NL 6 2009.indd - Ringwood Secondary College

RSC News 

The Newsletter of Ringwood Secondary College 

Issue Number 6 Online address: www.ringwoodsc.vic.edu.au/newsletters June 19 , 2009 

CULTURAL 

DIVERSITY BBQ 

Phone: 9870 2002 Fax: 9879 5414 Email: ringwood.sc@edumail.vic.gov.au Home Page: www.ringwoodsc.vic.edu.au

Newsletter Number 6 June 19, 2009 

Quick Calendar 

School Dismiss - Friday 26th June 2009 - 2.30PM 

School Returns - Monday 13th July 2009 

Term 3 - 2009 

Week 1 

Tues 14 July 

Wed 15 - Fri 17 July 

Week 2 

Thurs 23 July 

Second Hand Uniform Sale 

Portable 411 - 7.30pm 

Yr 7-12 Production Camp 

Year 7-12 Parent Teacher 

Interviews 4 - 7pm 

The Next Meeting: 

PCTA July 21 7.30pm 

Council July 29 7.30pm 

Heritage June 22 7.30pm 

Music Association Aug 3 7.30pm 

Ladies Auxiliary AGM July 14 7.30pm 

Policy & Education June 24 7.30pm 

Our Students Shine 

From the 

Principal ... 

Congratulations to so many of our students who have represented 

the college so well in recent times and in a number of cases have 

been individually recognised and celebrated; In particular: 

• Darcy Krenn has been selected to take part in the UPS Finance 

Academy in Canberra 

• Megan Annetts of Year 12 has been successful in receiving the 

Australian Defence Forces Education Scholarship that includes the 

provision of a new laptop 

The next Newsletter will be issued on July 24 

• Justin Morris and R Andrewatha – both from Year 12 - received 

Australian Defence Force Technical Education Scholarships valued 

at $250 each 

PSW – Shop Times 

Dance Concert 

Our Unit 3 students 

performed their Technical 

Solos which they 

had choreographed. 

The Year 7-9 dance 

club, the Year 10 

dance class, and the 

Unit 1 & 3 classes performed 

their group 

pieces. We also had 

lots of students perform 

solos and the 

choreography competition 

winners performed their pieces. Special thanks to Miss. 

Eversteyn for taking the photos. 

Ms. Stanley 

Ringwood SC Uniforms will be available from the PSW East 

Store 

18-20 Railway Ave, Ringwood East 3135 

Ph: 9879 5500 

Email: ringwood@psw.com.au – Website www.psw.com.au 

Shop Hours: 

Monday – Friday 8.30am – 5.00pm 

Saturday – 9.00am – 5.00pm 

• The Maroondah Daylight Masonic Lodge on behalf of Keith Hollingsworth 

who was very active in tutoring and coaching in the 

area, has created a fund in his honour which is $250 to support 

local students to help with the cost of schooling. Alex King - Year 10 

and Olivia Gaffney - Year 9 are both the inaugural winners of these 

scholarships 

• Dylan Agnew of Year 9 has been selected as a member of the Victorian 

School Sports Association Metropolitan Team for the schools 

football championships to be held in Nth Queensland 

• The significant number of students from RSC who performed 

brilliantly at the EMR concert at Hamer Hall – Ben Turner and Tim 

Phillips were both featured as soloists. Others participated in String 

Orchestra, Symphony Orchestra and Secondary Choir 

• Our Cross Country squad who ran with distinction at the zone 

championships held at Yarra Valley Racing Centre. RSC students 

were placed in many events and achieved some spectacular results 

including 2 individual winners – Veida Somerville and Adam Percy. 

Other placegetters were 2nd: Luke Percy and Sally Blain. 3rd: Shannon 

McDade and James Sanchez-Legg 

In the teams events, the 13 boys won and we had 4 2nds: 13 girls, 

14 girls, 15 girls and 16 girls, and 2 3rds: 14 boys and 20 boys. In all, 

14 have qualified for state championships 

Maroondah Regeneration Project 

In the recent budget the State Government supported further planning 

for the refurbishment and rebuilding of the seven schools on 

five sites, with an allocation of $1 million. 

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Over 100 parents from the seven secondary schools attended the 

three forums each night. Audience members had the opportunity 

to raise questions and provide input into our thinking. At each 

meeting, the Regional Director, Dr Watterston expanded on the information 

provided to date. Five sites would be comprised of four 

mainstream schools, in the North, East, South and West of the City 

of Maroondah, complemented by an alternative setting Croydon 

Community School. 

He described specialist advice from an expert firm of architects, Architectus, 

which have recommended how we could best achieve 

this objective: 

• In the north, bring together Parkwood and Norwood Secondary 

Colleges on the Parkwood site in a refurbished and rebuilt school 

and new entity, MEC Norwood 

• In the east, bring together Maroondah and Croydon Secondary 

Colleges on the Maroondah site in a rebuilt school and new entity, 

MEC Croydon. 

• In the south and west, substantially redevelop Heathmont and 

Ringwood Secondary Colleges, MEC Heathmont and MEC Ringwood 

• Redevelop Croydon Community School. 

If fully funded, it is anticipated the overall expenditure will be approximately 

$80 million dollars. 

The project is intended to create a new way of thinking about secondary 

education in our area where schools share their resources to 

provide programs and opportunities that are far beyond the capabilities 

of any school acting on its own. Dr Watterston emphasised 

that this proposal would be able to proceed with community support. 

This is an exciting time for all of the families who have, or will have, 

children attending State secondary schools in Maroondah. The 

Principals of all these schools believe that this proposal represents 

a once in a life time opportunity to reshape and rebuild State secondary 

education in Maroondah so that it best meets the needs of 

our young people well into the future and provide them with best 

possible education. 

Production – My Fair Lady bookings open next week 

The cast and crew of the production are now busily preparing for 

what will be a bumper season. This year all bookings can be made 

on line and open to the public on Thursday June 25. All details and 

a secure booking portal can be found at 

www.trybooking.com/BCR 

The show runs from August 6 to August 15. Ticket prices are $21 

adult, $15 concession, $57 family (2A & 2C). There are also groupbooking 

options available. A booking fee of 30 cents is added to 

the price of each ticket. 

A notice regarding uniform 

In recent days we have been following up on shoes and ensuring 

that students have acceptable footwear. In some cases students 

and their families have been reminded to attend to their footwear, 

during the upcoming term break, to ensure that each young person 

is wearing the correct shoes at the start of Term 3. 

Facial piercing is not acceptable under the college’s uniform code. 

Nor is it acceptable to have these with a protective covering. Students 

with a facial piercing will be required to remove them during 

school hours. A note from home is not acceptable and will not 

negate this requirement. This rule applies to all piercings including 

recent ones. 

Sporting Hall of Fame Breakfast 

We are looking forward to this event next Wednesday morning, 

commencing at 7.45am in the college hall. If you would like to attend 

please let the office know. This year’s inductee is Fiona Adler 

(Harrington), who became only the fourth Australian woman to 

scale the lofty heights of Mt Everest. Our guest speaker is ex student 

Shane Asbury who is now training with the Australian swimming 

team. 

Enjoy a restful mid year break and I trust all the winter niggles will 

be well and truly under control when we return for an exciting term 

3 program. Good luck to all our year 10 students who are on work 

experience next week. 

Michael Phillips 

Principal 

From Mrs Ward .. 

The college will see Fiona Adler (nee Harrington) inducted on 

Wednesday 24th June at the Sporting Hall of Fame breakfast. A 

talented artistic student Fiona illustrates the diversity of life’s directions 

with a career in IT and Communications and the conquest of 

Mt Everest. 

Heritage 

Construction and plans are progressing for our fourth Hall – with inductees 

– for a reunion/celebratory weekend in October with plans 

for a 20 year gathering, a 50th celebration of the first Matric class of 

1959, the current Art and Technology Show on the Friday evening 

and an open time at the College on Sunday 24th October. 

Suggestions and “hands” are most welcome to help make this extra 

long weekend a moment in the history of RHS/RSC. 

A 10 year – 2010 reunion is currently mooted for discussion by 

Michelle Hart. 

Our next meeting is Monday June 22nd at 7.30pm and new faces 

are most welcome. 

College Production 

“My Fair Lady” is the fourth presentation of this performance and 

bookings this year will be online after 25th June. 

Dates are Thursday 6-Saturday 15th August. 

“Leads” and others involved in former productions 

are warmly invited to contact the college 

and let us know when you are attending. The 

Thursday 13th August is targeted as a special reunion 

focus but we appreciate not all are available on that night. 

Ticket pricing is included in this newsletter. 

Keith Hollingsworth – Inaugural Scholarships 

Keith Hollingsworth was principal of Mansfield High School when 

he retired and established the Ringwood Coaching College in 1965. 

A dedicated professional and teacher, Keith believed in helping 

students face their challenges and value the opportunities of education. 

As the first Worshipful Master of the Maroondah Daylight 

Lodge, of which he has been a member for 53 years, his legacy is 

the “Hollingsworth Scholarship” These awards of $250 each will 

be presented to two students to help foster learning experiences 

whilst at school. 

The inaugural recipients for 2009 are Olivia Gaffney and Alex King. 

Page 3


Ladies Auxiliary 

A casual dinner was enjoyed on 16th June and discussions held re a 

revamp of the college uniform, canteen at Production, a shopping 

tour, second hand uniform sale and our ‘Card Extravaganza’ later in 

term 3. New members are most welcome and second hand uniform 

will be available in Tuesday 14th July at 7.30pm in Room 411. 

Mrs J. Ward 

Assistant Principal 

From Mrs Hughes ... 

Semester 1 Reports distribution 

Year 11 and 12 – Friday, 26 June at 2.30 pm 

Years 7-10 - Friday, 17 July at 3.10 pm 

Please note that reports will not be available earlier. Parent/teacher/student 

interviews will take place on Thursday, 23 July between 

4.00 pm and 7.00 pm. There will be an early finish on the day with 

all Year 7-12 classes being dismissed at 2.30 pm. Interview Booking 

Sheets will be distributed to students at the start of Term 3. Students 

will be responsible for making appointments with teachers 

for the interviews. 

Visiting the college 

A reminder to families that all parents/visitors attending the college 

need to report to the Administration Office prior to entering 

other sections of the school. A pass will be issued enabling access 

to other areas. Thank you for your support. 

Mrs J. Hughes 


From Mr Salisbury ... 

What a busy term it’s been and most of the school community is 

looking forward to a well-earned break. It is important to finish 

the term off in a positive manner and students need to ensure all 

set work such as assignments and projects are submitted and sufficient 

preparation is undertaken for assessment tasks. Teachers are 

currently writing reports and we look forward to many outstanding 

student performances. As parents the temptation is to focus 

on academic performance and under estimate the importance of 

effort and attitude of students. How wrong! Reward and celebrate 

attitude before enjoying and recognising academic achievements. 

Some other points: 

• Year 10 Work Experience- Best wishes to all our Year 10 students 

who are on Work Experience during the last week of term. We are 

confident they will perform outstandingly and thoroughly enjoy 

this exciting opportunity. A big thank-you to Mrs Allison for her 

enormous efforts in organising such an extensive program 

• World Environment Day- June 5. Thanks to the Environmental 

Committee for organising the recycling of old phones. 

• Facilities-Some exciting work is occurring around the college and 

the school environment is continually improving. Outdoor furniture 

is currently being built in the junior school BBQ area, garden fencing 

is being improved, extensive shelving was recently installed in 

the PAC and Cave areas and the hall foyer will be carpeted during 

the term 2 holidays. Wow! 

• Exams- Congratulations to all students who have recently completed 

exams. From all reports the preparation, approach and attitude 

of students was exemplary. 

• Traffic report-Please encourage your children to be careful if when 

crossing Bedford Rd they use the traffic island east of the railway 

line. On several occasions it has been over-crowed and groups of 

students are spilling dangerously onto Bedford Rd in front of cars. 

Thank-you to the many parents who are parking a little distance 

away from the college to facilitate traffic management before and 

after school. We encourage more parents to utilise this practice. 

• Uniform-Shoe audit-This week we undertook a comprehensive 

shoe audit and many letters will be sent home in the next few days, 

requesting parents to purchase appropriate school shoes for their 

children. We remind the College community that shoes must be totally 

black and polishable. Material shoes eg. Dunlop Volleys and 

shoes with any white markings are not permitted. Girls must have 

working buckles and for OH & S reasons must ensure they are buckled. 

Mr C. Salisbury 


School Council Report 

• Poowong Camp – The council is reviewing the future of its Poowong 

Camp in Gippsland. Most of the buildings are in a state of disrepair 

and one possible option is to remove these buildings and 

develop a long term use of the remaining building. Another option 

is to hand the property back to the Department of Education and 

Early Childhood Development. A subcommittee will make recommendations 

to council some time during ’09. 

• Australian Technical College – The governance of Australian 

Technical Colleges is transferring from federal to state governments. 

The administration is currently negotiating with the state 

government regarding suitable funding models. Partnerships with 

local TAFE colleges are also being explored. 

• Principal Report – Congratulations to Darcy Krenn, selected for 

the UBS finance academy in Canberra. Similarly Megan Annetts was 

selected for the ADFA Education Award, a highly prestigious award. 

Rhys Andrewartha and Justin Morris both won an ADFA Technical 

Award. Two students recently received a Keith Hollingsworth scholarship 

– Olivia Gaffney and Alex King. Dylan Agnew has been selected 

for the Victorian School Sports Association Australian Football 

Metropolitan Team and Ben Turner and Tim Phillips featured at 

the recently conducted EMR concert. 

•Maroondah Regeneration Project – A series of community 

events has been conducted over the past fortnight. 

• Oval Redeveloping - The planning for oval redevelopment is progressing 

well and the college has recently submitted an application 

for an indoor sports stadium 

• Resources – College finances were received and 

canteen operations were discussed. 

• Facilities – The main college toilets are now running 

on recycled water. Close on 100,000 litres of water are 

now available and look forward to substantial water 

savings over the years to come. 

Chris Salisbury 

Chaplain Spot 

Hi Ringwood community. I had the pleasure of visiting my inlaws 

in Sydney and spending some time with family. We took a ferry 

from Parramatta all the way to Circular Quay and went on a family 

fun day. It was amazingly warm in Sydney with blue skies all weekend. 

It’s funny isn’t it when it’s rainy and wet where we are, it can be 

beautiful and sunny only 900 kilometers away. I often think when it 

rains that it’s raining everywhere in the world. 

This can be a lot like how we feel within ourselves at times. Life 

can feel rainy and cold and miserable and this can be consuming 

to the point of us not being able to see or notice the beautiful light 

and warmth we get on those warmer days. But hope, like the sun 

in Melbourne, can and does come. The sun will shine again as the 

weather keeps moving and changing. So to our circumstances in 

life and the choices we make change so that hope 

can shine through again. I hope this week as you 

enjoy the feeling of a four day week, if you’re experiencing 

wintry times in life, you can anticipate the 

sunshine to come. 

Adam Bryant 

School Chaplain 

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The Year Levels... 

Junior School 

Mrs Cusworth’s 8E English class worked on a class poem based on 

the horrific bush fire event. What a fantastic effort! 

8E - A – Z BUSHFIRE POEM 

A is for Armies that people admire 

B is for Burning, the big roaring fire 

C is for Courage of those helping hands 

D is for Determination, defending their lands 

E is for Emptiness all throughout town 

F is for Families lost and then found 

G is for Grey smoke pouring out of the fire 

H is for Haunted, the eyes of the survivor 

I is for Intoxicated smoke in the air 

J is for Joy for all those who care 

K is for Koalas whose lives are cut short 

L is for Loss, the houses we’ve bought 

M is for Memories of lives that are lost 

N is for Nightmares of a tragedy that costs 

O is for Orange, flames high and bright 

P is for Pain that no-one could fight 

Q is for Quietness, that eerie sound after 

R is for Rubble made from the burned rafter 

S is for Smokey, smell of burnt homes 

T is for Terrified, scared and alone 

U is for Under the billowing smoke 

V is for Volunteers who helped, they’re top blokes 

W is for Water, worth its weight in gold 

Y is for Yellow, the colour of the brave and bold. 

Middle School 

Challenging minds in Term 2 

A number of students have been gearing 

up for two important competitions 

– the da Vinci Decathlon and the 

Tournament of Minds. The Years 8 and 

9 ‘Battle of the Brains’ again saw teams 

competing in creative problem solving 

and general knowledge. 

This is preparation for Tournament of 

Minds which will be held at the beginning 

of Term 3. Already we have 

a number of students who have enthusiastically 

put their hands up to 

take part. 

On Thursday 18th June, a group of Year 7 students have been selected 

to take on students from a number of other schools in the 

da Vinci Decathlon. This day will see them competing in challenges 

in Maths, Science, Art and Poetry, English, Engineering, General 

Knowledge and Logic as well as other categories. We wish all these 

students the best of luck! 

Alison Crawford 

Extension and Enrichment Co-ordinator 

Page 5 

Senior School 

“On Wednesday, May 27, 46 VCE Legal Studies students attended the 

Schools Program at HM Prison Barwon, Victoria’s most maximum security 

prison. During the day, they had the opportunity to speak with 

prisoners who had committed serious offences – from murder to armed 

robbery – and explore the effectiveness of our criminal sanctions system. 

To consolidate their learning, the students subsequently compiled 

reflections as part of their assessment for Unit 1. Specifically, they were 

asked to comment on the provocation: Many argue that Barwon is too 

much a “five star hotel”, and too little a maximum security prison. The 

following reflection of the day was written by Marcus Kinsella.” 

Prison SAC Essay Marcus Kinsella 11D 

Many argue that Barwon is too much a “five star hotel”, and too little 

a maximum security prison 

On our recent visit to HM Prison Barwon questions regarding the 

prisons ‘Maximum Security’ status were raised. After speaking to 

various repeat offenders and career criminals it is clear that even 

maximum security, the end of the line, is no deterrent. Inmates are 

able to earn money, receive money from outside sources and purchase 

amenities. Prison - neither punishment nor complete rehabilitation. 

It is clear that incarceration is no deterrent for the majority of prisoners 

we spoke to. 

According to one particular guard the rate of recidivism, prisoners 

who reoffend, is about 75 percent. This statistic was evident when 

talking to the inmates. Carl for instance described himself essentially 

as a professional bank robber – “Hi I’m Carl. And I’m a bank robber” 

– he said sarcastically. Carl would be considered a career criminal, 

committing crimes was how he earnt his money. He had no fear 

of getting ‘caught’ and returning to prison. Prison after all was his 

“home.” Carl clearly was not deterred from committing crimes by 

his own past experiences in jail. This was proven by the fact he had 

committed yet another robbery just 1 day after finishing a different 

‘stretch’ (to the one he is serving now). As well as this example of his 

disregard, he could not honestly tell us that he would not return to 

prison again after his next release. Carl was fully institutionalised. 

Wes was another prisoner who was not deterred by the possibility 

of jail time. He chose the ‘Dignity and Respect’ of shooting his victim 

over control of the next nine years of his life. 

Prison life is no free ride, or is it? 

At first, sixteen hours, of every day, confined to a small space 

seems harsh. Compounded by the six hour ‘working’ day, which 

leaves only two hours a day for inmates to mingle, prison life 

does seem unreasonable. However we need to remember ‘prison’ 

is a place of punishment. HM Prison Barwon home to the most 

violent of violent individuals. Prison life is cosier than it needs to 

be. Inmates work a 6 hour day earning a maximum of $8.50. On 

top of this $200, prisoners are also entitled to just under $200 per 

month from their family. They do not have to pay electricity, water 

or other utility bills. They do not even have to repay the monetary 

cost of their crimes. Leaving them with a generous $400 kitty 

each month with which they are able to buy luxurious items, such 

as two-hundred-dollar shoes, hair wax, and confectionary from 

one of the many vending machines. Some items are available at 

a subsidised price, sometimes less than what we, the public, pay. 

Whilst confined to their cells the inmates are able to watch cable 

TV, even play on their games console, when they are not sleeping 

the day away of course. One prisoner told us he enjoyed a Coke and 

a bag of chips whilst watching the Friday Night Football, which he 

did every week. 

It is important that prisoners do not become detached from society. 

‘Caging them up’ until they have served their sentence would 

be unreasonable and irresponsible. However, it is unclear whether


prison is a place of punishment, forced rehabilitation or a health 

retreat. 

After going through practically all prisons in Victoria some prisoners 

we spoke to were told that ‘Maximum Security’ Barwon Prison 

was “...the end of the line”- A prison where no one wanted to do 

their time. However on arrival they realised it was not as bad as they 

had been warned. Many of the prisoners now consider jail time a 

chance to ‘get healthy again’. The guard who handled us on the day 

told of instances where inmates had left prison in the shape of their 

lives only to return to prison in bad condition after reverting to their 

old ways. When speaking of their crimes, there was no remorse. The 

inmates were sorry that they were caught, but not sorry for the 

violent acts they were responsible for. The system does not rehabilitate. 

Prison is not seen by the majority of hardened criminals we 

spoke to, as a genuine punishment. The feelings passed on to us 

were that prison time was seen as more of an inconvenience than 

a punishment. 

The majority of the prisoners we met were repeat offenders not 

deterred from committing crimes by past jail time or possible jail 

time. Crime and prison life was all they knew. They were comfortable 

with prison and described it as ‘home’. Compared to the limited 

possibilities the inmates had in the outside world, prison seemed 

more like a ‘five-star hotel’. 

VCE Mid-Year Examinations 

Recently, all VCE students sat for their mid-year exams. Year 11 exams 

were held for all studies, whilst students who study Year 12 Accounting, 

Biology, Physics, Psychology and Chemistry sat for their 

exams on Tuesday 9 and Wednesday 10, June. As well as these exams, 

all Year 12 students and all Year11 students undertaking a Unit 

3/4 study sat the General Achievement Test (GAT) on Thursday, 11 

June. 

The Year 11 and Year 12 exams ran very smoothly, thanks to the cooperation 

and good humour of our students. We were particularly 

pleased with the students’ approach to the GAT this year. Without 

exception, our examination supervisors (all of whom are non teaching 

staff and employed by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment 

Authority) spoke very highly about how well mannered and 

friendly our students were during all of the exams and especially in 

the three hour GAT. All of our senior students are to be commended 

for their positive and unselfish attitude during what was a most demanding 

time for them as individuals. 

School Co-ordinators or Mrs Allison, the Careers Co-ordinator. 

We wish all of our Senior School students the best for their mid-year 

exam results. Whilst Year 11 students will be receiving feedback 

from their teachers for their Year 11 exams now, Year 12 students 

will receive their results for their exams from VCAA early August. 

Mrs Karen McDonald 

Senior School Leader 

Subject Reports 

Debating Team 

Staff Student Debate 20th May 

A very amusing debate was held this week to highlight debating 

in the school this week, Education Week. The staff members were 

Mr Motton, Mr Moody and Miss Stanley. The student team was 

the B grade debating students; Andrew Amos, Julia Matthews and 

Shanae Stephens. The topic was ‘That students should be allowed 

to use their I Pods in class’ and the staff took the affirmative side!! 

Their arguments were quite far fetched but all the same very humorous! 

The students worked very well as a team and rebutted all 

their opponent’s points extremely well. The debate was very close 

and Mrs Pearson and I decided to give it to the staff team by one 

point!! It could have gone either way. Congratulations to the staff 

and students who argued so eloquently on this issue! 

VCAA Plain English Speaking Regional Final 21st May 

RSC win by Julia Matthews 

On May 21, we were hosts to three judges from the Department of 

Education and seven students from other schools. There were two 

students from Southwood Boys School, two from Emerald Secondary 

College , two from The Mountain District Christian School and 

two from RSC. Our entrants in this senior competition were Andrew 

Amos and Julia Matthews. Each student had to speak for 6 minutes 

and prepare a 3 minute impromptu speech on the topic ‘ Don’t 

worry, be happy’. The prepared speeches were very interesting and 

varied . They ranged from consumerism and morals to a discussion 

on how gay people are unfairly discriminated against in society. The 

standard of the speeches was extremely high and the judges had 

great difficulty deciding the winner and runner up. Andrew spoke 

passionately about the value of Friendship and Julia spoke with 

great authority on Surrogacy. 

Thanks also need to be given to the Senior School Co-ordinating 

team for all the work they did behind the scenes to ensure that the 

Year 11 and Year 12 exams ran smoothly. Mrs Maassen (Year 11 Coordinator) 

deserves special thanks for her energy levels, good humour 

and wonderful organisation. 

Students receive a Study Score for all of their Year 12 studies. The 

recent Unit 3 examinations count for one third of the Study Score 

in those particular studies. The end of the year exam counts for another 

third, whilst the School Assessed Coursework (SAC) scores 

make up the remaining third. The SACs are marked and moderated 

by classroom teachers. Studies without a midyear examination 

have study scores that are made up from a combination of SACS 

and the final examination results. The subjects vary in these calculations. 

Classroom teachers of the particular studies will be able to 

accurately advise their students on the weighting of the SACS and 

Examinations for their subject. 

The final Study Scores are then compiled to give the ENTER score. 

If students or parents have any queries about the ENTER score or 

tertiary entrance, they are welcome to contact any of the Senior 

Congratulations to both Julia and 

Andrew for their excellent prepared 

and impromptu speeches 

today. Julia will go onto the Semi 

Final at the end of term in the City. 

We wish her all the very best for 

this event. 

Our junior D grade debaters 

helped make up the audience and 

were very helpful with the organisation 

of the morning. I would also 

like to thank Mrs Gillam for all her 

efforts with the catering and running 

of the secret topic preparation. 

Thanks must also be given to 

the Welfare team for allowing us to 

use the Well Being Centre as the 

venue for this prestigious event. 

Page 6


DEBATING 2009 ROUNDS 2 AND 3 April 29 and May 19 2009. 

The debating teams have continued to win this year and both D1 

and D2 teams are proceeding to the 4th Round undefeated!! Congratulations 

to all the following students; 

D 1 Harry Firth, Mitchell Pirera and Makayla Fraser 

D2 Kovi Dam, Erin Manuel and Jessica Syme. We thank Stephen 

Amos for his great contribution in Round 2. 

The topics for the recent D grade debates were ; 

That the Government should buy back public transport and 

That we should not be able to have designer babies.. 

We had great arguments arguments and won convincingly in both 

debates. The Best speaker for the Round 2 D 2 team debate was 

Stephen Amos and the Best Speaker for the D1 debate this week 

was Makayala Fraser. Great work! Well done everyone! 

The next debate is 16th June and the last one for this year is August 

6th. Keep up the good work everyone!! Next debate is June 16. 

Christine Saunders 

Debating Coordinator 

Lote 

FLETA - Theatre Frańzais 

‘On Tuesday 26th May FLETA - Theatre Frańzais came to the school to 

perform for French students ranging from Year 7’s to 10. So during periods 

1 and 2 the three performers Fred, Eddie and Marianne put on a 

splendid show that taught everyone french through song, dance and 

drama. It was very enjoyable and I’m sure everyone had fun.’ 

Kirsty Gayther 10A 

Careers 

Work Experience starts next Monday June 22nd for one week. We 

wish the Year 10’s a wonderful time and hope that they utilize this 

time to explore career possibilities or embrace other opportunities 

that may eventuate from this experience. 

Students have received a Work Experience Journal, at the Year 10 

level assembly this week, which contains vital information including 

an Evaluation Form, Thank-you certificate and notes on succeeding 

at Work Experience. 

Key points worth highlighting. 

• All students must have returned the completed Work Experience 

Arrangement form to ensure full legal cover 

• All students should have completed the O H & S training 

• All students should contact employers to check on important details 

such as what to wear, lunch arrangements etc. 

The college wishes all students the very best for their week at work 

and we look forward to hearing about their diverse and exciting 

experiences. Students will be visited or rung by staff to check on 

their progress. If parents have any concerns with any aspect of 

Work Experience please don’t hesitate to contact Mrs Allison. 

Year 10 Careers Unit 

Many of our Year 10 students have now completed the Careers 

Unit. It is a vital part of Career Development and we encourage 

parents to take an active interest in the program. Some key features: 

• All students receive a free Job Guide, which is an essential Career 

resource for the next 3 years. It profiles all vocations including necessary 

training and personal requirements 

• All students undertake at least 2 Vocational Tests including Career 

Voyage which provides a comprehensive print out of student 

interest areas and job suggestions 

• All students undertake course exploration and preliminary prerequisite 

investigation to assist with their VCE study selections 

• All students complete a resume as a basis for future job applications 

• All students will receive counselling for their VCE study selection 

later in the year (Term 3) 

Much of the program utilises our Careers Intranet site and as previously 

detailed, this is accessible from home. 

French Club Tuesday 26th May 

‘Today we had our first French club 

and it is loads of fun! There were 

french games being played, including 

french Monopoly! Anne-Claire, our 

French Assistant played Monopoly 

with a group of students. 

There were french magazines and 

children’s books to read which were 

really great! 

To top it off, we ate toasted baguette with melted chocolate on top! 

YUMMY! There was also really awesome music! (In French).’ 

Courtney Hugh-Clink 9D 

French Club 

Come along and join us next time - Tuesday 21st July 

Rosemary Devereux 

Lote Coordinator 

Page 7 

Future Options Evening 

Thank you to the Year 10 students and parents who attended our 

Future Options Evening on June 2nd. Participants listened to Ian 

Smith, VCAL Coordinator from Box Hill Institute, Joe Pollock, Executive 

Manager, Australian Technical College, and Bianca Maassen, 

VCAL and Year 11 Coordinator from Ringwood Secondary College 

detailing VCAL and Australian School Based Apprenticeship 

programs respectively. If you any questions about the information 

provided or wish to have copies of the PowerPoint handouts 

please do not hesitate to contact Mrs Allison. A reminder to attend 

the VCE Information Session on July 29th (info to be sent home 

soon). 

Year 12 TIS 

Year 12 students will visit Deakin University on Wednesday 24th 

June for a Tertiary Information Session that provides details of the 

application process for TAFE and university in 2010. The students 

will also have the opportunity to visit an expo by many tertiary 

institutions. 

Open Days Open Door 

TAFE FEES UPDATE-Major changes set to happen in July 09! 

The Victorian Government has announced changes to TAFE education 

under the Jobs for Your Future: Skills for Victoria reforms, 

taking effect from 1 July, 2009. Changes coincide with the Commonwealth 

government decision to allow TAFE students to access 

a loan scheme similar to the Higher Education FEE-HELP scheme. 

It is expected that the VET FEE-HELP scheme will allow students 

in some TAFE programs (including diplomas and advanced diplomas) 

to defer payment of fees. Students who commenced their 

program before 1 July 2009 will continue under the existing fee 

structure till they complete their studies, withdraw, or until the 

deadline of December 2012. Fees for students enrolling from 1


July, 2009 will vary according to the level of qualification in which 

they enrol. Courses will be offered at the following levels: foundation, 

skills creation (Cert’s 1 & 11), apprenticeships and traineeships, 

skills building (Cert’s 111 & 1V) and skills deepening (diplomas 

and advanced diplomas). It is expected that fees for skills building 

courses will be about $1,000pa in 2010 and about $2,000pa for 

skills deepening courses. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Holiday Highlights’ 

‘Experience La Trobe’ holiday program. 

When: 30 June (Bundoora), 3 July (Albury-Wodonga), 7 July (Bendigo). 

Choose three hands-on workshops from over 40 sessions; take 

a tour; stay the night at the campus if you wish. A great way for 

Yr 10-12’s and families to check out the University; register attendance/obtain 

details at www.latrobe.edu.au/experience; enquiries: 

1300 135 045. 

ACCESS ALL AREAS at University Of Melbourne 

This event is especially designed for Year 10 - 12 students and 

their families, offering a personalised look at the University of Melbourne. 

The day-long program commences with an introduction to the University 

and the Melbourne Model, followed by information sessions 

for international and interstate students as well as sessions for specific 

year levels. 

The afternoon sessions will provide the opportunity to attend detailed 

study area information sessions and the opportunity to talk 

face-to-face with faculty staff about the courses they offer. 

Prospective students will also be able to pick up information about 

the many students services available at Melbourne. 

Date: Friday 3 July 2009 (repeat of April event) 

Time and venue 

The event will be held at the Parkville campus. A map and program 

details will be emailed to registered participants. 

Cost and registration 

Admission is free but places are limited. Please register as early as 

possible to secure a place. 

Register now online via: www.futurestudents.unimelb.edu.au/ 

events/vic/accessallareas 

For further information about Access All Areas, please contact us: 

Toll free: 1800 801 662 (within Australia) 

Tel: (03) 8344 6543 

Email via http://unimelb.custhelp.com 

Deakin University-Parent information event 

University – your questions answered 

Thursday 2 July 2009, 7.00 pm–8.30 pm 

– Melbourne Campus at Burwood 

– Altona Meadows Library and Learning Centre 

Applying for university is an exciting, but often confusing, time in 

your son’s or daughter’s life. Deakin’s parent information event is 

your chance to have your questions answered. 

» Find out about the VTAC application process, course selection, 

preferences and key dates. 

» Hear from Deakin representatives about courses, graduate outcomes, 

scholarships, pathways and support services. 

» Speak with current Deakin students and gain an insight into life 

at university. 

Parents and VCE students are welcome. Light refreshments will be 

served and online registrations are essential. For more information 

and to register for this free event please visit www.deakin.edu.au/ 

parent. 

 

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International Report 

Exchange Students 

Maria Allison and Helen Doherty 

Careers Coordinators 

We have welcomed a new exchange student this term in year 10. 

His name is Guillaume Hallermeyer and he is from France. Guillaume 

will be here for 3 months and we that he enjoys his time 

here. Also two of our current exchange students will be leaving at 

the end of this term, they are Anna Faber (Germany) and Petra Kantola 

(Finland). They have been a delight to know and we will miss 

them both. During their stay they have travelled widely and met 

many new friends and would like to return one day. If anyone is 

thinking of participating in an exchange program please come and 

see me in the International Office. 

Thailand to Ringwood 

Students from our sister school Montfort College, Chang Mai in 

Thailand will again be visiting our school this October for several 

weeks. Any families wishing to offer their home to one or maybe 

two students can either ring 98702002 or email me on lcody@ringwoodsc.vic.edu.au 

Lynda Cody 

International Coordinator 

Page 8


Science Faculty 

A group of Year 11 students went to the 

University of Melbourne to compete in the 

State Australian Brain Bee Challenge - Neuro 

Science Competition. 

Ringwood gained 

2nd place in the 

team challenge. The team was made 

up of Kyra Pearce-Green, Anna Faber, 

Michelle Jenkins and Josh Nickson. 

Josh then went on to compete in the Individual 

Competition and received 1st place in the State Final. 

A fantastic achievement for all! 

Melissa Bennett 

Music 

Thank you to all musicians and music 

staff on making one of our busiest 

six weeks in the calendar such a 

successful one. To finish off such a 

busy time 36 RSC music students 

performed in the various ensembles 

on offer at the Eastern Metropolitan 

Region Youth Concert on 

Wednesday 3 June. It was great to 

see so many students representing 

our school and congratulations to 

Jack Lam and the team of tutors who made the String Ensemble 

performance sparkle. We hosted and rehearsed this group at RSC. 

Yes, we managed to fit 84 string players in room 700 and it was 

great to hear the PAC filled with such a lush string sound of Mozart, 

Puccini and I Will Follow Him from Shrek! 

Congratulations to Rosemary Kenna and her flute students who 

performed very well in the Victorian Flute Guild Flute Ensemble 

Competition which was held at 

Fintona a couple of weeks ago. 

Jessica Gray, Miranda Boyle, 

Brendan Giang and Erica Phillips 

gained third place in the 16 

years and under small ensemble 

section. Cassandra Allison and 

Madeline Gosden gained second 

place in the 13 years and 

under duet section. 

Also thank you to the Intermediate Stage Band who volunteered 

their services to the SIDS fundraising Jazz Night held at Balwyn 

High last Saturday night. They are to be applauded on presenting 

two thirds of their program for Melbourne Bands Festival after 

only three weeks of rehearsing these pieces. A lot of senior groups 

would have difficulty doing this. 

Currently we are preparing for Melbourne Bands Festival and Melbourne 

Strings Festival. 

Dates and times for these ensembles are as follows: 

Training Band Saturday 22 August 8.40am – 10.45am 

Junior Concert Band Monday 10 August 7.25pm – 9.25pm 

Intermediate Concert Band Friday 21 August 6.25pm – 9.15pm 

Symphonic Band Tuesday 11 August 7.10pm – 10.05pm 

Training Stage Band Monday 17 August 3.10pm – 5.10pm 

Page 9 

Junior Stage Band Monday 17 August 6.00pm – 8.00pm 

Intermediate Stage Band Sunday 16 August 2.20pm – 4.40pm 

Senior Stage Band Sunday 16 August 6.30pm – 9.10pm 

Junior Strings Saturday 8 August 8.30am – 10.30am 

Intermediate Strings Sunday 9 August 9.00am – 11.00am 

Senior Strings Saturday 8 August 12.30pm – 3.10pm 

Detailed letters regarding cost and transport will be issued soon. 

Stay tuned! 

Just a reminder that chocolate money for the music association fundraiser 

was due in last Monday 15 June. If you still have outstanding 

money please return it directly to the canteen between 8.30 and 

8.50am by Thursday 25 June. 

Upcoming events: 

•20 June “Superdooper Saturday” – day rehearsal for Symphonic 

Band 

Stage Bands Day Camps and Master classes: 

Training Stage Band 

Day Camp: 

Saturday 11 July 10 am – 4 pm 

Master class: 

Tuesday 14 July 3.30 – 6.00 pm 

Junior Stage Band 

Day Camp: 

Master class: 

Intermediate Stage Band 

Day Camp: 

Master class: 

Senior Stage Band 

Day Camp: 

Master class: 

Saturday 11 July 9 am – 4 pm 

Monday 13 July 3.30 – 6.30 pm 

Friday 10 July 9.00 am – 4.00 pm 

Wednesday 22 July 3.30 – 6.30 pm 

Thursday 9 July 9 am – 4 pm 

Thursday 23 July 3.30 – 6.30 pm 

• Saturday 25 July String Day Camp 9am – 4pm – for all RSC string 

players 

• Sunday 26 July Concert at Firbank Brighton – senior trombone 

quartet. Time TBC 

• Thursday 30 July Junior/ Intermediate Concert 7.30pm 

Senior Twilight Concert 5.30pm - 6.45pm 

• Friday 31 July -Bob Hower Master classes – 

Symphonic Band 3.30-5.00pm 

Senior Stage Band 5.00 – 6.30pm 

• Saturday 1 August 

Intermediate Concert Band Workshop 9am – 12pm 

Training Band Workshop 12.30 -2pm 

• Melbourne Bands and Strings Festival 8 -22 August 

• South Street Competitions, Ballarat 3 -8 September 

• Gala Concert Thursday 17 September 

As you can see busy times ahead! Thank you for all your hard work 

this term and have a well earned break. 

Janine Pero 

Director of Music


Performing Arts 

As Time Goes By........ 

EMR Concert Hamer Hall Wednesday June 3rd. 

Once again the Eastern Metropolitan 

Regional show was 

staged at Hamer Hall and featured 

many talented Ringwood 

Secondary students. The sold 

out performance is a showcase 

for the talent of the region and 

has steadily grown in scale over 

the last decade. Written and directed 

by our Performing Arts 

Director Mr. Motton the show 

features large ensembles and choirs which are made up of students 

from across the region. Our students were well represented 

in the large ensembles but particularly in the large string orchestra 

conducted by our own Mr Lam. Ringwood students also featured 

in all of the linking sketches in between as primary students from 

Blackburn Primary School travelled in a time machine looking for 

reasons to keep playing live music. Tim Phillips as the Doctor and Finale 

soloist, Andrew Amos as a 1700 German Officer and a ‘As Swine 

Goes By’ Soloist, Siobhan O’Brien as a Rock’n’ Roll actor and singer, 

Nick McKinnon as a millennium Reveller, Doug Phillips as a Motown 

Jiver, Sean Dickson as Romeo, Meg 

Green as Juliet, Kate Bennington as 

20th Century Musician, Shannon 

Pendrey as a future space musician 

were all outstanding. They were 

supported by a talented support 

ensemble of Tim Folliot, Tess Rodda, 

Gerome McKenzie and Cameron 

Burgess adroitly conducted by Mr. 

Bonnett. To highlight particular eras 

we also had a dance ensemble of 

Matilda Edwardes, Brooke Bazely, 

Sonja Pettifer, Jessica Cody and Samantha 

Shepherd who were choreographed 

by our own Miss Stanley. 

While these people were filling the 

links the Hamer Hall crew were resetting for each group ably assisted 

by Kate Haysom, Natalia Grechko and Kye Dove. A feature 

of the evening was a trombone solo by our talented player, Ben 

Turner. This annual event is a great experience for our performers 

and allows them the chance to perform at the premiere concert hall 

in the state. They all represented themselves, their families and the 

college with outstanding behaviour and a professional manner. A 

good job, Well Done! 

They Dreamed The Impossible Dream! 

Lauren Grounds, Meg Green, Nick Mackinnon, Jessica Hazell, Siobhan 

O’Brien and Tim Phillips 

created, developed, 

directed, staged and performed 

in this outstanding 

theatrical event. They were 

ably supported by other 

senior performing arts students 

in lighting (Jen Guy, 

Kate Haysom), sound (Riley 

Pullen) and projection 

(Michael Dodd). Audience 

discussion after the performance 

was emotional 

and effusive with some 

members even confessing 

to being so moved that 

they shed a tear at the 

deep emotion that was 

drawn from the show. Congratulations 

to all involved. 

Robert Motton 

Direcctor of Perfoming Arts 

Welfare 

Fresh Youth Theatre 

“Our aim is to have a positive impact on young peoples’ lives by providing 

them with lifelong lessons through creative experience.” 

Fresh is a youth focussed initiative of the One Community Care Network. 

Fresh is a self-esteem building and personal development 

program specifically designed for secondary school aged young 

people in difficult life situations. 

Fresh provides a forum for self-expression and social engagement, 

healthy risk-taking and a sense of belonging. 

Locations - Doncaster:Bayswater:Blackburn 

Tuesday or Thursday 4-6.30pm 

Two performance seasons a year. 

Facilitated by skilled… 

Teachers, actors, directors, and youth workers. 

For more info call the Fresh Office: 

184 Surrey Road, Blackburn 

P: 03 8878 2500 

E: freshyouththeatre@one.org.au 

W: www.freshyouththeatre.com 

Australian Red Cross Applications 

Year 12 Drama Ensemble Performance 

Expression of Interest Forms for the Australian Red Cross Youth Advisory 

Committee are available at the Welfare Office if you are interested 

in becoming a member. 

The 2009 Yr12 Drama Class Ensemble performance ‘The Impossible 

Dream’ was performed in the college hall during the last week 

of April. The stunning performance presented the concept of the 

dream of how ‘Everyman’ led by outstanding characters dreams of 

reaching the societal goals of global conservation, international 

equality, fair government, medical breakthroughs, perfected artworks 

and individual identity. The group devised ensemble work 

was presented using many non naturalistic symbolic theatrical 

techniques and moved the audience to reflect upon the future of 

themselves and society. The talented students Andrew Amos, Kate 

Bennington, 

Page 10


 

BREAKING THE CYCLE - 

MAKING CHANGES 

A group for mothers, fathers, partners, step-parents, carers 

whose adolescent is abusive and/or violent at home 

Do you feel threatened, frightened or controlled by your son/daughter? Do other family 

members, particularly younger siblings feel scared? Do you feel that you are walking on 

eggshells? Do you feel that you are no longer in charge? Do you feel isolated and alone? 

Would you like to find ways to help your son/daughter become more responsible and 

respectful? If any of these questions apply to you, this group may be for you. 

NEW GROUP STARTS WEDNESDAY 29 th July 2009 

Parents often ask - what will I do if my son/daughter: 

• Pushes, hits or threatens me? 

• Verbally abuses me and puts me down? 

• Follows me around and won’t let me leave the situation? 

• Puts holes in walls or damages things? 

• Runs away or threatens to leave? 

We have been running these groups for 12 years. The groups have been developed with 

parents and we have received very positive feedback. Previous participants say that the 

group has provided them with ideas for change, ways of managing their situation differently in 

a supportive, informative and affirming environment. 

*****BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL ***** 

DATE: 29 th July – 16 th September 2009 (8 SESSIONS) 

TIME: Wednesday 9.30am – 11.30am 

VENUE: 7 – 11 Shipley St, Box Hill 

COST: $50.00 individual or $80.00 couple 

CONTACT: Larisa at Anglicare on Ph 9896-6322 

 

A course for step/blended families 

Daytime 

Group 

 

 

 

 

 

WEEK 1 – Monday June 15, 2009 

The Brady Bunch – Are they for Real? 

Exploring the myths. 

Looking at the adjustment period. 

WEEK 2 – Monday June 22, 2009 

The Emotional Rollercoaster 

Dealing with feelings. 

Handling stress. 

WEEK 3 – Monday June 29, 2009* school holidays 

Creating Peaceful Families 

Communication. 

Solving problems peacefully. 

Encouraging co-operation. 

WEEK 4 – Monday July 6, 2009* School holidays 

The Brady Bunch – a New Beginning 

Roles/Identities/Boundaries. 

Creating new family rituals. 

Where: 

Time: 

Cost: 

Lifeworks (opp. Federation Estate) 

9 Greenwood Ave, Ringwood 

Phone EACH on 9871 1800 

7.15 for 7.30pm start – 9.30pm 

$20 per couple for the course 

* MUST come as a couple. Limited places - please ring & book place. 

 

Centre for Multicultural Youth 

Schooling: 

A significant proportion of people (of all ages) arriving in Victoria 

through the Humanitarian Program have had little or no previous 

education. In 2007-08 29% of all humanitarian entrants arrived with 

six or fewer years of education. 

In 2007-08, there were 691 young people (aged 13-25) who entered 

Victoria under the Humanitarian Program - which is just over 30% 

of the total number of humanitarian entrants to Victoria for that 

year (2,266 people) 

Young people from Burma, Iraq and Afghanistan represent the largest 

components of the Humanitarian Program for the age group 

13-25. 

Time Spent in rufugee camps: 

In 2004-05, 52% of all refugees assisted through Integrated Humanitarian 

Settlement Services (IHSS) in Australia had spent more than 

5 years in a refugee camp, and 32% had spent 10 years or more in 

a camp. Young people who are born or have spent prolonged periods 

in camps are likely to have experienced long-term insecurity, 

seperation from family, and exposure to violence: and to have had 

extremely limited access to services and opportunities (e.g. education, 

employment, health, housing) These pre-settlement experiences 

have implications for settlement in Australia - including how 

young people and families access services and the types of support 

services needed. 

Sharlene Agnew and Julia Nordlinger 

Student Welfare Coordinator/Social Worker 

The Sports Pages 

RSC Equestrian Team 

This semester the RSC Equestrian Team has 

competed in a large number of Inter-school 

equestrian competitions. The competitions 

have included students from public and private 

schools, secondary and primary levels. 

This is the second year that the team has 

competed, however, with more experience, 

training days and members, the results have 

been fantastic. The commitment, hard work and enthusiasm of the 

students and their parents are appreciated, and they should all be 

congratulated on their excellent results. 

The competitions and results are as follows: 

Glenbrae Horse Trials 11th March 09 

Ellie Symes (grade 4 level) 

5th overall 

Ellen Bailes (grade 5 level) 

6th dressage 

Kate Moore (grade 5 level) 

3rd Dressage 

Monique Centrone (grade 5 level) 6th overall 

6thdressage 

Ivanhoe Grammar Dressage competition 20th March 09 

Alannah Whitehead (grade 4 level) 6th 

Monique Centrone (grade 5 level) 3rd 


5th 

Tintern Grammar Horse Trials 9-10th May 09 

Bianca McArthur (grade 3 level) 9th 

Ellie Symes (grade 4 level) 

11th 

Kate Moore (grade 5 level) 

11th 

Elisha Laukart (grade 4 level) 17th 

Alannah Whitehead (grade 4 level) eliminated 

Page 11


VEC interschool dressage 1st June 09 

Monique Centrone (grade 5 level) 3rd and 4th 


1st and 1st 

Glenbrae Interschool Show Jumping 3rd June 09 

Kate Moore (grade 5 level) Jumping equitation 5th 

Ellie Symes (grade 4 level) AM7 jumping 5th 

Imogen Brill (grade 4 level) 

competed 

Miss Jessica Lambden 

CROSS COUNTRY 

Ringwood athletes had a fantastic day at the Eastern Zone Cross 

Country championships on Wednesday. Held at the Yarra Glen 

Race Course, the runners had 

to contend with a soft and relatively 

uneven track, but there 

were a number of memorable 

performances in the cold, but 

fine conditions. Seven teams 

and 6 individuals won medals 

and many students finished in 

the top 30 places in their event 

which was a great result. While 

no overall school competition is held, Ringwood’s performance 

would surely have placed it at number 1. 

There is no doubt that the ‘unlucky award’ of the day would have 

gone to the 15 girls team which scored 31 points for their first 4 

runners and would have easily won any other event for the day, but 

missed out by an incredible 1 point. 

Individually, our medal winners were: 

36th, Harry Frith 44th, Jake 

Brudenell 49th, Josh Hall 

and Brandon Stelfox) 

: 21 boys (Jake Smith 5th, 

Chris Thompson 13th, Connor 

Palmer, Jacob Palmer, 

and Dylan Prescott) 

Along with our individual 

medal winners, and the 13 

boys team, Jake Smith, Katrina Meredith, Chloe Webber and Rhylee 

Prescott have qualified for the State Championships which will be 

held at Bundoora in term 3. 

In a competition where there were over 100 competitors in each 

race, many Ringwood athletes finished in the top 50 placings, which 

was a fine achievement. Other good performances included Adam 

Waterson 18th, and Alex King 20th. 

A big thankyou to Mr Scott and Mrs Dickson for their efforts in training 

the team. 

Mr. Graeme Fox 

Sports Coordinator 

Attendance Matters 

Regular attendance at school is important 

for your child’s educational, social and emotional 

wellbeing. Students who regularly attend 

school find it easier to maintain relationships 

and to keep up to date on 

important happenings in the school. 

Gold: Veida Somerville and Adam 

Percy 

Silver: Sally Blain and Luke Percy 

Bronze: James Sanchez-Legg and 

Shannon McDade 

Our medal winning teams were 

Gold 

: 13 boys (James Sanchez-Legg 3rd, 

Cameron Shield 6th, Chris Davis 21st, 

Ross McLachlan 32nd, Austin McInerney 

48th and Darcy Carrigan 50th) 

Silver 

: 13 girls (Sally Blain 2nd, Ashleigh Oliver 

14th, Grace Hann 29th, Emma Buckley 

40th, Megan Hickman 53rd and Astin 

Cohen-Beavis) 

: 14 girls (Breanna Mackenzie 15th, Madeline Lees 26th, Jessica Thomas 

32nd, Miranda Boyle 41st and Svjetlana Music) 

: 15 girls (Veida Somerville 1st, Chloe Webber 5th, Rhylee Prescott 

10th , Katie Webber 15th, Verity Boyd 19th and Samantha Hickman 

: 16 girls (Katrina Meredith 9th, Samantha Key 28th, Beth Cleary, 

Jordyn Dell and Kate Kerrigan) 

Bronze 

: 14 boys (Luke Percy 2nd, Ryan Challis 22nd, David Thomson 

Page 12 

Late Arrival 

We are aiming to reduce the disruption caused by students arriving 

late to school and ask for your support in encouraging your child to 

arrive on time or to bring a note when circumstances prevent this. 

Students who are regularly or exceptionally late to school without 

a note or valid reason may be required to attend a College Detention. 

Early Departure 

To maintain accurate records, which are particularly important in 

the case of emergency, it is vital that we are aware of students who 

leave school early. Please direct your child to come to the office 

with a note requesting an early leavers pass, or if your child becomes 

unwell during the day to report to the Sick Bay. 

Absence 

Please advise the school as soon as possible if your child is absent 

from school: 

•Telephone: 9870 2002, 

•Email: ringwoodsc@edumail.vic.edu.au , 

•Send a note with your child 

•In person at the General Office, 

Please be sure to provide your child’s Full Name, Year/Form Group, 

the dates and reason for the absence. 

For extended absences of three days or more, parents are requested 

to contact their child’s Year Level Coordinator to discuss appropriate 

arrangements. 

We thank you for your support 

Linda Mitten 

Attendance Officer


Geography News 

Geography Competition Results! 

We have just received the results for the 2009 Geography 

Competition. This nation wide competition challenges the best 

Geography students in the country. Three year 9 classes as well as 

our year 11 and 12 Geography classes participated. We congratulate 

the following students who gained a High Distinction: Andrew 

Amos, Brenton Hansen, Justin Heskett, Shantanu Vats and Sam 

Wearne. Fletcher Heyward, Darmesh Parmar and Alex Pezzimenti 

gained Distinctions in the Intermediate section. We hope that all 

students who participated found the experience of interpreting 

unseen data a useful experience. 

Mrs. Rodda 

Geography Convenor 

From the School Nurses 

Head lice, yes the subject that we all do not like to discuss but is a 

common problem that needs to be dealt with. 

Please check your child’s hair regularly and if head lice or eggs are 

found, treat appropriately. Health regulations require that where a 

child has head lice that the child should not return to school until 

the day after appropriate treatment has started. 

Finding head lice: 

Step 1: Comb any type of hair conditioner on to dry, brushed hair. 

Step 2: Now comb sections of hair with a fine tooth head lice comb 

Step 3: Wipe the conditioner from the comb onto a paper towel or 

tissue. 

Step 4: Look on the tissue and on the comb for lice and eggs. 

Step 5: Repeat combing for every part of the head at least 4 or 5 

times. 

If lice or eggs are found the child’s hair should be treated. Purchase 

head lice treatment products from your local chemist and the product 

must be applied to all parts of the hair and scalp. 

No treatment kills all of the eggs so treatment must involve two 

applications, seven days apart. The purpose of the first treatment is 

to kill all lice, the second treatment is to kill young lice hatched over 

the next six days. 

There is no product available to prevent head lice but tying back 

long hair can help prevent the spread. 

For further information see website: www.health.vic.gov.au/headlice 

Mrs Shirley McInnes/ Mrs Nancy Davies 

Garden Assistance 

Can you help us keep the school gardens looking good? 

Many trees and shrubs have been planted around the school to enhance 

the environment for students and staff, 

and as our contribution to reducing carbon 

pollution. Three large water tanks have been 

installed and always have plenty of water in 

them 

All we need are some volunteer waterers! 

Don’t feel daunted by the size of the job. Just choose a small patch 

of garden that you feel you can take responsibility for. 

The plants have been chosen for their ability to cope with dry conditions, 

and don’t need lots of watering; just some TLC as they establish 

themselves, and during hot and dry spells. 

Lynda and Olwyn will be attending to the Welfare garden area on 

the first Tuesday of the month, 9.30am. So if you’d like company, 

come then. (We always treat ourselves to coffee afterwards ....) 

Contact Chris Salisbury if you can help 

Cultural Diversity Day 

Mrs Olwyn Smiley 

Did you know that June 20 is designated as International Refugee 

Day? At RSC, we now have 32 students from a refugee background, 

mainly from Burma, Liberia and Sudan. 

We recognised their arduous, uncertain journeys and honoured the 

rich contribution they make to our school community this week, by 

proudly wearing multi-coloured ribbons, handmade by our Year 10 

and 11 Connections leaders. Thank you to Mrs. Rowe for donating 

the ribbons. 

Some of our refugee students celebrated their culture by wearing 

national costume on Tuesday. The impromptu fashion parade in 

the staff room at recess was well received. Garments were colourful 

and intricately woven and embroidered. The lunchtime barbecue, 

organized and run by Connections, was a great success, raising 

around $400 to purchase medical supplies for the Mae La Refugee 

Camp on the Thai/Burmese border. Some of our students were 

born and raised here before applying to The United Nations to seek 

refuge in Australia. 

At the combined Year 10 assembly, the leaders presented to their 

peers a visual presentation that highlighted the horrific plight of 

refugees, and their role as Connections leaders. Thanks to Jessica 

Akaruru for creating this graphic and confronting image. Incidentally, 

the Connections leaders are a brilliant team of young people 

who have been committed and reliable throughout their planning. 

It is a delight to work with them. 

This week, some our Karen students received news that relatives 

and friends back in Burma had been displaced and therefore were 

on the run and homeless, a result of the latest assault by the military 

Junta. Tears were shed in my class as this news was shared. It was 

clear that the experiences of their loved ones brought back fearful 

memories, and exposed the heartache that is still very raw and real 

for these students. The longer they are with us, the more we can try 

to empathise with their situation. 

Mrs. Heather Davies 

Cultural and Linguistic Diversity Programs Coordinator 

Music Association 

• This is your last chance to purchase an Entertainment Book. We 

have currently sold 72 books which is fantastic and have only a few 

left to sell. Please fill in the form from the newsletter ASAP so you 

can take advantage of the wonderful deals available in the book. 

• ALL CHOCOLATE DRIVE money should have been returned back 

to the canteen by now, but if you have forgotten, please do it NOW!! 

Music Association reps are there each morning from 8.30am to collect 

money next week so we would appreciate finalising this important 

fundraiser this term. 

• Thank-you to Sue McLeod for restocking our supplies for concerts. 

The next one will be the Junior/Intermediate Concert on Thursday 

July 30th at 7.30pm, preceeded by an open rehearsal for the senior 

bands. Again tea, coffee and cordial will be on sale as well as chocolates 

and other treats. A raffle will also be conducted on the night. 

All proceeds go towards the school’s music department “Wish List”. 

Frances Batt 

Secretary 

Page 13


Community Announcements 

The Department of Education and Ringwood Secondary College do not 

endorse the products or services of any private advertiser. No responsibility 

is accepted by the Department of Education and Ringwood Secondary 

College for the accuracy of information contained in advertisements or 

claims made by them. 

ICS LEARNING GROUP 

The ICS Learning Group has been helping students learn for the 

past 27 years. We would like to offer students the following opportunity. 

Term 2 Holiday Workshops 2009 

Open to all students in years 9-12 in 2009 

“Boosting one’ Performance” 

These popular small group Workshops are designed especially for 

students who want to succeed. 

Held at MLC Kew - commencing 6 July 2009 

(close to all forms of public transport) 

• Advanced Reading Skills 

• Study Skills 

• Essay Skills and Effective Essay Skills for Year 12 only 

• Text and Context Revision - Year 12 only 

Class Sizes are limited - early booking essential 

Enrolment Hotline 9818 3888 - Save time - book online 

www.skillcentre.com.au 

WINTER SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES 

WYREENA COMMUNITY ARTS CENTRE 13-23 HULL ROAD 

CROYDON 3136 PHONE 9294 5590 

http://www.artsinmaroondah.com.au/Wyreena.htm 

Wyreena is offering a fantastic selection of enjoyable activities 

to keep your child amused through the long cold days of winter 

activities include: mask making, pottery, cartooning, puppet 

making, didgeridoo playing and a wonderful interactive display of 

reptiles in the australian reptile show. 

During the full day sessions, your child will be fully supervised by 

caring tutors for the whole day. 

Page 14


 

Newsletter Article No. 5 June 2009 

Term 2 Activities 

Coalition Unit 3 Exam Revision Classes 

On Sunday May 31 st at Norwood SC, VCE exam 

revision classes were held for coalition students in 

Chemistry, Physics and Biology. A Psychology 

session was previously offered from 4.00 pm to 5.30 

pm on May 27 th at Ringwood SC. Student feedback 

regarding the revision sessions was very positive: 

Overall: 

82% of students stated they had learned something 

new in their revision sessions 

88% of students stated that they now had more 

understanding of the subject matter 

88% of students stated that they now felt more 

confident to tackle further revision and exam 

practice 

87% of students stated that they were happy to give 

up their weekend/afterschool time to attend the 

sessions 

91% of students stated that they would recommend 

the revision program to other students 

A sample of student comments: 

Really well set out with good slideshows. Well 

explained and easy to understand 

Allowed me to refresh my memory about certain 

terms and get a true idea of what to study 

Just an effective as a lecture session I paid for at 

Melbourne Uni. Thanks. 

The use of past exam questions was helpful in 

understanding what the examiners are looking for 

and what to expect in the exam. 

Thank you to the following coalition teachers for 

preparing and delivering the revision sessions. 

• Darryl Stranger, Andrew Hansen and Jessica 

Lambden from Ringwood SC 

• Tony Lahy and Rachael Barker from Norwood SC 

• Geoff Brasier and Julie McDonald from Heathmont 

College 

Values in Action Schools Project (VASP) 

This year the MEC is implementing a project on 

Values Education. Maroondah SC, Parkwood SC and 

Ringwood SC members, local community group 

representatives and VASP project advisors will 

participate in joint events during the year. 

Our project is titled: Youth Voice-Fostering Respect, 

Inclusiveness and Tolerance 

Our third event this semester, a student workshop on 

Emotional Intelligence (EI), was held on May 19 th at 

Parkwood SC. The presenter, Dr Karen Hansen from 

the Brain Science Institute Swinburne University, 

explored the concept of Emotional Intelligence with 

students and its importance to building positive 

relationships with others through self awareness of our 

own emotions. 

At the end of the session, students indicated that they 

now had a much greater understanding of what EI is, 

and its relevance to our MEC Values Project. 

Some student comments included: 

The skills learnt about EI will help us have a better 

understanding of our values 

Understanding your own emotions allows you to 

create effective relationships 

Need to be aware of our own and others’ feelings to be 

part of a community 

It will help me understand some of my refugee students 

better, along with new students 

People with higher EIs are better at socialising to 

provide a friendlier community 

Learning EI fits in with our project because it helps us 

to communicate with others 

Lyn McGoldrick - MEC Lead learner 

Acknowledgment: 

This publication has been developed as part of the Values 

in Action Schools Project (VASP) which is funded by the 

Australian Government Department of Education, 

Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) under 

the Values Education Program. Curriculum Corporation is 

the national manager of the project acting on behalf 

Page 15


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Characters Dress rehearsal Opening Night Matinee Early Show Final Night 

PS SHOW 8pm 8pm 2pm 6pm 8pm 8pm 8pm 

My Fair Lady TUES 4-Aug THURS 6-Aug FRI 7-Aug SUN 9-Aug WEDS 12-Aug THURS 13-Aug FRI 14-Aug SAT 15-Aug 

Naomi 

Naomi Shannon 

Shannon 

Shannon Naomi 

Second maid FitzGerald Shannon Pendrey FitzGerald Pendrey 

Pendrey Naomi FitzGerald Pendrey FitzGerald 

First Maid 

Kirsty 

Gayther 

Kirsty 

Gayther 

Emily Arnott Kirsty 

Gayther 

Emily 

Arnott 

Emily 

Arnott 

Emily Arnott Kirsty 

Gayther 

Mrs Einsford-Hill Kate 

Bennington Brooke 

Bazely 

Brooke Bazely Kate 

Bennington Brooke 

Bazely 

Kate 

Bennington Brooke Bazely Kate 

Bennington 

Mrs Pearce 

Meg 

Green 

Siobhan 

O'Brien 

Siobhan O'Brien Meg 

Green 

Siobhan O'Brien 

Meg 

Green 

Siobhan O'Brien Meg 

Green 

Mrs Higgins Rochelle 

Berg 

Rochelle 

Berg 

Verity Brown Verity 

Brown 

Rochelle Berg 

Verity 

Brown 

Verity Brown Rochelle 

Berg 

Zoltan Karpathy Nicholas 

MacKinnon Michael 

Dodd 

Michael Dodd Nicholas 

MacKinnon Michael 

Dodd 

Nicholas 

MacKinnon Michael Dodd Nicholas 

MacKinnon 

Colonel Pickering Riley 

Pullen 

Ryan 

Smedley 

Riley Pullen Riley 

Pullen 

Ryan 

Smedley Ryan 

Smedley 

Ryan Smedley Riley 

Pullen 

Freddy Einsford Hill Conor 

O'Neill 

Mitchell 

Roberts 

Mitchell Roberts Mitchell 

Roberts 

Conor 

O'Neill 

Conor 

O'Neill 

Mitchell Roberts Conor 

O'Neill 

Alfred P Dolittle Ben 

Turner 

Ben 

Turner 

Zak 

Marrinan Zak 

Marrinan 

Ben 

Turner 

Zak 

Marrinan 

Zak 

Marrinan Ben 

Turner 

Henry Higgins Tim 

Phillips 

Andrew 

Amos 

Andrew Amos Tim 

Phillips 

Andrew 

Amos 

Tim 

Phillips 

Andrew Amos Tim 

Phillips 

Eliza Dolittle Hannah 

Monson 

Emma 

Welsh 

Hannah Monson Emma 

Welsh 

Hannah 

Monson Emma 

Welsh 

Emma Welsh Hannah 

Monson 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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NL 6 2009.indd - Ringwood Secondary College

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