Aspire - Nazareth Catholic Community

AspireNazareth Community Magazine

EDITION

02NOVEMBER 2015

Aspire | Nazareth Community Magazine | Page 3

OurFeaturesFrom Our Director ...........................................................................................................................................................

Principal’s Insight ............................................................................................................................................................

Class of 2015.....................................................................................................................................................................

Primary Sports Day...........................................................................................................................................................

Culture Exchange.............................................................................................................................................................

From our Early Childhood Centre...................................................................................................................................

Leaps and Bounds...........................................................................................................................................................

Music Magic....... ............................................................................................................................................................

Parent Power...................................................................................................................................................................

Acting NOW....................................................................................................................................................................

Stepping Up....................................................................................................................................................................

Ready Set Go!.................................................................................................................................................................

Wakakirri........................................................................................................................................................................

Above and Beyond........................................................................................................................................................

Yearbook Reunion.........................................................................................................................................................

Naz Day...........................................................................................................................................................................

Where are they now ?...................................................................................................................................................

Remember the Days.......................................................................................................................................................

Diary Dates.....................................................................................................................................................................

Aspire | 2015: Issue 2 Published by Nazareth Catholic Community

EditorsMadeleine [email protected] [email protected]

Nazareth Catholic Community Community Services, Early Childhood Centre, Primary & Secondary College PO Box 28 Findon SA 5023 Telephone: 8406 5000

Cover Image Year 6 student and Primary Concert Band 1 member, Carly Rehbein on trombone.

Nazareth, as always, is abuzz with events and celebrations. This makes the work of the Communications Team extremely rewarding. We are continually looking for new ways to promote our amazing Community, along with everyone and everything within it. In term 4, Nazareth enlisted the help of a production company to produce a promotional video that is to be used on our website, at Open Days and Principal’s Tours throughout the year. This will allow us to give the wider community an insider’s look into our College, Early Childhood Centre and Community Services.

We continue to involve ourselves in the day to day happenings at both campuses, to ensure we are covering special events and achievements that the community would enjoy. Our Facebook page, weekly Nazareth Newsletter and the Nazareth website continue to be our most important media when it comes to staying informed. While we try to be involved in all of the areas that make up our Community, we need your help to keep us informed.

By far, our most important “marketing tool” is you, the Nazareth Community. Students, parents, family members, friends and staff are able to speak, first hand, about the special place that Nazareth is. We encourage you to stay informed and spread the word about all that is Nazareth.

Proudly boast about being part of the Nazareth Catholic Community. I know we do!

Wishing you a safe and happy Christmas n

We are a Catholic community of welcome, connecting faith, family and education.

www.nazareth.org.au or 8406 5000BOOKINGS

O P E NDAYS 2016

COME TO OUR

SECONDARY CAMPUS Wednesday 23 March 4pm - 7pm

PRIMARY CAMPUS Wednesday 16 March 9am - 11am

EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTRERefer to website

Madeleine Kitschke and Maddi Papantoniou Marketing and Communications

desireobtain:

aspireis to achieve

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-James Allen

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Elected College Captains for 2016 – Mirella Romeo and Ryan Duffy (pictured with Secondary campus Principal, Mr Phil Lewis and The Hon Michael Atkinson MP)

Principal’sInsightMr Michael Honey Primary Campus Principal

In this edition I am proud and very pleased to discuss some of the programmes and achievements across the Primary campus in the second half of 2015.

You may be aware that the theme for 2015, taken straight from Pope Francis’ writings, is “The Joy of the Gospel”. As part of celebrating this theme, every child hears and unpacks the Sunday Gospel each week. The opportunity to hear God’s word and to break it open allows students to feel the love of God and the joy of His word.

The 2015 year has seen so much happen in the technology space throughout the College. The 1 to 1 development of devices has been very well accepted by students. Like a duck to water, they have had no trouble adapting to this huge technological advantage. Even before this first year finishes, I am very confident about the skill level of our students when using technology. In a world that expects digital connection, Nazareth students have been given the most amazing head start.

Of course, this is only the beginning; one can only imagine the skill level of our reception students when they are in year 12! Utilising these machines has seen increased staff learning also. Across the College, staff have been working on the implementation of the learning management system software, iScholaris. While this system is in its implementation phase, it is very powerful and in time will allow for parent portals.

There have also been enormous advancements in the co-curricular offerings across the campus. Students are joining bands and choirs

at an ever expanding rate. So much so, that we have now employed a full time music key teacher and have begun construction of the purpose built music suite. Again, I am very proud of the advantages offered to students at Nazareth Catholic College. With such a strong base of primary students, the calibre of musicians as they reach year 12 is bound to be impressive.

Alongside music, there have been some outstanding results in state wide competitions. It is indeed rare to be the best in South Australia for any individual or organisation, but to do it over and over again is quite astonishing!

Again this year, the Nazareth arts team produced a stunning production in the Wakakirri competition, taking out the state title. In their first Eisteddfod entry, our Concert Band 1 won the Balaklava Eisteddfod.

Not to be out done by music and the arts, our sporting endeavours have been equally stellar. With wins in their section for the Catholic Schools athletics, swimming and cross country, the sports team warmed up to be finalists in girl’s basketball and Premier’s Cup football and the boy’s soccer team made the semi-finals of the state competition.

I am very proud of the opportunities that exist for everyone at Nazareth. These opportunities are so important if we are to help our students become well rounded citizens, ready for the exciting world of the 21st Centuryn


InsideNewsMr Michael Dahl Director

As we fast approach our 10 year milestone, the Nazareth Leadership Team and Governing Council have taken time to reflect on the development of our Community since its inception. The idea of Nazareth Catholic Community was mooted back in 2005 and at the time there were a range of responses to the announcement, given the changes that were proposed to the structure of Catholic schools in the western suburbs.

In 2007 I announced to the community that the motto chosen for Nazareth would be “In Joyful Hope”. I remember thinking how appropriate this was, and saying how joyful we were in establishing Nazareth and that we had such great hope for the future.

When reading the articles in this current edition of Aspire Magazine, I can see that many of our hopes are now a wonderful reality.

Recently I was privileged to attend the final assembly of our class of 2015. I listened to College Captains, Jesse Neil and Tayla Hocking, talk about what it has meant to them to be part of such a wonderful community and how much they love Nazareth. Shannon Wark, our 2015 Valedictorian, delivered a wonderful speech where she said goodbye and also reflected on her Nazareth experience.

Shannon touched on a number of memories and also those factors that contributed to her growth as a young adult. She referred to her family, friends, teachers and the faith community that is present at Nazareth. As I listened to the events and people that Shannon talked about – transition, orientation, year 8 camp, families, fundraising, outreach, SACE completion, Research Project, 5 Habits of Excellence, hopes for the future, ongoing connection with Nazareth and much more, I did so with great joy in my heart.

Many of the people who assisted in the early development of

Nazareth had great hopes and aspirations for our Community, and after listening to Jesse, Tayla and Shannon I am very confident in the belief that Nazareth is definitely much more than our founders ever anticipated.

Please take the time to read the articles in our magazine, and thank you to everyone who contributed to this edition.

I take this opportunity to thank everyone in our Community for your generosity and all that you do to make Nazareth such a wonderful place.

Wishing everyone peace, joy and happiness as the Advent season fast approachesn

I am sure all friends of the Nazareth Community will enjoy this, the second edition of Aspire Magazine. Aspire is an excellent way to stay in touch with the myriad of aspects that makes up this amazing Community.

Some of Nazareth Catholic College’s first year 8 students, John Magalhaes, Lucy Caruso and Elliot Schipper, in 2007


Congratulations

Class of 2015Class of 2015PrimarySportsDay

The Primary Sports Day was, once again, a huge success, filled with enthusiasm and fantastic sportsmanship. The day ran so smoothly because of our dedicated Nazareth staff - Chris Catalano, Sue Porter, Emily Siney, Richie Klaffer and Paul Regan n

GO NAZARETH!


CultureExchange

...watching her face light up as she saw the beach for the very first time, truly made me appreciate our culture.

Earlier this year my family and I took up the opportunity to host a Japanese exchange student for two weeks. Hosting a student from Kogakuin High School was a truly rewarding experience for us. I was excited for the chance to use my Japanese skills with a native speaker, as opposed to the class setting I was used to. I enjoyed being able to show the Japanese student the sights of Adelaide and discuss the differences between our home towns. This helped my family and I to further understand the differences between Australian and Japanese culture. Because they attended school with us we were able to discuss the differences between school in Australia and Japan, which was very interesting. It was exciting to be part of the group that started Nazareth’s ongoing relationship with Kogakuin. It will be an amazing opportunity for the Nazareth students to be able to experience a homestay situation in Japan, as it will give them the opportunity to build their confidence in speaking Japanese, as well as making lasting friendships with the Japanese students, as we have through the hosting experience. This experience was one that we will never forget and I strongly encourage families to consider hosting an exchange student in the future.

- Tamara Daunt, Year 12

In July this year I was one of many students who hosted a Japanese exchange student. For me, it was the first time my family had hosted a student, and after our experience it will not be the last! As I was a year 12 student studying Japanese, this was an amazing opportunity for me to improve my abilities and become good friends with a native speaker. At first it was certainly odd having to look after a younger sister – one I’ve never had.

The Australian way of life sure was a culture shock for my exchange student. During her time here, it was heart-warming to see her really open up and embrace how we live. Small things like watching her

face light up when she saw the beach for the very first time truly made me appreciate Australia.

- Jessica Middleditch, Year 12

For two weeks my family and I were privileged enough to welcome year 9 student Yui Kanazawa into our family. Throughout the duration of his stay, Yui brought much warmth into our home as he shared his culture with us, and we did with him. It was wonderful for myself especially to have Yui, as being an only child, I never had anyone beyond my parents to spend time. Furthermore, Yui and I had many shared interests; namely Japanese anime and video games. I introduced him to the magnificence that is Ouran High School Host Club (an anime), and my family taught him how to play card games such as Skip-bo, Cheat and Jacks. However, Yui’s stay was not all fun and games. As a Stage 2 Japanese student, it was incredibly beneficial to have Yui around to converse with, and ask questions about the Japanese language. Likewise, when Yui had questions I was there at all hours of the day and night, armed with answers, and as a result both of our language skills improved greatly. Perhaps what impressed me most about Yui was his eagerness to immerse himself in Australian culture, whether by speaking English to strangers, trying Vegemite (which he thoroughly disliked by the way), or kicking the footy at the SANFL; Yui gave everything 110%. His departure was marked by tears on all fronts, and warm hugs all around. My family and I still keep in touch with Yui, who has recently began his next semester of school. Being a host family through Nazareth was an incredibly rewarding experience, and I would strongly recommend students to embrace the opportunity as we did n

- Reegan Robinson, Year 12

Over July and August we were fortunate enough to host a group of exchange students from Kogakuin Junior High School in Tokyo.The Japanese students were able to experience the Australian way of life, as well as school life and iconic Australian wildlife and nature. The students had the opportunity to be immersed in a variety of lessons and activities, including an exciting lesson of AFL in PE!

Both the Japanese and Nazareth students enjoyed spending this special time together and learning more about one another’s cultures and way of life. At times the language barrier was challenging. However friendship, tolerance and fun spoke louder than any words could. It was especially satisfying to see the students and their families who hosted visitors from Kogakuin so openly accept the students into their homes and our Community. Thank you to those families who so generously welcomed the Japanese students into their lives, providing such memorable experiences and for sharing the Nazareth spirit with them.

“ “

This year the Early Childhood Centre has seen many changes. We’ve moved to having consistent staff in rooms to support the children and families in their development of relationships and attachment, and our Front Office is now staffed from 8:30am to provide a better service to parents. During the year we have made a concerted effort to provide experiences for our children outside of our fence; the babies go to the Café for baby cinos, the toddlers walk across the oval to visit the animals at the Primary campus, our 4 year olds ride their bikes up and down the path on a regular basis, the kindy children visited the Art Gallery of South Australia and daily a mixed group of children visit the school. The outdoor learning area was discussed with children and we developed ideas and wish lists. The children are loving the increased dirt areas, allowing them to use their imaginations and create play possibilities. They love the garden beds and are becoming fabulous little gardeners. By far the most popular addition is our new cubby house. What made it even more special to the children was that the big Nazareth boys built it on site and our children sat and watched for the afternoon. They were mesmerised! It’s been a fun filled year, where staff have gone above and beyond to educate and care for all our children. Parents have supported us in so many ways and it is clear that we are all here for the same reasons. Every day we are privileged to see God’s handy work in the children of the Nazareth Early Childhood Centre n

From little

things,

big things

growMs Tess Harford ECC Director


LeapsandBounds

Watching students grow up and witness their success is one of the most rewarding parts of his role. Chris didn’t fully understand the link between sport and academic results until he witnessed it for himself. Seeing the confidence that participation in sport can give a student is another reason why he continues to make every effort to offer all his students the opportunity to partake in some way.

In term 3 Chris received the South Australia AFL School Ambassador of the Year Award after being nominated by the Woodville West-Torrens Football Club. This was awarded for his dedication and hard work in promoting and fostering football in schools. Chris supports the code through school clinics, in conjunction with the Eagles Football Club, during the year. Nazareth has 5 teams involved in Saturday football. Students from years 2 to 12 participate. Chris’ involvement with Saturday games, along with Knockout and SAPSASA squads means he was a well-deserved winner of the award.

The year 6/7 team was undefeated in 2015 and as a result was given the opportunity to play against the equivalent team from another region. This took place at Adelaide Oval, before the Adelaide Crows versus Richmond game. Students described the event as the best experience of their lives.

Nazareth offers a wide selection of sports to its students. Netball, soccer, cricket, basketball, tennis, volleyball, water polo, rugby, lacrosse, badminton, t-ball, beach volleyball, table tennis, swimming and athletics are played throughout the year.

Without parent and family support, Nazareth would not have the opportunity to celebrate its successes. The invaluable assistance that coaches, umpires and mentors offer throughout the year is appreciated and valued. Nazareth continues to exceed our expectations when it comes to sporting ability. Each year teams are moved up divisions, awards are won and most importantly, Nazareth is represented by its students in a proud way n

MusicMagicMs Jessica Joyce Director of Music

Billy Joel puts it like this: “I think music in itself is healing. It’s an explosive expression of humanity. It’s something we are all touched by. No matter what culture we’re from, everyone loves music”.

Without a doubt, the Nazareth Catholic Community culture has been touched by music of late. The vision of our Community is to be a place of welcome; connecting faith, family and education. This is no different in our music department, where we strive to create the culture of a “music family”.

The last two years have seen incredible development from reception to year 12 in the music department. The exponential growth in quantity of students participating in this specialist programme, in addition to the obvious growth in quality, has been most exciting for our Community. Nazareth bands in particular are building a reputation with success in various competitions and events. This year, at the very competitive Generations in Jazz competition, our Stage Band 1 was awarded an honorable mention. This was an outstanding achievement. In addition, this ensemble placed Gold in the Intermediate Band section of the ABODA Band Festival held at Westminster College. The ensemble has since been invited to perform at the Southern Jazz Club by members of Jazz SA.

It is not just the musicians on the Secondary campus that have been making themselves known in the wider community. During term 2, our primary students travelled to the Balaklava Eisteddfod and placed first in their division competing against some well-developed music schools. The growth at the Primary campus has also enabled us to create a second Concert Band, in addition to our booming Junior Primary Choir and the commencement of our Uke Club and Flute Ensemble.

The Nazareth Music Cabaret was once again a resounding success, based on a Gospel theme. Over 400 guests and 150 performers packed the gym on the Secondary campus, which was decorated and turned into ‘church’ for the evening. Many continue to comment on the growth in the quality of performances presented from both primary and secondary students.

There is never a dull moment in the music department. It is our joy and pleasure to provide as much entertainment and as many performance opportunities as possible throughout the year. The annual Melbourne Exchange Trip is always a highlight, in addition to our performance at the West Adelaide Football Club Best and Fairest and the Adelaide West Uniting Fair. Not to mention the many College events, masses, liturgies and Art Exhibition.

I feel so privileged to work in a community of staff, students and parents that wholeheartedly give their all, in order to provide many opportuntiesn

Who doesn’t love music? For the most part, music is a big part of our lives whether it’s the music that we listen to on the way to work, while we workout, or the music we hear in a symphony or film.

Chris Catalano, PE Coordinator at the Primary campus, knew he wanted to be a teacher from a very early age. Sport is his passion, so Chris believes he has found his ‘sweet spot’.


ParentPower

Mrs Ann BlissExecutive DirectorFederation of Catholic School Parent Communities (South Australia)

Families provide a child their first ongoing and most significant experience of love, faith and learning. At Nazareth, we aspire to work in partnership with families to support them in this important role. We acknowledge and value the support, guidance and opportunities parents provide children and young people within their families and recognise the many ways Nazareth families contribute to the life of our Community.

As a Catholic community connecting faith, family and education, it is our mission at Nazareth to invite families into an authentic partnership, recognising that at the heart of this partnership is a shared commitment. This is to ensure that each and every child is safe, happy and engaged in rich and meaningful learning.

We asked Ann Bliss, Executive Director of the Federation of Catholic School Parent Communities (SA) and immediate past Chair of the Nazareth Governing Council, to share how families can engage in their children’s learning and the life of our Community.

What does an authentic partnership between home and school look like?

“At Nazareth Catholic Community, it is acknowledged that parents are the first and continuing educators of their children and as such they can expect to be involved in all aspects of their child’s schooling. The learning and wellbeing of the students at Nazareth is a collaboration between school and home”.

What do you see is a particular benefit of strong parent partnership?

“‘Parental engagement’ has become a bit of a buzz word in education these days for a very good reason. It’s well documented that when schools and families work in partnership, children and young people perform better academically, stay in school longer and enjoy their schooling. It also builds a strong sense of community. The Habits of Excellence here at Nazareth are best developed by a strong partnership between home and school. With strong family support, children and young people are most likely to attend school every day, on time and ready to learn, apply themselves to complete their work successfully and contribute to the life of the community”.

Does parent engagement look the same across the whole R-12 years of schooling?

“The way parents engage in this partnership will vary from family to family and this involvement naturally changes as our children move

from the primary to secondary years. However, while parents may be less ‘hands on’ in secondary school than in primary school, it is still incredibly important. In fact, in the Secondary school years, parent engagement is important in helping young people make better transitions, maintain the quality of their work, and develop realistic plans for their future.

Parents can and do get ‘engaged’ in different ways and this brings mutual benefit to the child, the parent and the school. Sending a strong message to children that you value their school and their education is the most powerful way to support their learning. At Nazareth, that means the family and school sharing high aspirations and high expectations for children and young people”.

The key factors in effective parent engagement are:

> Supporting children’s learning at home;

> Two-way communication between home and school;

> Volunteering your time and talents to support school activities (Everyone has something to offer);

> Contributing to school decision making processes and;

> Utilising school and community services or resources.

What does open, two-way communication in a parent partnership mean to you?

“It means effectively making use of all forms of school to home and home to school communication about the school’s programmes and activities and your child’s progress – reading the College Newsletter and class letters, taking part in learning conversations, attending to your child’s diary, any notes sent home or group e-mails, initiating contact with their class or Mentor Group teacher, checking out the website, attending information sessions or workshops for parents such as subject selection, Drug Education forums or Cyber-safety sessions.”

In this day and age is it still possible for parents to be engaged with their child’s learning?

“Absolutely. Parents can still be fully engaged in their child’s learning even when our busy lifestyles prevent our active involvement in the life of the school. Out of all the various ways parents can be engaged, by far the most effective in maximising learning and wellbeing is >>

to establish home environments that support learning at home and that make sure children are ready to learn when they come to school. This can include routines and limits for homework and extracurricular commitments, discussing projects, subject outlines, assessment tasks and expectations, developing homework guidelines and schedules-even participating in any interactive homework activities set by the teacher. It’s also important that we ensure a healthy diet and balanced lifestyle that includes getting enough rest and sleep”.

Do parents who support their child’s extra-curricular life and future planning fit into this picture?

“Without a doubt. Accessing resources and services from the community to support your child’s learning and wellbeing is so important. This is particularly so as we support our children as they consider their future study or career options”.

The Federation of Catholic School Parent Community website has many useful resources for families.

Go to www.parentfederation.catholic.edu.au n

Primary parent, Saul Gilbert, with daughter Zara at this years Fathers Day Breakfast


ActingNOWRose Whithead

Outreach Participant

Nazareth Outreach Work (NOW) was established because it is important to offer help to those less fortunate, when we have the capacity to make a real difference. The work that NOW does is a long term initiative. Every bit we contribute makes a difference and although we can’t do everything, every small step is one closer to achieving the goal of making positive changes to communities both in Australia and in Timor-Leste.

I have seen first-hand how much NOW contributes to the communities in Timor-Leste. NOW has made great contributions to the lives of many people in Timor-Leste and this will continue to happen.

While on a six week volunteer trip to Timor-Leste in June and July this year, I was working with The Good Crocodile Foundation in their health clinic. Along with consulting and treating approximately 30 patients each day, I was able to assist at the mobile health clinics alongside Timorese Nurses. The clinic visits rural villages once or twice a week to offer health care to the community. These clinics are the only opportunity they have to seek medical assistance. Whilst in a small village called Ostico, we met an elderly lady who asked us to visit a nearby house where there was a young girl who was very unwell.

As we walked up to the house, we could see a young girl sitting on a broken plastic chair in the doorway watching the other children playing in the dirt. Upon entering the girls home, I was immediately overwhelmed with a feeling of sorrow. This young, skinny girl looked no older than 7 or 8 years old and she sat on the chair with her legs extended and crossed over, looking lonely and sad. While the other nurses and the young girl’s family conversed in the local language, I was doing my own examination to see if I could determine what was wrong with her. I noticed she was completely incapable of moving her legs and had very limited, slow movements with her arms and head. Her fingers were widely spread and hyperextended and she was unable to talk or close her mouth. To me, these characteristics

were consistent with Cerebral Palsy.

After discussion with the girl’s family, the nurses explained to me that her name was Agustinha and she was 12 years old. Agustinha had never been diagnosed with any medical condition because her family had no way of getting her to a doctor. She had never been able to walk and for the last twelve years had spent each day sitting in the broken chair in the doorway. When I reflect on what I have been able to do in my own life for the last twelve years, I feel great sadness that Agustinha never had those opportunities. She has never been able to go for a walk through the garden, ride a bicycle, play with other children outside, go to school and learn, or have any sense of freedom or independence.

Agustinha is one of four children. Her older brother goes to school while her two younger brothers stay at home. Their father is a farmer and their mother stays home to care for the children. Agustinha’s mother explained that when Agustinha wanted to move anywhere she would have to use the minimal power in her arms to try and drag herself along the floor – she has grazes on her knees and upper thighs which I assume would be from dragging herself along the dirt and rock floor in her home. The only other way Agustinha could get anywhere was if her tiny, frail mother carried her, and with two small children to care for as well it’s not hard to imagine how exhausted Agustinha’s mother would be.

When we had to leave that afternoon, I could not stop thinking about Augustinha and her family. I told myself that I would do all I could to ensure that she received a wheelchair before I left to go home to Australia. Fortunately with the help of the Director at The Good Crocodile Foundation, we were able to find a wheelchair that had kindly been donated by the Largs Bay Rotary Club and brought over in the shipping container of donations that NOW sends to Timor-Leste each year.

When we returned to Agustinha’s home with the wheelchair, it >>

was a moment of pure joy I will always remember. The smile on Agustinha’s face when she sat in her new wheelchair was incredible, and her parents expressed their gratitude saying that they felt ‘very happy that she has a wheelchair and hope that one day Agustinha will be able to get treatment in Dili to help her’. While I was in Dili, I visited the only Physiotherapy facility in the country and enquired about the possibility of Agustinha receiving Physiotherapy in the near future. The Physiotherapist requires Agustinha to be referred by a health facility, and then she and her family with the help of transportation from The Good Crocodile Foundation would be able to go to Dili for up to four months with treatment, exercise training for her parents, and accommodation paid for through a government programme. It was wonderful to be able to tell her parents that help was available for Agustinha and this was quite overwhelming for them. They were unaware that there was a facility that could help Agustinha, so the news was warmly welcomed. When we asked them what their wishes were for the future, they simply said, “We want Agustinha to go to Dili for treatment”.

Not only did Agustinha receive the precious gift of a wheelchair for greater mobility and freedom, but her family gained a new sense of hope in knowing that there is a brighter future. The simple act of kindness from the Rotary Club of Largs Bay to donate a wheelchair ended up changing the lives of a young Timorese girl and her family. On behalf of Agustinha, her family, The Good Crocodile Foundation and Nazareth Outreach Work – thank you! n

If you scratch the surface enough you can make

a real difference

“ “If you scratch the surface enough you can make

a real difference

If you scratch the surface enough you can make

a real difference


Ready

Everyone at Nazareth would agree that Matt is one of our most enthusiastic teachers. His passion for student welfare and devotion in upholding the College’s anti bullying policies is unrelenting. With this belief in mind, Matt has collaborated with a group of forward-thinking year 6 and 7 students to develop the SHOOS initiative. School can be challenging, and no one understands students better than other students.

SHOOS, Students Helping Out Other Students, is aimed at providing support for children in younger year levels and developing leadership qualities and diplomacy skills in upper primary age groups. Matt believes it is important for younger students to be connected with older role models, despite the split-lunch system at Nazareth Primary.

“The idea came from looking at ways of promoting community at Nazareth and helping students work towards their potential, with a focus on the importance of wellbeing within the school setting.”

Matt and his team of SHOOS have been developing an initial training program which aims to prepare the year 6 and 7 students for a range of scenarios they may be faced with in the yard. Once training has been completed, students will be placed on a rotational roster and presented with their very own customised vest so they stand out to younger students whilst on duty. The initiative is expected to be up and running by the beginning of the 2016 school year.

SHOOS will be trained to fulfil a range of duties including:

> Modelling sensible and fair play behaviour;

> Offering praise for positive behaviour;

> Offering constructive resolutions to minor disagreements;

> Umpiring games;

> Sitting and eating recess with younger students;

> Assisting students in making friends;

> Lending a hand to the teachers on yard duty.

Initial feedback from the student body has been extremely positive, with general feelings of entitlement, empowerment and pride in responsibility.

Year 6 student, Lauren Featherby, is one of the students who will be training this term to become a SHOOS leader. “I think SHOOS will be a really good opportunity for students to learn how they can help other students, and it will be really good for us to have our own responsibilities” says Lauren. “It will also be a good way for us to promote wellbeing in our school and set examples for other schools.”

Similarly, Matt has received positive feedback from parents about the initiative as it provides their children with an opportunity to feel appreciated, above and beyond their role as students.

The entire SHOOS initiative compliments Nazareth’s focus on being a strong, supportive and socially connected community.

“More than anything, it is about striving for familiarity among students in a large environment,” says Matt. “We want it to become a sustainable wellbeing program, enhancing Nazareth as a school where students are aware of each other and can rely on each other.”n

SteppingUpCurrently on a Thursday, the Catherine Community Centre is a hive of activity. Children from our Early Childhood Centre, surrounding Kindergartens and Care Centres come together to prepare to enter reception at Nazareth in 2016. The Ready Set Go programme was developed in 2014 to help orientate students by supporting their transition into primary school.

The programme is run by a team of dedicated, passionate and enthusiastic staff. Trained and experienced teachers, Education Support Officers, Community staff members and Occupational Therapy students from Flinders University ensure that the kids not only get a taste of what life will be like for them in 2016, but also have FUN! Ready Set Go prepares students for school by meeting, working and developing friendships with others in their new classes and becoming familiar with teaching staff and other Community members. The programme also allows parents to meet one another and foster lifelong friendships.

Each two hour session is planned around themes such as ‘All About Me’, ‘My Family’, ‘Colours and Shapes’, ‘Music, Music, Music’, ‘Transport’, ‘My Senses’ and ‘Christmas’. Activities are based on talking, singing, playing, reading, looking, laughing, learning and belonging together.

The programme highlights the vision of Nazareth, where we welcome families both current and prospective to come together and gain a deeper understanding of their child and the Nazareth Community. Ready Set Go fosters our understanding and beliefs as people of faith, working together to engage the child and parent/caregiver in the benefits of our Community, through connection and education. We are a community of lifelong learners, assisting each other to be the very best we can, with Jesus’ teaching as our guide n

Mrs Linda Low Ready Set Go Team Member

Set...

Go!Student wellbeing is at the heart of our mission. From student engagement and academic achievement to social development and staff morale, the wellbeing of students affects all aspects of our Community. At Nazareth Primary, no one understands the importance of this better than Mr Matt Rowlands, year 3 teacher and Director of Student Development.


Wakakirri2015

The Spirit of the AnzacsCongratulations to all involved in the creation of our Wakakirri performance for 2015! Nazareth performed on Thursday 20 August against 10 other schools in Division 1. The title of our performance was the Spirit of the Anzacs - courage, bravery and dedication at Gallipoli.

The story acknowledged the enlisted men and nurses of the ANZAC, as well as the families they left behind. Lest we forget their sacrifice. Feedback from judge Kristin Agnoli was extremely positive, “Exceptionally professional production from start to finish with a brilliant historic concept. Very well-rehearsed”.

Nazareth won the Division 1 State Award for Best Historical Story and are Nominees for the National Story of the Year Award. The other performance awards we received were:

> Amazing Moment;

> Characterisation;

> Combination of Dance and Drama;

> Overall Costume Design;

> Soundtrack;

> Sustainable Production.

Congratulations to everyone involved, especially to Mrs Daniela Zagari, Ms Druscilla Fabretto, Mrs Ilvanna Mittiga, Mr Chris Catalano, Mr John

Caruana, Miss Jess Fanto and Miss Catherine MacFarlane. What a fantastic result! n

HealthyCuriosity

Alanah did her SACE Research Project last year on how diet can reduce the risk of stomach cancer. Her project, for which she received a merit, has just been published by the Oncology Nutrition Dietetic Practice Group, a professional association of 2,000 members. This group is part of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, America’s largest food and nutrition organisation representing 70,000 experts.

Alanah, who is now studying biomedical science at the University of Adelaide, says she focused on this issue for her project because stomach cancer is the type of cancer most influenced by diet.

As part of her research, Alanah contacted Suzanne Dixon, editor of the American practice group’s quarterly newsletter, who was impressed by her questions and asked for a copy of her project when it was finished. “When I received it, I couldn’t believe it had been written by a high school student,” Ms Dixon wrote in a note accompanying Alanah’s published report. “I have taught both undergraduate and graduate level nutrition coursework and Alanah’s paper surpassed much of the work I have received from college-enrolled students”.

Her report even included a recipe for a breakfast that may reduce stomach cancer risk – a “two egg messy omelette” with sundried tomatoes, baby spinach, mushroom and ricotta.

Congratulations Alanah on your incredible achievement!

Article Credit: Tim Williams, Education Reporter, The Advertiser.Photo Credit: Tom Huntley, The Advertiser. Alanah Varricchio with Nazareth students Philip Peluso and Nicola Bubner.

2014 Graduate Alanah Varricchio’s Year 12 research into cancer risks has been feted in the United States, where it has been published to an audience of thousands of experts!

Our staff are committed to student’s learning and wellbeing. They understand our goals and direction, and know they play a major part in the future of Nazareth.

Virginia Grantham, our award winning SACE Coordinator and recipient of this year’s Tom Ffrench Class Award for Family Engagement in Catholic Education, is the epitome of these standards; she truly is in a class of her own when it comes to her role. She has a strong commitment to her students and a tireless and passionate approach to supporting them and engaging their families. The Class Award recognises a teacher who uses innovative and effective strategies for engaging parents and families in their children’s learning. This is Viriginia!

Virginia doesn’t pull any punches when asked about her role. “Unequivocally, it’s about ensuring SACE completion for every student. It’s the one way I can guarantee a better future for those kids…it’s not just about getting a job… the whole person seems to be protected with completion of the their secondary education.”

With the help of Virginia, Nazareth has a brilliant track record when it comes to achieving 100% SACE completion. She is first to acknowledge, though, that this achievement is possible for every young person undertaking the SACE as “we have an education system that supports every child. If it didn’t, I wouldn’t support it”.

Coupled with this, is the culture of our Community. “Lots of schools ask me to come and talk about the Research Project in their school. I say forget the detail (processes), build the culture of aspiration, achievement and shared pride”. This culture of shared aspiration, high expectations and pride is now well embedded at Nazareth.

Virginia is also quick to recognise that “success for all” at Nazareth is the culmination of strong partnerships – between home and school; between school leadership, teachers, the SACE coordinator, and students and their families. When asked how she manages this partnership, she answers with “working one on one with students (who are struggling) is the most powerful way to make a change”. She believes the message this sends to our students is that they are>>

AboveandBeyond


important and someone cares. Virginia communicates directly with parents and other family members to ensure our students are getting the same message at home. “The families want what we offer as a school, but it doesn’t just happen; they have to be a player too. I’ll ring parents and even grandparents to ask why the child is not at school. It’s a giant interplay.”

But Virginia considers her role to be about more than just ‘fierce’ conversations with students, parents and teachers! She takes up many opportunities to celebrate success and share our students’ achievements.

Virginia speaks with great pride about Nazareth and of our experience and success in offering support for our young people. Her commitment and passion for her work is palpable and we are very proud to have her as SACE Coordinator at Nazareth. We believe she is indeed a worthy recipient of the Federation’s 2015 Tom Ffrench Class Award for Family Engagement in Catholic Education.

For more information about the Federation, and to read more about Virginia’s achievements, please visit www.parentfederation.catholic.edu.au n


Naz Day, held on the last day of term 3, is a special day in our Community, where both campuses come together to celebrate Jesus of Nazareth. Children from the ECC and students from the Primary campus travelled by bus to the Secondary campus, where Fr Mark lead Mass in the gym, filled with over 2000 students, staff and members of our Community.

Students were encouaged to dress in costumes fitting with the theme of ‘nostalgia’. As a student, Naz Day was one of my favourite College events. Now as a graduate, I love the opportunity to continue my involvement in the Nazareth Community as much as I can. It was great to come back and assist with the barbeque and to catch up with past teachers and old friends, but more importantly to contribute to further fundraising efforts for Nazareth’s Outreach Work in Timor-Leste and Bathurst Island n

NazDayJess Stirling 2011 Graduate

On 8 September, the Graduating Class of 2014 gathered at the Secondary campus for the Yearbook Reunion.

It was a great opportunity to reminisce with the group, whilst having a look through the beautifully designed Yearbook. The Yearbook reunion is a great opportunity to catch up with friends and past teaching staff. It was humbling to see so many teachers at this event and gave us a chance to get back in touch and thank them for all their help and guidance.

Thank you to Gemma Zanardo and to Nazareth for organising the event, giving us the opportunity to gather again as a cohort n

YearbookReunionJess Rogers 2014 Graduate

Wherenoware they

NikkiZanardoSiena College: 2002-2006

Nikki has studied a Bachelor of Science (Marine Biology) and is currently finishing her PhD at

Flinders University.

MartinaIllic Nazareth Catholic College: 2010-2014

Martina graduated from Nazareth in 2014 and is now studying full time at the University of Technology in Sydney.

I was not one of those lucky people who knew straight away what career I wanted, even in year 12 I had absolutely no idea. So when the time came last September to choose our courses I didn’t know which direction to go. I put down any choice just so I could get into a University, but I knew none of those choices were right for me. During one of the many times I visited my sister in Sydney, I was reading one of her herbal books and I found it incredibly interesting. She suggested that I think about studying Traditional Chinese Medicine. I never knew such a thing existed, let alone that it could be studied in Australia. The more I researched it, the more I wanted to learn, and the more I wanted to make a career out of it, so I applied.

I came to Sydney last December to visit my family for Christmas. What was meant to be a temporary holiday, became permanent when I was accepted to study the Bachelor of Health Science in Traditional Chinese Medicine and International Studies at the Sydney University of Technology.

Although I got accepted into another course in Adelaide, where most of my family and friends were, I knew I had to follow my dream to Sydney. Now, I am finishing my first year of study and I am happier than I have ever been. With this course, I have the opportunity of studying in China for 1 year in my 5th year of study, which is an opportunity I am excited to pursue.

So far, the course has been very challenging and it has been especially difficult learning and writing the Chinese characters. However, it is very fascinating and I learn something new and interesting every day. It is incredible to learn about the Chinese culture and how we

can naturally approach the illnesses and diseases that affect people every day.

During my time at Nazareth I learnt many of the skills necessary to begin my own journey in life. These skills weren’t just related to education or academia; they were practical skills for life outside of school. Nazareth taught me how to stay focussed and how to work hard, but it also taught me personal values which I still carry to this day. I remember the wise words of my teachers and will be forever grateful to them for shaping me into who I am today.

The main reason I chose to follow my dream and learn Chinese Medicine was because I want to help people, especially the sick, helpless and needy in society. I believe that the example that Nazareth set through its strong sense of community and faith inspired me to do the same in my life: to look out for my fellow brothers and sisters and help them in the best way I possibly can n


It’s always a little scary stepping out into the “real world”, and it was even scarier leaving Adelaide once school had finished. I’ve travelled to Sydney to pursue my goal of studying Traditional Chinese Medicine and International Studies at the University of Technology.

I started at Siena College in 2002, and I found myself quite passionate about my science subjects, which seemed fitting considering what I was planning to do at University. By the time I graduated in 2006, I was still convinced that Marine Biology was the choice for me, and it was always great to know that I had support and was provided with constant motivation from not only my friends and family, but my teachers as well.

Whilst undertaking my Bachelor of Science (Marine Biology) at Flinders University, I began to focus my attention on the conservational aspect of research. Fortunately, I was able to undertake an honours project investigating the social-genetic structure of short-beaked common dolphins in South Australia. This project entailed numerous boat surveys in which biopsy samples were obtained to provide information on the gender and relatedness of individuals, and to determine the presence of kinship within groups and later the impacts of bycatch on this vulnerable species. This project also enhanced my appreciation for genetics based research, an aspect of biology I had previously not considered.

My passion for marine mammals then lead me to work with the Cetacean Ecology, Behaviour and Evolution Lab (CEBEL) at Flinders University. Currently I am studying my PhD, working with bottlenose dolphins along the Adelaide metropolitan coastline. It is a fantastic opportunity to be able to work with such a charismatic species and not have to travel too far from home. My PhD will aim to provide information regarding their conservational management, which is particularly important for this newly endemic species. Incorporating

boat-based surveys with photo-identification and biopsy sampling will provide information to investigate their abundance, residency, habitat usage and socio-genetic structure. With over 350 individuals now identified throughout my study area, this work is proving to be quite a rewarding experience.

Not only do I get to spend most of the year out on the water and driving boats, but I have also been able to participate in other field work opportunities around Australia. One of my highlights was a boat trip from Adelaide to Fremantle. It was a long two weeks on the water, but a very rewarding one where we sighted numerous species of cetaceans, including a large pod of approximately 30 killer whales! My PhD has also provided numerous opportunities to take my research overseas; I have been lucky enough to have had my research accepted for oral presentations numerous times, and it means I have been able to attend conferences throughout Australia and also abroad to New Zealand, and now to San Francisco!

I have so many fond memories from my time spent at Siena College. The memories that will stay with me forever, are the connections with my peers and the relationships developed with a number of my teachers. I will be forever grateful for everything they did for me, and for encouraging me to follow my dream. It has been great to be able to come together with past Siena students through the various reunions organised and also the use of the Siena College Facebook page. I look forward to continuing these catch-ups through the numerous events that the Nazareth Catholic Community holds n

It is hard to believe that this year marks the eighth year since I graduated. Time has gone so fast! I always had an idea of what I wanted to do after school, and I think that my career began when I was quite young. I have always been quite fond of nature and at a young age, I developed a strong passion for marine mammals. I believe that this can be attributed to growing up in Adelaide, with the Port River dolphins in such close reach. This passion lead me to deciding that a degree in Marine Biology would probably be the best option for me.

NOVEMBER

24 Primary Sports Presentation Evening 6:00-7:00pm, Multipurpose Hall

25 Principal’s Tour 9:30am, Secondary Campus

Year 5 Band End of Year Concert 1:30-3:00pm, Multipurpose Hall

27 Year 12 Graduation Ball 6:30pm, Convention Centre

30 ECC Tour 10:00am

DECEMBER

1 ECC Tour 10:00am

2 Secondary Sports Presentation Evening 6:00-7:00pm, Secondary Campus Gym

Year 7 Disco 6:00-7:00pm, Secondary Campus

3 Secondary END OF TERM 4 1:00pm dismissal

Primary End of Year Mass 1:30-2:30pm, Multipurpose Hall

4 Primary Christmas Concert 5:00pm, Primary Campus

7 ECC Preschool Graduation 5:30pm, Cafe and OLM Church

8 Year 7 Graduation Mass 7:00-9:00pm, Multipurpose Hall

10 ECC End of Preschool 12:15pm

Primary END OF TERM 4 12:30pm dismissal

FEBRUARY

1 Term 1 2016 Commences

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RemembertheDays?

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Christmas

BYO picnic rugs and chairs

BBQ dinner & soft drinks available to purchase for the whole family!

Friday 4th December

Findon Campus Oval, 176 Crittenden Rd, Findon

Gates open at 5pm for BBQ

Featuring

ECC - Year 7 Performances

Music Ensemble Entertainment

Concert

Artwork by Year 9 students Chelsea Caltabiano &

Nicole Casazza.

DiaryDates

www.facebook.com/nazarethcatholiccommunity

We’ve uncovered these photos from the Siena archive, dating back to some of our earliest years as a community! Can you help us name these faces?

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We invite you to ‘like’ the Nazareth Catholic Community Facebook page to easily keep in touch with the Community. On there you will see weekly College, ECC and Community Servces posts, celebrating Nazareth.

176 Crittenden Rd, Findon, South Australia 5023 | PO Box 28 Findon SA 5023Telephone 08 8406 5000

nazareth.org.au | facebook.com/nazarethcatholiccommunity

Aspire - Nazareth Catholic Community

Documents

Transcript of Aspire - Nazareth Catholic Community