Monthly Archives: October 2015

Enews – Term 4, Week 3 2015

30 October 2015School EnewsSt Peters

Issue no. 33

From the Chaplain

One of the many things that I enjoy about the worship tradition at our School is the quality of music. Student participation is high and many of our musicians offer their talents at Eucharists and weekly services in order to bring us together and share, reflect, and celebrate. For the most part, student contributions have been through singing (choir or congregational), playing in Chapel band, or offering a solo performance during Communion. I am now excited we have launched a new scholarship at St Peter’s Girls’ School – the Pipe Organ Scholarship!

While embracing a wide range of contemporary music, St Peter’s Girls’ School still maintains the beautiful, traditional pipe organ music in Chapel. In 1987 Old Scholars and members of the community raised funds to purchase our current pipe organ crafted by Adelaide organ builder, Rod Capon. The organ has since continued to be a familiar and powerful presence in our Chapel services, played most frequently by our long serving and devoted organist, Paul Shillabeer.

As one of the few schools to have maintained a pipe organ tradition and to have access to such a wonderful instrument, we would like to offer the opportunity to our best keyboard students to develop their skills on the organ. The Organ Scholar will be awarded a 25% reduction in school fees, weekly organ lessons, access to the Chapel for private practice, and a key role in playing the organ at School Chapel services. Organ lessons will also be an option for other music students through the School’s instrumental music program.

The Organ Scholarship is open to students entering Years 6-11. No previous organ experience is required; however, the recipient must have achieved AMEB Piano Grade 5 or equivalent. The recipient will be a dedicated musician who is keen to develop advanced skills on the organ and play a significant role in the worship of the School.

Rev’d Natasha Darke

End of year arrangements

As Term 4 progresses, there are a number of special end of year events that we encourage parents to attend. Years 6 and 9 parents should note that graduation ceremonies for your daughters will take place in the afternoon.

Tuesday 1 December
Carols in the Cathedral
St Peter’s Cathedral, North Adelaide
7pm

Friday 4 December
R-2 Nativity
Arts Centre, St Peter’s Girls
6.30pm

Monday 7 December
Year 6 Graduation
Arts Centre, St Peter’s Girls
2pm

Tuesday 8 December
Year 9 Graduation
Arts Centre, St Peter’s Girls
2pm

Wednesday 9 December
Annual Presentation Night
Adelaide Town Hall
7pm

I look forward to seeing as many parents as possible at these wonderful events.

In staffing news, our Head of ICT, Barbara Hender, has accepted the role of Head of Information Technology at Huntingtower in Melbourne, to start in Term 1, 2016. She will complete her employment at St Peter’s Girls’ School at the end of this term. On behalf of the School, I would like to wish Barbara the very best for her future; she will be missed by many members of staff as well as students.

Julia Shea
Principal

House Charity Week

This year, as part of our new Service-Learning initiative, our Senior School students have been working on developing a House Charity system. Earlier in the year, the four House charities were announced after a careful selection process.

Since then, Year 10 students have been working on developing their fundraising and service activities.

Next week the School will hold the first House Charity Week, where all Years 7-12 students will be asked to support their House Charity.

The girls have designed some innovative and interesting ways to raise awareness and funds for the four charities. We hope that you can support them next week and we look forward to seeing many positive results, both for the girls and our selected charities.

An outline of each House’s activity for next week is included below.

Kerry Skinner
Deputy Principal/Head of Senior School

Selwyn: Sleep Under

Throughout the last couple of terms, 10SEL have been working hard to plan an event so that our house can come together to help support our chosen charity, The Smith Family. This charity helps disadvantaged children and families across Australia. The Smith Family works hard every day to help improve these children’s futures. As a result of their dedication, over 134,000 disadvantaged children and their families receive support through The Smith Family’s various programs.

As a year level, with some help from Mr Butler and Emily from High Resolves, Selwyn have come up with the idea of having a Sleep Under to help raise money and awareness for The Smith Family and the services they provide.

Our Sleep Under will take place on Thursday, 3 December, and will involve our 15 Year 10 students, and two very brave and eager teachers, sleeping out in an area of the school for the night. It will involve us sleeping in conditions similar to those of people living in poverty, with less food and less facilities than our usual fortunate circumstances.

Where we sleep and the conditions we sleep under are up to our House and the generosity of the Selwyn students’ donations! Our fundraising goal is to raise $500; this will result in us sleeping outside on the tennis courts with limited facilities. If we only reach $400 we will sleep in the gym with a few extra comforts, but anything less than $300 will see us sleeping in a classroom with facilities such as food, bedding and electricity. However, our ultimate aim is to get to the tennis courts and sleep out in rough conditions so we can donate more money to The Smith Family.

So we need support from Selwyn girls and their families and are asking you to get behind this very worthy cause! Early next week we will be sending home a donation envelope to all Selwyn families. We would really appreciate your generous support towards our event so that we, in turn, can help The Smith Family to continue the amazing work they do for disadvantaged Australian families.

Emma Mockridge
Year 10 Selwyn

Patteson: Project EATT

The Year 10 Patteson girls, who are the drivers of the House Charity project that has been introduced this year, have come up with Project EATT (Everyone at the Table). The project consists of a collection of non-perishable food items. These items will then be assembled into food hampers and donated to the Australian Refugee Association (ARA) to contribute to their annual Christmas Food and Gift Drive.

We would greatly appreciate the generosity of your family in order to achieve our goal and ask you to provide an item of non-perishable food by 5 November 2015 (Thursday, Week 4). There will be boxes in which these donations can be placed in the Patteson Year 10’s Home Group room (MB 314), Mrs Moore’s classroom and in the Front Office.

Please keep in mind that Halal and vegetarian food options will be of most use to the refugees.

Lydia Smalls
Year 10 Patteson

Kilburn: Daffodil Wall

As part of the exciting new House Charity project, the Year 10 Kilburn girls have created a fundraiser for girls in Reception to Year 12 in order to raise money and awareness for the Cancer Council by creating a daffodil wall. The daffodil has long been a symbol for the Cancer Council of hope and new beginnings, and the Kilburn girls believe it is important for this to be part of our campaign. In addition to this, the Year 10 girls will be volunteering at the Credit Union Christmas Pageant, handing out sunscreen and raising awareness about sun safety.

Every Kilburn girl has already received an envelope with a small slip inside, allowing them to purchase a daffodil for $4, which will then be placed on the St Michael’s Wing during Week 5. The envelopes will need to be returned to Home Group teachers by Friday Week 4. All proceeds from the purchase of the daffodils will be donated directly to the Cancer Council.

We must also thank our very generous sponsors, Yoga Fusion, which will contribute funds towards material costs for this activity.

We strongly encourage all Kilburn girls to participate and buy a daffodil!

Sophie-Louise Shearwood
Year 10 Kilburn

Kennion: Breakfast Kickstart

The charity that Kennion has decided to support is called Kickstart for Kids. It is a non-profit organisation that helps disadvantaged school children in South Australia by providing breakfast and mentoring services in their schools.

To support this charity we have decided to have an in house competition to see which year level can bring in the most jars of either vegemite or jam.

Jam and vegemite are a vital part of the Kickstart for Kids breakfast program so when you go through around 700 jars a month the price adds up. Due to this, we decided that would be a great way for Kennion to get involved and support Kickstart for Kids.

Throughout week 4 (next week!) the donations of jam and vegemite jars can be placed in boxes located in each Home Group from Reception to Year 11. The Year 10 Kennion girls will be collecting the donations every day. By the end of the week the year level who has collected the most will win a free hot pizza lunch.

So let’s kickstart a child’s day together by helping to provide them with something as simple as a nice warm piece of vegemite or jam toast.

Olivia Habel
Year 10 Kennion

Mathematics results

Results from three Mathematics competitions have recently been released. Firstly, congratulations to every student who participated – it is by having a go that we learn more about ourselves.

In the 2015 Australian Mathematics Competition it was very exciting to learn that Tuyet (Tina) Vo (Year 10) was awarded a Prize placing her in the top 0.3% of entrants. The level below the Prize category is the High Distinction award (top 2%). Jian (Skylar) Gao (11), Mikaela Georgiadis (10) and Hannah Brown (8) were awarded High Distinctions. A new award this year is for the best in school for each of the Senior and Primary School. Congratulations to Tina Vo (10) and Devika Mukherjee (4) who won these awards.

There were 28 students who were awarded a Distinction certificate. The Distinction winners were

Year 4: Devika Mukherjee, Georgia Parsons and Alicia Toh
Year 5: Annabelle Bradshaw
Year 6: Rose Young and Cheri Wong
Year 7: Olufunto Komolafe and Ella Liddy
Year 8: Sarah Carrodus, Rachel Kameniar, Zhijun (Amy) Li, Charlotte White and Amelia Wood
Year 9: Olivia Compare, Bethany Cross, Ashleigh Rogers, Cheryl Wang, Georgia Wilkinson and Ziyi (Michelle) Yeoh
Year 10: Olivia Habel, Carys Jones, Emily Murdock and Tam Nguyen
Year 11: Samantha Abeygunasekera, Jiale Hu, Mila Loechel and Elise Schaedel
Year 12: Helen Bui

In the ICAS Mathematics competition it was also very exciting to learn that two students were awarded Medals for being the highest scoring student in the State in their year level. Emily Murdock (10) and Jian (Skylar) Gao (11) were the recipients of ICAS medals. Tam Nguyen (10) also achieved a High Distinction.

There were 26 students who were awarded a Distinction certificate. The Distinction winners were

Year 4: Bronwyn Gautier, Madison Liddy, Ruby Croston-Melling, Devika Mukherjee and Georgia Parsons
Year 5: Annabelle Bradshaw and Angela Mourtzios
Year 6: Katija Franchi and Cheri Wong
Year 7: Olufunto Komolafe and Isabelle Norman
Year 8: Hannah Brown, Sarah Carrodus and Amelia Wood
Year 9: Bethany Cross, Ava Loechel, Ashleigh Rogers, Cheryl Wang, Shiyao (Connie) Wang and Charlotte Yandell
Year 10: Aanchal Chandiramani, Mikaela Georgiadis, Han (Hazel) Huang, Carys Jones and Tina Vo
Year 12: Helen Bui

Finally, in the very demanding Australian Intermediate Mathematics Olympiad Emily Murdock achieved a Distinction. Congratulations on this very significant result, given the standard in this competition is very high.

John Leydon
Head of Mathematics

Primary Maths Challenge success continues

Each and every year I am amazed at the wonderful work created by our students for the Primary Maths Challenge. This year is no exception!

All of the students who entered this year should feel extremely proud of their fabulous investigations, whether they were awarded Certificates of Participation, were Highly Commended or were State Winners.

On Friday 16 October our Highly Commended and State winning students were presented with their awards at the Fogolar Furlan Function Centre.

On Friday 20 November we will be presenting all certificates and trophies at the Junior School Assembly, which will be run by our Year 2 class. I would ask that all certificates and trophies be brought into my room (MB 209) by Wednesday 18 November.

Here is a taste of the work that was entered:

Devika was looking at Maths in Medicine and one area of medicine she investigated was Obstetrics. Devika attended an ultrasound of a baby and looked at the various measurements that were being taken. She then made some calculations about the predicted weight for this baby and compared the predictions with the actual weight at birth.

“The EFW of the baby was 3269g. The birth weight was 3790g. If the baby, by the stage it was at, was expected to grow 200g each week and there were roughly 3 weeks in between the ultrasound and labour then the baby should have grown by an estimate of 600g. That means that there should be an estimate of 600g difference between the two weights. If we look at the weights 3790g and 3269g is there 600g difference? The answer was close – 521g! So the baby grew roughly the estimated amount for its age.”

In a few weeks time, all of the entries from this year’s competition will be returned. I am looking forward to having all of the entries on display in the Learning Strategies room for a few weeks prior to the end of the year.

Please feel free to come and view this amazing work. It may inspire you to enter next year!

Congratulations once again to all of our amazing entrants – I can’t wait to see what you all come up with in 2016!

Mrs Catherine Kelly
R-6 Learning Strategies

Mid-Year Reception class investigates recycling

To support our unit of inquiry, ‘Our personal choices have an impact on our environment’, the RSF Receptions participated in an session run by Kerrie from KESAB. The ‘Recycling Relay’ proved to be a fun and practical way to test the girls’ waste and recycling knowledge.

The girls were given a brief introduction on waste and recycling before working in relay teams to sort real items into ‘landfill’, ‘recycling’ and ‘organics’ bins. The bin colours used were a replication of the kerbside system of the School’s council area, assisting students to become great recyclers at home too!

After the relay, the contents of the bins were examined, with ‘tricky’ items discussed by the group.

All girls had a great time combining fitness with learning! Here’s what they had to say:

Beatrice: “Where did you take all the photos from?”
Georgina: “(Will it) be made into new paper?”
Tabitha: “We don’t want to cut down the trees because the animals won’t have a home.”
Annabelle: “Wow, look, that book has been recycled; it had the recycled sign.”
Ayrlie: “I learnt about doing recycling and I had fun playing the game.”
Ruby: “Some other things I didn’t know can go in the recycling bin.”
Eleanor: “I like rubbish and learning about it.”
Stella: “I learnt that hard plastics go in the recycling bin.”
Aoife: “I learnt to put the right things in the right bins.”
Lilly: “The fish went in the green bin” – Ruby: “Because it grows.”
Chelsea: “I learnt that soft plastics go to the dump – the ones you can scrunch up.”
Madison: “Tins go in the recycling.”

Sarah Fenwick
Reception Teacher

Buzz Book advertising now open

Next year’s Buzz Book is just around the corner. The Buzz Book is an integral part of each St Peter’s Girls’ School family home. It’s the go-to resource for all our families – and this is your opportunity to be included in the Buzz.

Advertising is available in the 2016 edition and prices start from just $20 for a text listing and from $120 for display spaces.

This year we are offering advertisers who purchase a full page colour ad the option of a complimentary promotion on the big screen at the 2016 Twilight Cinema!

This is an annual fundraising initiative of the Parents’ and Friends’ Association where all funds raised go towards resources for the girls. The fundraising efforts of the P&F have been integral in such initiatives as the purchase of a NAO Humanoid Robot worth over $20,000. The P&F’s contributions to the School are all the more possible thanks to the support and generosity of local businesses and school families who contribute to the Buzz Book each year.

To book your spot, visit www.trybooking.com/JGEN.

But hurry – bookings must close on Monday 7 December!

Mothers’ Club: Win tickets to see Taylor Swift

The Mothers’ Club is pleased to announce a very exciting raffle for the School community. One lucky winner from the School will receive four tickets to see Taylor Swift live in concert at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre from the comfort of the BankSA corporate box.

Don’t miss out!

Tickets are now on sale at www.trybooking.com/JKHF
Buy 1 for $20 or 3 for $50

You’ll have to get in quick – limited tickets available, on sale for four weeks only.

The prize, donated by BankSA, also includes dinner, drinks and a car park at the concert, which will be held on 7 December at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre.

Emma Robinson
Mothers’ Club President

Scholarships

Scholarship information and registration details are now available at www.stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au/scholarships.

Year 8 Academic Scholarship for Entry 2017
Students who will be in Year 7 in 2016 are eligible to apply for an academic entrance scholarship commencing from Year 8 in 2017. Registration for these scholarships must be completed online through the School website which provides a direct link through to the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER). A series of academic tests will be undertaken at our School on Saturday 6 February 2016 and further information regarding these scholarships can be downloaded from the website. Registrations will close on Thursday 21 January 2016.

Music Scholarships for 2017
Current and external students from Year 6 to Year 10 in 2016 are welcome to apply for a Music Scholarship, for commencement from 2017. The scholarship criteria and application details are available on the School website and applications will be accepted until Friday 12 February 2016. Successful applicants will be invited to attend an audition in late February.

Pipe Organ Scholarship for 2016
Girls entering Years 6-11 are invited to apply for the Pipe Organ Scholarship. No previous organ experience is required: however, the recipient must have achieved AMEB Piano Grade 5 or equivalent. The recipient will be a dedicated musician who is keen to develop advanced skills on the organ and play a significant role in the worship activities of the School, including weekly Chapel services and Eucharists.

Further details about all of the scholarships on offer are available at www.stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au/scholarships

Virginia Miller
Director of Admissions & International Student Welfare

Join us for Christmas Drinks on the Lawns

All ELC to Year 12 parents are warmly invited to attend the inaugural Christmas Drinks on the Lawns event. Please join us to celebrate all the successes of 2015 and learn more about our exciting initiatives under way for 2016.

Christmas Drinks on the Lawns
5.30 – 7.30pm
Thursday 12 November 2015
Chiverton Lawns

Drinks and nibbles will be provided. Children are also welcome to attend.

To assist with catering, please RSVP at www.trybooking.com/JKJH by Friday 6 November.

Enquiries can be directed to events@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au.

Peter Pan tickets now available

Next week, the Peter Pan Junior production will come to life!

This is a beautiful version of the story with familiar songs. Prepare to be dazzled this year by something ‘just a little bit different’. Parent costume makers and prop sourcers have been hard at work, the music staff have been revising the songs with the girls, Mr D has been creating wonderful choreography and I have been busy blocking scenes and designing the vision.

The girls have really taken this show on with great vigour and have been able to bring to life many funny and many poignant moments. Mums, bring tissues – the ‘Your Mother and Mine’ scene will make you sniffle!

Thank you to all who have contributed to the show so far and to our parent community for their ongoing support.

7pm, 5 and 6 November 2015
Arts Centre, St Peter’s Girls’ School
Adults $15, Concession $8, Family $35

Tickets are now available at www.trybooking.com/IYQI

Shelley Hampton
Year 5 Teacher

OSA Movie Afternoon

The St Peter’s Girls’ School community is invited to an exclusive movie experience.

The highly anticipated movie release, Spectre, sees 007 at his best when a cryptic message from his past sends James Bond (Daniel Craig) on a quest to uncover a sinister organisation while M (Ralph Fiennes) battles political forces that want to shut down the British Secret Service.

Saturday 14 November 2015
Drinks from 3pm
Movie from 3.30pm
The Regal Theatre, 275 Kensington Road, Kensington Park SA
Tickets $25 per person – Includes champagne on arrival and chocolates

Tickets available at http://www.trybooking.com/IUOW

For enquiries please contact me on 8334 2239 or mmccormack@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au.

Megan McCormack (nee Walker, Kilburn ’86)
Old Scholar Liaison Officer

Cabaret Concert at St Peter’s College

St Peter’s College will hold the 2015 Cabaret Concert at Memorial Hall on Friday 13 November 2015. Entry from 6.30pm for a 7pm start.

Adults: $25 per person
Concession: $20 per person

To book, visit trybooking.com/158582

For further details, contact Jill Page on 8404 0683 or email jpage@stpeters.sa.edu.au

Sports results

Tennis

Recently, Sienna Glazbrook (Year 5) and Maiya Jakupec (Year 4) competed in an event run by Tennis SA involving 83 players who were competing for a chance to be involved in the Super 10s team’s event. This event involves 16 boys and 16 girls being selected to compete against each other over several weeks under the guidance of Tennis SA coaches. Sienna and Maiya have both been selected in Team Stosur, with Sienna as the number 1 player.

Basketball – Wednesday 21 October

Open A
Saints got off to a good start. However, the opposition were strong, causing Saints to rush the ball down the court and make poor passing decisions. Our defensive game was strong, with a special mention to Grace Callen, Chelsea Stamato and Emily Dansie who got some good touches. Unfortunately, Saints lost the experience of Jo Dalpra early in the game and, despite this, the girls worked well as a team and should be commended for their efforts. Emily Dansie (Captain)

Middle A – Saints 8 defeated by Wilderness 69
Although we had another loss this week, there were some positives to take away from the game. At training the girls worked on cutting across the key to provide options in attack, going for goal and one on one defence. Both Chelsea Walls and Emily Downie worked well to ensure we had players moving into space and leading for the ball. Our defence in the first half of the game was consistent, with all players numbering up and applying pressure on the ball. Well done to Ebony Lohe for sticking to her player like glue and causing a number of intercepts. We had four different goal scorers this week, which is evidence of the girls having the confidence to go for goal and have a shot. Vanessa Brooks (Coach).

Middle B – Saints 2 defeated by Wilderness 64
The second match of the season was played against Wilderness girls. It was another tough game, with the score stretching apart early in the game, resulting in a large loss. Special mentions to Ziyi (Michelle) Yeoh, who was excellent at putting defensive pressure on the Wilderness girls, and chasing them down the court to defend goals, Jennifer Tran who did a fantastic job at moving the ball around the top of the key and Maddison Tilley-Brooks for some excellent rebounds in both attack and defence. In the second half of the game, Saints moved the ball much more in attack, creating some fantastic opportunities which where unlucky not to go in. Zara Sadri was our only goal scorer again, with a great goal from outside the key. Annika Winter (coach)

Junior Softball – Wednesday 21 October

Year 6 Blue – Saints 9 defeated by Walford 13
Saints came up against an extremely well drilled and skilled Walford in our first hit out. Solid hits were made in the first two innings but with only small returns. Things clicked in the third innings, with all batters securing bases and 7 getting home. The endeavour by the girls at bat was matched only by the wonderful chants on the sidelines. Well done on an encouraging start to the season! Nick Maerschel and Ben Goldsmith (Coaches)

Year 4/5 Teeball – Saints 23 defeated St Ignatius 13
This was the first teeball game for many of the girls, which provided an outstanding result. The girls were on the ball, collecting a lot of outs through several double plays. It looks very promising for the rest of this term from the youngest players in the sport at this school. Claire Hale (Coach)

Water Polo – Thursday 22 October

Open – Saints had a bye

Middle – Saints 11 defeated Pembroke 3
It was a great first match for the girls this term. The team was very cohesive, worked together and displayed skills that have been introduced during training sessions for the term as well as at the beginning of the year. It was also great to see some of the new players for this term getting into it and starting to grasp some of the fundamentals of the game. Hannah Andrews (Coach)

Junior Tennis – Friday 23 October

Year 6 Blue – Saints 4-20 defeated Scotch 1-5
Singles: Sienna Glazbrook 4-0, Emily Baldwinson 4-0. No singles: Maiya Jakupec and Shamilla Dhillon

Year 6 White – Saints 0-10 defeated by Seymour 6-28
Singles: Taj Shahin 2-4, Ruth Oliver 0-4, Georgia Langley 1-4, Isabelle Gilroy 3-4

Year 5 – Saints 2-15 defeated by Scotch 4-18
Singles: Chloe Venning 4-2, Anushka Rajbhoj 1-4, Primrose Robinson 1-4, Annabel Ryan 4-0

Junior Volleyball – Friday 23 October

Saints 2 defeated Wilderness Blue 1
The girls had a great first game. Everyone’s serving and setting improved greatly throughout the game. As the game progressed it was great to see the girls became more confident and enthusiastic. The girls had a well deserved win and we are excited about the games ahead. Megan Jenssen and Alice Powell (Coaches)

Athletics – State All Schools Championships

Saints had a very good representation at the SA Schools Athletic Championships. Saints won an incredible 7 Gold, 8 Silver and 3 Bronze. Individual results were:

Sophie Barr – U14 Shot – 4th 8.62m, Discus – Gold 28.34m, Hammer – Gold 21.58m

Amelia Wood – U14 80m Hurdles – Silver 14.97, High Jump – Bronze 1.45m, Pole Vault – Gold 2.00m

Jemimah Simpson – U16 Para Athlete 100m – Gold 14.31, 200m – Gold 29.32

Rose Pittman – U16 400m – Gold 58.92,

Hannah Brown – U16 200m 15th 28.52, Long Jump – Bronze 4.97m, Triple Jump Silver 10.44m

Zoe Wilmshurst – U16 90m Hurdles – 6th, Triple Jump 8th 9.30m, Shot Put 5th 9.99m, Discus Silver 27.11m, Javelin 4th 27.15m

Nicolette Miller – U16 Shot Put 6th 8.05m, Discus 5th 25.37m, Javelin 10th 15.35m

Rachael Disney – U16 200m – 7th 27.12, 400m – Silver 59.03,

Jasmine Ledgard – U18 Hammer – Silver 41.73m, U16 Shot Put Silver 10.89m, U16 Discus 10th 17.59m, U16 Hammer Gold 41.99m, U16 Javelin Bronze 28.94m

Anna Cross – U181500m – Silver 5:15.07, 5000m Walk – Silver 27:59.02

Lucy Brown – U18 800m – Bronze 2:24.71

Rowing – Saturday 24 October

Well done to all the girls for their efforts at training on Saturday. The Junior crews went well, with them showing improvement with every row. The Senior squad and Inter A and B travelled up to Murray Bridge and had a big row. It was a great chance for crews to get in some extra kilometres before they tackle Round the Island in a few weeks.

With the year going so quickly, we are looking to hold the Interhouse Rowing on Saturday 12 December. This will be for all year levels and it will be held at the Torrens and raced over 300m. All crews will be mixed up, with Year 7s to Seniors all racing in their houses in quads. It will be a lot of fun and the combination works really well. Friends of Rowing will be planning a BBQ as an end of year celebration so everyone is invited to come along. Further details will come out over the coming weeks.

This week’s regatta is the Henley On Torrens for Juniors (Years 7 and 8) and 9C crews. Ben Flannagan (Director of Rowing)

Softball – Saturday 24 October

Open A – Saints 9 defeated Pulteney 5
Open As played Pulteney at home on the weekend and came away with a great win against a tough opponent. The whole team batted strongly from the very beginning and fielded quickly with confidence. Well done to Ruby Oliver for her wonderful pitching that won us the game and for Georgia Naughton’s great catch in the outfield. Olivia May (Captain)

Open B – Saints 4 defeated by Pulteney 16
Despite knowing that they were up against an experienced team, the Open Bs went into the game with energy and determination. Although it’s not reflected in the score, all girls batted very well, with many hits getting into the outfield. It was a long game and the girls should be commended for keeping their spirits up until the very end. Well done to Millisent Wilkin and Olivia Goldsmith who played an exceptional game as pitcher and catcher. Best player goes to Millicent Wilkin for her consistent pitching, batting and fielding efforts. Lydia Smalls

Open C1 – Saints 4 defeated by Scotch 22
Unfortunately, the C Grade once again came up against a strong side. Chelsea Walls and Lauren Porter were our pitchers and were extremely successful, having a high strike average. Unfortunately, this meant that a lot of the strikes were being hit and being hit very far. Claire Hale (Coach)

Open C2 – Saints did not play.

Tennis – Saturday 24 October

Open B – Saints 4-29 defeated Wilderness 2-28
Singles: Olivia Harby 6-3, Emily Loh 4-6, Sophie Fry 6-3, Sarah Richards 1-6

Open C – Saints 3-28 defeated by Wilderness 5-6
Singles: Clair Kao 6-5, Laura Falconer 4-6, Chelsea Staples 6-3, Neve McCormack 1-6

Open D – Saints 4-33 defeated Wilderness 2-23
Singles: Annabel Baldwinson 5-6, Laura Sivewright 4-6, Georgina Thrower 6-4, Daveena Dhillon 6-2

Open E1 – Saints 4-25 defeated Wilderness 2-19
Singles: Annabelle Langley 1-6, Olivia Wilkinson 6-2, Emma Auricht 6-5, Charlotte Gilroy did not play

Open E2 – Saints 1-15 defeated by Wilderness 5-35
Singles: Carla Lawrence 2-6, Charlene Lee 2-6, Mahala Truscott 2-6, Lola Dimond 6-5

Open E3 – Saints 2-20 defeated by Wilderness 4-28
Singles: Lilly Alexander 2-6, Sophie Auricht 1-6, Rose Pittman 6-4, Sophie Shearwood 6-0

Open E4 – Saints 3-24 defeated by Wilderness 3-30
Singles: Krystina Dianos 6-3, Jiaman (Jemma) Wang 6-4, Aya Shahin 6-5, Lilly Rice 3-6

Intro A – Saints 1-13 defeated by Wilderness 5-22
Singles: Renee Lawrence 6-2, Stella Clark 1-6, Amelie Eaton 3-6, Aleisha Elliott 0-6

Intro B – Saints 2-14 defeated by Wilderness 4-23
Singles: Cheryl Wang 6-0, Yanran (Nicole) Ma 2-6, Chris Jiang 0-6, Natasha Lau 6-5

Volleyball – Saturday 24 October

Open A – Saints 3 defeated Wilderness 0
This week the Open A volleyball team played Wilderness at Saints. We all came ready to play and from the first serve played strongly and as a team. Although Wilderness put up a fight, we managed to win all three sets. Everyone played really well this week; however, Mikaela Georgiadis and Megan Jenssen played excellent games. Mikaela covered well and had some great digs and spikes into the back of the court, and Megan Jenssen used her strong spike to win many points. Victoria Neale (Captain)

Open B – Saints 2 defeated Wilderness 1 (24-26, 25-14, 25-16)
The team started a bit slowly against Wilderness but were able to keep their composure and secure a win. After narrowly losing the first set, the girls really bounced back strongly, easily winning the last 2 sets. Credit goes to Qianna (Nancy) Huang for her consistent serving that built momentum and put plenty of points on the board. Cambell Baker (Coach)

Open C – Saints 3 defeated Wilderness 0 (25-19, 25-21, 25-15)
The team played Wilderness and were able to win all three sets quite comfortably. All the girls played really well and are improving enormously each week. Our consistent serving and accurate passing were the two keys to victory. Cambell Baker (Coach)

Middle A – Saints 2 defeated Walford 1 (22-25, 25-16, 25-22)
The Middle As should be extremely proud of their efforts this week, managing to win the game in a heated last set. Ruby Bouhamden and Isabella Villani had some fantastic deep and flat serves over the net, which their opponents struggled to return. The girls started off with good set ups for 3 hits but couldn’t finish off the third hit, resulting in our loss for the first set. As the game progressed, there was much more calling and enthusiasm on court, as well as numerous 3 hits and fantastic blocking at net. The final set was a nail biter, with the teams matched evenly; however, the girls pulled through and won the game overall. Ellana Welsby and Eliza Falconer (Coaches)

Middle B – Saints 2 defeated Wilderness 1
This week the girls came out with a very well deserved win! In the first set Sara began with a 13 point serving streak to give the girls a great head start. Unfortunately, the girls lost the set 20-25. In the following two sets the girls worked hard as a team to win the sets and, in the end, the game. Everybody was serving fantastically and the movement and encouragement on court from all players improved out of sight. We were very proud of the enthusiasm and team work the girls showed and their determination to win. It was a great game and the girls should be very proud of the efforts they made. Ellana Welsby and Eliza Falconer (Coaches)

Middle C – Saints 2 defeated Wilderness 1 (15-25, 25-20, 25-15)
Despite the girls still getting used to playing as a team and backing each other up, there were some good rallies which involved quick reflexes and backing up team members. Katelin Calandro and Amelie Dunda had some strong digs, whilst Mengyuan (Meredith) Li and Mary Brownridge served consistently well throughout the game. After losing the first set, the girls came back with much more calling and enthusiasm, scoring a win in both the second and third set, and winning the overall game. Ellana Welsby and Eliza Falconer (Coaches)

Tennis – Monday 26 October

Open A – Saints 6-36 defeated Wilderness 0-4
Doubles: Yasmin and Tiana 6-0 and Olivia and Jade 6-1
Singles: Yasmin Glazbrook 6-0, Tiana Glazbrook 6-1, Jade Leyden 6-0, Olivia Teh 6-2

Return to listing

Enews – Term 4, Week 2 2015

23 October 2015School EnewsSt Peters

Issue no. 32

From the Deputy Principal/Head of Senior School

As Week 2 Term 4 comes to a close I would like to reflect on ‘the year that was’ for the class of 2015.

As a cohort they are very supportive of each other. They have studied hard and embraced all classroom opportunities. They have enjoyed Sports Day and Swimming Carnival and, as leaders, have set a wonderful tone of encouraging all students in their Houses to participate and have a go. They have had a Progressive Dinner, a Formal and had their retreat at Mt Lofty House where they set goals and heard from Old Scholars. The class of 2015 introduced a staff talent quest, and the Prefect team worked with leaders from other Independent Schools in an inaugural quiz night to raise funds for charity. The Year 12 students have been involved in numerous co-curricular activities and supported the sport, music and debating programs with sincerity. I have been privileged to attend many functions and most recently the Year 12 Food and Hospitality students prepared a first class 3 course meal for their final assessment. They are a cohort with many talents, strengths and skills.

Finishing secondary schooling can be both exciting and daunting and many emotional experiences occurred during this last week. The countdown of days was visual on the common room door and tears were held back every time the girls experienced their last lesson, their last Chapel service, their last Home Group, right down to the last ringing of the School bell. Not many schools celebrate as we do. We trust our cohort to decorate the school, all Sub Schools share in the celebrations, and we invite parents to be a part of it all. Celebration Day, a rarity in schools, is something Saints does well.

It is at this point that I must acknowledge the staff. The Year 12 teachers have taught their subjects with passion, and all staff have supported the girls’ learning journey at some point in time. Recently, they have willingly given their time over the last two weeks to rehearse their version of the Year 12 Choral Night dances for the full school assembly. They have had endless practices, on the stage, in the classroom, staffroom, and when and whereever the opportunity arises. We have laughed, worked collaboratively and taken the task seriously. We have shown we are risk takers and dancing for many is way out of their comfort zone. Working with the staff and seeing them embrace this opportunity has been most enjoyable and they have truly proven that we are also a community of learners.

I say to the girls, “Your learning does not conclude at the end of Year 12.” In fact, to quote Jo Messer from her article in the Careers FAQ: “The road ahead will be full of twists and turns, and sometimes the destination will be clear while at other times it might feel like you’re going in circles. There will be many opportunities for gaining new knowledge and skills, for changing direction and ultimately for personal growth.”

So, capture the moments, embrace the opportunities and remember that you are a Saints girl! We wish the 2015 Year 12 class every success in their examinations and thank them for all they have done during their time at Saints.

This week we also celebrated the induction of the 2016 student leadership team. The ceremony involved the current Prefect team handing over their roles and responsibilities to the new leaders. The students were an integral part of this service and they inducted the new Prefects in front of the School, parents, family and friends. The co-curricular leaders were also inducted, including Deputy House leaders, Sport and Music Captains, as well as leaders of the Chess, Environment Club, Student Sacristan, Student Support and Library groups. The Prefects will undergo leadership training next Monday as they step into their roles and the sports captains will also plan activities for PE Week, to be held later this term. The service was very successful and I am looking forward to working with the new leadership team.

Kerry Skinner

Counsellor’s Corner

Last week we looked at some helpful lifestyle choices and study practices that can ease the pressure of exams. This week, we will look at some psychological factors some students may experience – and how to combat them.

Students are welcome to contact me or Mrs Lyn Moseley at any stage over the next few weeks.

Email: kahunt@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au or lmoseley@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au
Telephone: +61 8 8334 2259

Tips for overcoming exam-related anxiety: Part 2

Psychological factors are the third key area I have decided to explore. Feeling anxious or afraid is very much a normal human experience, and although you might not think so, Anxiety can actually be helpful as it provides us with increased alertness and responsiveness to our environment. It is only when there is a very high level of anxiety that it might start to cause us some difficulties.

Two types of anxiety which can create problems in students are Perfectionism and Panic. A brief description of each will now follow along with some suggested interventions. The benefits of practising Mindfulness to overcome Exam-related Anxiety will also be discussed.

Perfectionism can be found in a large number of students who set unrealistic goals for themselves. Perfectionism typically involves putting pressure on ourselves to meet high standards, which then powerfully influences the way we think about ourselves. While the pursuit of excellence is always encouraged in students who attend St Peter’s Girls, if a student is showing signs of suffering as a result of perfectionism, then the following interventions may be useful:

Encourage self-talk to become less critical and more compassionate (“If you want others to be happy, practise compassion. If you want to be happy, practise compassion” – Dalai Lama)
Make goal-setting realistic by talking through your expectations with a significant other
Refrain from over-exaggerating the awfulness of not achieving set high standard – bring it all back into perspective
Understand the costs of achieving the high standards, i.e. there is no point in getting “straight As” if you have a void of exercise, friends, hobbies, meaningful purpose in your life
Lastly, Perfectionists will also engage in a range of unhelpful behaviours to make sure they continue to meet the high standards they set for themselves. Consequently, it is recommended that steps be taken to relinquish the behaviours of avoidance, excessive checking, reassurance seeking and failure to delegate, as they serve to perpetuate perfectionism.

Panic

Symptoms of panic include skipping, racing or pounding heart, sweating, dizziness or feeling faint, difficulty breathing and trembling or shaking. You can also experience thoughts of ‘going crazy’ or of feeling detached from your surroundings or body. Many people experience mild sensations when feeling anxious about an upcoming exam, but panic is much more intense than usual. Evidence-based strategies for managing panic include:

Managing Hyperventilation – When we are highly anxious we tend to overbreath or hyperventilate which leads to an imbalance of oxygen to carbon dioxide in the brain. To correct this imbalance, it is recommended that you breath from your tummy, not your chest, and in the counting pattern of 4-in, 2-hold, 6-out cycle – breathe in for 4 seconds (through nose, if possible), hold for 2, and then breath out for 6 seconds (through mouth, if possible).
Check your self-talk – Are you catastrophising about your physical symptoms of anxiety? Are you over-estimating the chances of experiencing panic? Or are you under-estimating your ability to cope in such a situation? If you have answered yes to any of these questions, then you may be engaging in unhelpful self-talk which serves to destabilise your well-being. The Centre for Clinical Interventions is a good resource for finding out more about Unhelping Thinking Styles which aid to maintain panic. If you believe your self-talk is running away from you and setting off false alarms in your head, then I strongly encourage you to take a look at this website, or to talk to a counsellor or health care professional about your inner conversations.

Mindfulness

“In today’s rush, we all think too much – seek too much – want too much – and forget about the joy of just being” – Eckhart Tolle.

Mindfulness training teaches us to be non-judgemental and live in the present, rather than being distracted or hijacked by past mistakes or worries related to our future. Mindfulness works by engaging the individual in highly focussed meditation through the single act of observation, whether it be paying attention to our internal experiences (i.e. body scan meditations) or being mindfully aware of external experiences (i.e. using sound or breath to anchor us in the moment). For students undertaking exams, Mindfulness may offer such benefits as improving attention and concentration, as well as reducing anxiety relating to uncertain future events (“If you want to conquer the anxiety of life, live in the moment, live in the breath” – Amit Ray). If you are interested in having your own personal experience with Mindfulness, I recommend downloading the free App, Smiling Mind, or for a small fee joining up to an App which sends you new meditations every day to practise your Mindfulness.

I hope these tips and suggestions have been of value to the hard-working students in the Senior School, and their families. By making sensible lifestyle choices, engaging in evidence-based study practices, and having balanced, non-judgemental self-talk, you can truly empower yourself to reach your full potential and achieve your goals.

Katherine Hunt
School Counsellor

Leading for the International Baccalaureate

In 2013 I applied for and won the opportunity to train as a workshop leader for the International Baccalaureate (IB) in the Primary Years Programme (PYP). I travelled to Chiang Mai in Thailand and undertook a rigorous 5 day training programme in adult education and the theory and practice of the PYP. After passing my assessments I became an accredited workshop leader in 2014. This meant that I was listed by the IB to run training for PYP teachers anywhere in the Asia Pacific region.

This year I have been fortunate to run two workshops, both in my school holiday periods. The first was co-led in Perth with 46 teachers at Tranby College, but my most recent was in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) in Vietnam.

As a teacher, we work collaboratively, plan together and continually seek to improve upon what we do. We are constantly reflective and critical thinkers. It was my absolute privilege in the holidays to train 20 teachers, all new to PYP at The European International School of Ho Chi Minh City.

The school was a huge surprise to me – so unlike Saints but so similar in many ways. It is laid out like an oasis amid the insane hustle and bustle of this city. Any of you who have been to Saigon will well know the incredibly challenging task crossing a road presents! Each section of the school was in a villa with its own swimming pool, seven in all set among tropical palm trees.

The teachers were, like many, at first overwhelmed by the amount of rigour and the terminologies of the PYP, but we worked through scenarios and activities of practical use in the classroom, challenged our thinking, shared ideologies and analysed current educational theory and 21st century learning. We discussed, at length, constructivism as a theory for learning and looked at the work of John Hattie and the ‘Hole in the Wall’ project of Sugata Mitra.

As a leader, I was buoyed by the passion of these teachers and their blossoming enthusiasm to get back into the classroom and try all of these new ideas. The feedback I received at the end of the workshop was positive, but the best came when, after 9 days travelling in Cambodia and Vietnam by myself (that also is a huge story to tell), I returned to the school on my last day before flying home. As I went from classroom to classroom, the positive feedback came from seeing these teachers using inquiry methodology, talking about the Learner Profile and seeing many of my ideas on display in their rooms. They were inspired, and I was inspired! I know I have made a difference to the methodologies in the school, but have also come back with many new international connections for myself and the staff here at Saints, and a renewed belief that this programme really works!

Shelley Hampton
Year 5 Teacher

Camp reflections in French

It’s always great to get to a point in learning a foreign language where you are able to communicate real events. In Year 10 French, we have been learning how to use two different past tenses (one for completed actions e.g. ‘I ate’, and one for actions that were ongoing e.g. ‘I was eating’) and combine these in writing. As a Year 10 French group, across two classes, we constructed a narrative in French of the experience on Year 10 camp. This was a great exercise because everyone was able to contribute, and the girls were able to share ideas and learn from each other.

The girls have enough knowledge now to be very aware of the difficulties when translating ideas from English into French. We discussed how to simplify sentences to use more basic structures so that we could get the ideas across using mostly familiar structures, with some existing and some new vocabulary. Although the English translation may look basic, the girls felt a real sense of accomplishment at being able to describe an experience beyond the walls of their French classroom completely in French.

Alex McKay
French Teacher

Une histoire du camp – selon les années dix de français
(English translation follows)

Lundi matin, le soleil brillait, et on est parties en bus. Lundi après-midi, il faisait beau et on a fait du vélo. Lundi soir, on avait du mal, et on était fatiguées. On a fait de la cuisine. On a mal dormi malheureusement.

Mardi matin, il faisait frais. On a préparé le petit déjeuner. Mardi après-midi, il faisait toujours frais mais il y avait du soleil. On a fait de l’escalade. Ce soir-là, on a eu un feu. C’était amusant.

Mercredi, il faisait froid le matin. On faisait du rappel quand un autre groupe est arrivé, alors on est parties pour préparer nos sacs. Mercredi après-midi, on a commencé à faire de la randonnée pédestre. Quand on faisait de la cuisine mercredi soir, il a commencé à pleuvoir.

Jeudi matin, il faisait frais et il y avait du soleil. On a fait de la randonnée pédestre au Mont Arden. La vue du sommet était très belle. Jeudi, après le déjeuner, tout le monde est retourné à Base Camp pour préparer le dîner. C’était un repas délicieux! Jeudi soir, on a fait des petites performances. Kennion a gagné!

Vendredi matin, on a préparé nos sacs et on a pris le petit déjeuner. À 9 heures et demie, on est parties en bus. Pour le déjeuner, on s’est arrêtées à la boulangerie. On a mangé dans le parc de Crystal Brook. On est arrivées à l’école à 3 heures. On était fatiguées, mais on a passé une très bonne semaine au camp!

Écrit par les étudiantes de français, année dix

The story of camp – according to the Year 10 French students

On Monday morning the sun was shining, and we left on the bus. On Monday afternoon the weather was fine, and we did bike riding. On Monday evening we were sore and tired. We did cooking. We slept badly, unfortunately.

On Tuesday morning it was fresh. We made breakfast. On Tuesday afternoon, it was still fresh but it was sunny. We did rock-climbing. That evening, we had a fire. It was fun.

On Wednesday it was cold in the morning. We were doing abseiling when another group arrived, so we left to prepare our bags. On Wednesday afternoon we did hiking. When we were cooking on Wednesday evening, it started to rain.

On Thursday morning it was fresh and sunny. We did hiking to Mount Arden. The view from the summit was very beautiful. On Thursday, after lunch, everyone returned to Base Camp to prepare dinner. It was a delicious meal! On Thursday night we did some performances. Kennion won!

On Friday morning we prepared our bags and we had breakfast. At 9.30 we left on the bus. For lunch, we stopped at a bakery. We ate in the park at Crystal Brook. We arrived at school at 3 o’clock. We were tired, but we had a very good week on camp!

Written by the Year 10 French students

Year 6 PYP exhibition

As part of our unit inquiry, ‘People’s beliefs and feelings can inspire action’, the Year 6s did the PYP Exhibition. We were put into groups and given topics that were to do with education, animals, sick children, homelessness etc. Each group chose their lines of inquiry and central idea to guide them along the way. Each group also had their own mentor who helped and gave them input and advice throughout the exhibition process.

Leading up to our main research project we had our own ‘taking action journal’ which we used to study what it means to take action and how lucky we are compared to people that live in third world countries and live in poverty. We looked at the local, national and global issues. We started looking at the problems locally and gradually built up to the national and worldwide issues and explored the similarities and differences in these issues.

Some groups even contacted organisations, asking for a private interview so they could gain crucial information to help their research expand and to broaden their resources. Students tried to use resources other than the Internet when they could. The interviews were successful and they helped us a lot, not only with information, but also it helped our presentation. Some visitors who helped us are Jamie from the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary, Ian from Kickstart for Kids and Brianna who is our School’s Community Service Captain, just to name a few. All the Year 6s would really like to thank all of the people who agreed to meet with us and help us throughout the progress of our presentations.

The girls’ education group volunteered at Backpack for Kids, each packing four bags that go to disadvantaged children who aren’t as lucky as us and don’t have the supplies to get an education. They all thought it was a great experience and they all recommend volunteering if you have some spare time.

All of the groups took action in many ways, including volunteering, excursions, raising awareness, fundraising, interviews and contacting organisations. In total, all the groups raised $1519.90 that will all be donated to various charities of which we gained a deeper understanding. On the night there were feedback forms which parents personalised to review each presentation with the pros and cons. Although there were a few technical difficulties, the whole night was a success to not only the girls, but also to the audience. Everyone in the Year 6 team is extremely proud of everyone’s efforts and what we all have achieved as a year level.

We would like to thank our teachers, Mrs Charlton and Mrs Coulter, and we would also like to thank our PYP instructor, Mrs Smith. Throughout this experience we all had mentors. Our mentors have been a huge help and we couldn’t have done it without them. Our mentors were Mrs Mitchell, Mrs Liddy, Miss Iannazzo, Mrs Charlton, Mrs Coulter, Mrs Smith, Mrs Bruun, Miss Casson, Miss Fenwick, Mrs Clark, Ms Hampton, Ms Mitchell and Ms Dillon. Again, we would like to say a big thank you to everyone who helped us and those who were our mentors.

We all came up with our own creative ways to present on the night of the exhibition. These included Keynotes, iMovie, Role Plays and Speeches. Overall, we were very inspired to take action to help disadvantaged people, animals and the environment. “Taking action isn’t always what you expect. Sometimes a small change can make a big difference” – The Year 6 Girls of 2015. That’s how we all express our journey and our experience through Taking Action.

Holly Wallman-Craddock, Georgina Devine, Molly Bond and Evangeline Peek-Basso
Year 6

Buzz Book advertising now open

Advertising is available in the 2016 edition and prices start from just $20 for a text listing and from $120 for display spaces.

This year we are offering advertisers who purchase a full page colour ad the option of a complimentary promotion on the big screen at the 2016 Twilight Cinema!

To book your spot, visit www.trybooking.com/JGEN.

But hurry – bookings must close on Monday 7 December!

Mothers’ Club: Win tickets to see Taylor Swift

Don’t miss out!

Tickets are now on sale at www.trybooking.com/JKHF
Buy 1 for $20 or 3 for $50

You’ll have to get in quick – limited tickets available, on sale for four weeks only.

The prize, donated by BankSA, also includes dinner, drinks and a car park at the concert, which will be held on 7 December at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre.

Emma Robinson
Mothers’ Club President

Pipe Organ Scholarship

During this term we are introducing a new scholarship. Girls entering Years 6-11 are invited to apply for the Pipe Organ Scholarship. No previous organ experience is required: however, the recipient must have achieved AMEB Piano Grade 5 or equivalent.

The recipient will be a dedicated musician who is keen to develop advanced skills on the organ and play a significant role in the worship activities of the School, including weekly Chapel services and Eucharists.

Application details are available on our school website and auditions will be held in mid-November. For any further information, you are welcome to contact me via email vmiller@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au or phone 8334 2215

Applications are also still open for the Year 8 Academic Scholarships and Music Scholarships for 2017. Details of all scholarships are available at www.stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au/scholarships

Virginia Miller
Director of Admissions

Student exchange opportunities

John Steinbeck, Nobel Laureate in Literature, wrote: “No man really knows about other human beings. The best he can do is to suppose that they are like himself.”

Getting to know another person, especially one from a different culture, can be exciting, challenging, and has its unique benefits. Department of Education-registered and approved Southern Cross Cultural Exchange (since 1983) is providing such a unique experience to help your children and family learn through bridging cultures, grow closer with one another, understand one another better and see the world in a new light.

International exchange students from France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Finland, Denmark, Norway, Sweden and the USA are arriving in Australia to live as a local with volunteer Australian families and attend a local secondary school. The students, aged 15 – 17, arrive from February 2016 for 3, 5, or 10 months and are fully insured, with their own pocket money. If you have a spare room or bed, and a place at the family table, why not be the ‘heart’ of cultural exchange by becoming a volunteer host family?

Expand your world for the whole family – all without any air tickets. Call S.C.C.E. now on 1800 500 501 or email scceaust@scce.com.au or visit www.scce.com.au and ask for our incoming student profiles, choose the nationality you prefer, and start having fun matching up your hobbies and interests.

Capture the spirit of fun and friendship, and build your global cultural network. After all, it is different cultures that ‘make the world go ‘round’ at the end of the day.

Join us for Christmas Drinks on the Lawns

Christmas Drinks on the Lawns
5.30 – 7.30pm
Thursday 12 November 2015
Chiverton Lawns

Drinks and nibbles will be provided. Children are also welcome to attend.

To assist with catering, please RSVP at www.trybooking.com/JKJH by Friday 6 November.

Enquiries can be directed to events@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au.

Friends of the Founders Morning Tea

Members of the School community are warmly invited to attend the Friends of the Founders Morning Tea on Wednesday 28 October commencing at 10am, which will include a ceremony to dedicate a plaque in memory of Kathleen Collins (nee Ewens, Patteson ’31) along the Old Scholars’ Memorial Avenue.

We hope you can join us.

Please RSVP to mmccormack@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au to assist with catering.

Megan McCormack (nee Walker, Kilburn ’86)
Old Scholar Liaison Officer

Changes to Bus Service from Term 4

From the start of Term 4 2015 the School is changing the way the Bus Service is charged.

The simplified method will involve students being marked off on a roll for each trip. A physical ticket will no longer be required.

Parents may still take advantage of a reduced cost per trip by purchasing a Term Pass at $280 (approximately $2.80 per trip if the bus is caught to and from school every day). To order a Term Pass, please email the School Shop at schoolshop@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au or ask your daughter to visit the School Shop to arrange a charge to your account.

If bus families have already given authority to the School Shop to charge your account or credit card for a term ticket, you will be invoiced for a Term Pass for Term 4.

Alternatively, the daily one-way charge will be $5.50.

The School will now invoice parents for the Term Pass and the number of trips travelled, so there will no longer be the facility to purchase bus tickets from the School Shop.

If you have any queries about bus charges, please contact Sue Burnett, School Shop Manager, on 8334 2228 or by email to sburnett@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au.

For queries regarding bus routes and times, please contact Brian Caire, Bus Liaison Officer, on 0411 705 395 or by email to bcaire@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au.

Sue Burnett
School Shop Manager

Peter Pan tickets now available

The annual Year 5 production is coming up very soon, at the end of Week 4 in Term 4. This year we mount the production, Peter Pan Junior.

Thank you to all who have contributed to the show so far and to our parent community for their ongoing support.

7pm, 5 and 6 November 2015
Arts Centre, St Peter’s Girls’ School
Adults $15, Concession $8, Family $35

Tickets are now available at www.trybooking.com/IYQI

Shelley Hampton
Year 5 Teacher

OSA Movie Afternoon

The St Peter’s Girls’ School community is invited to an exclusive movie experience.

Saturday 14 November 2015
Drinks from 3pm
Movie from 3.30pm
The Regal Theatre, 275 Kensington Road, Kensington Park SA
Tickets $25 per person – Includes champagne on arrival and chocolates

Tickets available at http://www.trybooking.com/IUOW

For enquiries please contact me on 8334 2239 or mmccormack@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au.

Megan McCormack (nee Walker, Kilburn ’86)
Old Scholar Liaison Officer

Private Peaceful

Prince Alfred College students, in association with St Peter’s Girls’ School, are presenting an adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s Private Peaceful in the Prince Philip Theatre.

Private Peaceful is the story of one family’s experience in war.

This engaging multimedia presentation will be available to the public on Wednesday 28 October at 7.30pm and Thursday 29 October at 7.30pm. Tickets are available from Trybooking and may also be available at the door.

We encourage you to support this production and the students involved by attending on one of these nights.

Adult $15
Concession $8

Term 4 Arts engagements

Week 3
Fri 30 Oct, 8.30am
Junior School Music Assembly, Junior Strings – Arts Centre

Week 4
Thu 5 and Fri 6 Nov, 7pm
Junior Musical – Arts Centre
Yr 12 Visual Art Exhibition – Arts Centre Foyer

Week 5
Mon 9 and Tue 10 and Fri 13 Nov
Wendy’s Singing Concerts – Arts Centre
Wed 11 Nov 11am
Remembrance Day, Yr 9/10 music class – Arts Centre courtyard
Wed 11 Nov, 7pm
Senior School Arts Curriculum Showcase, Yrs 10-11 Music, Drama, and Dance students –Arts Centre

Week 6
Wed 18 Nov, 7pm
Middle School Arts Curriculum Night, Yrs 7-9 Dance, Drama and Music – Arts Centre

Week 7
Wed 23 Nov, 7.30pm
FOA Annual General Meeting – Arts Office
Thu 26 Nov, 1pm
Lunchtime concert, Junior and Middle School Ensembles – Arts Centre
Fri 27 Nov, 5.30pm
ELC Family Picnic, String groups – ELC Lawns

Week 8
Mon 30 Nov, 9.10am-2.30pm
Carols Rehearsal – Chapel
Tues 1 Dec
Carols in the Cathedral – Cathedral
Rehearsal 9am–2pm, Performance 7pm
Fri 4 Dec, 6.30pm
R – 2 Nativity – Arts Centre

Week 9
Mon 7 Dec, 2pm
Yr 6 Graduation – Arts Centre
Tue 8 Dec, 2pm
Yr 9 Graduation – Arts Centre

Wed 9 Dec
Presentation Night – Adelaide Town Hall
Rehearsal 9am–2pm, Performance 7pm

Sally Rounsevell
Director of Music

Sports News

Sports Awards

Sports Awards for Years 7-12 students and including Lacrosse will be held from 4–6pm on Thursday 19 November in the Arts Centre. Guest speaker will be Natalie von Bertouch (Adelaide Thunderbirds and Australia). Further details will be out soon.

Melbourne Marathon

Congratulations to Dan Searle who finished 94th in the Melbourne marathon and 66th for runners aged between 20 and 39. From 4237 male entrants, Dan ran 2 hours 52.19 to finish in the top 100, which is an outstanding achievement.

Basketball – Wednesday 14 October

Open A – Saints 27 defeated by Scotch 36
The girls had a slow start to the game, down 21 to 3 at half time. In the second half as their confidence grew they began to play better as a team, with intense defence leading to a better half. Focussing on the positives, the whole team was able to execute active defence throughout the whole game. Abbey Goodwin should be commended for her fantastic game in defence – she worked tirelessly to apply pressure to force various turnovers. Special mention to Jo Dalpra and Sarah Matheson who had very good games in leading the team. Overall, well done to all girls; it was a great effort and, despite the loss, the improvement the team has shown has been incredible. Josephine Dalpra (Captain)

Middle A – Saints 13 defeated by Scotch 60
First game of the term, and the Scotch girls started with strong one-on-one pressure which didn’t allow our girls to settle into the game. The Scotch girls were a taller team with more playing experience. We did, however, have some good individual efforts. Emily Downie listened to feedback and was able to cut across the key to provide much needed passing opportunities in attack. Both Isabella Bernardi and Emma Matheson demonstrated good leadership through their previous experience to guide other team members who have not played basketball before. I expect that as the girls get to know each other a little better and have the confidence to attack and go for goal, they will be a more competitive team. Vanessa Brooks (Coach).

Middle B – Saints 2 defeated by Scotch 48
The girls were nervous facing their first game of the season and, for some, their first game of basketball ever. Scotch came out firing, and our girls were resilient, despite heavy defence from Scotch. The girls had a few quick breaks and unfortunately didn’t convert any points in the first half of the game. After a change of tactics at half-time, the girls had more of the ball in their attacking half, and plenty more shots on goal. Zara Sadri scored our first goal in the second half, with cheering from the crowd. A valiant effort from the team and despite the final score, the girls put in their best effort. Annika Winter (Coach).

Water Polo – Thursday 15 October

Open – Saints 6 defeated Wilderness 2
This was a great game from the girls, with everyone playing exceptionally in both attack and defence. Shania Morgan was great in goals, saving critical shots. Special congratulations to Sophie Caon and Jaida Bouhamdan on a very successful first match. Keep up the great effort, girls. Best player: Carys Jones. Georgia Wilson (Captain)

Middle – Saints had a bye

Junior Tennis – Friday 16 October

Matches abandoned due to rain

Rowing – Saturday 17 October

1st VIII
The 1st VIII had their first race of the season, finishing third out of six crews and finishing in front of Scotch, Pembroke and Walford. The girls were all very pleased with this result and are looking forward to improving and racing in the next few weeks. We would like to thank Olivia Compare for filling in and doing an awesome job, despite having to row in her race straight afterwards. Belle Hannon

Intermediate A
As it was the first regatta of the season, all of the girls were pretty nervous. At the start we broke away from everyone and held first in the first 750 metres. Then at the 1km mark Walford crept up to us and we were neck and neck with a good seven boat lengths away from the rest of the pack. We held them off until the last 250m, but couldn’t quite maintain form in the windy conditions. We all believe that it can be a very promising season ahead of us, as we know that was not our best row. Khandee Swaeney

Year 9A
The crew all came in with a positive attitude and showed great determination which resulted in a well-deserved win. During training we really focussed on getting our race starts perfect to ensure a good start to the race and lengthening out. With these two things as our focus and a few of Peta White’s tricks, we managed to come off with a convincing win. Amy Carrodus

Year 9B
We were very nervous as it was our first regatta of the season, but we quickly got over this with a great start. Coming first at the 200m mark, we unfortunately crabbed due to the conditions and the oar was close to snapping. From there the race was intense, as we had to catch up from last. We caught up very well, overtaking boats to then come in 4th. We have improved a lot since last season, and we are looking forward for a great season to come. Good job, girls! Grace Edwards

Year 8/9B
The crew rowed their first race of the season at West Lakes against Pembroke, St Ignatius and Walford. We drew lane six which wasn’t ideal but we started well, coming second to Pembroke in the first 200m. With 800m to go we upped our rating to about 28 and pushed harder on our legs. In the last 100m we gave the race our all, pushing as hard as we could to win by several boat lengths. Using all that we had learned on rowing camp and training, the crew pulled together for a brilliant team effort. Zoë Scobie

Year 8/9C
The crew had a positive attitude towards their first race and they confidently collaborated and worked as a team. Their stability greatly improved and although two oars popped out, they continued to persevere to the finish line, coming third. This is a great improvement, especially after last season’s races. Shunem Josiah

Year 8/9D
On Saturday the crew came 2nd overall and the girls did really well. We need to work on timing to avoid ‘crabbing’ and continue to work on fitness to maintain good posture and timing to keep the boat balanced. Considering that it was the girl’s first regatta, the girls did an amazing job. Charlotte Creek.

Softball – Saturday 17 October

Open A – Saints 11 defeated by Mercedes 14
Saints Open A played Mercedes at home and unfortunately lost by only 3 runs. The close win was a solid start to the term and we feel confident we will do well in our last 3 games for the season. Best player goes to Lydia Smalls for great catching at home base and strong batting. Olivia May (Captain)

Open B – Saints 15 defeated Gleeson 14
Saints had a well-deserved win against Gleeson College. It was a close game but the girls showed determination to win after being down in the beginning of the match and only having 8 players. They still batted and fielded very well. Jasmine Ledgard.

Open C1 – Saints 8 defeated by Mercedes C1 – 14
Being the first game back since the end of Term 1, the Open C1 team fought valiantly against a side which had more experienced and stronger players. Chelsea Walls and Millisent Wilkin were the two pitchers for the team and did extremely well. In the second innings Saints was able to secure 7 runs and subsequently the mercy rule was called. Unfortunately Mercedes were the better team for the day, but Saints showed a promising start to the term. Claire Hale – Coach

Open C2 – Saints 3 defeated by Mercedes C2 – 14
This team is comprised of many new and younger players, and the team had to face the majority of the same Mercedes team as the Open C1 side. Lauren Porter and Alice Girdler were our pitchers for the game. Both had never pitched before and both did very well, given the difficult challenge. As with the C1s, Mercedes was unfortunately the better side, but the challenge was an experience for the team. Claire Hale – Coach

Tennis – Saturday 17 October

Open B – 5-31 defeated Seymour 1-3
Singles: Zarnia Engel-Lewis 6-0, Sophie Fry 1-6, Olivia Harby 6-1, Emily Loh 6-0

Open C – Saints 4-27 defeated Seymour 2-20
Singles: Laura Falconer 0-6, Sarah Richards 6-1, Clair Kao 6-3, Chelsea Staples 6-2

Open D – Saints 6-36 defeated Seymour 0-16
Singles: Laura Sivewright 6-1, Georgina Thrower 6-3, Daveena Dhillon 6-0, Charlotte Gilroy 6-5

Open E – Saints 2-22 defeated by Seymour 4-28
Singles: Olivia Wilkinson 2-6, Emma Auricht 5-6, Charlene Lee 2-6, Annabelle Langley 6-2

Open F – Saints 1-15 defeated by Seymour 5-32
Singles: Lola Dimond 2-6, Lilly Alexander 4-6, Erica Reid 1-6, Mahala Truscott 6-2

Intro A – Saints 2-25 defeated by Seymour 4-29
Singles: Renee Lawrence 2-6, Rose Pittman 6-2, Cheryl Wang 3-6, Jemimah Simpson 6-3

Intro B – Saints 3-30 defeated Seymour 3-26
Singles: Emily Downie 6-2, Stella Clark 6-3, Aleisha Elliott 4-6, Orla Clayton 6-3

Volleyball – Saturday 17 October

Open A – Saints 2 defeated Seymour 1
The A’s first game of Term 4 saw us up against Seymour. Due to a slow start, we unfortunately lost the first set but were able to make a strong comeback to win the second and third sets. By the end of the game we were playing to the good standard we developed in first term. A streak of great serving by Abbey Goodwin at the end of the game sealed the win. Congratulations to Uthpala De Silva who played a great first game for the team. With confident serving and strong spikes she easily fitted in and showed that she will be a valuable player in the future. Victoria Neale (Captain)

Open B – Saints 2 defeated Seymour 1
The team were able to secure another win, continuing their good form from Term 1 by defeating Seymour. After a slow first set we were able to turn things around by playing solid volleyball. Our accurate serving and good passing allowed us to set up numerous attacks that ended the point. All in all, it was a good start to Term 4 and hopefully we can continue this form. By Cambell Baker (Coach)

Open C – Saints 3 defeated Seymour 1
The Open C girls also secured a convincing win against Seymour. The girls started very strongly by winning the first 2 sets very convincingly. Unfortunately, we took the foot off the pedal a little and conceded the third set but turned things around by winning the fourth. Big congratulations go to Emma Fogarty and Cate Neale for their impressive efforts in their first ever game of volleyball. Cambell Baker (Coach)

Middle A – Saints 1 defeated by Seymour 2
This week was our first game back for the term and the scores were very close each set. The girls continued to improve throughout the game. All the girls served exceptionally well and should be very proud of their improvements, and we began to move much better on the court. It was a good start to our season and gave us a starting point for our goals for the season. Well done, girls; look forward to working with you for the rest of the season. Ellana Welsby (Coach)

Middle B – Saints 1 defeated by Seymour 2
It was a great start to the season from these girls. They all worked hard throughout the game and the scores were continuously close. Everyone in the team persevered very well and our movement and talking on court improved through the game. We saw some very good plays during the game from the girls and it was great to see them listening to advice and trying hard to put the ball over the net. It was a great start to the season and we look forward to the improvements to come. Well done, girls! Ellana Welsby (Coach)

Middle C – Saints 1 defeated by Concordia 2
This was a great warmup game for the Middle C team for the term. There were some minor volleyball rules to address; however, the learning was evident when comparing the first set to the last, which the girls ended up dominating and in which they scored a win. The importance of calling for the ball was soon evident, Ebony Lohe demonstrating this perfectly when backing up all players on court. Mary Brownridge and Charlotte White’s serves were extremely strong; both girls were able to maintain long serving streaks during the second set. Hopefully, the improvement can be as large throughout the season as it was in this first game. Great work to all players! Eliza Falconer (Coach)

Middle D – Saints 2 defeated Concordia
The Middle Ds should be extremely proud of their efforts this game, managing to beat their opponent in the last set, and overall winning the game by 2 points! Many girls had not played before, which required learning the rotation rules, general volleyball rules, and learning to cooperate and gel as a team – all contributing to the key points that will be addressed in training. Zhangyu (Millie) Han had a fantastic game, especially with her work at the net. Katelin Calandro and Amelie Dunda made powerful digs. These factors all contributed to our comeback in the final set. Great game by all! Eliza Falconer (Coach)

Tennis – Monday 19 October

Open A – Saints 5 35 defeated Seymour 1-12
Singles: Yasmin Glazbrook 6-2, Tiana Glazbrook 6-0, Jade Leyden 6-2, Olivia Teh 6-0

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Enews – Term 4, Week 1 2015

16 October 2015School EnewsSt Peters

Issue no. 31

From the Principal

Welcome back to Term 4. I hope you all had a wonderful holiday. Mine, of course, was truly magnificent, sitting at the MCG on a glorious 30 degree day watching the mighty Hawks go back to back to back – securing the three-peat. I’m not even sure if such a noun exists but it will forever more be ensconced in the vocabulary of every diehard Hawthorn supporter.

The presentation of the cup after the game was an extremely important part of the day, a moment when determination was extolled, a moment in which hard work was appreciated, a moment where my heroes were celebrated and a moment where each of the players had that self-indulgent second in which he could pat himself on the back for a job well done.

Like a team, we are a community and our collective strength allows us to achieve more than each of us can do individually. Together we want to maximise our achievements and enable everyone to operate to the best of their abilities. It’s vital to celebrate success, to encourage all to be aspirational about their work and to recognise and reward excellence.

Traditionally, at a school that celebration comes at an end of year Speech Night. But if I’m brutally honest, I found the atmosphere at last year’s separate Middle and Senior School events to be a little flat. That buzz of excitement wasn’t there. The empty seats at the back of the Arts Centre suggested that you felt the same way.

This event should be the girls’ night. It’s about them. It’s about acknowledging their successes. It’s about acknowledging excellence not only in outcomes, but also in attitude and commitment.

So this year we’re changing things a little. Our Annual Presentation Night will be held on Wednesday 9 December, commencing at 7pm. In order to have everyone from Year 7 to Year 12 under the same roof we’re moving to the Adelaide Town Hall. This venue worked beautifully for Choral Night and the proximity to the restaurant precinct will allow families to socialise before and after the ceremony. We’d love to have some girls from the Junior School there as well and all of our House leaders, including those from Year 6, will be on stage as the House Shield is presented. Prizes will be accessible to all as we will recognise excellence across a number of areas, not only academic outcomes. Each and every girl should aspire to be presented on stage.

Presentation Night should be one of celebration. It should be an occasion when our girls’ talents are on display. In another change from previous years, we will not have a guest speaker. Our girls will be the stars of the show.

There will be videos and musical items from both the Middle and Senior Schools and following the presentations the evening will conclude with an amazing musical number that will involve all of the girls in our choirs and ensembles – a climax that will lift the roof off the Town Hall. It will be a night in which we farewell our amazing Year 12 girls and celebrate all that has made 2015 such a wonderful year.

I want genuine celebration. I want the buzz that I felt at the MCG to come alive in the Town Hall. And it will, if you and the girls genuinely want it to be that way. The evening is compulsory for all girls in Years 7-12. Parents and other members of the School community can reserve their seats, free of charge, via Trybooking. I hope there won’t be an empty seat in the house.

In staffing news, Liz Sandercock and Cassandra Moore have returned following their leave in Term 3. As I communicated over the holiday break, Anne Mitchell has announced her retirement after 18 years of outstanding service to Saints Girls. Olivia Coulter has returned to coordinate the library lessons in the Junior School so that Helen Smith can act in the Head of Junior School role. This role has been advertised nationally and I’m sure it will attract an outstanding field of applicants, given the exceptional reputation of our School.

In further staff updates, our Head of Mathematics, John Leydon, has also announced he will conclude his time with the School at the end of the year. Virginia Miller will also finish at the end of the year, after 15 years as Director of Admissions and International Student Welfare. Both John and Virginia are highly valued members of staff and we wish them all the best for the future.

Best wishes for a wonderful term – it’s hard to believe but there’s only 10 weeks until Christmas!

Julia Shea

Student leadership team for 2016

Following an in-depth application process, we congratulate the following students on being selected as the Prefects and Leaders for 2016. They will be inducted next Wednesday at a special Chapel service.

Prefect Positions 2016

Head Prefect Georgina Sarah
Deputy Head Prefect Madison Bateman
Kennion House Captain Alexandra Murray
Kilburn House Captain Josephine Dalpra
Patteson House Captain Samantha Abeygunasekara
Selwyn House Captain Elise Schaedel
SRC Chairperson Megan Jenssen
Community Service Captains Ashleigh Jones and Mila Loechel
Chapel Captain Olivia Teh
Debating and Public Speaking Captain Kritika Mishra
Music Captain Amelia French
Sport Captain Anna Cross

Other Leadership Roles

Kennion Deputy House Captain Georgia Howe
Kilburn Deputy House Captain Sophie Schultz
Patteson Deputy House Captain Aya Shahin
Selwyn Deputy House Captain Georgia Naughton

Sports Captains

Athletics Anna Cross
Badminton Kritika Mishra and Alice Powell
Basketball Josephine Dalpra
Cross Country Anna Cross
Gymnastics Molly Ellis and Alice Petchey
Hockey Natasha Hammond
Lacrosse Portia Reppucci
Netball Josephine Dalpra and Madison Bateman
Rowing Josephine Dalpra (Captain) and Lara Khoury (Vice Captain)
Soccer Krystina Dianos
Softball Georgia Naughton
Swimming Elise Schaedel and Krista Ceplite
Tennis Olivia Teh
Volleyball Mila Loechel and Georgia Howe
Water Polo Mirella Di Cesare

Music Captains

Band Captain Amelia French
Head Chorister Chelsea McGuinness
Choristers Laura Bleby and Amelia French

Other Leadership positions

Library Captains Sarah Brownridge and Sophie-Louise Shearwood
Student Sacristan Elise Bassett
Student Support Leader Kritika Mishra and Megan Jenssen
Environment Club President Sophia Casanova Clarke
Chess Captain Glenda Hanson

I look forward to working closely with these girls as they lead the School in 2016.

Kerry Skinner
Deputy Principal and Head of Senior School

Primary Maths Challenge success

We have just received word that the following students have achieved wonderful results in the 2015 Primary Maths Challenge:

Maya Hughes Reception ML State Winner
Evelyn Gautier 1LS and Bronwyn Gautier 4LM State Winner
Year 2KC and Year2SB State Winner
Marcella Tolley 3AK State Winner
Ishita Chellaboina 3AK Highly Commended
Devika Mukherjee 4LM Highly Commended
Madison Liddy 4RD Highly Commended
Emanuelle Russell 6CM State Winner

The girls will be presented with their awards at a special ceremony on Friday 16 October.

More details (and photos) to follow. Congratulations to all!

Cath Kelly
Reception-Year 6 Learning Strategies Teacher

Counsellor’s Corner

Term 4 exams can be a challenging part of Senior School life for both students and parents. Exam anxiety can be experienced by many students, and is often identified through excessive worry about upcoming exams, a fear of being evaluated unfavourably, and an apprehension about exam consequences.

Fortunately, there are many ways for both the individual and family to help minimise such performance-related anxieties.

This week, we will look at some helpful lifestyle choices and study practices that can ease the pressure of exams. Next week, we will look at some psychological factors some students may experience – and how to combat them.

Students are welcome to contact myself or Mrs Lyn Moseley at any stage over the next few weeks.

Email: kahunt@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au or lmoseley@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au
Telephone: +61 8 8334 2259

Tips for overcoming exam-related anxiety: Part 1

A lot of lifestyle choices will impact on our abilities in exams. Although the importance of many of these activities is already known to most people, our perennial inability to prioritise them warrants some attention here.

Sleep – It is recommended that adolescents get between eight and nine hours of sleep every night. Insufficient sleep will cut short the REM period which is the best part of sleep for learning – it’s when we process information.
Nutrition – The old saying, ‘you are what you eat’, has a lot of truth to it. Eating a balance of good foods will help you to function at your full potential and maintain a healthy weight. Breakfast should always been eaten and try not to snack on sugary, junk foods. Limit your intake of caffeine and remember to drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated and reduce headaches.
Exercise – ‘Stress’ chemicals like cortisol are reduced through exercise while ‘happy’ chemicals like endorphins, dopamine and serotonin are released into the brain with physical exercise. It is recommended that adolescents get outside for 30 mins a day during swot vac to aid in the reduction of stress and anxiety.

Study practices are another area that can help to reduce exam stress and anxiety. Many students are already aware of preparing well before an exam and the importance of time management, but did you know that some less well-known helpful practices include the following:

Rotate your study environments – If possible, identify 2 or 3 different locations which you can comfortably study in and rotate to rejuvenate your energy and keep feeling fresh and free from negative associations or emotions.
Procrastination – The ‘I can’t be bothered’ procrastinators can help themselves by developing a specific goal that they might have about their study; this can then lead to a greater commitment and personal investment in work. Alternatively, the ‘I feel so overwhelmed I don’t know what to do so I’ll default to Facebook’ procrastinators can be helped by either a significant other, teacher or tutor helping to unpack homework tasks and prioritise them into smaller, more manageable tasks. Procrastinators are also notoriously bad at predicting timeframes for completing tasks, so double-checking with another person could be a prudent move to estimating how long a task is expected to take.
Complete extra readings – If you have different and additional information from everyone else in your exams, then it is likely you will stand out and appear more knowledgeable (something your examiner will also appreciate after having to read 50 identical answers!)
Understand your past mistakes – Ask teachers why you lost marks specifically in earlier tests and assignments, and find out what the correct answer looks like.
Reward yourself – Because so many people view studying as a chore, it is human nature to want to avoid it. If, however, you find external motivators or rewards to help reinforce what you are doing, you may find yourself pleasantly surprised by your change in attitude towards your study. The goal is to find a reward that is small but real, and to stick to it, i.e. treating yourself to 30 mins of your favourite TV show if you read an extra chapter in a textbook. By setting these limits on your behaviour, you’re actually teaching yourself discipline, which will be a useful skill to have throughout life.
Practice tests – Complete at least two tests (open book) leading up to the exam, with at least one under test conditions.
Don’t stay up late to cram – this will only impair your ability to attend and concentrate, leaving you less alert. It is also recommended that you switch off all electronic devices (phones, PCs and iPads) at least 30 minutes before going to bed.
Day of the exam – Avoid people who catastrophise or FREAK OUT – Anxiety can be contagious! Also, it is an unhelpful behaviour to look at notes before you walk into the exam room.

Stay tuned for next week’s instalment, where we will look at some psychological factors students may experience and how these can be overcome. Feeling anxious is a normal human experience, but we need to learn how to practise mindfulness and intervene when too much anxiety becomes a problem.

Katherine Hunt
School Counsellor

End of year events: a song list

With the variety of events coming up this term, we’re pleased to announce a few of the items that will be performed by our wonderful musicians and school ensembles.

I hope to see you at these events – and more – to celebrate the wonderful talent of our students.

Carols in the Cathedral – Tuesday 1 December

Junior Choir – A Festive Noel
Concert Choir and Orchestra – Mary, Did You Know
All choirs – Christmas Joy – On Christmas Night and Joy to the World
Chamber and Enchante – Gaudette
Chamber and Enchante – Shepherd Watch their Flocks
Orchestra – Christmas Festival
Senior Strings – Silent Night

Year 6 Graduation – Monday 7 December

Yrs 3/4/5 – The Spirit of Christmas
Yr 6 – We can Dream
Junior Choir – Safe and Sound
Solo item by Cheri Wong and Tiffany Zhou

Year 9 Graduation – Tuesday 8 December

Years 7/8/9 Percussion and Choirs – Go Tell It
Year 9 Recorder group – Carol of the Bell
An item by the Rock Band

Annual Presentation Night – Wednesday 9 December

Orchestra and Organ – Gloriana
Years 7/8/9 Percussion, Choirs and Strings – Go Tell It
Choirs, Orchestra and Rhythm Section – Here’s Where I Stand
Orchestra and Organ – Christmas Festival

Pieces by Enchanté, the Senior Strings and Concert Band

Sally Rounsevell
Director of Music

Student performance

Many congratulations to Lauren Pearce and Poppy Marshall who performed at the historic house of Hans Heysen, The Cedars (Hahndorf SA), in the presence of the highly acclaimed Oscar academy winning director, Scott Hicks, and Mr. Haigh (Haigh’s chocolates) last Sunday. Their teacher, Urszula Gruszewski, performed the previous week for a private and prestigious group of people.

It was history in the making as Helen Keller, Sir Edmund Hilary, Dame Nellie Melba, Ignaz Freidman, Anna Pavlova, Vivien Leigh, Sir Lawrence Olivier, Marcel Marceau, Barry Humphries etc. stayed and performed at Hans Heysen’s house.

Ursula Gruszewski
Piano Tutor

Pipe Organ Scholarship

Applications are also still open for the Year 8 Academic Scholarships and Music Scholarships for 2017. Details of all scholarships are available at www.stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au/scholarships

Virginia Miller
Director of Admissions

Student exchange opportunities

John Steinbeck, Nobel Laureate in Literature, wrote: “No man really knows about other human beings. The best he can do is to suppose that they are like himself.”

Capture the spirit of fun and friendship, and build your global cultural network. After all, it is different cultures that ‘make the world go ‘round’ at the end of the day.

Join us for Christmas Drinks on the Lawns

Christmas Drinks on the Lawns
5.30 – 7.30pm
Thursday 12 November 2015
Chiverton Lawns

Drinks and nibbles will be provided. Children are also welcome to attend.

To assist with catering, please RSVP at www.trybooking.com/JKJH by Friday 6 November.

Enquiries can be directed to events@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au.

Friends of the Founders Morning Tea

We hope you can join us.

Please RSVP to mmccormack@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au to assist with catering.

Megan McCormack (nee Walker, Kilburn ’86)
Old Scholar Liaison Officer

Changes to Bus Service from Term 4

From the start of Term 4 2015 the School is changing the way the Bus Service is charged.

The simplified method will involve students being marked off on a roll for each trip. A physical ticket will no longer be required.

If bus families have already given authority to the School Shop to charge your account or credit card for a term ticket, you will be invoiced for a Term Pass for Term 4.

Alternatively, the daily one-way charge will be $5.50.

The School will now invoice parents for the Term Pass and the number of trips travelled, so there will no longer be the facility to purchase bus tickets from the School Shop.

If you have any queries about bus charges, please contact Sue Burnett, School Shop Manager, on 8334 2228 or by email to sburnett@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au.

For queries regarding bus routes and times, please contact Brian Caire, Bus Liaison Officer, on 0411 705 395 or by email to bcaire@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au.

Sue Burnett
School Shop Manager

Peter Pan tickets now available

The annual Year 5 production is coming up very soon, at the end of Week 4 in Term 4. This year we mount the production, Peter Pan Junior.

Thank you to all who have contributed to the show so far and to our parent community for their ongoing support.

7pm, 5 and 6 November 2015
Arts Centre, St Peter’s Girls’ School
Adults $15, Concession $8, Family $35

Tickets are now available at www.trybooking.com/IYQI

Shelley Hampton
Year 5 Teacher

OSA Movie Afternoon

The St Peter’s Girls’ School community is invited to an exclusive movie experience.

Saturday 14 November 2015
Drinks from 3pm
Movie from 3.30pm
The Regal Theatre, 275 Kensington Road, Kensington Park SA
Tickets $25 per person – Includes champagne on arrival and chocolates

Tickets available at http://www.trybooking.com/IUOW

For enquiries please contact me on 8334 2239 or mmccormack@stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au.

Megan McCormack (nee Walker, Kilburn ’86)
Old Scholar Liaison Officer

St David’s Sew’n’Sews final sale

St David’s Sew’n’Sews wish to thank all who have faithfully supported their Annual Sale for so many years.

Regrettably, this year will see the final sale of work.

Wednesday 28 October 2015
9am – 12.30pm
496 Glynburn Road, Burnside

With a range of handmade goods available, including baby and toddler knitware and clothing, soft toys, tableware, hand towels and knee rugs

As well as a variety of jams and sauces and much more

Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with some homemade biscuits, which is included in the admission charge of $4

Raffle and door prize – all proceeds are donated to charities.

Sports News

Sports Awards

Sports Awards for Years 7-12 students and including Lacrosse will be held from 4pm until 6pm on Thursday 19 November in the Arts Centre. Guest speaker will be Natalie von Bertouch (Adelaide Thunderbirds and Australia). Further details will be out soon.

Sports Draws

Please note that all of the Term 4 Sports draws can also be found on the parent page of the School website at http://www.stpetersgirls.sa.edu.au/community/parents/

Basketball
Junior Softball/teeball
Junior Tennis
Junior Volleyball
Softball
Tennis
Volleyball
Water Polo

Any changes and cancellations will be conveyed in advance via email and, where possible, directly to students.

Gymnastics/Trampoline

In the school holidays Keeley Fahey competed in the National Clubs Gymnastics Carnival held in Bendigo. She won the Level 6 Women’s Trampoline Event.

Hockey

Natasha Hammond (Year 11) recently played in the U18 regional hockey tournament and was awarded ‘player of the tournament’.

Natasha has been selected in the SA senior metro development athlete program commencing in November and the Hockey Australia U23’s Country development squad travelling to Malaysia, Sarawak, Borneo, Kedah, and Penang in January.

Rowing

Following a full fitness program throughout the third term the Senior Rowing Squad looked forward to going on preseason camp in Murray Bridge during the school holidays. The three day camp enabled the girls to row in both fours and in an eight and the camp focussed on gaining the essential techniques needed to row sweep and made sure long kilometres were rowed. A big thank you to Olivia Compare, Grace Russell-Jarvie and Khandee Swaeney who filled in for the seniors who were absent.

Once the seniors had completed their camp, the intermediate and junior crews set out to complete theirs. Both intermediate and junior crews had a successful camp, with many new rowers enjoying their first camp experience. The season has officially begun and we look forward to the first regatta of the season. I look forward to seeing all crews’ hard work and commitment over the last term and the holidays on display in this regatta. Josephine Dalpra (Captain of Boats)

Softball/Baseball

Angela Mourtzios (Year 5) represented Macarthur Little League Majors at Greenies Cup held in Sydney during the October long weekend. With over 500 players this is the largest non-championship junior baseball tournament in Australia.

Playing six games in three days against Sydney clubs and representative teams, Angela had a 50% on base rate, 76% of pitches were strikes and she had a 91% fielding rate. From this performance Angela has been selected to play for NSW Country U13 Girls at the 2016 GFS – the largest girls’ baseball tournament in the southern hemisphere.

Tennis

Congratulations to Year 7 students, Annabel Baldwinson, Emily Loh and Clair Kao, who have been selected in the East Adelaide SAPSASA team to play in the statewide Tennis Carnival from 2-6 November.

Water polo

Congratulations to Carys Jones (Year 10) who represented South Australia at the National Carnival in Perth over the holidays.

Return to listing

Categories

Archives

From the Chaplain

End of year arrangements

House Charity Week

Selwyn: Sleep Under

Patteson: Project EATT

Kilburn: Daffodil Wall

Kennion: Breakfast Kickstart

Mathematics results

Primary Maths Challenge success continues

Mid-Year Reception class investigates recycling

Buzz Book advertising now open

Mothers’ Club: Win tickets to see Taylor Swift

Scholarships

Join us for Christmas Drinks on the Lawns

Peter Pan tickets now available

OSA Movie Afternoon

Cabaret Concert at St Peter’s College

Sports results

Tennis

Basketball – Wednesday 21 October

Junior Softball – Wednesday 21 October

Water Polo – Thursday 22 October

Junior Tennis – Friday 23 October

Junior Volleyball – Friday 23 October

Athletics – State All Schools Championships

Rowing – Saturday 24 October

Softball – Saturday 24 October

Tennis – Saturday 24 October

Volleyball – Saturday 24 October

Tennis – Monday 26 October

From the Deputy Principal/Head of Senior School

Counsellor’s Corner

Tips for overcoming exam-related anxiety: Part 2

Leading for the International Baccalaureate

Camp reflections in French

Year 6 PYP exhibition

Buzz Book advertising now open

Mothers’ Club: Win tickets to see Taylor Swift

Pipe Organ Scholarship

Student exchange opportunities

Join us for Christmas Drinks on the Lawns

Friends of the Founders Morning Tea

Changes to Bus Service from Term 4

Peter Pan tickets now available

OSA Movie Afternoon

Private Peaceful

Term 4 Arts engagements

Sports News

Sports Awards

Melbourne Marathon

Basketball – Wednesday 14 October

Water Polo – Thursday 15 October

Junior Tennis – Friday 16 October

Rowing – Saturday 17 October

Softball – Saturday 17 October

Tennis – Saturday 17 October

Volleyball – Saturday 17 October

Tennis – Monday 19 October

From the Principal

Student leadership team for 2016

Prefect Positions 2016

Other Leadership Roles

Sports Captains

Music Captains

Other Leadership positions

Primary Maths Challenge success

Counsellor’s Corner

Tips for overcoming exam-related anxiety: Part 1

End of year events: a song list

Carols in the Cathedral – Tuesday 1 December

Year 6 Graduation – Monday 7 December

Year 9 Graduation – Tuesday 8 December

Annual Presentation Night – Wednesday 9 December

Student performance

Pipe Organ Scholarship

Student exchange opportunities

Join us for Christmas Drinks on the Lawns

Friends of the Founders Morning Tea