semester and look forward to watching her flourish
into the strong Mercy woman that she has already proven to be.
Scarlett Silverback, 8 Green - Scarlett has consistently performed at an outstanding level throughout
the term both academically and in terms of the Academy community. She has been involved in a variety
of activities and has done so with a level of enthusiasm that has set a fine example to her peers. She
has had the opportunity to speak to the Talk and Tour groups and has proven herself a very worthy
ambassador for the Academy, speaking with a warmth and openness that has certainly put the College
in a positive light. She performed with distinction in the school play and everybody who witnessed that
event will attest to her contribution. She captained the cricket team and is involving herself in the football
team. Her willingness to show concern for her peers is commendable. She goes out of her way to make
all feel welcome in the year group and does not hesitate to voice her concern for the welfare of others. She has shown
leadership in helping her fellow students and she lights up the Year 8 corridor with her bright smile and welcoming
manner.
Rebecca Arena, 9 Monash - Rebecca is spoken highly of by all her teachers. They all note her
willingness to try new things and her good sense of humour. She has a very positive influence on the
students around her, both within the classroom and during homeroom. These natural leadership
qualities were recognized with her election as Vice-Captain in her homeroom at the commencement of
this year. Rebecca is enthusiastic, courteous and passionate about all aspects of school life. She was
a part of the College musical this year and is a passionate sportswoman, engaged in a number of the
school’s sporting activities. In homeroom she is noted for her generous and willing approach to all tasks.
She has shown a special commitment to fund raising during Terms 1 and 2 and is always ready to
assist with any task which is asked of her.
Sienna Curnow, 10 Silver - Sienna can be described as a very keen, enthusiastic and capable student.
She is always helpful and has a warm sense of humour. She is considerate of her fellow peers and
contributes to a positive tone to homeroom. In all her classes, she contributes in a mature way in any
class activity. She is hardworking and dedicated in all aspects of her life. During her Community Action
Placement she demonstrated great initiative and not only did she work well independently but also in a
team. She took the initiative and completed tasks without being asked. Sienna was also part of the
College’s musical, Hairspray. She was described as a fantastic cast member and an outstanding
performer. It was obvious that she practised outside of rehearsals as she executed choreography and
songs with energy and enthusiasm. She had an engaging presence on the stage. She has also participated in a variety
of Public Speaking Events from debating to the National Public Speaking competition in Sydney.
Alivia Cozzi, 11 Green - Alivia is a dedicated student who always strives to do her best. She is highly
motivated and consistently works hard. Her teachers describe her as attentive in class and respectful
of both teachers and students alike. She is organized and responsible, following up on work and
keeping her notes thorough and clear. She is helpful to her teachers and other students and always
considerate of others and works cooperatively with others. She has taken on the challenge of VCE in
a mature and focused way and is a role model to others in her classes. In homeroom as with all her
other classes, she will always put her hand up to help out and do necessary jobs. Always friendly and
polite, she has been described as a delightful young lady and a very worthy recipient.
Sonia Rechichi, 12 Silver - Sonia has made a significant contribution to the College this year and
over the last six years. She is a motivated student who always has the best interests of students at
heart. She is an excellent role model and always looks out for the younger students at the College. She
had a starring role in the College musical and has involved herself fully in the volleyball at the College.
An enthusiastic and worthy recipient.
7|
8|
UNIFORM SHOP - BUXWEAR
The College Uniform Shop Supplier is BUXWEAR
Currently the following methods of purchase are
available to families.

IN PERSON
Buxwear
218 Settlement Road
Thomastown VIC 3074
Shop Hours:
Monday – Friday 9:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday
9:00am – 2:00pm
9|

ONLINE
shop.buxwear.com.au

BY PHONE
Please call 9464 7555
Buxwear will offer Purchases as above as well as
in person at the College
At the COLLEGE on Tuesdays
Term 3
14 July,
4 August and
1 September.
Hours: 2:30pm – 3.30pm
Please call 9464 7555 if you would like to arrange
an appointment time for 3.30pm – 4.00pm.