27 February - Pittwater House School

HouseNews 

Mon 4 Mar to 

Fri 8 Mar 

Tue 5 Mar 

8:30-9am 

9am-2pm 

6:30-8:30pm 

Wed 6 Mar 

8:30-9am 

8:30am- 

3:25pm 

Thu 7 Mar 

6:45am- 

4:15pm 

6:30-9pm 

Term 1, 2013 

Term 2, 2013 

Term 3, 2013 

Term 4, 2013 

Term 1, 2014 

Term 2, 2014 

Term 3, 2014 

Term 4, 2014 

What’s On 

ECC-Yr 6 Life Education 

P5 Principal’s Coffee 

Morning 

Exc.: Physics – Kickstart 

Workshop 

Yr 10 Safe Partying Risk 

Taking 

J5 Principal’s Coffee 

Morning 

Exc.: Yr 7 Geography 

Yrs 3-6 HICES 

Swimming Carnival 

Exc.: Yrs 9-12 Elective 

Music Students - Meet 

the Music Concert 

Term Dates 

29 Jan to 12 Apr 

30 Apr to 21 Jun 

16 Jul to 20 Sep 

15 Oct to 11 Dec 

28 Jan to 11 Apr 

29 Apr to 20 Jun 

15 Jul to 19 Sep 

14 Oct to 10 Dec 

Contacts 

Student absences: 

Email: attendance@tphs.nsw.edu.au 

General: 

Phone: 02 9981 4400 

Fax: 02 9971 1627 

Postal Address: 

P. O. Box 244, Manly, NSW 1655 

Campus address: 

70 South Creek Road, Collaroy 

www.pittwaterhouse.com.au 

From the Principal’s Desk 

THE INNOVATION MINDSET 

Following my call to ask a good question 

each day, this week I urge you and your 

children to be aware of the innovation 

mindset. For from innovation comes 

creativity and from creativity comes great 

value which will make a difference to our 

learning. 

So how can we innovate? How many boxes 

can you tick? 

Are you, can you, do you: 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Give yourself new experiences 

Question what hasn’t been asked 

Realise that the first idea is a 

rough draft, open to refinement 

Adopt a ‘let’s learn from our 

mistakes’ attitude 

Question the status quo 

Relate the unrelated 

Let the past be a guide post, not a 

hitching post 

Be open to experiment 

Make the box bigger, or better, 

imagine there is no box 

Make new connections 

www.creativityday.org/innovation_mindset.html 

Daily we pass up opportunities simply because we are not always thinking of 

how each experience can help us with the bigger picture. And sometimes we 

are just not listening to ourselves when a new idea or thought floats in our 

head. As I shared in Assembly recently, it is so important to seek out those 

who may not be in our immediate circle as they will often have great new 

ways of looking at things which we can then add to our growing knowledge 

and thought base. And let us be passionate about something in our learning 

and realise what we are trying to make happen will add to the innovation 

necessary for our and the nation’s greater good. 

Perhaps it is no surprise that each year we celebrate 

World Creativity and Innovation Day on 15 April… 

Leonardo Da Vinci’s birthday… but at Pittwater House, 

let’s not wait for that week to celebrate Creativity and 

Innovation… let us make this a daily focus. 

27 February 2013 HouseNews Issue 2013 / 3

From the Principal’s Desk continued 

MORE SUCCESS IN THE POOL… 

With the College and Grammar swimming carnivals complete, we have further cemented the focus on the House 

structure, a structure which is taking greater prominence in 2013. The Junior School now sits in House groups at 

Assembly time and the regular House meetings in the Secondary School will allow for greater inter-house competition 

and activities. 

However it was in the pool that the past week brought a fun filled day of action. Congratulations to the students who 

not only set some fine times and three records set by Jayke Rees (including one set in 1996 and another set in 2000) 

but importantly, students enjoyed each other’s company. It was marvellous to see so many parents enjoying the day 

too. The students do appreciate your presence. 

Photos by Ryan Blackshaw G11 

With the inaugural Secondary School Information Night last Thursday declared a most worthy addition to the School 

Calendar, I do want to thank parents for their attendance. We did want you to engage with your son or daughter’s 

Form Teacher for it is they who have the responsibility of delivering the key pastoral support element of our program 

to students. Additionally, the collective sessions in the Hall allowed for new information to be shared. I trust parents 

have now been able to either find in the school bag, or download from MyHouse, the detailed Assessment Schedule 

and Homework timetable given to students in Week 3. And for the parents of students in Years 8-10, a brief overview 

of the exciting World Challenge program to be offered in 2014 is the precursor of a full presentation to be given to all 

interested families on Tuesday 5 March at 6pm in the Hall. 

As part of our ongoing review of School Policies, please note the link below to the new policy, A Positive Community. 

With our Core Values central to daily operations, this policy provides a definition of the terms bullying and harassment 

and prevention and response within our community empowering students to deal appropriately with these behaviours. 

This policy is available on the School’s webpage and on MyHouse: http://www.pittwaterhouse.com.au/our-school/ourphilosophy/policies--procedures.aspx. 

Week 5 is the beginning of my opportunity to meet with each Junior School class group for coffee at drop off time, 

8.30am. An invitation will be sent to each class group in turn… we begin this with P6 on Tuesday and J6 on 

Wednesday. P5 and J5 next week. I look forward to meeting with you all. 

ROBOTICS AT THE HOUSE 

James McArthur (G11) is a member of the Robotics FRC Team 3132, The Thunder Down Under at Macquarie 

University where his main focus is strategy. As such, he is responsible for business plans, media footage, 

photography, community outreach, sponsorship and award submissions. This year James is also a member of the 

Chairman’s team whose mission is to spread science, technology, engineering and mathematics as widely as possible. 

And this is certainly what James is doing at Pittwater House as he works with our Robotics team under the teacher 

guidance of Ms Lord. See further information later in this newsletter. 

James has been selected to undertake a public speaking workshop, sponsored by Google Australia in preparation for a 

regional competition in Hawaii at the end of March, where his speech will be the cornerstone of the presentation. And 

if the team has success, then the World Championships is the end goal … in St Louis. Good luck James. 

Dr Nancy Hillier, Principal 

HouseNews Issue 2013 / 3 Page 2 of 13

General News 

MAJOR PRODUCTION 

There are 65 days until the opening night of the school production of Grease! We start Sunday 

rehearsals this weekend and have been practising after school on Tuesdays and Fridays since 

Term 4. All the cast are excited about the production and are getting in to the style of rock 'n' roll. 

There are several songs that are well known and will be recognised from the film. The back stage 

crew have been busy with making sets and the Visual Arts department have organised painting so 

we are looking forward to seeing the sets on stage soon. We even have a real car to go on the stage. 

Tickets will be available shortly – watch this space. 

FROM THE CHAPLAIN 

As we gather together following the droughts, bushfires, floods, and local torrential rains we still live in a wonderful 

country full of opportunities and challenges. This term we are looking towards the Lenten messages of Easter 

culminating in the solemn events of Holy Week, a reminder of God’s love and care for His people from the beginnings 

of time to the present. Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday remind us of how this season is one of reflection and 

compassion for each other. 

This week I will be speaking to a group about the way that beliefs have been introduced into our society by incoming 

cultures. A lesson in toleration and understanding. 

Last year I was very happy to welcome many parents who called in for a chat or advice, you are always welcome just 

give me a ring beforehand. For anything of an urgent nature my number is 0411 430 176 and I am here at any time 

help is needed. 

May God grant you all the Peace and Love which is His to give and for us to receive. 

Reverend John Butterworth 

JUNIOR NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICERS COURSE 

All members of Years 9 and 10 wishing to commence a JNCO course with the view of attaining the rank of corporal 

are to meet Captain McClean in N21 immediately after completion of the starting parade next Tuesday 5 March. 

Candidates will need to have both paper and writing materials. 

Captain (AAC) McClean 

34 TH FOUNDATION LUNCHEON COMPETITION 

Mrs King would like to invite students from Years 7-12 who are passionate about cooking food to enter the Luncheon 

Competition this year. The theme is three ingredients. Students can design a menu for a special lunch and spend the 

day before doing their Mise en Place and the next day cooking and serving it for their guests. Please see Mrs King or 

Mrs Upton to get the criteria for entry. We know there are some spectacular cooks in this school so have a go and 

enter. 

Design Brief: Using the following three ingredients: eggs, lemon and a cheese to design a three course meal to serve 

for a special lunch. You must prepare enough food to serve six people. 

The three ingredients may be used as many times as you require, for example an egg may be used as part of a 

coating on meat and then used in a baked cheese cake. The food should be innovative, taste delicious and fresh 

quality ingredients should be used. 

All the work must be presented in a folder. The recipes must serve six people (five guests and one for the judging 

table). 

This is compulsory for all students in Year 10 who are working in the food area. It is also open to any student who 

wishes to be considered for the competition. 

FROM THE LANGUAGES FACULTY 

Interactive Language Website 

We are very excited about complementing the language study of both Chinese and French with an interactive 

language website which can be accessed from school and home. Students can learn vocabulary, practice their 

listening skills, translate from English to the target language and vice versa and compete against the clock or with 


their friends. They will also be able to participate in the World Championship which will take part in May and 

significantly develop their confidence in the various language skills, using the website to revise, consolidate, practice 

or extend themselves by doing other modules in the program. During the World Championship, students compete 

against other schools in Australia and overseas to gain the most points for language learnt. Prizes to be won for the 

most keen language learners! The site not only allows students to learn vocabulary in French and Chinese, but a 

range of other languages as well, catering for those who already know another language. I strongly recommend the 

Language Perfect website for all students and will register all students studying a language in Year 3-12 for a fee of 

$10 to be charged to your school account which is inclusive of the competition and other activities throughout the 

academic year. This was trialled last year and the participating students reported that it was an effective, fun and 

interactive way to support and enhance their language learning experience. For more information you can contact 

Juliette.sellies@tphs.nsw.edu.au 

Language Club 

This is a reminder that Chinese and French Language club is on every Thursday from 3.30-4.15pm in rooms M115, 

M114 and M113. 

Everyone is welcome. 

PITTWATER HOUSE HOLIDAY CLUB 

Camp Australia is again running Vacation Care. Details of the Pittwater House Holiday 

Programs for the April recess can be found at Reception or by clicking on the following link: 

http://www.campaustralia.com.au/parents/holiday-programs/program.aspx?hpId=1943& 

Program Date: Monday 15 April to Wednesday 24 April. 

Please Note: ECC students do not go on excursions they remain at the centre. 

FIRST LEGO LEAGUE- THEY HAVE DONE IT AGAIN! 

Two Pittwater House FIRST LEGO® League (FLL) robotics teams competed at 

the National Tournament at Macquarie University on Sunday 24 February. 

Over 35 teams from the 250 around Australia competed and had fun in the 

process. 

The Manic Engineers consisting of Matthew Rose (P5), Daniel Nemstev (P5) 

and William Swift (G7) and The Professional Lunatics consisting of Joshua 

Udell (G8), Robyn Garrad (J5), Aaron Auld (G7) and Duncan Easter (P5) all 

took part in the event. They were coached by myself and Fredrik Westling 

(Alumni) throughout the 2012 season. 

The Manic Engineers had to forfeit their first match due to technical 

difficulties. This did not deter the team, working together they kept calm and 

got their robot going again. This didn’t go un-noticed by the judges, and for their perseverance and sportsmanship, 

The Manic Engineers won a judges award for their efforts and great team work. 

Fresh off the back of their regional robot game win, The Professional Lunatics went into the competition with open 

minds, knowing that their robot was to be up against the best of the best, and they did not go away disappointed. 

Although their robot did not win, they scored a very high score of 215 points! This team showed what it meant to 

have fun, never losing their smiles. 

The students all deserve congratulations for their spectacular efforts and for representing the School at a national 

level, doing the school a great service. 

Now the new season of Robotics starts with Year 4 only in Semester 1 on Monday afternoons with Miss Lord. In 

Semester 2 when the FLL competition starts again this will open up to Years 4-9. Contact 

emma.lord@tphs.nsw.edu.au 

Next term, the high school robotics program, FTC will start again, this is for Years 8-12. If you have an interest in 

robotics, fun or science, and want to join FTC, please contact James McArthur – jamesmcarthur3999@gmail.com. 

James McArthur (G11) 


Junior School News 

FROM THE HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL 

Since last weekend, and across the next two weeks, the Junior School students will begin the business of representing 

the School in a number of capacities. The first opportunity arose last Sunday when the Robotics Team represented the 

School at the National Robotics Titles. The Pittwater House team were calm under pressure when there was a 

technical hitch and were recognised for this attribute. Congratulations on a fine effort. On Monday the Junior School 

Leadership team, accompanied by Mr McGregor, travelled to the Blue Mountains Grammar School to take part in an 

inspirational leadership conference with members of other HICES schools. The students did a brilliant job of making 

their own advertisement for their School. On Thursday a team of 43 boys will represent the Junior School at the 

QUAD Swimming Carnival hosted here on home ‘turf’, in the Pittwater House pool. This will place the boys in great 

stead, where accompanied by the Junior College, they will represent Pittwater House at the HICES Swimming 

Carnival, taking place next week on March 7 at SOPAC. We wish each student every success for their selected events 

and know that they will represent both the School and themselves proudly. 

Back on School grounds, each student from ECC to Year 6 will visit the Life Education van. The facilitators are always 

impressed by the learning and the manners our students demonstrate. The Life Education van lessons will begin on 

Thursday 28 February and will conclude on Friday 8 March. The cost of $10 for K-6 and $7 for ECC will be charged to 

your school account. 

Junior School Clubs 

Along with the Academies and sports training for the Junior School, clubs offer students a range of activities for 

relaxation and pleasure, as well as skills development. 

Story Factory Writing Club: Year 3 Tuesday lunchtime with Miss Paton 

Numeracy and Literacy Skills: Year 5 Tuesday afternoon 3:30 – 4:30pm with Miss Jones and Mr Catanzariti 

Mandarin Club: Years 1-6 Thursday afternoons 3:25 – 4:15pm with Ms Zhong 

French Club: Years 3-6 Thursday afternoons 3:25 – 4:15pm with Mr James 

Skipping Club: Years K-2 Monday mornings 7:45 – 8:20am with Miss Dutfield 

Gardening Club: Years K-6 Mondays at lunchtime with Miss Bennett 

Drama Club: Years K-6 – Tuesday mornings 7:30 – 8:20am with Ms Jessica Whitehill 

Robotics Club: Year 4 - Tuesday afternoons 3:30 – 4:30pm. Limited to 12 places with Miss Lord 

Chess Club: Years K-6 Thursdays at lunchtime with Mrs Webster 

Advanced Chess Club: Wednesdays 3:30 – 4:30pm 

Advanced Readers Club: Years K-2 Thursdays at lunchtime: 12 places available with Mrs Fischer. 

STUDENT SUCCESS 

On Sunday 17 February, three of our J4 girls competed in the U/11 Tee-Ball 

Regional Championships for Manly. Isabella Lorenzo and Chelsea Bennett were 

part of the Manly Representative team who were undefeated on the day, and 

were the winners of the Regional Championships over North Shore and Hornsby. 

Shantani Jepson was part of the Manly Development team and they also won the 

Development Regional Championship. Well done to Isabella, Chelsea and 

Shantani who will be continuing to represent Manly in the coming weeks at 

further tournaments. 

Mrs Ruth Achurch, Head of Junior School 

SCHOOL BANKING – A PLATFORM TO HELP YOU TEACH YOUR CHILD ABOUT SAVING! 

The Commonwealth Bank School Banking program is a great way to give your 

child a financial head start by helping them to learn about good money 

management and the importance of saving. 

It’s time students learnt that Mum and Dad are not the bank! Does your child always want? Do they understand how 

much things cost? Do they think there is an endless supply of cash from the machine in the wall? The School Banking 

program offers you a platform to start teaching your child the value of money and the benefits of saving. 


Our Saving Tips to discuss with your child: 

Discuss what saving into the bank means. A bank account is somewhere safe to keep your money, the money 

remains yours and the more money you put in the more money you have. 

 

 

 

 

How do you earn money? A great way to start your child’s venture into earning money is doing chores around 

the house to earn pocket money. Set expectations and what they have the potential to earn. 

Set a goal, work out together something your child would really like to save for, starting out with smaller and 

achievable items works best. Discuss how much money they will need to save to reach this goal. 

Once your child has reached the goal, research through catalogues or online as to where they will get the best 

value for their money. 

Watch your child’s sense of pride as you take them to purchase the item that they have worked and saved 

for! 

We realise that many parents already have an account for their child and are actively saving for their child’s future. 

Most of the time this is done through electronic banking and your child doesn’t get to see and handle the benefit first 

hand. This program is once again about your child learning the process of saving and handling the cash themselves. 

Participating in School Banking gives your child the opportunity to do this on a weekly basis. 

Earning fun rewards 

Every time your child makes a deposit through the School Banking program, regardless of how much, they receive a 

cool Dollarmites token. Once they have saved enough tokens, they can swap them for fun Dollarmites gifts, like 

handballs, wallets and money boxes. 

What you need to know 

School Banking Day is every THURSDAY before school in the P6 classroom. 

Your child will need a Commonwealth Bank Youthsaver account. There are several options on how to open an 

account. 

Look out for the Parent Information Pack sent home this week. 

A representative from the Commonwealth Bank will be at the school at the following times to assist parents with 

opening accounts: 

Thursday 7 March – from 8:00am 

*Please bring photo identification for yourself. 

You can also attend any Commonwealth Bank branch with identification for yourself and your childs birth certificate, if 

you’re an existing Commonwealth Bank customer you can open an account through your Netbank facility. Existing 

accounts can be used just simply bring them in on banking day. 

FROM THE ECC 

The children have all settled in wonderfully well and are now familiar with their routine and the various staff members 

that they may encounter during their busy day at school. The Bilbies have been looking at colour and have been 

experimenting with its use, to wonderful effect. The Brushtail Possums are busy exploring under the sea and the 

creatures that are found in the depths and along our shoreline. The Ringtails have been delving into colour also, 

linking it to the many colours of Australia, in particular, the flags of our country which include the Australian flag, 

Aboriginal flag and that of the Torres Strait Islands. It is really lovely to see the children feeling confident and 

comfortable enough to begin to develop some little friendships amongst their peers. 

Mrs Andrea Murray 


Secondary School News 

FROM THE HEAD OF COLLEGE 

There appears to be quite a buzz about the proposed 2014 Costa Rica World Challenge trip. Many College students 

are thinking about the real benefits of going and some are even talking about various fund raising events. Could I 

remind all parents that World Challenge representatives will come to Pittwater House on Tuesday March 5 at 6.00pm 

to discuss more about the amazing opportunity to go to Costa Rica, to learn organisational skills and undertake some 

volunteer work. After the World Challenge presentation all Year 10 parents are invited to attend the Safe Party 

presentation. 

I would like to thank all parents who are encouraging their daughters to wear the appropriate uniform. We live in a 

community and as in all communities there are certain expectations. Please continue to monitor their dress, short 

skirts and make up are not appropriate to wear to school. If there are any concerns please do not hesitate to contact 

me. 

Could I reiterate what was said at the Year 7–10 information evening about returning notices. It certainly does assist 

us if all forms are returned by the due date. 

Year 10 College will attend a Reach session at Pittwater House on March 14. The girls will work with keynote 

presenters. The 90 minute presentation – ‘Peers, Community and Me’ aims to encourage the individual to think about 

their peers, themselves and working together to ensure their community is a productive, caring and harmonious one. 

STUDENT SUCCESS 

Ms Lorna Probst, Head of College 

Congratulations to the Molen-Grigull family for outstanding sporting results. Katia and Elisa Molen-Grigull came first 

and second in Highjump and will proceed to the State Championship at Homebush on 22-24 March. Only the top 2 in 

the field events will qualify and certainly competition is tough. 

Robin Molen-Grigull (Class of 2012) won the State Championship in a singlescull in rowing. 

YEAR 7-10 PARENT INFORMATION NIGHT 

The school held a very successful Years 7 to 10 parent information night last Thursday evening. I would like to thank 

the large number of parents who attended. For those who could not be there, the night consisted of a half hour Form 

Teacher directed information session and a half hour briefing in the hall. The Form Teacher meeting was an 

opportunity to familiarize parents with the pastoral objectives of 2013, answer questions in an informal setting and 

reinforce basic rules and expectations. The session in the Hall was aimed at covering specific events for each year 

group, examining our academic objectives for 2013, as well as other specific year directed information. The students 

in Years 8, 9 and 10 were also given a presentation on our proposed World Challenge trip to Costa Rica and Nicaragua 

in 2014. I have placed the PowerPoints covered in the Hall sessions on MyHouse. This can be located by opening the 

“School Information” tab, then opening the “2013 School Events Folder”. As this event was such a success, we will 

continue to do it annually. 

Mr James Walmsley, Head of Teaching and Learning 

WORK EXPERIENCE 

The Year 10 Work Experience week will run from Monday 2 December to Friday 6 December. All students should have 

received a copy of Work Experience Booklet 1 from either the Secondary Schools Information night held last Thursday 

21 February or from school at the work experience meeting held today, Wednesday. Students are to source their own 

work experience, they need to approach businesses and follow-up initial contact with a combination of the following: 

a visit, a phone call, a letter and/or email. Students should take into account the geographic location of the employer 

– how will they get to work every day? Some industries are very popular and placements should be organised as soon 

as possible especially for Nursing (see Mrs Murray), Advertising, TV and Radio and Publishing; Magazines and 

Newspapers. The Yellow Work Experience Proposal Form is due to Mrs Murray by Thursday 5 June, however it can be 

handed-in as soon as a placement has been organised. If there are any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact 

Mrs Murray at: mellissa.murray@tphs.nsw.edu.au. 

Mrs Mellissa Murray, Careers and Tertiary Advisor 


WORLD CHALLENGE AND SAFE PARTYING RISK TAKING PRESENTATION 

World Challenge representatives will come to Pittwater House on Tuesday March 5 at 6.00pm to discuss more about 

the amazing opportunity to go to Costa Rica, to learn organisational skills and undertake some volunteer work. After 

the World Challenge presentation all Year 10 parents are invited to attend the Safe Partying Risk Taking presentation 

from 6:30-8:30pm. 

STUDY SKILLS TIP FOR FEBRUARY: COPING WITH TRANSITION 

Many students will be experiencing some form of transition this year. Perhaps they have moved from Primary School 

to Secondary School. Perhaps they are now a senior student. Maybe they are trying a new subject or changing levels 

within a subject. 

With change, can come uncertainty and anxiety. Whenever we are in a new situation, we have a period of time where 

we are learning and adapting. Below are some tips to help students make their transitions this year as smooth as 

possible. 

 

 

 

 

 

ASK QUESTIONS: Ask lots and lots of questions. If you are unsure about something, don’t sit there in silence, 

ask a question. If you are uncomfortable asking the teacher directly, then ask a friend or ask the teacher after 

class. But be aware, there are probably many other students with the same question and they will probably 

be thankful that someone asks the question they also have! 

FIND A BUDDY: It is much easier if you have someone to talk to about what you are both experiencing. 

Someone you can check things with, even just someone to listen to you when you want to moan and groan, 

or celebrate! You don’t have to specifically say ‘let’s be buddies’, but look out for a like-minded person so that 

you can help each other along the way. 

CONSOLIDATE: When you are learning new things, or have lots of new information heading your way, it’s 

important to take time to consolidate. This could be explaining what you are learning to someone like your 

parents, or it could be writing a short list or summary of what you have been told so you don’t forget it. 

POSITIVE ATTITUDE: Your attitude can make a world of difference to the type of experiences you have during 

any transition. Start noticing your thoughts. Are they negative or positive? You can start to take control and 

direct the way you think about a situation and this in turn will change how you feel. For example if something 

goes wrong and you notice you’re thinking something like ‘what an idiot, I can’t believe I did that’ 

immediately catch yourself and say ‘that’s a bit negative, after all, everyone makes mistakes, at least now I 

know what I need to do for next time’. Eventually you can start to have a more positive reaction to things, 

look for the good in situations. 

AIM FOR PERSONAL BEST: Don’t compare yourself to other people. Aim for your own “personal best”. Strive 

to do the best you can, to learn, to grow and develop. We all have different skills and strengths and 

sometimes these aren’t always evident in the school situation. So just focus on being the best student you 

can be and celebrate all of your strengths and gifts – whether they show up in the school arena or in your 

outside life. 

One way to build your skill set at school is through working on the units at http://www.studyskillshandbook.com.au/. 

There are also two units specifically for transition ‘Starting Secondary School’ and ‘Becoming a Senior Student’. 

Pittwater House has subscribed to this program and will be sending out details shortly. 

UPCOMING YEAR 7 HISTORY ASSESSMENT TASK 

The first Year 7 History assessment task involves students researching their family history to record a family tree and 

create a personal profile. We encourage parents to get involved with this assessment by assisting your child in their 

family research. 

If you have any concerns with your child researching your family history, please contact the head of department, Mrs 

Abby Jeffrey (Abby.Jeffrey@tphs.nsw.edu.au), as soon as possible. 


School Sports 

IMPORTANT MESSAGE – CDSSA TRIALS 

CDSSA Trials for Netball, Basketball and Touch Football have been rescheduled due to wet weather and will now be 

held on Thursday 28 February. Those students who have registered and brought in signed permission notes please be 

at school on Thursday at 8.30am in FULL Pittwater House PE uniform. 

ATHLETICS ACADEMY 

Thirty-two Pittwater House students from Years 1 to Year 10 are involved in the Athletics Academy. Three weeks in 

and already we are seeing some amazing improvement in skill and performance across all 7 disciplines in which the 

students are training. The athletes are all showing great enthusiasm and this is resulting in some great training 

sessions with very pleasing results. At this early stage, I would not like to single anyone out, but it is obvious to all 

the athletes that those who work the hardest are achieving the greatest improvement, so I encourage you all to keep 

up the hard work and reap the rewards. As the weather will be getting cooler each week, I must insist everyone 

brings warm clothes to put on at the end of the sessions. This is useful to aid muscle recovery as well as keeping you 

from getting cold and sick. There is a distinct lack of drink bottles at training. Even in the cooler weather, your body 

uses a lot of fluid during training and it is essential that everyone stays hydrated. Please make sure you have a full 

drink bottle at the start of every session. Thank you to the parents for your support. It is nice to see the athletes 

wanting to show mum and dad how much they have learned or improved. I look forward to seeing how much more 

talent we can unearth as the program continues. 

Mr Paul Byron, Athletics Coach 

Little Athletics NSW State Track and Field Championships 

Last weekend Katia and Elisa Molen-Grigull competed in the Northern and North Eastern Metropolitan Regional Little 

Athletics Championships. Katia finished 2 nd and Elisa 1 st in their high jump events. Both talented high jumpers will be 

competing at the Little Athletics NSW State Track and Field Championships at Homebush from 22 – 24 March. 

BASKETBALL 

Basketball Academy 

The basketball academy offers basketball skill training for individuals through a variety of standard and custom 

training programs for students from Years 1 to Year 12. The Academy offers group training in the following 

categories: shot mechanics, ball handling, offensive footwork, defensive movement and positioning, offensive 

movement and post play footwork and movement. As a young athlete, it can be hard these days to keep up with 

everyone around you. From trainers to equipment to access to coaching, it is always a battle to keep up with the next 

guy. Growing up around sports, I know what it's like, and looking back on my growth as an athlete, I always wish 

someone would have taken more time to teach me the way to play the games I loved the right way, right from the 

start! This is what I try to do with athletes I work with in training. I impart to them all of the skills and information I 

have learned through over 30 years of dedication to the game of basketball. The academy is on again this term and 

will continue on Thursdays after school from 3.30pm to 4.30pm for Years 1 to 7 and on Fridays after school from 

3.30pm to 4.30pm for Years 7 to 12. My approach is always the same—to make young players the best they can be. 

Mr Brad Dalton, Dual Olympian 

Mixed 6 Pittwater Hornets v Seaforth Slammers (13 February). Lost 2 -23. This was the first game of the 

season for our Mixed Year 6 team. They played a very hard and experienced all boys team from Seaforth. 

Congratulations to Zachary Wilkinson for putting a couple of points on the board for the Pittwater Hornets. 

Mixed 6 Pittwater Hornets v St Lukes (20 February). Won 10 -7. This was an evenly matched game. All players 

were focused and defended well. There were many tense moments during the game as the scores were locked several 

times. It was pleasing to see the enthusiasm shown by team members and how the Hornets have improved in their 

understanding of the game and used some tactical moves. 

G7 Pittwater Knicks v Jet Rockets (11 February). Lost 17 – 22. This was the first game of the season for the 

Knicks with some players playing together for the first time. The game was very close with the Rockets shooting a 

couple of 2 point goals in the last few minutes. Top scorers of the week where Mitchell McWhinney, Mason Gordon and 

Sam Lewis 


G7 Pittwater Bulls v Jet Rockets (18 February). Won 29-17. This week’s game went down to the wire. Scores 

were level at half time with some great work by Lachlan Batton. Bulls started the second half slowly but despite being 

around 7 points down midway through the second half and having to lose a big chunk of the team to futsal at the 

same time the boys clawed their way back into it. Sam Wang was strong under the offensive boards and with Alex 

Giles picking up free throws when Rockets were in foul trouble saw the Bulls level the scores at 27 each in the last 

minute. Bulls were under the Rockets boards but the ball just wouldn’t go in until Fin Dennison picked up a rebound 

and sunk his shot with 4 seconds left on the clock to cap a great comeback. 

G8 Pittwater Magic v Northern Beaches Bulls (20 February). Won. This was the first game of the season and 

the Pittwater Magic team played a very good game throughout the match. Keelan Smith demonstrated determination 

and skilful ball tactics making it difficult for the other team to score. Mitchel Brennan and Carl O’Neill were very 

consistent in defence and saved our team many times with their great moves. The rest of the team played well 

making it difficult for the Northern Beaches Bulls to score. The boys are training on Wednesday morning at 7.15am at 

the tennis courts and I expect to have a full team each week in the school sport uniform. If you do not attend you 

must bring a note from a parent to explain your absence. 

G9 Pittwater Warriors v Masada (21 February). Won 25-24. The Warriors had an exciting win in the dying 

seconds of the game this week. With 15 seconds to go and 3 points behind, Henry Beard made a great shot then 

seconds later Julian Revell-Reade hit 2 free shots from 2 to win the game. A great team win. 

G10 Pittwater Kings v Mater Maria (14 February). Lost 8-39. Our players created many opportunities but poor 

shooting resulted in a sound defeat. Congratulations to new Pittwater House representative Ryan Garner for the first 

score (a long-distance 3-pointer) for the team this Season! 

G10 Pittwater Kings v St Luke’s White (21 February). Lost 17-23. The Grammar 10 boys are slowly closing the 

gap as they start to work together as a team. This week’s high scorers where Scott O’Brien and Ryan Garner. This 

week’s game on Thursday 28 February will be against our other Pittwater House Team the Pittwater Heat at 6pm at 

NBISC. 

G10 Pittwater Heat v St Luke’s White (14 February). Lost 10-14. The boys played their first game of the 2013 

season on Thursday 14 February. After a long break the boys were quite rusty and unfortunately went down 14-10 to 

St. Luke’s. Despite the loss the boys remain extremely confident of turning it around in their next game, versus the 

Pittwater Kings on the 28 February at 6.00pm. Training will continue on Thursday morning’s from 7.15am at the 

Indoor Sports Stadium at school, and if you are interested in supporting the team, all of our games are played at the 

Warriewood Sports Complex (across from Warriewood Square). 

C10 Pittwater Sky v St Luke’s Gold (14 February). Lost 16-37. Pittwater Sky played their first game on 

Thursday night. Despite not having any reserves the girls played well. The College 10 girls are desperately looking for 

a couple of extra players, if you would like to join this team please see Ms Barnett. 

C10 Pittwater Sky v St Luke’s White (21 February). Lost 10-54. Pittwater Sky stayed close in the first half but, 

unfortunately, the game slipped away from us in the second half. The next game will be played on Friday 28 February 

at 6.00pm at NBISC against “Moo Cows”. Good luck girls. 

G11 Pittwater Celtics v G11 Pittwater Lakers (15 February). Won 29-18. The first match of the season was a 

Pittwater House Derby with each team fielding a new member (Johnny Dew and Matt Julian). Lots of fun was had on 

the court by both teams but Matt Giles' and Edward Dennison's relentless goal-scoring ensured the win for the Celtics. 

Good luck to both teams for the rest of the season. 

G11 Pittwater Celtics v St Augustine’s Blue Devils (22 February). Lost 13-38. Saint Augustine's proved to be 

some very tough opposition. The newly formed team will need to work on improving their shooting and passing. Jack 

Dennison and Ben Chapman were impressive on the court. The height and strength of new recruit Ashwin Coburn 

makes for some promising potential. 

CRICKET 

Senior Boys v Galstaun College (15 February). Won by 6 Wickets. After winning the toss, our captain Ben Cook 

sent Galston College into bat. Our bowlers bowled consistently well and kept the opposition to 25 runs after 10 overs. 

Mackenzie Dickson bowled beautifully, taking out off-stump with his very first ball. Marcus Wilcock also created some 

excitement when he got two wickets in a row and was on a hat-trick. Our opening batsmen, Tom Bourke and Luca 

Newland-Dailly made a quick 11 runs of the first two overs with some beautiful hits for 4. After Galston College 

bowled a few no balls we had their score covered after just 3 overs. We scored a total of 60 runs off 7 overs. Player of 

the match was Tom Bourke. Great start to the competition boys! 


FITNESS 

Grammar Fitness 

Grammar fitness classes are being run in the school gym on Tuesdays and Thursdays at lunchtime by Mr Upton for 

students in Years 8 and above. If you would like to join this class please see Ms Barnett for a permission note. 

College Fitness 

College fitness classes are being run in the school gym on Friday mornings by Miss Birch for students in Years 9 and 

above. If you would like to join this class please see Ms Barnett for a permission note. 

Strength and Conditioning 

The Pittwater House Strength and Conditioning sessions are coordinated by Physiotherapists and Strength and 

Conditioning professionals with personalised programs designed to suit individual needs. For more information please 

contact either Andrew Sumner on 0414 408 055 or Ms Barnett. 

FUTSAL ACADEMY 

The Futsal Academy is running again this year with very high participation of approximately 40 boys and girls from P1 

to G10 over the last two weeks. The students have a few practice games and are learning skills like soft passing and 

tackling. 

SOFTBALL 

Senior Girls v Galstaun College (15 February). Won 14 – 0. The played their first match last Friday against the 

Galstaun College School. Our girls were convincing winners of a very one sided match, winning 14 Home runs to 

nil. Our entire team played strongly and showed some pleasing skills for so early in the season. We will be working 

hard at training to sharpen up our game. 

Senior Girls Softball Team v Senior Boys Cricket Team (22 February). Drew. The team had a BYE in round 2 

last Friday so the girls challenged our Senior Boys Cricket Team to a game of Softball. The game finished in a draw 8 

Home runs each. Many thanks to our boys for a close and exciting match. 

SURFING 

Advanced Boardriding 

Pittwater House Advanced Boardriders (PHAB) has gone down a treat with 

some great waves had in the first weeks of it running. We have been 

working on wave selection and compressing our bodies at the beginning of a 

turn. Week one Wave of the Week in the Juniors went to Bella Stevens and 

Tru Starling got the best wave out of the seniors. Lawson Harbutt got a 

great wave at Collaroy last Thursday and was awarded Week 2 Wave of the 

Week. Over the coming weeks we will be helping all that attend get the 

most out of their surfing. Michael from www.surfphotosofyou.com.au will be 

documenting some great waves that the children catch. Go online and have 

a look at the ‘PHAB’ section under Manly Surf School. Keep charging groms! 

Sydney School Surfing Titles 

Pittwater House will be entering 4 teams of 4 into the Sydney School Surfing Titles in May. A Opens Boys team (18 

and under) a Open Girls Team (18 and under) a Junior Boys team (15 and under) and a Junior Girls team (15 and 

under) if you would like to nominate to be in one of these teams please see either Ms Barnett, Mr Turner or Mr 

McGregor. Please note there will be limited spaces and there may be a selection process if to many surfers nominate 

as we can only enter one team in each age group. 

TEE BALL 

Pittwater Angelfish (9 February). Won 21-19. What a tremendous effort by the Angelfish. Despite a seven week 

break over Christmas, they had retained their knowledge of the game and shown they had continued to practise in 

their own way to attain yet another win! Having drawn with this team earlier in the season, they achieved a 21-19 

victory. Fielding was their strength this week especially in the third innings. Goal for next week: Sprint in between 

bases. Siobhan Phelan demonstrated most improvement in her fielding this week assisting in getting a few of the 

opposition out. Players of the Match: Siobhan Phelan and Lulu La Ganza and Player with best attitude whilst training: 

Melanie Davis. 

Junior Boys v St Lukes Grammar School (15 February). Won 25 -13. What a fantastic first game for the team, 

many of whom had their first ever game of Tee Ball. We were captained by Ryan Crane (P4) who had a wonderful 

match. Edward Gilmore (P3) and Max Pengelly (P3) also had great matches. James Brock (P4) hit some big hits, as 

did Thomas Quarrie (P4) and Cameron Obst (P3). The best part of our game was our team work and excellent 

fielding and we will continue to improve! Every player had a big part in our victory. Players of the match were: Ryan 

Crane and Max Pengelly. 


Junior Boys v Oxford Falls (22 February). Won 23 – 12. Another sensational game against Oxford Falls. Captains 

James Brock (P4) and Max Pengelly (P3) were awesome at short stop and fielded with enthusiasm, setting a high 

standard for their teammates to follow (which they all did). Danny Chambers (P4) was superb, taking sharp catches, 

running out their runners and batting with confidence. Once again, it was our fielding, our crisp throwing to the bases 

and our knowledge of the rules that allowed the team to have such a decisive win. Another great feature was the fact 

that every player gave 100% effort. Daniel O’Hara (P3), Kobe Fulton (P4) and Fergus Gidley-Baird (P4) all showed 

improved hitting and running between bases, while Will Primmer (P4) gets better with every innings he plays. Well 

done boys. 2 big wins, spirits are high and we will only continue to get better. Player of the match was: Danny 

Chambers (P4). 

TENNIS 

Open AICES Trials 

On 14 and 15 February 11 students from Pittwater house trialled for the Opens AICES Tennis Teams at Cintra Park 

Concord: Courtney Halford, Kelsey Dunlop Mitchell Howe, Jesse Wright, Charlie Smith, Joshua Moses, Alastair 

Cockerton Anthony Tregunna, Matthew Payne-Stenos, Stephen Payne-Stenos and Julian Read. Congratulations to 

Kelsey who will now be representing Pittwater House and AICES at the CIS Tennis championships on Wednesday 27 

February. 

TRIATHLON 

All Schools Triathlon 

The NSW All Schools Triathlon Championships was held on Friday 

22 February at the Sydney International Regatta Centre. Eighteen 

students (6 teams) from Pittwater House braved the 5am start 

along with Miss Birch and Ms Barnett to compete at this event 

against 800 school teams from around NSW. Our two Grammar 7 

teams competed for the first time at this event against boys up to 2 

years older. Our Grammar 9 team with Callum Howe, Harry 

Charlesworth and Gianni Stensness finished a remarkable 8 th and 

are now on the reserve list to represent NSW at the School Sports 

Championships in April. 

WATER POLO 

Northern Suburbs Water Polo Association 

The senior competition will commence on Friday 15 March. Please see Mr Hudson if you would like to join one of the 

senior teams (Years 10/11/12). Permission notes are available from either Mr Hudson, Ms Barnett or on the My 

House website under Learning / Co-Curricular Sport / Water Polo 2013. 

PHPA (Pittwater House Parents’ Association) 

PHPA PARENTS AND TEACHER MEET INVITATION 

Please find the invitation on the following page. 

Mon 4 March 

Tue 5 March 

Wed 6 March 

Thu 7 March 

Canteen Duty 

Canteen Supervisor – 

Phone 9972 5718 after 8.00am 

Helen Evans 

Lucy Dennison 

Seana Smith 

Volunteer 

Required 

Volunteer 

Required 

Volunteer 

Required 

Volunteer 

Required 

Volunteer 

Required 

Lissa Hurst 

Sara Chapman 

Andrea Brooke 

Lissa Hurst 

Clothing Pool & Second Hand Books 

Tuesdays from 8am-9.15am and 

Thursdays from 2pm-3:15pm 

Located next to the School Uniform shop the Clothing 

and Book Pool is run by a volunteer parent. 

Please Note: Only cash or cheques will be accepted. 

Purchases cannot be charged to your School account. 

CUSTOMERS MUST CHOOSE CAREFULLY AS THE 

PHPA HAS A NO REFUND POLICY 

Fri 8 March Penny Moses Jane Griffiths Lissa Hurst 


The Pittwater House Parents Association cordially 

invites you to attend 

Friday 15 March 2013 

6pm – 8pm 

$15pp 

Drinks, nibbles and pub games - come along for a fun and relaxed night! 

RSVP - essential by Friday 8 March 

Dress: Casual 

Venue: The Hall 

...................................................................................................................................................... 

I will be attending 

Happy Hour Drinks 

Parent(s) name: _________________________________________________________________________________ 

Amount paid: ____________________________________________________________________________________ 

Email (for confirmation): _________________________________________________________________________ 

Payment options: 

Payment via cheque, cash - Please return in an envelope marked PHPA to the locked box at school 

reception 

Direct deposit to: PHPA, BSB 032 192 Account 740 383 

Please use your surname as reference. 

A relaxed evening 

of Drinks & Nibbles 

For Parents & 

Teachers to Meet 

For further information please contact the PHPA Secretary Eleni, eleni@galmatic.com.

27 February - Pittwater House School

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