Blue Mountains Grammar School
Newsletter
Vol 7, 24th March, 2017
FROM THE HEADMASTER
BMGS Fashions for the Prefect Afternoon Tea
Many willing parents, staff and students, invested so much time, planning and hard work to make
the Fashions for the Perfect Afternoon Tea, on Sunday afternoon, the outstanding success it proved
to be. The energetic work-force ensured that many people from within and beyond BMGS attended
the event.
The proceeds raised will be consolidated with other monies raised by the Parents’ and Friends’
Association over this past year for projects within all three campuses. From little things, big things
grow!
The commentary provided by Ms Charlotte Smith regarding her renowned Darnell Collection and the
modelling of clothing from the early 1900s to the 1970s by our wonderful students was a highlight of
the day. All paraded on the catwalk with grace and poise, showcasing the exquisite collection.
Thank you to those who contributed and supported this event: parents, past parents, staff and
students. A full account of this most enjoyable community event appears below.
I acknowledge, in particular, the work of the members of our P and F Executive, led by the President
Mr Duncan Barrell. All worked tirelessly both beforehand and on the day to oversee the preparation
for this special occasion.
I extend a special thank you to Ms Charlotte Smith for her support of the School in allowing our
students’ access to the Darnell Collection and to those who assisted with the afternoon.
The afternoon was a great success both in terms of the proceeds made and the residual goodwill
and sense of community which always results from a concerted committed collaborative effort such
as this!
Parents’ and Friends’ Association AGM
I extend my thanks, on behalf of the School, to the Executive Committee of the Parents’ and Friends’
Association, who have served our School community, and its students, with such dedication over the
past twelve months.
During their tenure, they have accomplished many goals, including – but not limited to - the
purchase and installation of a projector and screen in Coote Hall, outdoor seating and landscaping
projects at the Preparatory School and House banners for the BMGS Chapel. On behalf of our
students, thank you for these gifts, which will be enjoyed by students for many years to come.
As all members of the outgoing Executive Committee stood for re-election unopposed, I look forward
to their planned calendar of events for the 2017 year and continuing our work together for the
benefit of our students.
10 Year Alumni Reunion - Welcoming back former students from the Class of 2007
I have heard it said that "If you don't send your ships out to sea, you can never look forward to them
coming back."
In many ways, it could be said that schools and families are safe harbours. We spend a great deal of
time preparing our students/children for the time when they have to leave the harbour and send
them out to sea.
The really gratifying thing is that when they return safely with stories of their adventures, they are
certainly richer for their experiences.
Last Saturday, we hosted our 10 Year Reunion for the Class of 2007. It was a great delight to spend
time with these former students who are making their way so well in the world.
The sharing of stories, achievements and personal journeys, whilst returning for a short time to the
"harbour", was clearly enjoyed by all.
Thank you to our staff - Mrs Marlene Plummer, Ms Anne Cranna and Mrs Andy O’Doherty and our
student helpers, Jessica (Year 11) and Jackson Prowse (Year 10) - for all they did to ensure this was
such an enjoyable event for members of our community.
Student Successes
London International Youth Science Forum 2017
Congratulations to Griffin Katrivesis Brown (Year 12) on being selected as one of six students from
across Australia to attend the 59th London International Youth Science Forum in July/August this
year which brings together some 300 students from 60 countries around the world. At the School,
Griffin will meet with leading scientists, many with international reputations, and visit various
scientific and national centres. As places for the Forum are so keenly contested, Griffin is to be
commended on his selection.
Sydney Youth Orchestra
Congratulations to Miriam Cooney (Year 10) and Emily Ampt (Year 11) who have been invited to tour
with the Sydney Youth Orchestra through Europe these coming holidays visiting the musically
significant and magnificent cities of Vienna, Budapest, Salzburg, Prague and Berlin. The tour will give
Miriam and Emily the opportunity to perform in world-renowned venues, work with leading classical
musicians and attend performances by world-class orchestras.
Kids’ Lit Quiz National Finals
Congratulations to Year 6 students Tien Attwater, Maeve Magner, Oliver Drew and Emily Colbran on
finishing Runners-Up, by half a point, in the National Finals of the Kids’ Lit Quiz. I also thank Mrs.
Danielle Roberson (Junior LRC) and Dr. Elissa Drew for coaching this team to such a wonderful
outcome. A full report appears in the Junior School section of this Newsletter.
T. Barman
Headmaster
FROM THE CHAPLAIN
Monday 20th March was Alien Abduction Day, so hopefully you are still around to read this article (or
at least you’re back in time for its publication). While the Day itself was popularised by the Happy
Worker Toy Company in 2008 (with people wearing tinfoil hats, watching sci-fi movies, etc.), the idea
of alien abductions has been around much longer, with one of the earliest cases cited being the
Betty & Barney Hill incident (September, 1961) in New Hampshire, USA. I’m not sure that Betty Hill
(Barney died in 1969) would have agreed with the spirit in which the day is celebrated, as she was a
dedicated UFO researcher up until her death in 2004. Indeed for some people this is a serious
matter; some even look forward to the possibility of being taken.
J.R.R. Tolkien stated that two of the five basic longings of human beings was ‘the desire to step
outside of time or into another world’ and ‘the desire to hold communion with non-human beings’.
Obviously Tolkien wrote his famous works in a manner that resonated with both of these desires (his
friend C. S. Lewis did the same) and indeed to the other three basic longings. Perhaps for some
people a fascination with aliens might also be an attempt to satiate these longings?
For me (and I think for Tolkien and Lewis), the promise of God through Jesus Christ provides a real
(rather than fictional) fulfilment of these longings: there is the opportunity to be in communion with
the Living God, and the promise of eternal life with God in a New Creation. As we move through the
season of Lent, perhaps we have the opportunity to evaluate how we are attempting to satisfy our
most basic longings. As St Augustine said “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are
restless until they find their rest in you”.
A. Dane
FROM THE PARENTS’ AND FRIENDS’ ASSOCIATION
Fashions for the Perfect Afternoon Tea
On Sunday a capacity audience enjoyed a wonderful afternoon of high fashion and a scrumptious
afternoon tea at the Parents’ and Friends’ Association’s highly anticipated Fashions for the Perfect
Afternoon Tea event.
The afternoon was organised by Ms Charlotte Smith and Ms Carole Young, who are sincerely
thanked for the enormous amount of work undertaken by them to ensure the success of this event.
Charlotte’s fashion parade featured rare and exquisite pieces from her renowned Darnell Collection,
and reflected ladies’ fashions over the past 100 years. The student models expertly executed their
turns, whilst our guests enjoyed a delicious afternoon tea, provided by members of the P and F and
accompanied by unique teas provided by Mrs. Mel Jones (Blue Mountains Tea Company, Katoomba).
Special mention should also be made of Ms Sally Wray, whose wonderful Glenbrook Jams were the
perfect accompaniment to warm scones.
An afternoon such as this could not happen without the fantastic support of a wonderful group of
parent and student volunteers who contributed their time, catering skills, modelling talents and
service.
Models: Nicky Zito (Year 6), Claudia Ivery (Year 6), Anetta Vergotis (2015 Alumni), Eleni Vergotis
(Year 12), Alex Vergotis (Year 10), Olivia de Govrik (Year 12), Kate Verhoeven (Year 12) and Emma
Hunter (Year 12). Help backstage, and hair and make up: Mrs. Stephanie Vergotis and Katherine
Jones (Year 12). Help throughout the day and catering: Mrs. Kristy Zito, Lexie Zito (Year 7), Mrs
Jodie Field, Eloise Field (Year 9), Bethany Field (Year 7), Ms Sally Wray, Ms Jo Hillyard, Ms Anne
Bahnisch, Ms Deirdre O’Hara, Mrs. Mel Jones, Mrs. Kate Klein and Mrs. Robyn Stacey, Mr. Duncan
Barrell and Miss Anne Cranna. Waiters: Zac Franklin (Year 11), Liam Glinn (Year 11), Michael
Hillyard (Year 10). Pre-event music was provided by the School’s Strings Trio - led by Mrs. Julie
Cooney, with Year 11 students Geraldine Weiss and Abraham Darley - whose classical repertoire
created a wonderful atmosphere in the venue.
A special thank you is extended to the School’s Maintenance
Team for setting up Cuff Hall and providing a runway for the
Parade, to Mr. Greg Broom (School Canteen Co-ordinator) for
sourcing our catering requirements and for allowing us the use
the Canteen throughout the afternoon, and to Mrs. Sarah
Dunstan and Mrs. Diane Curwen (Business Office) for managing
ticket sales.
The event also featured a raffle, with fabulous prizes donated by
Ms Kate Soady (Moontree Studios), Mrs. Mel Jones (Katoomba Tea), the Morgan Family (Zokoko’s
Goddess Chocolates), and Bygone Beauties Teapot Museum.
Finally, thank you to all the patrons who supported this most enjoyable event.
I would like to take this opportunity of thanking Charlotte for her outstanding contribution, over the
past five years, to Parents’ and Friends’ events. Through her generosity at making items from her
collection available for use at P and F events, Charlotte has not only significantly contributed to the
fundraising efforts of the P and F, she has provided our School community with the opportunity to
share in the many treasures contained within her exceptional Darnell Collection.
Annual General Meeting
The Parents’ and Friends’ Association AGM was held on Tuesday evening and I am pleased to
announce that the 2016/2017 Executive Committee has been re-elected to take the Parents’ and
Friends’ Association forward into our Centenary Year:
Chair:
Treasurer:
Senior School Representative:
Junior School Representative:
Preparatory School Representative:
Committee Members:
Mr. Duncan Barrell
Mrs. Jodie Field
Ms Deirdre O’Hara
Mrs. Bonnie Mamo
Mrs. Kate Klein and Mr. Michael Magill
Ms Carole Young, Ms Charlotte Smith, Ms Yolande Speter, and
Mrs. Caron Scott.
The position of Secretary is yet to be filled.
Upcoming Events
Please mark in your diary the next Parents’ and Friends’ Association major event: the Annual Trivia
Night, which this year will be held on Saturday 20th May. Further details will be provided in future
Newsletters.
Mr. Duncan Barrell
Chair, BMGS Parents’ and Friends’ Association
[email protected]
FROM THE DEPUTY HEAD – HEAD OF SENIOR SCHOOL
Delicate Approaches
Often in life and especially in families having a delicate approach to serious and substantial matters
is often hard to get right and even harder to be consistent. Yet we know that being able to
communicate appropriately and delicately are formidable forces when dealing with sensitive issues.
As teachers and educational leaders we, too, need to take a delicate and considered approach when
speaking about, teaching and or challenging certain topic areas. This modelling to students is a craft
that is developed over time, through experience and we hope that students will adopt the same
characteristics when communicating with each other.
Recently the London School of Economics and Political Science released some research on the
causes and effects of wellbeing. This research indicated that a child’s emotional health is the biggest
driving factor on success and flourishing in adult life. It also showed that an inability of educational
institutions to recognise the importance of a child and teenagers mental health and wellbeing as
being paramount to future success, leads to less successful adults. At BMGS we are pioneering new
inclusive and holistic approaches to student emotional and mental health, with an emphasis on
having delicate conversations around sensitive topics in an age appropriate way.
Dr Susan Scott who is the founder of the Fierce Institute and an international expert on leadership
and innovative thinking, talks about being brave as
communities in targeting specific sensitive topics in a
proactive and intuitive way.
Last Tuesday we started an ongoing, intentional and
inclusive conversation with our Years 9 and 10 and Years
11 and 12 with international mental health advocate, Mr.
Nic Newling, around the themes of student success,
wellbeing and youth suicide. This was highlighted on ABC
National News on Tuesday night and has been picked by
local, regional, state-wide and national news publications.
The sessions are part of the new culture that Mr Barman,
myself and Mr Andrew Beitsch, our Head of Wellbeing,
have been implementing into the daily lives of the students
through the excellent tutor led groups in conjunction with
our Heads of House. Having an holistic approach to
Wellbeing enables students to thrive in a supportive and
caring environment.
Being proactive in this area gives our students the ability to
become informed decision makers, equipped with the
skills and tools to identify areas of self-improvement and
have the necessary skills to help themselves and others as
well.
Top right, Mr. Osborne interviewed by ABC News, and right, introducing Mr. Nic Newling
to the Senior students.
Jan-Emmanuel De Neve a professor of economics at Oxford University in the UK has researched the
link between the improvements of student wellbeing and the lowering of negative risk taking
behaviours. We too want to empower our students to become informed decision makers with the
ability to have delicate conversations about sensitive topics in an inclusive and appropriate way.
The students, parents, staff and community members of BMGS have given excellent and positive
feedback about our approach to our event on Tuesday and I would like to commend our students for
their diligence, thoughtfulness and gratitude they not only displayed towards the topic, but the way
they intentionally care for one another each day at BMGS. As we continue to shine a light on
sensitive issues with our students, let us be brave and courageous to be proactive as a community
when dealing with sensitive issues.
A. Osborne
FROM THE DEPUTY HEAD – HEAD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING
Important Dates for Term 1:
Year 10 Parent/Teacher Night:
Year 12 Semester 1 Examinations:
Year 11 Leadership Camp:
Thursday, 30th March (Please note change of date)
Monday 27th March – Friday 7th April
Monday 3rd - Wednesday 5th April
New ventures in Mathematics at BMGS!
Nothing ever stays the same in schools and we have some exciting new developments in the way we
are teaching Mathematics. Our world is changing at an ever-increasing pace and technology has
disrupted the way we learn, work and play. Computers can do much of the complex calculations that
have been the focus of school Mathematics courses in the past. Consequently, we are constantly
looking to deepen and strengthen the thinking skills of our students to equip them to do their best at
school and beyond. These methods are based on a growing body of evidence around learning, and
learning Mathematics in particular. They reflect changes in the syllabus that reinforces these
changed understandings of how we learn and the role of Mathematics in our society. However,
things will look and feel different for your child. Here’s an explanation of what’s going on in
Mathematics in Years 7 to 9.
We believe Mathematics is an intuitive, creative, thought-provoking discipline that is filled with
patterns, interesting connections and real-life applications. Unfortunately, some students don’t
necessarily hold these same views, or may have had negative experiences with the subject. This can
lead to a lack of motivation, a lack of persistence with tasks and even ‘maths anxiety’.
There is growing research into learning and brain plasticity, determining that the brain is not ‘fixed’ it can grow and change. No one is born “knowing” Mathematics and no one is born with an inability
to learn Mathematics (Boaler, 2016, p.5). With the right teaching, persistence and the right
messages, anyone can learn Mathematics.
To address these issues, and to also prepare Mathematics students for life after school, we are
making some changes in our approach to teaching and assessing Mathematics.
NESA (2017), formerly BOSTES, describes ‘Working Mathematically’ as
Students develop understanding and fluency in Mathematics through inquiry, exploring and
connecting mathematical concepts, choosing and applying problem-solving skills and
mathematical techniques, communication and reasoning (NSW Educational Standards
Authority, 2017).
Working Mathematically is further broken down into the five areas of Communicating, Problem
Solving, Reasoning, Understanding and Fluency. Fluency and understanding can generally be
improved by drill and practice activities; however, to gain strong skills in the other areas, a different
approach to teaching must be taken.
Additionally, there is increasing evidence from research indicating that employers value the skills of
communication, teamwork, creativity, problem-solving and critical thinking more generally (Stewart,
Wall & Marciniec, 2016). We believe it is possible to address these skills in the Mathematics
classroom, from a mathematical viewpoint, and that it actually ties in nicely with the previous
objectives.
Stage 4 and early Stage 5
In Stage 4 and early Stage 5, students are grouped in mixed ability classrooms. Students work in
groups, sometimes on a common task, sometimes individually. Each student in the group has a
particular role to perform, aimed at making the group work equitable and effective. Students will
engage in open and rich tasks, allowing for multiple solutions or solution methods. Classroom
discussions are fostered so that all students can experience the different methods and/or solutions,
and so that students gain understanding in communicating in a mathematical sense.
Finally, once a fortnight, students are given the opportunity to select a different grouping structure.
The groups on offer will be structured to allow for revision or enrichment, depending on the students’
needs at that time. It is believed that this arrangement will encourage students to become more
aware of and responsible for their own learning needs. It is not expected that students will choose
the same group each fortnight; their choice is purely based on their needs at that time.
Mixed ability classes? In Mathematics?
There probably isn’t an area of education that has been studied more than class grouping based on
ability, or streaming. John Hattie’s meta-analysis in 2009 found that streaming actually had a low
effect size of 0.12 (i.e. less than a year’s growth), that there were minimal effects on learning
outcomes, and indeed streaming had profound negative equity effects. Boaler (2016, p.112) goes
further to note that there is no stronger way to deliver a fixed mindset to students than to place them
in a group dependent on their current achievement. She cites that both those in the bottom group
and those in the top group are negatively affected by this process. In fact, a study by Romero (2013,
cited in Boaler, 2016, p.112) actually found that students going into the top class were most
negatively affected.
Group work
Hattie (2008) found that group work, not based on ability, had a medium affect size of 0.49 and
worked best when students were schooled in effective group work, were assigned roles and had a
common goal. Indeed, when done properly it can lead to increased self-esteem among the members
and can be more effective than individual learning. We believe the use of open-ended tasks can help
to facilitate this.
Open-ended or rich tasks
Sullivan (2004, 2011) states open-ended questions are an important educational tool in
Mathematics because they are engaging and accessible to all students, they require more than a
straightforward rote-learned application of a skill and they enable a wide range of responses and
methods. They also challenge the misconception that success in Mathematics is related to speed in
task completion. Further, students are able to be more active in a lesson, they allow teachers to
probe mathematical understanding and students to challenge themselves to find more complex
solutions, and they enable connections between different areas of Mathematics and other subjects.
The use of these tasks encourages deeper thinking about problems and also provides the
opportunity for students to communicate their understanding of a concept. Students will be involved
in reasoning by justifying their solutions or methods. In many tasks, particularly those with many or
an infinite number of solutions, students are also accessing and increasing their creativity within the
context. Some students who have always “whizzed through” the content in Mathematics classes find
these new approaches quite hard to adjust to as they are having to slow down and are learning to
think in new ways around maths – again this is all part of us developing more flexible, deep thinkers
and fostering a growth mindset.
Does that mean the teachers are just sitting back and watching the kids do all the work?
No! As noted, tasks have to be painstakingly designed, groups need to be carefully monitored, and
constant modifications made, as well as assessment and feedback occurring throughout the
lessons. But Yes!! If the teacher is the person working the hardest in the room, then we need to
rethink the purpose of learning! Students are expected to be much more actively engaged in their
learning and taking responsibility for their progress, with their teacher facilitating and activating that
process.
Things look different compared to when we went to school, and this may seem foreign and counterintuitive to some. We strongly encourage you to talk to your child about their learning. Help them to
look beyond the superficial classroom changes to the deeper learning and the importance of
collaborating and thinking deeply.
If you have any further questions, please contact your child’s Mathematics teacher.
Reference List
Boaler, J. (2016). Mathematical Mindsets. San Francisco, California: Wiley.
Hattie, J. (2008). Visible Learning. Florence: Taylor and Francis. Retrieved from http://www.ebrary.com
NSW Educational Standards Authority (2017). Working mathematically and content strands, NESA Sydney.
Stewart, Wall & Marciniec, (2016) Mixed Signals: Do College Graduates Have the Soft Skills That Employers Want?, Competition
Forum, 14(2) available via Questia https://www.questia.com/library/journal/1P3-4246952401/mixed-signals-do-college-graduateshave-the-soft accessed February 2017
Sullivan, P., & Lilburn, P. (2004). Open – ended maths activities. Melbourne, Victoria: Oxford.
Sullivan, P. (2011). Teaching Mathematics: using research informed strategies, Australian education Review 59. Retrieved from
http://research.acer.edu.au/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1022&context=aer
M. Hastie
FROM THE HEAD OF MUSIC
Young Mannheim Symphonists with Richard Gill
In July 2017, Richard Gill, AO and internationally-acclaimed musicians from the Australian Romantic
and Classical Orchestra (formerly known as orchestra seventeen88) are offering an intensive course
for young orchestral musicians. Australia’s only orchestra devoted to performance of Classical and
Romantic music on period instruments and informed through historical scholarship. The Young
Mannheim Symphonists brings together students from across Australia and introduces them to
magnificent music with a fresh new perspective. Young Mannheim Symphonists are presently
inviting young musicians to join us for four days of musical exploration and discovery.
Students need to be AMEB Grade 6 level (or equivalent).
The four-day course held at Santa Sabina College in Strathfield, Sydney, will consist of orchestral
rehearsals, sectionals, tutorials, and workshops, culminating in a concert for friends and families.
Applications close 7th April, 2017; please come to the Music office for further details.
Musical Achievements
Congratulations to Emily Ampt (Year 11) who has been appointed the concertmaster of the new
Western Sydney Youth Orchestra, which was launched Monday 20th March at the Riverside Theatre.
Guests on that occasion included Stuart Ayres MP (Minister of Western Sydney), David Borger
(Western Sydney Director), Michael Brealey (Executive Director Arts NSW), Luke Foley MP (Member
for Auburn) along with ABC and other media.
The SYO’s most exciting recent innovation has been the formation, this year, of the Western Sydney
Youth Orchestra based in Parramatta; the first time in its 44-year history that the SYO has created an
orchestra outside central Sydney.
This year Emily also successfully auditioned for the Sydney Youth Orchestra, gaining a position in the
Peter Seymour Orchestra. In addition to concert performances with the two orchestras, she was
invited to play with the SYO touring orchestra for their Mozart by the Sea tour, which included several
concerts: Bermagui Four Winds Festival, Mozart Forever at City Recital Hall and a performance on
the Queen Victoria ocean liner.
During the Easter holidays Emily and Miriam Cooney (Year 10) will be members of the SYO’s 80strong European Tour symphony orchestra that will include performances in Salzburg, Vienna,
Prague, Berlin and Budapest.
Fashions For the Perfect Afternoon Tea
Thank you to Abraham Darley (Year 11), Geraldine Weiss (Year 11) and the wonderful Mrs Cooney
whose musical contribution provided an elegant atmosphere for the presentation of the Darnell
Collection in Cuff Hall last Sunday afternoon.
Encore
On Monday evening, Year 11 and 12 Music elective students attended the HSC Encore Concert at
the Sydney Opera House. This annual concert showcases a selection of exemplary compositions and
performances from the 2016 HSC and is a wonderful opportunity for students to experience the
diversity of repertoire and genres presented at this level. We extend a huge thank you to Mr Col
Burke, who came to our rescue by agreeing to drive the bus at the last moment as our original driver
was ill.
Diary Dates:
Sunday, 30th April:
Music Amongst the Autumn Leaves, Springwood Rotary (Stage Band)
D. Smith
CAREERS NEWS
Website
Careers information for students is available on the BMGS Careers FROG Learning Management
website. This website is accessible by all students and staff in the Senior School. Here you will find
the link to the MHSCareers website, which provides an extensive careers information service.
Library Resource Centre
New UNSW Undergraduate guides arrived this week. Collect your copy in the LRC. There are also new
guide books from ACU and Charles Sturt University. We also have a large number of TAFE course
guides. Please take whatever material interests you.
In the Mail
This week we have links to register for a day at UTS as a Communication Student. Test the course to
see if it is what you would like to study in 2018. Notre Dame University have sent us information
regarding their early entry program for 2018. We have a link to a website which will help you decide
whether university is the path for you and your future. There is also information on a design
competition with attractive prizes. You are required to design an outfit for a musician. The
competition is open to any student from Years 7 to 12. An entry would be perfect for your portfolio if
you are looking at a design course next year. Further information regarding these opportunities can
be found on the BMGS FROG careers page.
Discussing your options
Careers discussions are available in the LRC every Tuesday afternoon between 3:15 and 4:45pm
during term time.
J Madgwick
FROM THE LEARNING ENRICHMENT DEPARTMENT
After-school tutoring is held in the Library Resource Centre (LRC) every Thursday
afternoon from 3:15pm to 4:45pm.
After-school tutoring can help with completing assessment tasks and doing
some extra work in literacy and numeracy. This afterschool assistance can also
include help in organising a study plan or just general assistance in organising
your workload.
If you are interested in attending, it is a great idea to contact me on email
[email protected] so that I can prepare best for our time spent
together.
A. Michielsen
FROM THE UNIFORM SHOP
Athletics Singlets
Athletics Singlets that were hired for the Triathlon need to be returned to the Uniform Shop by 28 th
April. A refund of $5 will be given to each student who returns their singlet by the due date. If singlets
are not returned, families will be invoiced for the cost of replacement singlets. The Uniform Shop
hours, during term time, are Monday from 8:15am to 3:15pm and Tuesday from 8:15am to 1:45pm
K. Arrell
FROM THE HEAD OF SPORT
Senior School Swimming Carnival
At Assembly this week, the following students were acknowledged as Age Champions at this year’s
Senior School Swimming Carnival:
2017 Age Champions for Swimming
12 Years Girls:
13 Years Girls:
14 Years Girls:
15 Years Girls:
16 Years Girls:
17 Years Girls:
18 Years Girls:
Eliza Huckel
Mirah Larkin
Jessica McNair
Hayley Morgan
Bronte Pickering
Olivia Kennedy
Fleur Young
12 Years Boys:
13 Years Boys:
14 Years Boys:
15 Years Boys:
16 Years Boys:
17 Years Boys:
18 Years Boys:
Max Lucas
Oliver Stephens
Balint Boda
Finnian O’Connor
Luke Anicic
Taylor Phillips
Matthew Van Horen
The Max Lewis Shield (Fastest Girl and Boy in the 200IM event)
Ella Lucas (Year 10) and Matthew Van Horen (Year 12)
Winning House
Deane House (pictured right, Deane House Captains Julia Chabros and Paddy Trihey with the House
Swimming Shield)
Basketball Presentation Evening
Last Wednesday evening, the Annual BMGS Basketball Presentation evening
was held. It was a successful night and it was good to see such a large
number of students and parents in attendance. The following awards were
presented on the night:
Boys’ Awards:
Team
MVP
Coaches Award
Most improved
13B
13G
14
17
15
1sts
Harrison Jarman
Gabe McGarry
Isaac Baker
Sam Baker
Rama Pattison
Jesse Ho
Kane Molla
Jake Weber
Peter Young
Nicholas Van Tilburg
Lucas Girardi
Aiden Morgan
Samuel Cooke
Oscar Monk
Aaron Ngo
Zahki Kapusta
Patrick Brischetto
Keighran Brown
Team
MVP
Coaches Award
Most Improved
Junior C
Junior B
Junior A
Intermediate B
Senior C
Senior B
First V
Milla Gibson
Astrid McHugh
Michayla Clark
India Foulds
Sarah Herrmann
Rose Clifford
Georgia Bromilow
Diya Kapoor
Marni Brown
Mia Brischetto
Emma Simon
Alexandra Michielsen
Alice Knight
Laura Williamson
Ruby Hensen
April Foster-Powell
Indigo Franklin
Eloise Field
Jessica Prowse
Isabel Stortenbeker
Emily Goodlet
Girls’ Awards:
Special Awards:
Grant Opie Award for Contributions to Basketball: Caitlin
Schultz (pictured right with Grant’s father, Mr. David Opie and Rhys Daley (2003,
Alumni))
Howe Family encouragement Award: Ethan Bromilow; Georgia
Bromilow
ISA 2017 Winter Sport
Teams are now being finalised in all sports, however, a
number of students have still not returned their winter sports
registration forms. These forms must be submitted prior to
students attending away games. Please also ensure that all
sections of the form are completed.
All forms were sent both to parents and students via email
and this form is also available on the School Portal.
Please ensure that if you are training for sport that you are in
school sports gear. All students playing Hockey and Rugby
must be wearing the required protective gear. If you are
unsure of what is required, please see the relevant MIC.
Players wanted:
Player numbers are lower than we would like in both Junior
Hockey and 13s Rugby. Why not consider learning a new sport and making friends at the same
time? If you are interested, please talk to Mr Webb (Rugby) or Mrs Hyslop (Hockey) regarding the
requirements of these sports.
Pre-Season
The Football pre-season games that were to be held at Redfield College this Saturday, 25th March,
have been cancelled due to all fields being closed.
The pre-season Rugby games are still on and bus times and game times are listed both on the Portal
and in this Newsletter.
Cross Country
The Senior School Cross Country carnival has been postponed until Term 2. The new date for this
event is Friday, 5th May from 8:30am until 12:15pm.
Presentation Evening
The Cricket presentation evening is coming up on the 1st April. To assist with catering, please ensure
that you have advised Mr Collins of your attendance: [email protected]
ISA Swimming Carnival
The ISA Swimming team has been posted on the sports noticeboard in the Senior School Reception.
All students who have made the BMGS Swimming Team are to be congratulated. These students
have been emailed the permission note and events entered. Thank you to those students who have
returned the note already. All others must return their note by Monday, 27th March if they wish to
attend the carnival on Wednesday.
Those who have sent in times for additional events have been nominated and will be notified if their
time allows them to compete at either the CIS or All Schools’ Carnival.
M. Harris
Team
Boys’
Football
Opponent
Venue
Time
Redfield
Redfield
CANCELLED
2 XI
Redfield
Redfield
CANCELLED
15s
Redfield
Redfield
CANCELLED
14s
Redfield
Redfield
CANCELLED
13s
Redfield
Redfield
CANCELLED
1st XI
nd
Rugby
1st XV
Various
Chevalier
16s
Knox
St.
Stanislaus
14s
Knox
13s
Spectating
St.
Stanislaus
St.
Stanislaus
Court/field
ALL GAMES TO
REDFIELD HAVE BEEN
CANCELLED DUE TO
THE UNAVAILABILTY
OF FIELDS
ALL GAMES TO
REDFIELD HAVE BEEN
CANCELLED DUE TO
THE UNAVAILABILTY
OF FIELDS
Various all day
12.00pm
TBA
10:00am
TBA
Bus Times
N/A
N/A
BMGS 6:30am
Hazelbrook 6:45pm
Springwood Station 6:55am
Glenbrook 7:10am
Glenbrook 7:00am
Springwood Station 7:15am
Hazelbrook 7:25 am
BMGS 7:35 am
Blackheath 7:45am
Spectating
FROM THE HEAD OF THE JUNIOR SCHOOL
While school continues along busily every day, there have been some exciting student achievements
happening outside the classroom recently.
Our Kids’ Lit Quiz team of Year 6 students Tien Attwater, Emily Colbran, Oliver Drew and Maeve
Magner, who you may recall won their regional heat last week, competed in the national competition
over the weekend and finished Runners-Up by half a point to a team of Year 8 students! What a
fantastic achievement and a great credit to them and their facilitators Mrs Roberson and Dr Drew; a
great celebration of “the sport of reading”.
Last Friday evening and Saturday morning BMGS had four teams competing in the semi-finals of the
local BMBA competition. Unfortunately, all of our teams were defeated, but there were some exciting
contests and excellent team play throughout the matches. It was pleasing to note that the principles
of good sportsmanship were in evidence throughout our teams, as there was no whingeing or looking
for excuses after the games. The players shook hands and congratulated the opposition and finished
the season in a positive frame of mind, reflecting back on a good season during which much had
been achieved. Thank you to all of the supporters of the teams for encouraging the children and a
very big thank you to all of the team coaches for committing to the season, giving all our children
involved a great opportunity.
On Tuesday we sent five boys to trial for the HICES Football Team and congratulations to Will Zakis
(Year 5) who was selected in the team and to Xavier Busch (Year 5) who is a shadow player at this
stage. Good luck also to Will as he joins Flynn Nichols from the Preparatory School in representing
HICES at the CIS Swimming Carnival this week.
Though not a School event, I thought it was worth sharing and acknowledging another outstanding
achievement that some of our students have achieved. Last Saturday Oliver Drew, Angus Herron and
Will Zakis participated in the Little Athletics State Track and Field Championships. Oliver competed in
Triple Jump and jumped a Personal Best; Angus in the Javelin and Will in the 100m, 800m and
1500m and ran a PB in the 800m. The boys tell me the State Championships were a positive and
memorable experience.
In the classroom this week 4G enjoyed a Street Art workshop and 6G showcased a piece of research
work that they have been engaged in around the theme of Being Informed in which they had to
become an expert on a topic of their choice and educate their peers. There are some really
outstanding examples of student research and presentation amongst them and they will soon be on
display in 6G so if you get the opportunity be sure to drop in and have a look.
Thank you to Mrs Bonnie Mamo, Mrs Deborah Cunningham and Mrs Tina Erne who ran the St
Patrick’s Day Cup Cake and Cordial stall last week, raising $106 for the Parents’ and Friends’
Association towards this year’s projects.
N. Cockington
Student Awards
The following award was presented at Assembly this week:
Citizen of the Week – Finlay Davis (6G)
KIDS’ LIT QUIZ SUCCESS
Last Saturday, Year 6 students Oliver Drew, Tien Attwater,
Maeve Magner and Emily Colbran, competed in the
National Final of the Kids’ Lit Quiz, a wide-ranging
literature quiz which tests both general literature
knowledge and knowledge of specific authors and books.
Our team was coached by Mrs. Danielle Roberson and Dr.
Elissa Drew, who had worked with the team through a
series of ‘mock quizzes’.
It is for students between the ages of 10 to 14 years, so
our Year 6 team found themselves pitted against not only
students from other primary schools, but also students in
Years 7 and 8.
Over a period of two hours, the ten finalist teams
contested five rounds of 13 questions each, buzzing in
with their answers.
An incorrect answer meant a
reduction in points, so the pressure was on all teams to be
both fast and accurate in their responses. The five
categories contested were authors, characters, opening
lines, titles and beasts.
Our team was in equal 2nd place at the end of the final
round, necessitating a tie-breaking single question contest
against Moreton Bay Boys’ College (QLD), with only a point separating the three top teams.
In a nail-biting finish, the BMGS team won the tiebreak question to finish in outright 2nd place, only
half a point behind a secondary school team from Canberra Grammar, who will now contest the
world finals to be held in Toronto, Canada, later this year.
In finishing second in the competition, and the best Primary years team in the competition, our
students received a small cash prize each and a selection of books.
Congratulations, Tien, Maeve, Ollie and Emily on your outstanding achievement.
STREET ART WORKSHOP
On Tuesday 21st March, 4G participated in a Street Art Workshop conducted by ex-student Mr Jeremy
Richardson (2007). The students have been taking a close look at the differences between street art
and graffiti. The students believe that street art can be a powerful form of
communication and help to get
important messages out into the
community.
Jeremy engaged the students in
some painting using his air
compressor tools and the students
also proposed ideas for a poster to
help promote the importance of
caring for the environment at
Wentworth Falls Lake.
The students really enjoyed watching Jeremy create the poster and they thought his final creation
was amazing.
L. Gerrard
JUNIOR SPORTS NEWS – JUNIOR BASKETBALL
Congratulations to the four teams who represented BMGS in the Semi-Finals last week. All teams
played with great determination and skill. I was very pleased to be able to watch all the games as
they were very exciting.
5/6 Boys Blue played Mountain Royals and the boys lost 18 to 6.
5/6 Boys Gold played The Marvels and the boys lost 22 to 6.
5/6 Girls Gold played Storm and the girls lost 58 to 26.
3/4 Girls Blue played Misfits and the girls lost 10 to 23.
A reminder that our Basketball Presentation will be held on Friday, 31st March in Coote Hall at
3:10pm. Students have been asked to bring along a plate of food to share at the conclusion of the
presentations.
All players need to return their washed tops to their coaches or Mrs Gerrard by the 31st of March.
Thanks to all the parents for being so supportive throughout the season. I look forward to seeing you
all at the Basketball Presentation.
L. Gerrard
BLUE MOUNTAINS GRAMMAR JUNIOR SCHOOL
Basketball Presentation
When
Friday, 31st March at 3:10pm
Where
Coote Hall, Junior School
Please Bring
A plate of food to share
FROM THE PARENTS’ AND FRIENDS’ ASSOCIATION
Fashions for the Perfect Afternoon Tea
On Sunday a capacity audience enjoyed a wonderful afternoon of high fashion and a scrumptious
afternoon tea at the Parents’ and Friends’ Association’s highly anticipated Fashions for the Perfect
Afternoon Tea event.
A full report appears at the beginning of the Newsletter.
Annual General Meeting
The Parents’ and Friends’ Association AGM was held on Tuesday evening and I am pleased to
announce that the 2016/2017 Executive Committee has been re-elected to take the Parents’ and
Friends’ Association forward into our Centenary Year:
Chair:
Treasurer:
Senior School Representative:
Junior School Representative:
Preparatory School Representative:
Committee Members:
Mr. Duncan Barrell
Mrs. Jodie Field
Ms Deirdre O’Hara
Mrs. Bonnie Mamo
Mrs. Kate Klein and Mr. Michael Magill
Ms Carole Young, Ms Charlotte Smith, Ms Yolande Speter, and
Mrs. Caron Scott.
The position of Secretary is yet to be filled.
Upcoming Events
Please mark in your diary the next Parents’ and Friends’ Association major event: the Annual Trivia
Night, which this year will be held on Saturday 20th May. Further details will be provided in future
Newsletters.
Mr. Duncan Barrell
Chair, BMGS Parents’ and Friends’ Association
[email protected]
FROM THE HEAD OF THE PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Grandparents’ Day 2017
On Wednesday, 5th April we will be celebrating Grandparents’ Day from 11:00am to 1:00pm.
All grandparents and honorary grandparents of our School community are invited to share in this
occasion. Please join us in the Hall at 11:00am. This year we will travel on a ‘Literary Journey’
through the School. Bring a picnic lunch to share with your grandchildren; tea and coffee will be
provided.
A Book Fair will be held in the Library for grandparents and visitors to order and/or purchase books
for personal use, or to donate to the Library.
Pre-Kindergarten children are welcome to attend. They should arrive with their grandparents at
11:00am.
Preparatory Staff
Student Awards:
Pre-Kindergarten - Levi Richardson
Kindergarten –Thomas Hyslop
Stage 1 – Cody Mackin, Hunter Stacpoole and Charlotte Scott
Stage 2 –Chase Davidsen
E. Flett
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY – MARCH 2017
Saturday, 25th March – Open Morning at the Preparatory School
Monday 27th March to 7th April – Year 12 Examinations
Wednesday, 29th March – ISA Swimming Carnival
Wednesday, 29th March – 2018 Music and Performing Arts Scholarship Auditions
Thursday, 30th March – Early Learning Autumn Walk
Thursday, 30th March – Book-a-Tour Day at the Preparatory School
Thursday, 30th March – Year 10 Parent/Teacher Evening
Friday, 31st March – Junior School Basketball Presentation
Saturday, 1st April – Cricket Presentation Dinner