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From the Principal's Desk

Dear Parent/Guardian,

I would like to take the opportunity to welcome the whole school community back to the start of Term 2. This term has many different events and activities that will and that it will be very hard to keep abreast of all the things that will happen on a daily basis at Varsity College. The term started with all staff participating in a professional development day exploring the use of IT in the classroom. This was an opportunity to see the equipment that we could use to support the learning of our students in every classroom. By the end of the day, most staff were convinced that a digital platform for teaching would engage our children in many different ways. The challenge of course for all schools, not just our own, is to fund the purchase of these new technologies and then to have them integrated into the curriculum program and used as effective pedagogy.

Many of you will be aware that the Federal Government made a commitment at the last election to provide computers for all students in Years 9-12. This program will take some years to roll out, however the College administration has been working to develop a model for the introduction of computers for all students in Years 10-12. This program is currently being implemented in a number of schools across the state in a range of different styles, all of which have to be sustainable for the long term. I will be discussing with the P&C the opportunity that we currently have to build a computer program that will ensure that our students are able to have full access to a digital platform in the Senior School with facilities and curriculum programs that have been designed to use this equipment to its maximum potential.

Last Friday, the College once again celebrated ANZAC Day with a range of events, the most significant was the Secondary School ANZAC Day Ceremony. This event is one of the highlights of the calendar year for many of our staff and students and Mr Ivan Brkich left no stone unturned in the presentation of the ceremony that captured the hearts and minds of all in attendance. It was wonderful to see an increasing number of parents and community members joining us on this day and I am sure that not one of them left disappointed. The various organisations represented on the day were full of praise for the organisation of this event and also the impeccable behaviour of all of our students. To stand and sit for well over one hour is testament to the discipline and respect that Varsity College students have for ANZAC Day and the Diggers who were present at the ceremony.

On behalf of the school community, I would like to congratulate everyone involved in the event, but in particular Mr Ivan Brkich and the Senior School Student Leaders for their leadership of the ceremony. Their poise and dignity shown throughout the ceremony sets a standard for all future students and ensures that this event will always be a significant ceremony at Varsity College and something that our students will remember throughout their lives. I would also like to thank everyone for their participation in the Junior and Prep School ceremonies. The students who lead these events should be commended for their efforts to ensure that all Varsity College students showed their respect for Australia's ANZAC tradition.

The College administration is currently completing a number of different building projects for the 2010 school year. We are currently consulting with a number of stakeholders in regards to the opportunities that we have to build new facilities to meet the emerging use of digital technology in the classroom and to also ensure that all students have access to the things they need to succeed in their education. The P&C has been a point where this consultation has occurred and I would encourage all parents and interested community members to attend any of the information sessions that will be held in the next few weeks as we outline the plans for the College in 2010 and beyond. It certainly will enable the students of Varsity College to have access to the very best facilities that we could ever imagine.

Issue 6
30th April 2009

Contact our school

PO Box 2685
Burleigh MDC Q 4220

P-6 Campus
Bridgewater Drive Cnr
Varsity Lakes Q 4226

7-12 Campus
Varsity Parade & Assembly Drive
Varsity Lakes Q 4226

Prep School:
(07) 5576 9333
Fax: (07) 5576 9300

Junior School:
(07) 5576 9388
Fax: (07) 5576 9380

Middle School:
(07) 5562 3555
Fax: (07) 5562 3500

Senior School:
(07) 5562 3575
Fax: (07) 5562 3570

Email: soffice
@varsitycollege.eq.edu.au


Web:
www.varsitycollege.eq.edu.au

Our sponsors

Bakers Delight
Ph: 5562 0899

Delfin Realty
Ph: 5578 8833

Empire Pools
Ph: 5593 6211

Fiona Munroe's Gold Coast Dancers Co
Ph: 5598 4292

Gold Coast Sun
Community Newspapers
Ph: 5580 8473

Halligan's Fitness
Ph: 0404 046 431

International School of Music
Ph: 5535 6964

Joseph Bleakley
- Orthodontist
Ph: 5578 7333

Laser Skirmish Gold Coast
Ph: 1300 665 620

McDonald's
- Robina Central
Ph: 5575 9901

Mission Employment
Ph: 5562 2647

Prime Dental Care
Ph: 5580 8575

Rightway Driving School
Ph: 5500 4000

Taboon Pty Ltd
Ph: 5562 5005

Varsity Lakes Travel
Ph: 5657 3668

Varsity Optometry
Ph: 5562 2022

 

Please don't forget this Friday. The Secondary Students will be holding their annual Cross Country event at Pizzi Park. This is another highlight of the year for our Secondary Students and an event that often attracts interest from many parents. I encourage as many people as possible to attend this event and support the students in their running and the staff in their organisation. The weather looks fabulous and I am sure with your support, this will be a fantastic day for everyone involved.

One of the very big issues surrounding the use of digital communication has been the advent of Cyber Bullying. We are seeing this trend more and more in our school as students say things on-line that are totally irresponsible and in most cases illegal. As a school we have decided to take action to try and eliminate this from our school. We will be educating students on the dangers of using the internet and chat rooms as a source of bullying as well as informing them that anything written can be easily traced. In week 7 of this term we have engaged one of Australia's leading IT gurus to speak to all students about this issue. He has promised to uncover and show just how dangerous the internet can be for our youth and show them how easy they could be caught doing the wrong thing.

So powerful is his message that we have also asked for this person to present to all parents so that they also have an increased understanding of the issues surrounding the use of the internet by their children. This will be a not to be missed event for all parents and while this newsletter is going to press, the final details of this parent presentation are being made. I will let everyone know when and where this free event will occur. I encourage you all to come along to this presentation. I am sure that our only defence of the things that are occurring on the internet is to understand the issues and who better to learn from than one of Australia's leading experts in this field.

Jeff Davis
Executive Principal

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CAN WE REACH YOU IN AN EMERGENCY?
In case of an emergency or if your child becomes sick, are you sure the school has your correct contact details? If you wish to change or add to your telephone, address or emergency contact details please advise you new details below.

Please click here to download the change of details form


Student Absences
A note of explanation from parent/caregiver is required to be given to the Students Form Teacher the day of return to school. If students are likely to be absent for several days, please contact the school office.

To assist parents/caregivers the following form may be used for student absences.

Please click here to download the Student Absences form

eNews 

Dear Parent,

As a part of our school's new approach towards the way we communicate with you, we are excited to inform you that we now offer interactive, graphically rich, full colour electronic newsletters to all our parents.

The concept of eNews is similar to the printed paper newsletters which we already send out regularly, but with added benefits - eNews is personally delivered directly to your email inbox via the Internet. This delivery method has many advantages.

It is cost effective, time efficient and personalised to your name. Most importantly the school receives this service completely free of charge from Australian Newsletter Services who also supply our paper newsletters with the help of advertisers.

To receive this service all you need is a computer with internet access and email. Those who currently do not have internet access at home can still receive our traditional paper newsletter.

With our eNews service the distance between the school and the parents will be further shortened as the parents will be able to experience firsthand what activities the school is currently undertaking and the latest information on Academic, Health, Sport and other areas that may interest you. This way the whole family can share the success stories of your children as these eNewsletters can be forwarded to anyone with email.

To sign up for our eNewsletter please type  the link below into the address bar of your browser. Australian Newsletter Services has made the signup process automated and only takes a few minutes when prompts are followed. Your email address will only be used to send out school eNews and nothing else.

This environment friendly approach to communication means that hard copy distribution of the Newsletter will be drastically reduced over the next 10 weeks. Classroom Newsletter distribution will cease at the end of Term 1.  Hard copy Newsletters will be available at Campus Administration Offices from the beginning of Term 2.

http://mailouts.austnews.com.au/subscription/V/varsity-college-signup.html

If you experience any difficulties please feel free to contact AustNews IT Department on
1800 245 077 or email help@austnews.com.au.

Thank you

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Upcoming Events

Yr LevelDateEvent
Prep - Year 6

20 April (Mon) to 22 May (Fri)

Life Education
Year 629 April ((Wed) to 1 May (Fri)Can We Build It?

Prep - Year 12

4 May (Mon)Public Holiday Labour Day
Years 8 & 9 5 May (Tues)GC Sport - Round 3
Year 215 May (Fri)Beeman
Year 6E & F6 May (Wed)Dreamworld
Year 6C & T7 May (Thurs)Dreamworld
Year 6J & S11 May (Mon)Dreamworld
Year 6B & M13 May (Wed) Dreamworld
Year 512 May (Tues) to 14 May (Thurs)NAPLAN
Snr School 19 May (Tues)Chess Team Championship -Round 3
Years 5-6 20 March (Fri) to 29 May (Fri)Interschool Sport(Fri)
Prep Aqua Prep Yellow22 May (Fri)Seaworld
Years 8 & 926 May (Tues)GC Sport - Round 4
Years 7-927 May (Wed)ICAS Computer Skills
Years 7-910 June (Wed)ICAS Science
Years 7-9 23 June (Tues)ICAS Spelling & Writing
Years 7-94 August (Tues)ICAS English
Years 7-9 19 August (Wed)ICAS Mathematics

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Preparatory School News

From the Head of Preparatory School
Welcome back - Term 2 will definitely be a very busy one for Preparatory school students and staff. There are several opportunities for parents and the wider community to become involved in school activities this term. We hope to see you around our school.

This term we welcome Peter Dallas as our fulltime Deputy Principal. Peter has been ably supported during Term 1 by Justine Meech who has now returned to the Junior school. The students and staff of the Preparatory school would like to acknowledge the wonderful work done by Justine - she will be greatly missed.

Accountability
Term 2 is definitely the term for accountability in the Preparatory school. From 12 May through to 14 May our Year 3 students will sit a National Test in Literacy and Numeracy. Preparation for the test is occurring in all Year 3 rooms. Brochures explaining the testing process and how parents can best support their child were sent home with all Year 3 parents who attended the parent teacher interviews at the end of Term 1. If you did not receive a brochure please contact your child's teacher.

Year 2 students will be immersed in the world of ants and insects this term as they undergo validation in regards to the Year 2 Diagnostic Net. A Net report will be provided to all parents on their child's progress against the Net criteria when report cards are sent home in Week 10.

Our Term 2 parent information brochures will be sent home during week 3 these brochures outline the curriculum focus for the year level for the term. Term 2 is also the term where parents of students in Years 1, 2 and 3 receive a written report on their child's achievements for Semester One. Report cards will be sent home on Thursday 25 June.

Term 2 - Special
ANZAC Day
On Friday 24 April Preparatory held a P-3 ANZAC Day ceremony. All students were involved in activities around the theme prior to the ceremony and the work they produced created a great backdrop for the assembly. Thank you to Matthew and Keris from Year 6 for hosting the ceremony and a big thanks to Bohdi, Annalise and Deepank who shared their thoughts on ANZAC Day. There was great support from parents which always makes the students feel so proud.

Cross Country
What a great day students had on Wednesday when they ran in our P-3 cross country. There were house colours and spirit, lots of sunshine and hundreds of smiling, red faces at the end of each race. A huge thanks to the PE department and our Year 6 leaders who organised the day and ensured that all students knew where to run. Thanks to the many parents who cheered our students on - it was a great day!

P-3 Sports Day
We are currently planning our P-3 sports day which will be held on Wednesday June 24. All students will participate in a running race and rotate around organised activities. War cries and marching in our house colours will be a highlight. Further information will be shared with parents as the term progresses.

Parent Contact Group
Thank you to the parents who have agreed to represent each of our Preparatory school classes. I am looking forward to our first meeting which will be held on Wednesday 6 May at 2pm. Parents are encouraged to chat with their class parent representative prior to meetings to ensure that issues and ideas are able to be brought to the monthly meeting. Parent representative names can be found on the communication boards outside each classroom.

Please don't forget to stop and say hello at Feedback Thursday sessions in the canteen area each week at 2.30pm. While you're there you can take a minute to feedback on the latest topics.

Shirley Hadwen
Preparatory Head of School

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Years P - 6 News

Age Champions & House Champions Cross Country 2009

Jared Frazer
PE Department

Kids Having Fitness Fun Junior School BEEP Test April 2009
I can't tell you how delighted I was to see over 40 children and three teachers turn up for our first BEEP Fitness Test on Friday 24th April. The multistage fitness test is a commonly used maximal running aerobic fitness test. It is also known as the 20 meter shuttle run test. The children were very excited and we drew a huge crowd of onlookers and supporters. It is quite challenging mentally and physically so please give your child a huge hug and congratulate them no matter what their score was. The aim is to improve cardio fitness over time. If your child is participating in Junior Joggers as well as school sports then their fitness will be continually increasing.

Highest Level Attained April 2009 (apologies to anyone whose score I missed!)

1996 Girls Kia Melverton Score 9.5
1997 Boys Nelson Barter Score 10.11
1998 Boys Nathan Penniton Score 9.2
1998 Girls Ali HolmesScore 8.9
1999 Boys JackTaffsScore 10.12
Mr Gurney an amazing effort Score 11.12
Mrs Apanui also amazing Score 10.2
Mrs Maddison pretty good for an old girlScore 6.6

The second test is scheduled for 8am Friday 29 May weather permitting. The venue is the Junior school basketball courts. Bring along runners, water bottle and all your endurance skills! Please don't feel shy - it's all about you doing your best and the kids having fun exercising. Scheduled following date will be Friday 26 June 2009.


Junior School Student Council News
At the beginning of the year students and staff of the Junior School returned to newly planted
trees and freshly laid turf in amongst the Year 5 teaching blocks. Everybody that I talked to
agreed that the landscaping looked fantastic.

In the near future, there will be a raffle to raise funds to continue the development of the
Junior School environment. The prize is two return trips with Jetstar, to the destination of your
choice to the value of $1000. This prize has been kindly donated by the P&C through the
assistance of Grace McKenna, a Year 6 student at Varsity College.

It won't be long until your child will advise you that tickets will be available. Tickets will be $1
each and available on the Junior campus. Please support the School in building a better
Varsity College by purchasing tickets.

Justin Faust
Student Council Co-ordinator 
 
Library News
Firstly thank you to our diligent library monitors who have been assisting the library staff with shelving and other tasks which help maximise the circulation of resources for our school community:

Kira Shay Donnell 6T
Lauren Andrew 6E
Emily Reimer 6E
Kayla Evison 6E
Tyra Bradford 5P
Calista Armao 4G

Also a special thank you to the Darwish family who were extremely generous in donating the full series of "Thomas the Tank Engine" hard cover books to our library. These beautifully illustrated and detailed stories have been enjoyed by boys and girls of all ages.

Megan Smith
Teacher/ Librarian

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Junior News

From the Head of Junior School
Welcome back to what promises to be another exciting and successful term in the Junior School. In just the first week, children have participated in cross country, Life Education, Musical rehearsals and an ANZAC Day Parade to complement the quality classroom learning program. We have also had a number of students commence the Maths Olympiad Program for this year, with the popular afternoon Chinese lessons also about to commence. I would like to congratulate all staff who coordinate these extra-curricular learning programs and ask parents to encourage their children to participate in and commit to programs that interest them.

As winter nears, I would like to remind parents of the College policy for the school winter uniform. The Varsity College Winter Uniform consists of all summer uniform requirements with the addition, on a needs basis, of a Varsity College jacket or jumper and Varsity College tracksuit pants. College policy does not permit the wearing of coloured t-shirts under the school uniform and / or non-Varsity jumpers. It is an expectation that all students attend every school day in the correct College uniform.

Virtual Classroom
A Junior School Virtual Classroom is now available for parents to access up to date information, announcements, calendar dates and links to external educational websites. It is anticipated that the site will be updated on a weekly basis. Parents can access the site by following the links listed below.

1. Website: www.elearn.eq.edu.au
2. User ID: parent226
3. Password: password09
4. Click on ‘Varsity College Junior School - Parent Information' in right hand corner

All Year 5 students will complete the National Literacy and Numeracy testing from May 12 to May 14. It is essential that all students attend school on the testing days unless they are ill. Parents can access further information by meeting with their child's classroom teacher, or by viewing the website www.naplan.edu.au or other NAPLAN related websites listed on the Junior School Virtual Classroom.

Stephen O'Brien
Junior Head of School

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Across Campus News

                       Sports Herald
                       Cross Country

It's Cross Country time! Our annual years 7-12 Cross Country is being held this Friday 1 May at Pizzey Park athletics track.  Everyone is welcome to come along. The first event starts at 9am (seniors) and the carnival will be all over by 11:30am with students returning to class at 12pm.

The Primary School District Cross Country Carnival is also on, being held this Wednesday morning. I'm really looking forward to seeing the raw talent Varsity College will be showcasing as the endurance and commitment displayed during the trial. I wish all competitors the best of luck.

Interschool Sport
As a sports master, each week I collect from all of our coaches the weekly scores and I'm always impressed by how well we as a school we are doing. Our AFL team is dominating the other schools and our boy's soccer results are solid. I was fortunate enough to get out to the netball on Friday to watch our four teams of year 7 girls play. The girls looked lovely in their uniforms and played with enjoyment. It was encouraging to see parents there supporting their child and our school. Well Done year 7's!

Cluster Sport
Year 8 & 9 Cluster Days are running exceptionally well. We have three more days to go across the term and I'm looking forward to seeing our school continue to dominate. Sports teams excelling include; netball, cricket, soccer, basketball and tennis. Congratulations to all improving and winning teams.

Year 10 Sport
Year 10s are again this term involved in the ‘Healthy Minds, Healthy Bodies' program. This program involves weeks of theory and 5 weeks of sport. This term we are continuing with our sailing program and have offered a new sport - ice skating. Parents, please note that this term's money is now due.

There are only 10 weeks left until the marathon. Our Year 11 Certificate 3 in Fitness students guided by super fit Ms Perrone, have been training for the 10km event. There are some sub 40min times being reached. There are also a few of us competing in the bigger distances. If you're interested... let me know. Happy Running!

Katherine Tewes
Sports Master
Senior and Middle School

Donations Please!!!
I would appreciate your help to beautify our school. I would like to make a request to all parents for them to donate any excess "Rhoeo" plants that they may have at present in their gardens. These plants make an excellent groundcover, are very prolific and require frequent thinning-out. So if any parents plan to thin their gardens of this particular plant could they please drop them off to the Prep Admin., or contact me @ 0414911969

Tony Haycock
Facilities Office Junior Campus

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Middle School News

From the Head of Middle School
Welcome back to a very busy Term 2. Our Term Calendar is an extremely full, but very exciting one - from our school ANZAC ceremony to sporting events and the National Testing Program!

National Assessment Program (NAPLAN)
On Tuesday 12 May through until Thursday 14 May students across Australia in Years 3,5,7and 9 will be assessed in Literacy and Numeracy. A major purpose of the test is to provide schools, parents and caregivers, information about student performance in relation to nationally - agreed proficiency bands and benchmarks. The results will allow schools, parents and caregivers to monitor students' achievements over time.

The 2009 Literacy and Numeracy tests will contribute to the improvement of student learning by providing information on their achievement in Literacy and Numeracy.

The tests will cover aspects of language conventions, writing, reading and numeracy.

Our students have been preparing for these tests in the context of our curriculum programs in foundation year levels. Classes have also had practice test sessions to familiarise students with the format of test papers and procedures and alleviate any concerns for students regarding the tests.

 Test Dates
 Tuesday 12 May  Language Conventions and Writing
 Wednesday 13 May  Reading
 Thursday 14 May  Numeracy

 Term 2 Date Claimers
Thursday 20 April Yr 7 ‘Sticks & Stones' Bullying Perfomance
Friday 1 May Cross Country
Monday 4 May Labour Day Holiday
Tuesday 5 May Yr 8 & 9 Sport (Round 4)
Tuesday 12 May & Thursday 14 MayNAPLAN Testing (Years 7 & 9)

Have a great week!

Margaret Heiser
Head of Middle School

Middle School Camps
A reminder to parents and students that camp week is in the first week of September (Week 8 term 3). Students will have received a notice this week informing them of the camp in which they have been placed and the payment schedule required for that camp. We ask parents to be prompt with their payments.

Students who have not selected a camp will also be informed this week as to the camps which are still available. These students have until Friday 8 May to return their selection form.

All forms and money must be returned to the payment window at the Senior Administration building.

Micah Davis
Camp Coordinator

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Senior School News

Welcome back to Term 2. Already we have much to be proud of as a community. The ANZAC Ceremony conducted at the school on Friday April 24 united us all in the solemnity of the commemoration. "Amazing Grace" played by the Varsity College Orchestra set the tone for the occasion. It was also wonderful to see the growth in numbers of the choir who were joined by our very own James Grace in singing the New Zealand National Anthem. The respect demonstrated from the audience was obvious through-out the ceremony and all those involved should be congratulated. A special thankyou must go to Ivan Brkich for his ongoing commitment and obvious passion for the event.

I have spoken recently to students in relation to maintaining the high standards set at Varsity College in many facets of their school life: attendance, uniform and academics being the focus. I have asked students to consider their behaviour whenever in school uniform - even on their way to and from school. We are judged within the local community by how we conduct ourselves - so I challenge students to do the right thing even when they think no-one is looking!

In regards to attendance, parents could assist by ensuring that students bring a note to explain any absence when your child returns to school. Also I would like to remind you that the senior school commences at 8.15am daily. Students who arrive late or have an authorised late start need to sign in at Student Services. This is the student's responsibility! Students are NOT permitted to leave the school grounds during breaks unless they have finished for the day or have a late start. Students who choose to do this will be issued an after school detention.

I am hoping that the standards set will be maintained by the students enabling my time to be best spent providing support for their academic goals and being ‘the best they can be'.

Nicole Brazeau
Acting Deputy
Senior School

Six New Traineeships!
Since our last newsletter I am extremely happy to report that a number of our students have now entered into traineeships.

Year 12 student Paige Lavin secured her Certificate III in Business Administration with Ray White Varsity Lakes. Paige demonstrated excellent presentation and communication skills for success in her application. Well done, Paige.

Year 10 students Jack Moroney, Bradley Betts and Beau Brownsdon have also displayed superior skills to be offered traineeships with MacDonalds. These students have worked diligently and reliably to have been offered these placements. Congratulations to all three students.

Year 11 student Chantelle Tidyman (pictured below) was delighted to have been successful in her application for a Certificate III in Tourism with Warner Village Theme Parks. Chantelle was selected from a large field of equally enthusiastic applicants. That's a great outcome, Chantelle, well done!

Year 12 student Chayse TeHana has also commenced a traineeship in Certificate III in Sports Coaching with Gold Coast Gymnastics Club next to Pizzey Park. Chayse is also undertaking a Certificate III in Fitness, so this traineeship will enhance and combine very well to project him towards a career in these fields.

Traineeship on Offer
A café / restaurant situated in the main business andshopping area in Mudgeeraba is seeking to offer a Year 11 or 12 student a Certificate III in Hospitality. The successful applicant will be required to work one day during the week (your ‘Earning or Learning' day) plus Sundays, for all of which you will be paid. Tasks will include most ‘front-of-house' duties; customer service, product knowledge, cash handling, serving food and beverages etc. You will need to be personable and have good communication skills together with a neat and tidy presentation. Please see Mrs Dallas if you would like to apply.

Linda Dallas
Industry Liaison Officer

SEP News
It is really good to see everyone back at school, bright eyed and ready to learn, after the Easter holiday.

Homework Group is on again this term. There are still a few places left in the group if you would like your child to attend. We meet on Wednesday afternoons, in the Middle Fine Foods room from 3 - 4pm.

Finding work-experience placements, and potential traineeships for our students isn't always easy. When faced with a situation recently of no possible placements for one of our students, Mr Millett decided to put on his walking shoes and go out and door-knock.

Mr Millett and a senior student set off in the student's local area last Wednesday, prepared to knock on a lot of doors. Luck must surely have been on their side because the first business they approached, agreed to take the student for workexperience.

Congratulations Mayan and thank you Mr Millett, for finding Mayan work as a car detailer with a local business. It is always good to find a placement in a field that a student has a particular interest in. It seems that Mayan has a keen interest in cars and is impressively familiar with a number of different makes and models.

In anticipation of our Middle School students reaching the age where job placement will be on the agenda, we are starting to look for people working in particular fields who might be able to talk to students about some of the aspects of their work.

We have recently matched up some budding writers with a published author and a Journalism student from Bond University, and are now looking for someone in the field of Architecture. We have a Year 7 student who has a growing interest in this field, and would love to be able to ask some general questions about a possible career in Architecture. If you are, or know of an Architect who might be interested in answering some general questions, either face to face, or via e-mail, please contact me.

The Applied Behaviour Analysis training that some of our staff and parents are currently undertaking is going really well. We have two weeks left in our eight week course and have already learned a lot of strategies that will make teaching and parenting our students on the Autism Spectrum more productive for everyone. There is a possibility that the course will run again later in the year, and I would recommend it to all teachers and parents. The basic philosophy of the program is applicable to all students, regardless of whether they are on the Autism spectrum or not, it works on adults too.

While on the topic of behaviour, I would like to congratulate all Middle and Senior School students on their behaviour at the ANZAC Day Ceremony last Friday. Students were required to sit still and quiet for the duration of the ceremony, a feat that they managed, seemingly, with ease. A genuine sense of respect and thoughtfulness was displayed by the students.

Remember:
Great careers can often be traced back to the influence of one teacher.
-Pam Brown


Maureen Durney and the SEP Team
5562-3533 - mdurn1@eq.edu.au

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P & C News

P & C Meeting
Due to school holidays the April P & C meeting will be held on:

Wednesday 29 April, 2009
6.30pm - 8.30pm
Chinese Immersion Room (Located above Snr Library)

Access via the staircase next to Senior Library. If you are bringing school aged children contact Sue Jones for details on 55769394

The following P & C Meetings will be held as normal on the third Wednesday of each month.

Collect A Cap
Term One winners for our Collect A Cap competition are 3Y and 3P jointly with 6T being our Year 4 - Year 6 winners. Each winner received $40 to spend on something the whole class agrees on. Congratulations and keep bringing in those Norco caps!

Gold Coast Community Art Union
Thank you to our Preparatory classes who have kicked off this fundraiser in fine form. The first prize of $20,000 shopping spree at Harvey Norman a second prize of a Toyota Yaris and the third prize of a $2,500 Harvey Norman gift voucher are making these $2 tickets very easy to sell. Please return tickets this week as we cannot distribute any more until all sold and unsold tickets are accounted for.

"They're Back!"  Entertainment Books 2009
The 2009/2010 books are available for sale at the P & C office. We have sold 33 already and the savings are amazing. A $50 outlay can recoup many hundreds of dollars in savings. $10 from each sale goes back to the school so if you would like to buy one or take a book home and look at it in your own time, please contact Sue Jones on 55769394.

Mother's Day is just around the corner so what better gift for Mum than a year of discounts, savings and lots of dinners out! No cooking, I like the sound of that!

Do you work? Many of your colleagues might be interested so why not send them an email letting them know Varsity College has Entertainment Books ready to be purchased. Contact Sue on 55769394 or at pandc@varsitycollege.eq.edu.au and I can email a flyer for you to distribute.

Risk Management Strategy
As previously advised in Term 2, Risk Management Registers will be placed in all classrooms in the Primary Campus as well as each Administration Offices, Canteen and Uniforms Shops in both campuses. Within this register is:

  • A Risk Management Introduction
  • A volunteer register
  • A response flowchart
  • Student Protection Fact Sheet
  • Standards of Behaviour Fact Sheet

All volunteers will also be asked to "Sign in" for each activity that they do Each volunteer will be asked to read the above information and acknowledge they have read this on the register. "Varsity College Volunteer" wristbands will be available for you to wear and return when volunteering. These will be a great identifier for the students.

If you have any queries, please contact Sue Jones on 55769394 or at pandc@varsitycollege.eq.edu.au.

We appreciate your help in supporting this strategy and keeping our school safe.

Uniform Shop News
Trial of New Opening/Closing Times for Term 2

Prep/Junior Uniform Shop Ph: 5576 9308
Monday & Wednesday 8:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.
Thursday1.30 p.m. to 3.30 p.m.
Middle/Senior Uniform Shop Ph: 5562 3512
Monday, Tuesday & Thursday8:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.

Due to the increased volume of parents and students wanting to purchase items before class both uniform shops will be opening at the following times:

As both uniform shops operate with volunteers, we would love to hear from you if you can help one of the opened mornings. Give Nicky a call at Prep/Junior on 5576-9308, Robina at Mid/Senior on 5562-3512 or pop in and make yourself-known to us.

We offer a uniform credit voucher as our incentive to you at the end of each term. This can then be used over 12 months to purchase your uniform requirements. It's also a great way of meeting people and being involved with the school.

Winter Options
All winter items are now in stock with a full range of sizing. A 15% discount is still being offered on our old supplier (current style); however, some sizes in our jumpers, track pants and jackets have sold out. The current track pants and jackets are still acceptable for three years. Where this stock has sold out the new supplier (new style) and price will take effect. There is no style change in the jumpers.

The new style track pants and jackets are made of Teflon, which is a shower proof fabric. We are having great feedback on the new style and are looking forward to seeing more students wearing these throughout the year. It is important to have your child try on the required items, as there is a variation in sizing between the two suppliers.

Additional winter options are:
Tights for girls, available at both shops, and Trousers for boys Years 10-12, available at Mid/Senior. Small caps are back in stock at Prep/Junior for $11.00. Bucket hats $11.00 or wide brim hats at $9.00 are the preferred option for Preparatory to Year 3. Caps are option an from Years 4 to 6. .Large caps are available at both shops. If you have any further questions please don't hesitate to contact the Uniform Shops.

Thank you

Robina Hoogendoorn
Uniform Convenor

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Community News

Bonjour! Ciao! Or just plain G'day!

INTERESTED IN HOSTING AN EXCHANGE STUDENT?

Open a door to other countries! Expose your family to another culture and extend your family unit on an international level.

World Education Program (WEP) is looking for Volunteer Host Families for International Students arriving in July 2009.

Students from Belgium, Italy, Brazil, France, and Germany are looking for families that are prepared to welcome them into their homes as a family member.

These young ambassadors are looking for life long friends and a place to call home during their stay. If you would like more information on becoming a Host Family, please contact our National Office.

World Education Program
Toll Free: 1300 884 733
Ph: (03) 9598 4733
Fax: (03) 9598 4233
Email: wep@wep.org.au

An information pack can be sent on request. It's easier than you think & a fantastic experience for all!

Free workshop:
Parents Helping Their Children at Home with Organisation and Technology!
Do you have a child who is articulate, intelligent and outgoing but just cannot master the skill of reading, spelling, writing and comprehension? Come along to this workshop and find out how using technology can `level the playing field ` for your child in terms of academic achievement. Speld Qld Inc. is a non profit organisation dedicated to helping children and adults who have a specific learning difficulty or learning disability. This workshop is part of our Direct service agreement with Education Queensland.Where: Mudgeeraba State School/ Old Coach Road/ Mudgeeraba

When: Wednesday 27th may
Time: 12.00 - 2.30 p.m ( Registration 11.45)
Bookings ( essential): Call speld Qld Inc 33942566 or 1800671114 ( outside Brisbane)
Email: speld@speld.org.au
website:www.speld.org.au

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Flu Update

>>> Special Health Broadcast 27/04/2009 2:34 pm >>>

You may have read recent media reports about human cases of swine influenza in the United States of America and outbreaks of severe respiratory illness in Mexico. These overseas outbreaks are being carefully monitoring by Queensland Health and the Department of Health and Ageing.

Current situation

Over the weekend we were notified of two suspected cases in Queensland, both of which have been tested and cleared of swine flu. Both had been traveling in the region where cases have been reported.

Queensland Health, through the Department of Health and Ageing, is actively monitoring the situation and will be ready to escalate the level of response if and when required. Australia has measures in place and the expertise to deal with an emergency if the situation escalates to Australia. However, there has been no cases identified in Australia at this stage.

Although it is clear that these overseas outbreaks are caused by a new virus, it is not clear as yet that these outbreaks suggest the emergence of a pandemic. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared that this situation represents a public health emergency of international concern. It has not, however, changed the pandemic phases to a higher level of alert.

Anyone who has been in Mexico or the USA recently and has become ill within seven days of leaving, should consult their GP or a hospital emergency department, particularly if they have any flu-like symptoms.

General information can also be obtained by calling 13 Health (13 43 25 84).

Current information suggests that the readily available antiviral drugs (Tamiflu and Relenza) are useful against these swine influenza viruses.

Actions to-date include:

  • Information has been provided to public and private emergency departments, the Queensland Ambulance Service, private laboratories and General Practitioners, to give them factual information on the outbreaks and to alert them to the known characteristics and risk factors for this disease.
  • Travel advice will be available on the Department of Foreign Affairs Smart Traveller web site www.smartraveller.gov.au

Anyone with flu symptoms should stay at home until they are better; cover their nose and mouth when they cough or sneeze with a tissue and dispose of it; wash their hands with soap and water after coughing, sneezing or blowing their nose, and before touching other people or objects that others might touch.

Further information about swine flu can be found on the World Health Organisation web site at www.who.int/en/

Regards

Dr Jeannette Young,
Chief Health Officer

Information forwarded via:

School Based Youth Health Nurse, Jackie Atkinson Mob: 0432 00 5265

email: jatki89@eq.edu.au Varsity Room: MG 21

Usual days @ Varsity: Monday and Tuesday

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Medication Procedure

Every year Education Queensland guidelines require specific procedures updated and followed concerning the management of student health conditions and administration of medication. The following procedures concerning parent/caregiver obligations are outlined as follows:

  • Parents/caregivers provide a written request for assistance with administering medication or managing health conditions, including written advice from the medical practitioner.
  • Parents/caregivers provide a written request, with guidelines and procedures from the medical practitioner, for the student to be responsible for administering their own medication (eg. insulin, ventolin, epilepsy, cystic fibrosis).
  • School staff must not administer over-the-counter medication, including analgesics, homeopathic or prescribed medications unless they meet the accountability of a written request from a parent/caregiver accompanied by written advice from a medical practitioner and with the medication in the original labelled container.
  • Notify our College in writing when a change of dosage is required. This instruction must be accompanied by a letter from a medical practitioner.
  • Notify our College in writing of any requests and /or guidelines from medical practitioners including potential side effects or adverse reactions.

Accordingly, it would be appreciated if you would complete the attached Medical Form as soon as possible and return it to the office together with relevant letters from yourself and the medical practitioner.

In cases where students are diabetics, could you ensure Administration staff receive labelled drink and food to store in the office and/or classroom.

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