Caroline Chisholm School eNewsletter

Acknowledgment to Country

Coming up Week 4

Monday 12th August

JC 9:30am - 10:45am Maybe a Miracle Performance
SC Musical - "Back to the 80's" Preparation
Science Week

Tuesday 13th

JC Stay and Play (Pre-school space)
SC Musical "Back to the 80's" Preparation
SC 10:30am - 11:30am 202 Climbing PCYC
Science Week

Wednesday 14th

Pre-Yr 10 Free Dress day
SC Musical "Back to the 80's" Preparation
SC 10:05am - 11:30am Ice Skating 222
SC 12:50pm - 2:10pm Extended Bike ride 203
Science Week

Thursday 15th

JC Mini Olympics
SC Musical "Back to the 80's" Performance Night
Science week

Friday 16th

JC 11:15 - 2pm Yrs 1/2 Bushplay
JC 9:15am Assembly led by School Leaders
SC 9:20am - 11am Stromlo 201
SC 9am - 2:30pm Yrs 7/8 Writing workshop
SC Musical "Back to the 80's" Performance Night
Science Week

Coming up Week 5

Monday 19th

Book Week
JC 2pm - 2:45pm Flex Space Walk to Chisholm Shops
SC 9am - 3pm Yrs 9/10 Secondary South Soccer Day
SC Southside Football Girls and Boys

Tuesday 20th

Book Week
JC Stay and Play
JC Yr 6 Combined Band
SC Assembly TB2
SC 10:00am - 11:30am 1OUM233 Ice Skating

Wednesday 21st

Book Week
SC Assembly TB2
SC Track and Field Carnival - Woden Park

Thursday 22nd

Book Week
SC Snow Camps - 2 Tents

Friday 23rd

Book Week
9:10am - 9:40am Book Week Dress up Parade
Pre - Yr10 Book Week dress up day
SC Snow Camps - 2 Tents
2024 Ministers Student Congress

Principal's Message

Focus on Ability

I'm thrilled to share that CCS SC Flex Space has entered a short documentary in this year's Focus on Ability Short Film Festival! This festival celebrates the talents and stories of individuals with disabilities, promoting inclusivity through filmmaking.

Our entry centres around the important transition from primary to high school, highlighting the incredible abilities and resilience of our students during this pivotal time.

How You Can Help:

Visit this link - bit.ly/ccsflexfocus24
Watch the short documentary!
Click Vote Now and cast your vote for CCS SC Flex Space!
Confirm your vote via email!
Leave a comment of encouragement!

Your vote will help amplify the voices and talents of our wonderful students. Please share this with your family and friends, as any form of community support makes a huge difference.

2024 School Satisfaction & Climate Survey

Each year, the Directorate surveys all parents and carers, school staff and students in Years 4 to 12 about their experience of public education. The 2024 School Satisfaction & Climate Survey will be available online from 16 August to 6 September. The survey results will help us to continue to make quality informed decisions about how to improve our school. No personal identifying information will be provided to any school or college.

For each child in their family who attends an ACT public school, parents and carers will receive:

A letter about the student survey outlining the reasons for collection and privacy provision for the data; and
An email about the parent survey, including a unique link to access the survey. Genuine survey invitation emails will have the title "The 2024 School Satisfaction & Climate Survey is now open!" and will be sent from EDU Surveys & Evaluation with 'from' address EDUSurveys@act.gov.au.

If you do not receive the survey invitation, please check your Junk email folder; if it is not there, please contact the front office. If you do not have an email listed with the school, please contact the front office to request a paper copy of the survey.

The Parents and Carers Survey will be available online in other languages: Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Korean, Urdu, Vietnamese, Punjabi, Bengali, Spanish, Telugu, French and Italian. Respondents can select their preferred language when they start the survey. A shortened paper-version of the Parents and Carers Survey is also available in the following 5 languages: Dari, Dinka, Farsi, Karen and Mon. These surveys are available at the Front Office.

For the results to reflect the opinions of our whole school community, we need as many parents and carers, staff and students as possible to complete the survey. Your feedback is important, and we hope you will take part.

For more information, visit: https://www.education.act.gov.au/public-school-life/school-satisfaction-and-climate-survey

What can we learn from the Olympics?

The original Olympic motto was “Faster, Higher, Stronger”. On 20 July 2021, the Session of the International Olympic Committee approved a change in the Olympic motto that recognises the unifying power of sport and the importance of solidarity. The change adds the word “together” after a dash to “Faster, Higher, Stronger”. The new Olympic motto now reads: “Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together”.

In his remarks before the unanimously vote, IOC President Bach explained the link between the change and the original motto: We can only go faster, we can only aim higher, we can only become stronger by standing together — in solidarity.”

This sentiment applies strongly to the school community too. We can only help students to aim higher, become stronger and smarter by standing together. It takes families, school staff and the community to support our young people to thrive and be ready to succeed in life beyond school. Working together to support our young people is the most important work we will do.

“Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together” was demonstrated beautifully at the Junior Campus Athletics Carnival on Tuesday. We had perfect weather and a positive atmosphere. We observed so many students being brave to try new things, to put themselves out there and race, even when they were nervous, tired, and unsure. Students supported each other and their house mates throughout the day in a positive manner. The carnival ended with a student versus staff 100m relay. The male teachers finished 1^st in their race and the female teachers finished 2^nd. Congratulations go to all students for the positive mindset and energy they put into the day. On Wednesday 21 August our Senior Campus students will have the opportunity to display their athleticism and enthusiasm at Woden Athletic Park.

We owe huge thanks to members of the P&C and parent helpers who prepared house coloured lolly bags, cooked sausages and offered a canteen service throughout the day. We also extend our thanks to students from Erindale College who helped to run the events with staff. To our volunteers we say THANK YOU. To our staff I extend my thanks. Carnivals like this take an enormous amount of time and organisation. Thanks, in particular go to Hannah for her leadership on this event.

Senior Campus Musical

Come join the students at Caroline Chisholm High School for a blast from the past as we transport you back to the totally tubular 80s! Get ready to groove to the rad tunes, rock the neon colours, and relive the iconic decade of big hair and leg warmers. This in-person event promises a night of nostalgia and fun. So, grab your friends, put on your best 80s attire, and let's make some memories together!

CCS Presents 'Back to the 80s! - The Totally Awesome Musical'

Written by Neil Gooding

Cast: Students of Caroline Chisholm School

Date: Thursday 15th, Friday 16th, Saturday 17th August 2024

Time: 7.00pm - 9.30pm (20 minute intermission)

Location: Calwell High School Performing Arts Centre (CPAC)

Tickets: $15 per person

Tickets can be purchased via the link below -

https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ccs-presents-back-to-the-80s-the-totally-awesome-musical-tickets-958715603177?aff=oddtdtcreator

For further information, please contact info@chisholm.act.edu.au.

Spotlight on Staff - Danielle Van-Kemanade, Teacher - SC Flex Space

How long have you worked at CCS?

I have worked at CCS for 5 years

Describe your role at CCS.

My role at CCS is Teacher in the Senior Campus Flex space

What do you enjoy about working with children/young people?

I enjoy seeing the students faces when they achieve something they didn't think they could achieve

Describe your work in Education in three words.

Challenging, Rewarding, Inspirational

What are your strengths?, what are you passionate about ?

Supporting students to achieve their potential, i am super passionate about inclusion.

What is something People don't know about you?

I love reading and scrapbooking.

Bidjiwang News

This term sees our preschool group join some of the Junior Campus experiences including attending assemblies and the upcoming Book Week dress-up day. Having preschool as part of these sorts of experiences is excellent preparation for transition to kindergarten as the children become familiar with not only the physical campus, but part of the JC community.

We have been busy these first few weeks investigating what is science and what do scientist do? This has extended from a child’s suggestion to use our courtyard for science and another child’s question ‘what is science?’. The children shared their ideas about science and scientist and also posed their own questions they would like to know more about. We are slowly building up our new science area with investigation stations based on the children’s questions and interests. Volcanoes has been mentioned many times, so we have been investigating what volcanoes are and making our own model of a volcano in preparation for a volcano experiment eruption!

Another one of the children’s ideas about science is ‘experiments’. We have been exploring some fun science experiments including exploring gravity putting objects on a slide, creating rain clouds with shaving cream and investigating magnets using magnet wands. Thank you to Aliasghar’s mum for helping us with ideas and equipment!

Introducing Snez Vujic

I am a final year Social Work student from the Australian Catholic University, and I will be shadowing your Family and Community Coordinator Alex Conroy, until my placement finishes end of October.

My professional background is hairdressing and health, and I have lived in the local area for more than 25 years. I am looking forward to learning more about the CCS community, where and how social work fits into an educational space and how best to support students and families.

If you see me around, please come and say 'Hi', I have many varied interests- I'm sure we can find something in common to chat about.

Years 5/6 News

This term, students will be learning all about the infamous Ned Kelly through our novel study of Black Snake: The Daring of Ned Kelly by Carole Wilkinson. This book tells the story of Ned Kelly though a combination of imaginative recounts from the point of view of different people and factual accounts of that time, highlighting key points that made Ned Kelly the famous bushranger we know today. Students will look at different points of view to interpret Ned Kelly’s story, and decide for themselves if he is a hero, villain, or victim of circumstance.

“I like learning about what he did and what crimes he committed” - Perrie Turbitt
“I’m enjoying learning about how he is both a villain and a hero.” - Meg Makings
“It’s cool that it’s set in the past and I like learning more about that time.” - Connor Garner

Science

In science this term students are investigating how energy transforms from one type to another. We are visiting the Mugga-iri Jingee STEM centre every Monday afternoon. First, we built virtual circuits; some were successful, and some students learned what happens when they connect two positive ends of batteries together. This week students had a go building real ones, and discovered how energy transforms into things we don’t expect.

“I don’t know about it, and it’s fun to experiment with transforming electricity.” – Clay Hunt.
“You can make other things and learn how to power things with different types of electricity.” – Ryen Kodippili.
“Experimenting with different kinds of wires to make things work and using batteries to make things work is interesting.” –Hiba Alabudi.

Spotlight on Staff - Kristie Ryan, P-6 P.E Teacher

How long have you worked at CCS?

9 years

Describe your role at CCS?

P-Yr6 PE Release Teacher

What do you enjoy about working with children/young people?

I love their enthusiasm and excitement when I come to teach them each week.

Describe your work in 3 words.

Making a difference.

What are your strengths? what are you passionate about?

My strength would be connecting with every student P-6, I'm passionate about PE, Gross motor and GymbaROO.

What is something people don't know about you?

I am allergic to Bananas, Crazy!

Year 7 News

Congratulations to our Year 7 students on reaching the halfway point of the year! You've worked hard, learned so much, and grown both in and out of the classroom. As you look back on all you've achieved so far, take pride in your progress and get ready for the exciting challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the second half of the year. Keep up the great work! - Ms Miley-Read (Year Coordinator)

Maths

Year 7 students are learning algebra in their maths class. They are discovering how to solve equations, work with variables, and simplify expressions. These lessons help them develop problem-solving skills and prepare for future maths challenges. Through fun activities and practical examples, our students are building a strong foundation in algebra that will support their learning journey.

English

Year 7 students are exploring Heroes, Myths, and Legends in their English class. They are reading interesting stories from different cultures, learning about famous heroes, and discussing the themes and lessons in these tales. As part of their studies, they are also creating their own heroes, making up unique characters with special powers and exciting adventures. Through fun projects and discussions, students are improving their reading and writing skills while discovering the world of mythology. This unit helps them understand the power of storytelling and its impact on culture and history.

HASS

Year 7 students are studying HASS (Humanities and Social Sciences) with a focus on human geography. They are learning about where people live, how they move around the world, and the differences between urban and country living. By exploring topics like population distribution, migration patterns, and the characteristics of cities and rural areas, students are gaining a deeper understanding of how human activities shape our world. Through interactive lessons and discussions, they are developing an appreciation for the diversity of living environments and the factors that influence where and how people live.

HPE

Year 7 students in HPE are gearing up for the upcoming athletics carnival by honing their skills in various events, including shot put, javelin, long jump, discus, and sprints. With the excitement of the Olympics currently in full swing, it's a perfect time for them to find inspiration and strive for their personal best. Through focused practice and technique improvement in each field, students are not only preparing for the carnival but also building confidence and teamwork. The energy and determination they bring to their training reflect their growing enthusiasm for sports and competition.

Electives

Year 7 students are diving into their electives, exploring creative subjects like Music, Drama, Dance, Art, Woodwork, and Digitech. These electives offer them a chance to express themselves, try new things, and develop a range of skills that will serve them well in the future. Whether they're composing music, performing on stage, crafting art, or building projects, these subjects encourage creativity and innovation. By taking on these diverse electives, students are not only discovering new passions but also honing their abilities in problem-solving, teamwork, and critical thinking—skills that will be valuable throughout their lives. In this newsletter, there are some wonderful pictures of the year 7 class from Drama performing a Melodrama skit.

CCS Band

Many Year 7 students in the CCS school band are eagerly looking forward to upcoming combined rehearsals with other schools in the Tuggeranong region. They're excited to collaborate with fellow musicians and work on some fantastic songs, including "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious," "Ghostbusters," and "The Avengers Theme." These rehearsals are a great opportunity for them to improve their musical skills, build friendships, and prepare for future performances. The energy and enthusiasm in the band are high as they get ready to make some incredible music together.

Doing CCS Proud!

Perrie from JC, Tomek and Min from SC competed at the Sydney Taekwondo Festival, ASMA Martial Arts Competition and the NSW KPNP open championships held in Sydney representing Lee’s Taekwondo Australia -LTA and the A.C.T team over the last month,

All the boys had great results in these competitions getting them ready for the upcoming NSW state selections which they need to finish top 2 in the state to make nationals in Brisbane in November 2024

Sydney Taekwondo Festival

Both Perrie and Tomek brought home 2 Gold medals each competing in 2 divisions in sparring and Min brought home a Bronze in sparring

Perrie and Min brought home the Gold in the team's division for Poomsae, Min also brought home a Bronze in the individual and a Gold in the pairs, Perrie won Silver in the pairs division Poomsae

The boys also got to meet the Australian Olympic Taekwondo team and gain some mentorship from the athletes going to Paris this was an amazing experience for the team and to say some serious confidence building

ASMA Marital Arts Competition

Perrie won Gold and Silver in Sparring

Min brought home Gold in the Pairs and Silver in the individual Poomsae

KPNP Open Championship

Perrie brought home 2 Gold Medal and Tomek brough home a Gold and Silver beating the national champion in a higher weight division

The boys are again off to Sydney next weekend for state selections which is one of the biggest competitions of the year and have been putting in hours of training to get ready

Wishing them all the best for next competition

JC Student Leadership Semester 2

Our Student Advocates for Semester 2 are:

Year 1/2 – Gracie C, Evelyn E, Erika P

Year 3/4 – Sebastian H, Ehren K, Albie W

Year 5/6 – Tommy B, Samuel J, Ryen K, Jude L, Meg M, Nala P

Flex Space – Patrick G, Thomas P

JC Door Decorating Contest

Our student leaders have been working hard to implement change and bring the school community together. One of the initiatives introduced by our House Captains is the Door Decorating Contest. In Term 2 our theme was the 2024 Paris Olympics. Our doors were judged by executive staff and some of our SC student leaders. The winners for Term 2 were Flex Space, KF, 1/2CL, 3/4I and 5/6F.

Olympic Inspired Class Door Decorations

Cost of Living Expo was held at CCS – as organised by South Side Initiative.

Many great services attended for families to connect and to discuss any financial support needs.

Thank you to all services who attended to support the CCS community.

If anyone would like further information about services at expo, please reach out to Alex Conroy (Family and Community Co-ordinator) via CCS reception.

Cost of Living Expo

Through the Inclusive Education: A Disability Inclusion Strategy for ACT Public Schools 2024-2034, the Education Directorate aims to strengthen inclusive education in our schools. One way we’re doing this is by developing a new resourcing model focussed on adjustments students with disability may need at school.

You can read about the proposed changes on our Education website and attend an online information session to find out more. Sessions will be held:

Wednesday 14 August at 10:00 am – RSVP

Once you’ve read up on the proposed changes or attended an online information session, we want to know what you think. Complete the survey or email us at EDU.SystemReform@act.gov.au by Tuesday 10 September to share your thoughts.

Your feedback is valued and will be used to support schools prepare for a new adjustments-based resourcing model.

Rail Safety Week

RAIL SAFETY week Monday 5 – Sunday 11 August 2024

It’s Rail Safety Week and we’re asking you to always Stop on Red. It’s not a suggestion.

Light rail has become part of the daily commute of many Canberrans, which is why it’s important we’re all aware of our personal responsibilities in ensuring the safety of ourselves and others.

To stay rail safe, remember to:

always stand behind the yellow line at light rail platforms and only cross at designated walkways
limit distractions such as mobile phones and headphones
always obey traffic lights and road signs. Be aware of intersections and road line markings when driving near the tracks.

A moment of distraction can change your life forever. We all need to be vigilant when it comes to rail safety, whether we’re passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, e-scooter riders or motorists. If everyone follows the rules, we all stay safe!

Visit Learn more about staying rail safe.

Get Ready for MyWay+

MyWay+ is Transport Canberra’s next generation ticketing system that puts all public transport services in one place, MyWay+ will offer more ways to pay for public transport and introduce new digital platforms for journey planning and accessing real-time information.

With more ways to pay, you can choose what works best for you and your family!

The switchover to MyWay+ is expected later this year. Until then, students should continue to use their current MyWay card or a paper ticket from a ticket vending machine to pay for travel on Transport Canberra bus and light rail services. You can also:

Ensure your child’s MyWay card is registered to protect the balance. Transport Canberra can only process refunds and transfer credits for registered MyWay cards.
Sign up to Transport Canberra’s weekly e-news for regular updates.
Connect with Transport Canberra on social media.

For more information on MyWay+ visit Transport Canberra – MyWay+.

School Bus Etiquette

School bus etiquette - Every trip is important, and so is the way we travel

It’s important for students to be kind and safe while riding on Transport Canberra buses. Here are some key rules for bus travel:

Be polite and listen to the bus driver
Give up your seat to someone who needs it more, like an elderly person, someone who is pregnant, or someone with a disability
Look after the bus, don’t leave any rubbish, and hand in any lost items to the driver
Avoid eating, drinking, and making loud noises on the bus.

Safety is our top priority. Talk through these tips to help your children know how to keep and stay safe:

Signal the bus driver from the pavement and wait for the bus to drive away before crossing the road.
Don’t walk in front of the bus, it’s dangerous.
Bus stops are for waiting quietly and not for playing.
When using phones or listening to music, be aware of your surroundings.
Always use pedestrian crossings and to know that our drivers are there to help if needed.

Thank you for helping us make the journey safe and pleasant for everyone using the Transport Canberra buses.

For more information, visit the Transport Canberra City Services website and read Travel safely to school and Bus passenger information.

Supporting Families

What’s New in term 3

The Southside Initiative (YWCA Canberra, Woden Community Service and Communities Services #1) has developed the following resources to better support families in the southside. Visit the Healthy Schools Network ACT to discover these:

Parent and Carer Support Courses Directory (updated each term)
Family Support Directories
PERKS 0-8 – (One-off parent workshops across southside schools)
Cost of Living @ Schools (a new school each term)
Early Years Community of Practice for Southside educators
Family Support Services at Mura Lanyon Youth and Community Centre, including Menslink, PCYC, Conflict Resolution Service, Teen Clinic, Care Financial, EACH and Mindmap.