08 Feb 2022

From the Principal

What does a future -focused school look like? Part 1 – examining that future.

This is the first of several articles looking at our roadmap into the future as a school, and a community. Subsequent articles will contain links to previous parts.

2022 marks the commencement of Tintern’s new forward strategy “Our Focus, Your Future”. Created with significant input from students, alumni, families, and staff, this will be the compass bearing for our students, our School and our community over the next 8-10 years. Developed over the unprecedented time of the pandemic, it will steer our navigation towards 2030 and beyond. I am very excited by its combination of honouring and sustaining the culture that has always been a hallmark of our school over its 145 year history, and its proactive commitment to evolve and enhance the experience for our learners, our staff, and our families, ensuring we are able to best prepare us all to succeed in the future world.

During its development phase, one of the elements that emerged from all stakeholder groups during our consultation activities was that the School needed to be future-focused – perhaps most clearly and succinctly expressed in one comment: “Educate the students for their future, not our past”. I’m very aware that many certainties that existed from when I was at school, right through to the mid-late 1990s, have shifted, changed, or disappeared. Those of us who are 35-50+ year old adults now experienced some or all of our formative years in that time of greater certainty and stability, and this will have shaped our perspective and expectations of the future.

The challenge to “Educate the students for their future, not our past” is a very articulate expression of our School’s mission, but what is in the answer to the following question: “So what will that future look like, and what do we need to prepare young people for?”. In looking at recent history, and then trying to anticipate this possible future, that question cannot be answered with the same certainty as would have been the case 20 or 30 years ago.

Considering the very dramatic and rapid changes in our work and our lives that have come about through evolution in social values and expectations, technology, global innovation, and now the pandemic, all over the nearly 20 years since the first iPhone, and then factoring in the ongoing increasing pace of change, it seems very likely that 2030 (when our current Preps will only be in Year 8!) will see some significant differences to 2022.

Some of the trends that will affect our current learners most that we have seen emerge over the last 10-15 years have included the following:

– Multiple significant career changes over the first 10-15 years of post-school life

– Less shifting around tertiary courses as the expense of those courses places pressures on students and families

– First a rise, and then a fall in the number of post-Year 12 students taking a GAP year.

– More young people completing school and either; after finishing further education, or bypassing it, then creating start-ups of various sorts or ‘making their own work’

– Technology and AI taking over many administrative roles, or limiting their scale and availability

– A shift back to apprenticeships and (sometimes subsequent) owner businesses

There are certainly also many, many young people who are following tried and true paths into established professions and roles, there is no doubt. But those long-standing roles and professions are themselves undergoing shift and change too. This means that the future our students are facing is one that will require different things of them and educating those things will also require different things of schools, teachers, and parents, if we are to set our young people up with the best chances of future success. This is what a future-focused school and a future focused community will do. It will look ahead, beyond the immediate and imperative needs of today, and while providing excellence in those things that students need here and now, it will also be preparing students for what the future will require of them.

So what skills, attributes and dispositions are going to be needed by younger (and older) people in these future times, and what will we do to prepare them? This will be explored in Part 2 – The young person’s personal toolbox for the future (coming in March).

Brad Fry

Principal

Community Matters

Welcome to the first edition of Community Matters for 2022. It is through this section we keep you informed of the events and achievements of the various Community Groups as well as the many and varied activities in which they participate. If you would like to be involved with any of the Community Groups please contact the Community Relations team on 9845 7877 or email communityrelations@tintern.vic.edu.au.

Keep your eye on the Tintern Portal as Community news will be updated regularly so you will not miss any important information. If you would like to contribute to Community Matters, email your submissions to the Community Relations Office and we will incorporate your news wherever possible.

Tintern Grammar Community Groups

Our Community Groups are an incredible and invaluable part of Tintern Grammar. They enrich us through fundraising, events and activities that bring together our community; past and present, in celebration and fun. They are also a great way to meet other parents and become involved with the school community!

Everyone is welcome to attend Community Group Meetings. Whether you are curious about joining, wish to meet other parents or just want to lend a hand with a specific event please look out for the dates and times which are advertised in Community Matters each fortnight or on the portal.

At Tintern we have the following Community and Alumni Groups:

  • Tintern Parent Group (TPG)
  • TPG Fair Committee
  • TPG Presentation Ball Committee
  • Friends of Music (FOM)
  • Friends of Young Farmers (FOYF)
  • Friends of Equestrian (FOE)
  • Tintern Old Girls Association (TOGA)
  • SOBA (Southwood Old Boys Association)
  • TGA (Tintern Grammar Alumni)

We are also seeking interest for the Friends of Snowsports (FOS) Committee. If you’d be interested in being a founding member of this group, please contact us.

The Election meetings provide the committees with office bearers and a direction for the year. They are a wonderful opportunity for visitors to get a broad understanding of the wonderful contribution these groups make to our School.

The events and activities run by the various community groups represent a vital contribution to the enhancement of the school experience for our students and in fostering a community atmosphere across the school in support of parents.

For more information on how to be involved please contact Di Lacey or Tegan Martin in the Community Relations Office on 9845 7877 or communityrelations@tintern.vic.edu.au.

We hope to see you there!

Parent Representatives 2022

Thank you to the many parents and guardians who have volunteered to act as the Parent Representatives for their Class or Year Level in 2022:

Class First name Surname
Pre-Prep A Lia Taylor
Pre-Prep A Emma Griffiths  
Prep Ivon Tio
Prep D Eran Dharmasena
1 D Sarah Western
1 A Ereney Francis
1 A Diana Atkins
2 A Stewart Cant
2 D Emma Griffiths
3 D Katherine Gracey
3 A Sally Robinson
3 A Jenny  Wang
3 D Jane Wilcock
4 D Danielle Kelberg
4 A Nicole Doyle
5 A Debbie Lukman
5 A Jo Hams
5 D Sally Robinson
5 D Samantha Bray
6 D Michelle Kuo
6 A Katherine Gracey
7 D & E Lisa Chivers
7 A, B & C Danielle Kelberg
9 A, B & C Kerry Boromeo
12 Dorothy Ou
12 Annette Dark
12 Wendy Zhang

Please note that some of the Class and Year Level representative are still in the process of being finalised, and this list will be updated on the Portal.

Parent Representative are a liaison between parents/guardians and the school. Informing parents about activities planned either by Tintern, our community groups or within the class or year level, such as fundraisers or events. We greatly appreciate the time and commitment given by our Parent Reps.

Parent Reps also organise class or year level functions to provide parents with the opportunity of meeting and socialising in a relaxed atmosphere. It is a great opportunity for class groups to connect, while supporting our local community cafes and restaurants still recovering from the lockdowns.

If you would like to volunteer to be your Year Level’s Parent Representative or would like further information contact us by email communityrelations@tintern.vic.edu.au or by phone 03 9845 7877.

Community Events 2022

EVENT

DATE

2022 Musical

Wednesday 23 to Saturday 26 March

2022 FOE Horse Trials, including Anzac service

Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 May

Cathedral Service 2022

Thursday 5 May 1pm to 2pm

Career’s Night

Thursday 19 May at 6pm

TPG Trivia Night

Sat 30 July at 7pm

Jazz Night

Friday 26 August at 7pm

FOYF Spring Celebration at the FARM

Friday 2 September, 3.30pm to 7.00pm

Celebration Evening

Monday 17 October at 7pm

TPG Spring Garden Tour

Friday 21 October – 9.00am to 3.15pm

Principal’s Volunteer Thank You evening

Thursday 24 November at 7.00pm

Munch with the Musos

Sunday 27 November 10am

Friends of Music FOM – An invitation to new members

We are ever so grateful for the ongoing support of the parents on our Friends of Music committee.  We welcome new members to join and support the activities of our Tintern musicians. Our first meeting and AGM for 2022 is on Wednesday 23 February and we would love any interested parents/friends to take this opportunity to meet us and consider joining our committee.

If you would like more information or would like to join the committee please contact fom@tintern.vic.edu.au.

Second Hand Books

Thank you to the families that utilised the Second Hand Book Service provided by the TPG.  We hope you found it convenient and beneficial.

Should you require any information pertaining to books on consignment or the status of your account, please contact “I Love Books” at enquiry@ilovebooks.com.au

Thank you for your support of the TPG and our Sustainable School.

Presentation Ball Helpers

We are still investigating current interest and format options for the Presentation Ball for 2022. Please contact Community Relations if you have any thoughts or interest to be part of the team.

If you are interested in volunteering please email presentationball@tintern.vic.edu.au.

Footy Tipping Competition – AFL and AFLW

The Tintern Grammar community footy tipping competition is back again for 2022!

For those interested in joining the 2022 competitions, details are below:

You will then have to log into your own account or create one. When setting up your account, you might like to check the reminder email box so you don’t forget!

The competition is free and open to our entire adult (18+ @ 28/1/2022) Tintern community – Tintern Grammar students will not be permitted to enter. If you have any questions please email communityrelations@tintern.vic.edu.au and we’ll help you get started.

Unfortunately, due to the new AFLW timing, we have missed the start of the season (with this week being Round 5). We are incredibly disappointed, but we are unable to run a fair and equitable tipping competition for AFLW in 2022. Please note we will ensure the Tipping competition commences prior to the start of the 2023 AFLW season.

Cash Prizes awarded for the winners of the AFL Tipping Competition:

AFL Footy Tipping Prizes:

  • 1st Prize $250
  • 2nd Prize $120
  • 3rd Prize $60
  • 4th Prize $40
  • 5th Prize $20

If the AFL season is shortened at a later date due to Covid, the tipping competition will continue, but the prizes will be adjusted accordingly. 

Good luck and start tipping!!

Community Committee Dates 

Community Group Meetings are now back onsite. Please check the information below carefully for details:

  • Tintern Parent Group (TPG) –Next meeting: Thursday 10 February 2022 at 7pm President: Haidee Wallace Location: Southwood Centre Or join online by selecting here.
  • Friends of Music (FOM) – Next Meeting: Wednesday 23 February 2022 at 7pm  President: Debra Fryer Location: CM Wood Common Room
  • Friends of Young Farmers (FOYF) – Next Meeting: Monday 21 February 2022 at 7.30pm President: Ranald Young Zoom:  CM Wood Common Room Or join online by selecting here.
  • Friends of Equestrian (FOE) – Next Meeting: Thursday 17 February 2022 at 7pm  Location: CM Wood Common Room

Please select here to view a Tintern map of the meeting venues.

Please note the following CovidSafe considerations to attend an onsite Community Group Meeting:

  • All attendees must be double vaccinated (and provide proof of vaccination – the easiest way is via the Services Victoria App at Check-in)
  • Check-in with the QR Code
  • Masks to be worn indoors (unless you have an exemption)
  • Social distancing where possible

Upcoming Reunions

  • 10 Year Reunion YG 2012 – Saturday 19 February at 7pm at Sage Hotel, Ringwood – Book Here
  • Canberra Chapter Reunion – Wednesday 16 March at 7pm, Hotel Realm – Book Here
  • 5+2 Year Reunion YG 2015 – Friday 18 March at 7.30pm, Sage 2, Sage Hotel, Ringwood – Book Here

Reunions 2022

YEAR GROUP / REUNION

DATE / TIME / LOCATION

10 Year Reunion YG 2012

Saturday 19 February at 7pm at Sage Hotel

Canberra Chapter Reunion

Wednesday 16 March at 7pm, Hotel Realm

5+2 Year Reunion YG 2015

Friday 18 March at 7.30pm, Sage 2, Sage Hotel

50, 55, 60 & 55+ Year Reunion YG 1970, 1971 and 1972, 1965, 1966 & 1967, 1960, 1961 & 1962

Tuesday 5 April, 11am to 2.00pm

15 Year Reunion YG 2007, 2006 and 2005

Saturday 4 June at 3.30pm, followed by offsite

5 Year Reunion YG 2017

Friday 22 July at 7.30pm, offsite

Reunion Festival 2021 YGs 2002, 1997, 1992, 1987, 1982, 1977

Saturday 5 November at 3.30pm, followed by Offsite

Return to Tintern Alumni Admissions Tour

Thursday 17 November, 6pm – 8pm CM Wood Centre
 

 

Sport Matters

Stella Forsyth – Year 10 

Stella in Year 10 recently competed at the EastLink Diving Championships at Ringwood Aquanation. In an outstanding effort, Stella won Gold in Open Womens Platform, Gold Open Womens Platform Synchronised, Silver Open Womens 3m and Bronze Open 3m Synchronised, making her the overall Ladies Champion. Stella has also qualified for this years Australian Elite Nationals which will be held later in the year. We congratulate Stella on this amazing achievement and we wish her all the best for nationals.
 
 
 

Sebastian Humphrys and Ryan Jayarathna – Year 8 

Congratulations to Sebastian and Ryan in Year 8 for recently being part of the 2022 Australian Open as official Ballkids. The boys had a great time on the court fulfilling their duties and had the opportunity to meet many tennis players. Last year, a total of 360 Ballkids were selected from 2500+ applicants, well done boys on this wonderful achievement.
 
 
 
 
 

 

Matthew Wilby – Year 9  

Congratulations to Matthew in Year 9 for recently competing in two Biathlon races at Eisenerz in Austria. Matthew completed a 5 x 1.5km race and 3 x 2 km sprint. Matthew’s shooting was 80% and equal to the top two Austrian male U15 racers across both races. In addition to racing, Matthew was very fortunate to spend 4 weeks at the Biathlon East Australia Training Camp at the International Obertilliach Biathlon range in Austria.
 
Matthew will be training hard for the Victorian and Australian U16 championships later this year and we wish him the best of luck.
 
 
 
 

Music Matters

MYO Summer School an unmitigated success

Melbourne Youth Orchestras (formerly Melbourne Youth Music) has been the breeding ground of many of our elite professional musicians for over five decades. Over this time, many thousands of musicians have experienced the joy of making music in large ensemble settings and have had the opportunity to perform in Melbourne’s premier concert venues. This year the organisation hosted its 50th Summer School and, mercifully, the camp went ahead, largely unhindered by the effects of the pandemic. This was in no small part to the exceptional organisation by the team at MYO. Well over 500 students came together into string ensembles, symphony orchestras, and wind bands and jazz bands.

I was honoured to be appointed one of the conductors of this camp once again this year and thrilled to have the opportunity to return to the concert stage and conduct a large ensemble in one of our finest concert venues, the Elizabeth Murdoch Hall at the Melbourne Recital Centre.

It was equally very pleasing to note that two of Tintern’s double bass students, Etienne and Felix, also chose to enrol in the camp this year. Their smiling faces and enthusiastic review of the experience testified to the value of this experience. Etienne has shared her thoughts on the experience below.

We hope that this will signal the return to a regular schedule of live music performance opportunities, not only for Etienne and Felix, but for our enthusiastic community of young musicians at Tintern.

Tim Veldman

Head of Strings

 

Summer School of Music

During the summer holidays, my younger brother, Felix and I participated in a five-day Summer School with the Melbourne Youth Orchestra. This took place at the University of Melbourne Southbank Campus, in the city. I was a member of the Bremner Strings Orchestra, while Felix was a member of the Casey Strings Orchestra. During the five days we learnt a number of pieces, and took part in daily sessions with a tutor for each specific instrument. It was a fantastic experience which allowed us to broaden our skills and knowledge of working in an orchestra. On the Saturday morning after the summer school we performed the pieces we learnt throughout the week at a concert held at the Melbourne Recital Centre. 

My favourite piece that I played was called Kalinin by Ivan Larionovarr. I enjoyed this piece because it progressively became faster and faster before coming to a complete stop. The structure of the piece was also very different from anything I had played before.

Felix’s favourite piece was called Fire Eater by Stephen Chin. He enjoyed this piece because the melody was very intense.

Etienne Meddings

Year 8

 

Ensembles firing up for 2022

In 2022 we are excited to have all of our instrumental and vocal ensembles returning to rehearsals, for what we hope will be a stable and productive year, full of music making. Our current ensemble members will be receiving emails from staff regarding the start dates for rehearsals in the coming days. However, we would like to make a special mention of and welcome our Year 7 families and new families to the school. We would love to see your son or daughter participating in and enjoying what the music department has to offer. We will be doing our best to visit classrooms to encourage students to join ensembles, but please, don’t hesitate to approach the music staff. We can support your child by finding the appropriate ensemble for them to join.

We offer both intermediate and advanced ensembles for most instruments, as well as wonderful choirs for all year levels.  If you would like further information regarding the correct ensemble for your child, please email me at lclarke@tintern.vic.edu.au or visit us in the music department, where our friendly administrator Elizabeth Feenane, or any of our enthusiastic music staff, could help you find the right place for your child to thrive here at Tintern Grammar.

Lisa Clarke

Head of Music – Instrumental Performance

 

Year 7-12 ENSEMBLE REHEARSALS

MONDAYS

*Senior Jazz Band

Mrs Clarke

7.30am Kelson Room

Year 8-12

Clarinet Ensemble

Mrs Clarke

1.00pm, Kelson Room

Year 7-11

Theory Club

Music Captains

1.00pm, WOO4

Year 7-12

 

TUESDAYS

Concert Choir

Mrs Bezaire

7.30am, Theatre

Year 9-12

 

WEDNESDAYS

Concert Band

Mrs Clarke

7.30am Kelson Room

Year 7-9

*Senior Girls’ Chamber Choir

Mrs Bezaire

7.30am, Theatre

Year 10-12

(Auditioned)

Improvisation Class

Mr Bathgate

1.00pm, Kelson Room

Year 8-12

Scrolls String Orchestra

Mrs Mackie

7.30am, Area C

Year 7-10

Symphony Orchestra

Mr Veldman

3.45pm, Kelson Room

Year 7-12

 

THURSDAYS

Percussion Ensemble

Ms Scarfe

7.50am, Kelson Room

Year 7-12

Intermediate Choir

Mrs Coburn & Mr Kidd

1.00pm, Theatre

Year 7-9

*Band-Ana

Mr McLean Davies

1.00pm, Kelson

Year 11-12

Intermediate Jazz Band

Mrs Clarke

3.35pm, Kelson Room

Year 7-9

 

FRIDAYS

Wind Symphony

Mrs Clarke

7.30am, Kelson Room

Year 8-12

*Chamber Orchestra

Mr Veldman

7.30am, Area B Stage

Year 8-12

Saxophone Ensemble

Mr Legge

1.30pm, WO04

Year 8-12

Flute Ensemble

Ms Patton

1.30pm, Kelson

Year 7-12

 

 

 

 

= Lunchtime

   Rehearsals

 

 

  *Auditioned

 

MUSIC LOCKERS FOR HIRE

Our Friends of Music Parent Committee manage the hiring of music lockers in the music corridor for the safe, lockable storage of personal and hired instruments which students may wish to store securely whilst at school. The fee per term for a locker is $10. The funds raised are returned to the Music Department to support the purchase of music and instruments and to support funding of special musical events.

JOIN OUR FRIENDLY FRIENDS OF MUSIC

We have a wonderful team of parents who support our music staff and students at Tintern through fundraising, and also by providing services such as serving tea and coffee at concerts, organising ensemble photos and assisting us at Music Camp. If your child is musical (or even if you don’t have a musical child, but would love to support music making at Tintern), please contact fom@tintern.vic.edu.au for further information. The committee’s first meeting will be held in the CM Wood Common Room on Wednesday 23 February at 7.00pm. The proceedings will commence with a brief AGM, followed by a regular meeting. Evidence of current vaccination status must be provided upon arrival and parents must remain masked and socially distanced at these meetings. New members most welcome!

Click here to learn more about the Friends of Music.

 

ELC News

Separation Anxiety in Pre-schoolers.

First days are filled with excitement, happiness, eagerness and also anxiety. It is quite common for a child to feel overwhelmed at the prospect of a new environment, teacher or setting.

Feeling separation anxiety is a developmental area which children first start to feel at around one year of age. It can often resurface when they start at childcare, preschool, kindergarten, primary school and into their high school experiences. Some kids even seem to be doing fine with their transition only to experience separation anxiety a few weeks into the school year.

Crying, clinginess and school refusal are all common with a child who is experiencing separation anxiety. Occasionally we also see a of regression of behaviour. For example, a toilet trained child may suddenly fail to make it to the bathroom on time. When a child is challenged by a new developmental task, they are likely to temporarily lose ground in an area already mastered.

The following are some tips that might help:

  • Stick to a routine. Children are at their best when they have plenty of rest, eat a nutritious breakfast and don’t feel rushed. Prepack lunches and snacks the night before to save time in the morning.
  • When you first arrive at school, remind your child about their daily routine jobs, record book away bag into locker and wash hands. Then assist them to settle to a favourite activity such as play dough or block play. Engage with them for a few minutes.
  • Saying Goodbye: Be honest with your child and tell them that it is time for you to leave. Let them know that you will be back. Even though there may be a few tears, often when parents are out of sight children will settle happily into activities and the tears will ease.
  • Its best to not drag out the goodbye as this often increases the separation anxiety.
  • Be positive and happy yourself. Children can sometimes sense when their parents are upset or worried and this might lead to an increase in their anxiety.
  • Be gentle on yourself, this is a big step for all parents and children. If parents hesitate, kids will pick up on their emotions and could feel unsafe. Plan a coffee date with a friend or your spouse immediately following drop off so that you have support.

 

 

Here are some stories that you might like to share with your child around separation anxiety:

The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn.

Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney.

Feel free to call the school anytime to check on your child’s progress. Our staff will also call you should your child continue to be really upset and not able to settle.

All the staff at Tintern are committed to ensuring that your child has happy experiences at school.

 

Girls Junior School News

A great start to 2022!

Our first week at school for 2022 has been wonderful! Our girls have returned to school, and are getting back into the routines of a new school year. New friendships are being developed, and all girls have been thinking about how they can show care to themselves and others in our community.

I would like to sincerely thank all families for your attendance at our Parent Information Evening, and whilst the format was different, hopefully, you found the information presented to be valuable. For any families that missed the presentations, you can find links to them on both the class and my portal pages.

At Year 3-6 Assembly this week, we explored the journey of Ash Barty…not only as the winner of the Australian Open and Number 1 in the world, but Ash as the learner. We discussed the mindset she demonstrates which can best be described as one of curiosity and problem-solving. In times of struggle, she doesn’t get upset or have a tantrum, instead, she focuses on what she can control, and tries to problem-solve her current situation. This, to me, is why she is such an amazing role model for our girls.

All girls have been challenged to think about using Ash Barty’s modelling when they find themselves in times of challenge. What can you control? How could you alter your current situation to problem solve your challenge? When girls learn to manage this from a young age, it become a great habit for future independent problem solving.

Last Friday our School community gathered virtually to celebrate the commencement of our school year.. The Foundation Service is a very special event in our school calendar, and Junior School Captain, Weylen, represented our Girls’ Junior School with great confidence and respect. Parents can view this service via the link below, or on the HOJS portal page.

 

Starting School! Welcoming our Prep girls. 

The first word that comes to mind about the first day of Prep is BRAVE! After having a precious, first day photo taken outside, the Prep girls then bravely said goodbye to their families before entering the Colebrook Wing building on their own. This took a lot of courage and all the girls should be extremely proud of themselves. Of course, there were teachers to help them to the Prep classroom where Mrs Whitcher was waiting to greet them with a big smile and some fun activities. What an inspiring effort from these little learners and an impressive start for the girls in developing their Compass values of independence and confidence.

A fabulous first four days of fun and learning followed! Our busy week included; exploring our classroom and playground, making new friends, seeing the Prep boys, meeting our caring and friendly Year 6 buddies then having lunch and a play together, classroom Maths games and Literacy activities, going on a letter hunt around the girls’ school to find the letters for our SMART Spelling word of the week c a t, attending Art, Music, PE, Performing Arts and Prep – Year 2 Assembly for the first time. Phew! No wonder rest time after lunch play with a cushion, bear and book was a most welcome part of each day. We finished the week with some crafty fun and the girls wondered if their parents would recognise them disguised behind their cat masks. We are off to a fabulous start in Prep A!

Mary Whitcher

Prep Girls’ Teacher

Boys’ Junior School News

SHINE

This year, our theme in the Boys’ Junior School is SHINE.

In classes, Assemblies and every day Boys’ Junior School life, we will be discussing how we all have the ability to SHINE and that we can help others SHINE when they are feeling ‘dark’.

On their first day, each boy took home a candle, attached with the label below. The boys also have their own candle at school, with the following label on it.

 

The boys also have their own candle at school, with the following label on it.

We have used our latest GROICK book SHINE, and our early Assemblies, to talk about candles being both a metaphor for SHINE and how they are a wonderful tool for wellbeing. The aroma and the visual calmness can be incredibly soothing, and we all know that lighting a candle can be a symbolic act of celebration and/or remembrance.  The second quote is an especially important one in further reinforcing the need to respect others. I would hope that our community, especially our boys, know and feel that our Junior School is a sanctuary where they can shine, or where their candle can be lit

 

Scotty James

We are very much looking forward to watching Scotty James perform in the Snowboarding Halfpipe runs this week at the Winter Olympics in Beijing.

Our Girls and Boys have sent letters and pictures of support and well wishes.

 

Secondary School News

Happy New Year to our Tintern community and welcome to what we are hoping is going to be a great year in 2022. A special welcome to all the new families that are joining Tintern this year – I do hope that your journey with us is an exciting and fulfilling one.

It was so nice to be able to walk around the school in the first week of term and see all our students and staff face-to-face. We have seen a huge variety of emotions over the first week; from excitement about being back with friends and teachers, to the nerves of beginning secondary school at Year 7 or beginning their final year in Year 12. Overall, the most common feeling among everyone has been a sense of gratitude for being able to be back at school and having it operate in what is almost as normal as we can currently have it.

There has been a lot of communication provided to families around the COVID guidelines that are currently in place including processes for surveillance testing and consequences of test results for individuals or household members. If at any point in time members of our community are unsure about something to do with our COVID safety procedures, then they are encouraged to contact the school to help clarify.

With all the challenges that our students have faced over the last two years of their learning I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate our graduating class of 2021. Despite having an interrupted two-year period of their IB and VCE learning, it was amazing to see the results for many of our students. Firstly, congratulations to our four (shared) IB Duces and Overall Duces: Alec Chen, Sarah Chen, Joshua Choong and Holly Whitfield. Their IB score of 44 translated to an ATAR score of 99.75. Oliver Huang was our VCE Dux with a score of 99.15 and Marlin Ma was our International Dux with an ATAR of 98.65.

We had many students who have achieved excellent results and a breakdown of this can be accessed on the link below.

https://www.tintern.vic.edu.au/congratulations-to-the-class-of-2021/

Our annual Foundation Service was held on Friday 4 February in an online format. The service included reference to the school’s long history, dating from the Hawthorn era, moving to Ringwood East, Southwood Boys Grammar and of course the Tintern Grammar years. It also included the induction of our Year 7s as the Class of 2027. Our students were introduced to the school and received their “Class of 2027” badge to place on their blazer. We wish them all the very best for their secondary years of schooling here at Tintern Grammar.  The recording of the service is available below for parents and the community to watch.

Our Year 7s are currently out on their camp on the Mornington Peninsula along with our Year 11 Outdoor Education leaders. They have been engaged in activities such as mountain biking, surfing, snorkelling and stand-up paddle boarding and with a wonderful week of weather ahead of them, I’m sure they will have a fantastic time. It is the first of our Outdoor Education focussed camps throughout the Middle School and is aimed at developing their competencies in this environment in a sequential manner through to Year 8 and 9. Our Senior College students are also excited about their camp/conference which next week from Monday – Wednesday and I wish them well for their experiences.

From all the staff at Tintern, especially those working in the Secondary School, I wish you all the very best for 2022. We are confident that we are going to have a year full of opportunity across all year levels. Opportunities for our students to connect back with each other, to participate in activities of choice and to develop strong work habits toward their academic learning. Please never hesitate to contact the school through your child’s Pastoral Mentor or Year Level Coordinator if you have questions or queries about anything to do with school.

 

Career News

News from the Careers Department

The Careers Department provides assistance for students via one-on-one interviews but the staff also work with Year Level Co-ordinators through the pastoral program. Specific sessions during lunch time will commence after the camps/conference programs relating to the UCAT and medical entry requirements, applying interstate and overseas. All students in the Senior College are welcome to attend as it is good to start preparing before Year 12.

 

 Career News

 

The school subscribes to ‘Career News’ that includes information about courses in the higher education and TAFE sector, general careers material such as obtaining a Tax File Number, industry-based events and at the end of each edition a summary of courses, for example, Occupational Therapy Courses offered in Victoria in 2022. Copies will be added to the Careers tab on the Portal. Senior College students are also emailed a copy of the CareerNews content each week so that they can easily access material from the hyperlinks. The first edition is now available at https://portal.tintern.vic.edu.au/homepage/14962/ (please make sure that you are logged into the Tintern Portal to access this link) and includes the following items:

 

Number 1 Career News 4 February 2022

Areas of support from the Careers Department

  • Applying for a Tax File Number (TFN)
  • QS World University Rankings 2022
  • iCanMed Free Online Student Guide
  • Swinburne University: Bachelor of Arts Reimagined
  • News from La Trobe University
    • New Pathways to the Bachelor of Education Programs
    • Restructured Business Degree
    • Change to Entry Requirements to Engineering Degrees
  • Occupational Therapy Courses in Victoria in 2022  
  • The University of Melbourne: The Hansen Scholarship 2023
  • Snapshot of The Hotel School – Melbourne in 2022

2022 Foundation Service

2022 Foundation Service – Welcoming the Class of 2027. 

Each year our Foundation Service is a wonderful occasion for our School community to come together to celebrate Tintern. This service is to give thanks to the School’s Foundation and recognises the significant part our founders, students, teachers and the community play in the life of the School.
 
We inducted our Year 7 students (Class of 2027) with a badging ceremony as part of the Service and also welcomed our new students.
 
While this celebration looked a little different compared to past years, it was wonderful to come together as a School to celebrate this occasion.
 

Scotty James (YG 2013)

Congratulations to Scotty James (YG 2013) for winning gold in the men’s Superpipe event at the 2022 X Games in Aspen on Friday 21 January!

We wish Scotty all the best at the Winter Olympics in Beijing!

Claire Ham (Avent, YG 1991)

Congratulations to Claire Ham who was awarded the Vernon Parker prize for outstanding Officer qualities in training, and was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in 2021.

Claire joined the Royal Australian Navy Band in 1997, leaving in 2001 to run a music teaching business. Claire married her husband Mark in 2005, becoming a step-mum to two boys, Luke and Jim, before the family welcomed their two daughters, Mia and Bridget. During that time they lived throughout Australia; in Brisbane, Sydney and Tasmania, followed by a return to Sydney.

After joining the Navy Reserve as a Musician in Tasmania, Claire worked in the Royal Australian Navy Band, Defence Force Recruiting, and Navy Community Engagement. Claire later completed a Graduate Certificate in Tertiary Teaching and Learning Practices, commissioned to the rank of Sub-Lieutenant and commenced Officer Training at the Royal Australian Naval College, HMAS Creswell in 2020.

Having completed her training at HMAS Cerberus in June 2021, Claire received the Vernon Parker prize, awarded at the end of Initial Employment Training to a Navy Training Systems Officer who demonstrates outstanding officer qualities throughout their training, and embodies the Defence values: Service Courage Respect Integrity and Excellence.

Claire is now posted to Maritime Warfare Training Authority as a Training Development Officer, based at HMAS Penguin in Mosman, NSW.

Congratulations LEUT Claire Ham.

The Resilience Project at Tintern Grammar in 2022!

This year, we are excited to continue our delivery of The Resilience Project (TRP) in the Middle School and Senior College with some exciting new additions to the project.

Since 2018, TRP has enabled us to integrate well-being curriculum in our secondary classrooms, pastoral sessions and provide “brain breaks” to maintain a sense of calm in these chaotic times. There is no doubt Covid-19 has presented challenges as a community and as individuals. Hugh van Cuylenburg and the team at TRP have continued to evolve the resources available to us, helping us to feel empowered to rise to meet new challenges. By making our community more resilient, we are living breathing examples of resilience in action for our children to learn from. With TRP by our side, we are well armed to face whatever 2022 has in store for us.

Current research tells us:

  • 1 in 4 adolescents have a mental illness.
  • 1 in 7 primary school students have a mental illness.
  • 1 in 5 adults will experience mental ill-health throughout the year.
  • 65% of adolescents do not seek help for mental illness.

The Resilience Project delivers emotionally engaging programs and provides evidence-based, practical strategies to support positive mental health and build resilience. Presentations include stories and research on how we can build mental health in our day to day lives, and support the mental health of the children in our care.

We understand that as primary carers, you have an essential role to play in building positive mental health with your children. Through this program, teachers and students  engage in weekly lessons and activities around the key principles of Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness (GEM) to build resilience. To support what we’re doing in the classroom, in Term 2 you will be invited to attend a webinar presentation to introduce you to The Resilience Project and provide you with strategies to help you build your own confidence around resilience, and give you ideas to help your children and their mental health throughout the year. More information about this session will be emailed to you later in Term 1.

The Resilience Project’s School Program has been evaluated by the University of Melbourne, with parents observing positive changes in how children handled home situations.

The evaluation also demonstrated the program had targeted benefits in building:

  • Children’s use of daily gratitude strategies and their sense of gratitude.
  • Confidence and self-esteem, especially in relation to their peer relationships.
  • Relationships at school and home.
  • Knowledge and ability to express emotions.
  • More supportive classroom environments.

Feel free to learn more about The Resilience Project by exploring the ideas, activities and resources which bring Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness (GEM) to life on TRP@HOME. Please also remember to check back regularly to this TRP Tintern Portal page for updates on events and photos of TRP in action!

Stay safe and well.

Rebecca Infanti
The Resilience Project Coordinator, Tintern Grammar
rinfanti@tintern.vic.edu.au

THE RESILIENCE PROJECT

The International Baccalaureate Visual Arts Exhibition

The International Baccalaureate Visual Arts Exhibition 

The upcoming International Baccalaureate Visual Arts Exhibition will be showing at Glen Eira City Council Gallery from the 10 February to 13 March. The Exhibition features artwork from past IB students Jess Hobson (YG 2021) and Halle Hupfeld (YG 2021).
 
 
Artwork by Halle Hupfeld
 
 
Artwork by Jess Hobson
 

2022 Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund (CSEF) – Information for parents.