RSC News - Ringwood Secondary College

RSC News
The Newsletter of Ringwood Secondary College
Issue Number 2 Online address: www.ringwoodsc.vic.edu.au/newsletters March 4, 2011
ALL PLAY NIGHT
RINGWOOD WELCOMES OUR
NEW YEAR 7 STUDENTS
WELL DONE
PREFECTS OF
2011
Phone: 9870 2002 Fax: 9879 5414 Email: ringwood.sc@edumail.vic.gov.au Home Page: www.ringwoodsc.vic.edu.au

Newsletter Number 2 March 4, 2011
Term 1 - 2011
Quick Calendar
Week 6
Wednesday 9 March Yr 9 Coastal Trip Comm. 3
Thursday 10 March - Duke of Ed Camp
Friday 11 March Yarra Junction
Week 7
Monday 14 March Labour Day Holiday
Tuesday 15 March Year 7 Immunisations
Tuesday 15 - 18 Mar. Yr 11 PE Camp
Wednesday 16 March Year 9 Coastal Trip Comm. 1
Wednesday 16-18 Mar. Year 11 Geog Camp
Friday 18 March Twilight Working Bee
Saturday 19 March Debutante Ball, The Grand
7pm
Week 8
Monday 21 - 23 March
The Next Meeting:
PCTA
Council
Heritage
Music Association
Ladies Auxiliary
Policy & Education
Yr 9 Challen9e Camp
Phillip Island
Tues 22 March
Wed 16 March
Mon 28 March
Mon 21 March
Tues 22 March
Wed 23 March
The next Newsletter will be issued on 25 March
PSW – Shop Times
Ringwood SC Uniforms will be available from the PSW East
Store
18-20 Railway Ave, Ringwood East 3135
Ph: 9879 5500
Email: ringwood@psw.com.au – Website www.psw.com.au
Shop Hours:
Monday – Friday 8.30am – 5.00pm
Saturday – 9.00am – 5.00pm
From the
Principal ...
Most students have made a productive start to their school year
and have established positive goals and strategies to ensure focus
throughout Semester 1.
PREFECTS INDUCTION 2011
Last week was a busy one for our Year 12 students and included the
induction of our prefects for 2011. The ceremony has been a tradition
at Ringwood for the past 57 years and provides an important
link between the past and the present. Our Head Prefects in Dylan
and Jessica spoke about the significance of opportunities for leadership
and involvement at Ringwood. It was also significant that all
the current Year 7 students were part of the ceremony. Thanks also
to former Prefect, Craig Guscott (1983) who was our guest speaker.
ANNOUNCING OUR 2011 COLLEGE PRODUCTION
Cole Porter’s fabulous revised stage version
of ‘Kiss Me Kate’ is this year’s Ringwood
Secondary College Show. It will
be staged from August 11 – 20. Musical
numbers range from the upbeat ‘Another
Openin’, Another Show’ to Kate’s classic
‘I Hate Men’ and the boisterous ‘Brush
Up Your Shakespeare’. Other classics include
‘Why Can’t You Behave?’, In Love, Too Darn Hot’, ‘Were Thine
that Special Face’ and ‘Always True to You (In My Fashion)’. Of course
a happy ending is guaranteed for all!
Auditions have now concluded and the cast will be announced
next week.
Ringwood last staged the earlier version of this show in 2000 and
it promises to be a highlight of the performing Arts calendar for
2011.
VCE SEASON OF EXCELLENCE 2011
Further to the previous announcements the school will be further
represented in Top Arts by Hannah Monson – an outstanding effort!
Top Arts is part of the VCE season of excellence managed by the
Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority. In what can only
be described as an outstanding achievement, 5 Ringwood students
from the VCE class of 2010 are now represented.
Program content and all details can be found at: www.vcaa.vic.adu.
au/seasonofexcellence.html
Page 2

Newsletter Number 2 March 4, 2011
COLLEGE COUNCIL ELECTIONS 2011
At the close of nominations there were 3 nominations received
for parent representation on the council as follows:
Leah Brohm
Sandra Kitching
Mark Morewood
As the number of nominations equals the number of vacancies, I
declare these parents elected.
In the category of DEECD representatives there are 4 nominees:
Kimberley Hall
Ben Moody
Annette Niven
Eleni Stathatos
And therefore an election is necessary for the two vacancies.
Voting by the electorate of DEECD employees at the college will
close on March 8, 2011.
I thank all members of the college community who have nominated
for the interest in this important governance role.
HILL STREET CAR PARKING
Maroondah City Council has provided formal permission for the
construction of 90° indented parking on the school side with
some parking on street between the indented areas. There will
also be a pedestrian pathway on the school side. This will allow
us to beautify the overall streetscape and appearance along our
college boundary and at the same time increase pedestrian and
vehicular safety and access in Hill Street.
The department of Education has contributed $140,000 to allow
this work to be completed.
YOUNG WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
Congratulations to Naomi Sheath of of Year 11 who has been selected
to participate in the UBS Young Women’s Leadership Academy
for 2011, in Sydney during the first term break.
Naomi’s application was one of 22 from Victoria who were successful
from over 100 applications received.
The objective of the academy program is to:
• provide young women in Year 11 an opportunity to explore
and learn about a range of career opportunities in business.
• introduce them to a diverse group of contempory women
leaders.
• Encourage leadership aspirations in young women.
• Provide leadership skills development.
The residential program will be held at the University of Sydney.
From Mrs Ward ...
DEBUTANTE BALL – MARCH 19TH
Michael Phillips
Principal
Page 3
What a sight it is to watch 50 couples
manage to walk gracefully, curtsy, waltz
and generally concentrate er masse.
Midst mild chatter and laughter and the
voice of Caitlin on the microphone, the
presentation will be awesome.
Thank you to the band of parents who
toil over tickets, money, food and photos.
All monies must be completed for guests by the 9th March and
families are reminded of their college commitment.
YEAR 12
PREFECTS INDUCTION – FEBRUARY 23RD
Special mention on this annual event warrants acknowledgement
to our new Master of Ceremonies, Mr Ben Moody, who ensured the
smooth correctness of the programme. Likewise, our appreciation
to Miss Rosemary Kenna and her talented music students for their
playing. To the library staff for accommodating the afternoon tea
and the canteen for its preparation, we are grateful.
To the prefects for enthusiasm, commitment and correct socks, we
value you and to Mr Craig Guscott, Prefect 1983, Council Vice President
and current parent, we express our thanks for your thoughtful
and insightful comments. Both Jess Akaruru and Dylan Hornsby,
Head Prefects - 2011, spoke of leadership and opportunity on behalf
of the group.
MEC EVENTS
How stimulating and impressive was it to listen to Michael Carr-
Gregg at Deakin last month. So realistic, so challenging yet considerate
of measuring up, diet and habits for a healthy Year 12, he
engaged an audience of 600.
Also the Swinburne Day illustrated student respect and interaction
in the 4 sessions held.
Several still owe $45 and all are urged to pay and be responsible.
We regret a small number opted out.
LADIES AUXILIARY – AGM. MARCH 22ND 7.30PM IN THE CON-
FERENCE ROOM
This wonderful group invites your presence and to a range of activities
throughout the year – e.g. Shoe party, Card Night, Second Hand
sale, Production Canteen, Restaurant Dinners and involvement in
whole school events.
We hope to plan a Twilight Market in 2012 – Please join with us.
STUDENT TEACHERS
Ringwood Secondary College staff act professionally to assist student
teachers – primarily from Deakin, Melbourne Uni and RMIT.
Working closely with two Masters of Education programmes invites
many students to our college and the diversity of programmes,
learning and engagement affords valuable experiences to all. Currently
we enjoy 3 Melbourne Interns and appreciate their contribution
to our college.
From Mrs Hughes ...
YEAR 7 AND 8 AMBASSADORS
Mrs J. Ward
Assistant Principal
Congratulations to the Junior School Ambassadors who participated
in their training session this week. The students were very
enthusiastic and Mrs Keenan and I were very impressed with their
positive approach and willingness to be involved. We are looking
forward to having our young ambassadors participate in the transition
tours which will be commencing next week.
TRAVELLING TO AND FROM SCHOOL
Students are reminded that when travelling to and from school in
their school uniform, we expect they will display appropriate behaviour
and courtesy to other members of the community.

Newsletter Number 2 March 4, 2011
Train Travellers - Students should behave in a responsible and safe
manner on station platforms and on trains and not engage in behaviours
that could endanger themselves or others.
Bus Travellers – Many students travel using a range of bus services,
some dedicated to school runs and others on buses that include
the wider community. Students should be courteous to other passengers,
resist pushing and be mindful of younger students.
Walking – Where possible, students should use main thoroughfares
and walk with other students. Students travelling to and from
school must use the pedestrian crossing on Bedford Road. Students
are strongly discouraged from travelling through the Ringwood
Lake area.
Bicycles - Students MUST wear a helmet at all times when riding
their bicycle to and from school. Bicycles can be stored in the bike
racks at the back of the Library during the day and students should
use a lock to secure their bicycle. Riding in the school grounds is
not permitted.
Scooters - Students who ride their scooter to school must store it
in the Scooter Bay between Room 402 and 403. This storage area
will be locked during the day and only opened prior to the end of
Period 4. If students need to leave the school early, they will not be
able to access their scooter till the following day.
Skateboards – are not permitted. Students should not use a skateboard
for travelling to and from school.
PROGRESS REPORTS
Please note that teachers will be preparing Progress Reports for all
students in Years 7-12 in the coming weeks. These reports will be
distributed prior to the Parent/Teacher interview sessions which will
be held at the end of Term 1. Both sessions will operate between
4.00 and 7.00 pm. On both days, all students will be dismissed at
2.30 pm.
teachers’ programmes. As parents, if you think your child is falling
behind, make sure you contact the relevant Community Head to
discuss the situation.
SOME KEY POINTS/REMINDERS
PASTORAL CARE:
Our first extended form assembly dedicated to pastoral care was
held on Wed 23 February. It was highly successful and I congratulate
Ms Hall for her determined efforts in preparing the learning
material. We look forward this year to increased levels of Pastoral
care, particularly with the increase in the number of Community
Heads (formally Level Coordinators) and new systems to monitor
students more closely.
MULTICULTURAL YOUTH SPORTS FESTIVAL:
This Saturday the college is hosting an exciting Multicultural Youth
Sports Festival and many hundreds of participants are expected. It
promises to be a vibrant and exciting day. Please see the attached
flyer-all welcome.
UNIFORM:
Thank-you to parents who support the college by ensuring students
are in full college uniform-it’s really appreciated. A small number of
boys are wearing T shirts beneath polo tops. Similarly, a handful of
students are wearing non-polishable shoes and over the week we
will be asking them to purchase black polishable shoes.
WHOLE SCHOOL ASSEMBLY:
A fortnight ago we conducted our first whole school assembly for
2011. The students were outstanding in their behaviour and enjoyed
the opportunity to meet the 2011 prefects.
Parent/Teacher interviews:
Years 10-12 - Wednesday, 30 March
Years 7-9 - Thursday, 7 April
Parents will be able to arrange meeting times with their child’s
teachers using an online system: Parent Teacher Online (PTO). Information
about this process will be communicated shortly.
We strongly recommend that parents take this opportunity to meet
with their child’s teachers to find out how they are progressing.
YEARS 7 AND 9 NAPLAN TESTING
All Year 7 and 9 students will be participating in the NAPLAN (National
Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy). The tests
will be held on 10, 11 and 12 May. The NAPLAN will assist teachers
to identify students’ strengths and weaknesses in Literacy and Numeracy
and enable them to adjust teaching strategies to provide
appropriate support.
Mrs J. Hughes
Assistant Principal
From Mr Salisbury ...
Overall, the start of the school year is going extremely well. Most
students have settled into a productive learning pattern and motivation
levels are high. I’ve been delighted with the pleasant tone of
the college and it all bodes well for a great year. Now that the dust
has settled and routines established, the really serious learning
takes off and students need to make sure they keep up with their
Page 4
EMERGENCY EVACUATION DRILL:
Congratulations to all students on their conduct during our Emergency
drill this Friday. We have conducted several over the past few
years and students are now very familiar with the process.
PCTA-PARENTS, CITIZENS AND TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION:
On February 22nd, the PCTA meet for their first meeting of 2011.
During term 1 the committee organises the Deb Ball and in term
2 we will organise an afternoon tea for staff. Our next meeting is
March 22nd, 7.30pm, College Conference Room and a warm invitation
is extended to any parent interested in being a part of this
dynamic group.
LITTER PROGRAM:
Our litter program is up and running and the effects are obvious to
all. What a pity 10-20% of our student body continue to litter! Their
actions are selfish and totally antisocial.
FACILITIES COMMITTEE:
On Thursday 24th February, our highly dedicated Facilities Committee
began planning improvements for college facilities, 2011. Any
parent interested in joining this dynamic group should contact Mr
Salisbury. Meetings occur once a term and there is an emphasis on
getting things done! All welcome.

Newsletter Number 2 March 4, 2011
WORKING BEE FRIDAY18TH MARCH:
Our first College Working Bee is scheduled for Friday, 18th March.
It is a twilight working bee running from 5.00pm to 7.30pm. Drinks
and supper will be supplied during the evening. A range of activities
including basic carpentry, watering, weeding, pruning, mulching
and planting should provide something for everyone. We roster
our working bees to spread the
load and ask parents to attend at least
one for the year. Students from all A
and B forms will be provided with an
information page, ie. 7A, 7B, 8A, 8B,
…..12A, 12B over the next couple of
weeks. Please make every effort to
come along. Parents from other forms
are always welcome. We have made
tremendous inroads over recent years
on improving the college grounds and
with everyone making a small contribution we can continue to improve
the teaching and learning environment.
the College are: Infrastructure and Resourcing, Curriculum, Student
Engagement and Wellbeing and School Improvement and Governance.
The College is well placed to take advantage of target areas
and will continue to have conversations with local members to gain
the best outcome for the school community.
2011 Annual Implementation Plan (AIP)
The 2011 AIP was endorsed by College Council and is to include a
measure of progress based on established targets. A negotiated review
this year will reflect on the school’s performance over the last
four years and the Ringwood SC 2012 – 2015 Strategic Plan will set
future directions for the College.
RESOURCES:
The Draft Budget was approved by the College Council.
School Council Report
Mr C. Salisbury
Assistant Principal
RINGWOOD TRADE TRAINING FACILITY (RTTF)
RTTF programs started on February 9, with growth in both Engineering
and Automotive - three groups in both industry areas, compared
to two last year.
The facility has regained Registered Training Organisation (RTO)
status enabling the development of programs that can also be offered
to students from other schools.
PRINCIPAL’S REPORT
Our Year 12 students performed very well and were able to gain excellent
tertiary placements, apprenticeships, traineeships or work.
Four students have been selected for the Top Arts and Top Screens
awards, which is a significant achievement for talented students
and their dedicated teachers and reflects the quality of work in
these VCE areas.
MAROONDAH AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS
Beth Purcell was awarded ‘Young Citizen of the Year’ for her tremendous
effort to raise more than $26,500 from two rock concerts for a
young teenager who has autism and severe epilepsy. These events
funded the purchase of a Pet Therapy dog for the teenager, as well
as medical equipment and safety improvements for her home.
The ‘Halloween Rise Up’ a music concert for young people in Maroondah,
was awarded the ‘Community Event of the Year’. Students
from Croydon, Parkwood and Ringwood Secondary Colleges and
Aquinas College, worked together to plan the major event in conjunction
with the Maroondah FReeZa group, Audio District. The
event was the culmination of the 10-month ‘No Regrets’ social action
project and promoted the message that young people can
have fun without alcohol and drugs.
EDUCATION COALITION POLICIES
The Department falls under the responsibility of three Victorian
Government Ministers; the Minister for Higher Education and Skills,
the Minister for Education and the Minister for Children and Early
Childhood Development. Key priority areas that are of relevance to
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY (OH&S):
OH&S induction has been completed for all new staff. A durable
high fence has been installed on the west boundary of the school
to increase security and the soccer field is currently being redeveloped.
COLLEGE CAMPS:
All Term 1 College camps were approved, noting the change of date
for the Year 11 Geography camp to the 23rd – 25th of March.
NOMINATIONS FOR COLLEGE COUNCIL:
There are three parent vacancies and 2 DEECD vacancies on College
Council with additional information in the College newsletter.
On behalf of the College Council, the President thanked the retiring
parents for their work and support.
Lyn McGoldrick
Subject Reports
Careers
INTERVIEWING OF THE YEAR 12’S IS UNDERWAY!
In common period students received a careers bulletin that outlined
details of the careers program for 2011. We are looking forward
to working with this enthusiastic group of students. Individual
pathway plans are a priority and if any students need extra assistance
they can call into the careers room at any time. Parents are encouraged
to assist their son or daughter to research career options
and support their decision making. Do not hesitate to contact the
college careers counsellors if you wish to discuss any matters.
WHAT NEWS!
A Community space for careers is coming
soon via the Ultranet-more details to come...
Careers has an email account-any enquires
please forward to this address
Email: rsccareers@ringwoodsc.vic.edu.au
Page 5

Newsletter Number 2 March 4, 2011
YEAR 10 WORK EXPERIENCE
A reminder to parents and students that this year’s Work Experience
is from June 27th to July 1st, the last week of Term 2. Competition
for quality jobs is fierce and we strongly encourage all students
who have not commenced the process to decide on a type of job
and put together an application as soon as possible. The early bird
catches the worm and we would love every student to secure a
position of employment by the end of Term 1. Contact Mrs Allison
if you have any queries. Students are reminded that they also
need to have completed the safe@work modules for Occupational
Health and Safety. Work placement is not possible without these
completed tests.
MIP’S INTERVIEWS
Interviews of Year 10 students have commenced and each student
will hopefully have a career pathway plan mapped out by the end
of Term 2. In Commerce, all students will undertake a careers focused
module that will equip them to make sound choices for their
VCE/VCAL studies for 2012.
We warmly welcome Mr Mike Hilt a very experienced careers counsellor
who will be conducting the MIP’s interviews during 2011, as
well as supporting staff in other ways in the careers office.
ADF Technical Scholarships
Applications are now open for Year 11 or 12 students interested in
a technical trade, to apply for a scholarship worth $2,000-$3,000.
Conditions do apply. See Mrs Allison for details or visit the ADF
website.
CAREER EXPOS COMING
If you want to obtain careers information from a large variety of
sources at one location, Careers Expos are a great way to go. Several
of these are held each year. Find out about university and TAFE
courses, independent colleges, and so on. Coming up:
• The National Careers & Employment Expo will run Fri 25 - Sat 26
Mar at the Melbourne Convention Exhibition Centre
• The ‘Age’ VCE and Careers Expo 2011 will run Fri 6 - Sun 8 May at
Caulfield Racecourse, Station St, Caulfield
• The Eastland Future Options Careers Expo will be at 6-8pm,
Tues 2 Aug at Eastland SC
• Art and Design Discovery Day Thursday 21 April Swinburne Uni
Prahran campus
University of Melbourne Veterinary Science Open Day
When: Sunday 27 March 2011
Where: University of Melbourne Veterinary Hospital 250 Princes
Hwy, Werribee
Time: 10am - 3pm
Australian International Airshow and Aerospace and Defence
Exposition 2011
1-6 March Geelong Victoria www.amdfa.com.au/careers.
Student information day Friday March 4th at Avalon. Phone: 9889
0966
Page 6
Engineering Careers Expo
Maria Allison and Helen Doherty
Careers Coordinators
Lote
Bitche Homestay Report 2010-2011
RSC STUDENTS
LYCEE TEYSSIER HOST STUDENTS
Samantha Hickman Anne Schaeffer
Kimberly Henley
Mathilde Brunner
Paige Sytema
Claire Haas
Cyndy Li
Julia Speder
Emily Treeby
Jennifer Vogel
Madeline Mackey
Marine Hamm
Verity Boyd
Camille Dorscherner
On the 27th December 2010, seven of the students learning French
for year ten (now eleven) began an experience of a lifetime, on an
exchange to our sister school, Lycée Teyssier, in Bitche, France.
The students, Samantha Hickman, Kimberly Henley, Cyndy Li, Emily
Treeby, Madeline Mackey, Verity Boyd and Paige Sytema, were all
very lucky to be participating in a French exchange, in which we
were able to live with a French family for a month, and attend
school with them.
We flew with Singapore Airlines, who were very helpful, and guided
us the whole way to Frankfurt, also helping with our stopover in
Singapore. When we finally arrived in Frankfurt airport we were
very excited to meet our French families.
After we landed in Frankfurt, Germany, we met our families that we
would be staying with for the next month.
Our host sisters, Julia Speder, Marine Hamm, Jennifer Vogel, Camille
Dorscherner, Mathilde Brunner, Anne Schaeffer and Claire Haas,
and their families, took us in as part of their own family, doing the
things that a normal French family would do, like shopping, visiting
famous places, eating French cuisine, and most importantly, speaking
French.
Throughout the stay, we improved our French immensely, and even
attended school for four weeks.
While at school, we attended normal classes with our French sisters
for the first week, in many subjects, ranging from science, to English,
to history, and even German and Latin.
For the following three weeks, we were able to have our own timetable,
and attend special classes that were scheduled just for us. In
these classes we had a range of teachers, who each taught us different
key parts of French, and helped us a lot. We also learnt a lot
of new phrases, vocabulary and everyday French sayings that are
popular amongst students our age.
While many of the families did different things, every one of us
managed to go to Paris, which was an amazing experience for everybody,
and everyone saw “La Tour Eiffel”, and other famous landmarks.
Some of the other places we were lucky enough to see were
places like Germany, Strasbourg, Metz, Amsterdam and Sarreguem-

Newsletter Number 2 March 4, 2011
ines.
Often “the Australians” as we were called, attended English classes
in Bitche, helping the other students with their English speaking
skills, while at the same time learning valuable French that would
not have been possible to learn in Australia.
We are so grateful for the amazing experience that Madame Devereux
and Madame Hoellinger, the corresponding teacher from
France, have been able to create for us, and it would not have been
possible without their commitment and dedication to this homestay.
Madame Devereux has managed to create a life long memory for
each of us, and many new friendships, not only with our host families,
but also with others that we met in France, and we would like to
thank her immensely for giving us the opportunity of a lifetime.
This wonderful trip has opened up so many opportunities for the
future for every single one of us, and it has been the most beneficial
thing that could have happened to improve our French speaking
skills. Now, we not only have a home in Australia, but we each have
a French home and family just waiting for us.
The trip to France was one that each of us will remember forever,
and when the day came for us to leave, nobody wanted to.
Each of us plans to return to Bitche to visit our host families soon,
and we eagerly await the arrival of our host sisters, when they will
attend Ringwood Secondary College in July and early August. They
arrive on July 11th 2011.
Paige Sytema
Year 11, 2011
International and Exchange Report
Our International students have had a great start to the year and
our new students have settled into school life very quickly. Our International
Prefect this year is Eleanor Pine and along with Sophie
we celebrated their eighteenth birthdays this week. I look forward
to working with Eleanor this year, we should have a lot fun especially
organizing our social events which we have several times during
term.
VISIT FROM MONTFORT COLLEGE - THAILAND
We are expecting the arrival of four students from Montfort College
at the beginning of second term. They will be coming for English
immersion and be in class every day. There will be two boys and
two girls around 16 years old. They will be here from the 23rd April
until the 20th May. We are looking for families who would like to
provide a homestay. Each student will pay the $100.00 per week.
Please contact me at school if you are interested.
Year 7 - iPad Update
It has been an exciting, yet hectic few weeks for Year 7. Thank you
to all
students who listened patiently and followed instructions, during
their iPad induction session. As with any emerging technology, we
have
experienced some issues. However, we are working our way
through these and visiting each class to ensure every iPad is functioning
correctly.
REMINDERS
Students have been given the list of both ‘free’ and ‘paid’ applications
that they are to ‘purchase’. From time to time throughout the
year, teachers may ask students to ‘purchase’ other ‘free’ applications,
but no teacher will ask student to ‘purchase’ a ‘paid’ application.
The only time students should purchase any other ‘paid’ applications
with their school gift card, is if this is directed by Ms Rafferty.
This would then be an application all students would need to purchase,
using the remainder of the gift card they were given.
It is vital that students first download the school-identified applications.
We are aware that some students have downloaded other
applications: this isn’t a problem, but there are a few conditions for
students and parents to keep in mind. The school applications must
be downloaded first; the school gift card money cannot be used on
other applications; and non-school applications must not be used
during school hours. It is also important to remember that some applications
which are ‘free’ to download have paid components or ‘in
app purchases’ once they have been downloaded. These are usually
only games, and are an easy trap to fall into. The only school application
on the list, where there is a need for an ‘in app purchase’, is
‘Puppet Pals’, this cost has been factored into the school gift cards.
THAILAND TRIP – 2011
We are still looking for students who would like to join our group
on our trip to Chiang Mai in Thailand. We will be leaving on the 27th
June and returning the 14th July. Students in Years 9-11 are invited
along to this exciting tour of Northern Thailand, highlights include
visiting Temples, Elephant riding in the jungle, white water rafting.
We will stay with homestay families provided by Montfort College
(our sister school). On our way home we will spend 3 nights in Singapore
and will breakfast with Orangutans in the Singapore Zoo
as the main highlight. If you are interested please see the flyer at
the end of the Newsletter and pay your deposit as soon as possible
as we are finalizing numbers soon. For further information you can
contact me on lcody@ringwoodsc.vic.edu.au
Lynda Cody
International Coordinator
It is important that students keep their iTunes gift card safe at
home, as they were instructed at the iPad induction. That way, if
any issues arise due to iTunes accounts, we have the card details to
contact Apple with.
Finally, please remember that there must be no ‘Passcode Lock’
placed on any student iPad (this can be found in Settings under
‘General’). This can create significant problems for both the student
and the Tech team, as, if the password is lost or forgotten, the iPad
will need to be restored to factory settings, wiping all applications
and work.
TECHINCAL TIPS
Technical support assistants are working their way through each
Year 7 class to assist every student. This is a time consuming but vital
process. They are also currently creating several Help Guides, so
students can resolve some of the minor issues themselves. Further
to this, we have included some basic troubleshooting tips below:
Page 7

Newsletter Number 2 March 4, 2011
1. When using applications at school, including App Store, that access
the Internet (except Safari):
- These will not work until you have logged into our Internet filter
system, called ‘Barracuda’.
- You will need to open ‘Safari’ and log in to the Barracuda page
that will appear (using your school username and password).
- You will need to log into the Barracuda page at the start of each
school day.
Students using sleeves,
covers or PC bags are
also not covered by insurance.
In terms of personal
safety when traveling
to and from school, it is
suggested that students
carry the laptop in its bag
inside their school bag.
2. If your Internet is not working:
- Go to Settings, then Wireless, and turn wireless off then on
again.
- Check your wireless is on the right network: VIC8270-STUDENT-
222 (if you’re not on this network you will need technical support).
- Double check your password and username for Barracuda.
- Check your proxy settings: Go to Settings, then Wireless, then
click on the blue arrow next to VIC8270-STUDENT-222. Scroll down
to HTTP Proxy and enter the following details in the boxes provided:
Server: proxy.ringwoodsc.vic.edu.au
Port: 8080
3. If your Mail is not working:
- Go to Settings, then ‘Mail, Contacts, Calendars’. Click on your
email address and check that your password is correct.
- In the same section as above, check that all the information and
settings are spelt correctly, e.g. ‘ringwoodsc.vic.edu.au’ or ‘RING-
WOODSC\username’.
4. If your iPad is running slow:
- Double tap your ‘home’ button to bring up all the applications
you have open. Close any that are not needed.
- In Safari, remember to close windows once you’ve finished with
them.
IPAD HELP SESSIONS
Year 7 students are encouraged
to sign up and attend
a lunchtime session if they
would like help with their
iPad. These are currently
being run on Monday and
Wednesday lunchtimes in
room 206. Students must
sign up on the pink sheets
located outside the Junior
School office.
Laptops
A reminder to all students and parents in the laptop program: Students
must use the laptop bag provided to be covered by insurance.
At school, students must use the STM or Targus bag provided. Students
who carry their laptop without any bag at all will have the
laptop taken from them. This will not be returned until they bring a
note from home acknowledging that they will pay for the full cost
of any repairs, or they agree use the correct bag.
Latex keyboard covers
cause the laptop to overhead
and go into meltdown, and it is strongly recommended that
they are not used. This can also void any Apple warranty.
Finally, a reminder that students are NOT to have portable hard
drives at school. If any student brings a portable hard drive to
school, it will be confiscated. Every student has a folder on the network
server to back up school work onto. They can by all means
have hard drives at home to back up photos, etc., however we have
found the purposes they are used for at school are unnecessary
and in many cases involve illegal behaviours. Students and parents
are reminded to reread the acceptable user policy and ensure they
abide by copyright laws.
Elise Gill and Clare Rafferty
Music
We had a very
successful recruitment
night
last week with
80 students joining
our program.
Twenty- seven
students have already
enrolled as
non beginners,
so our grand total
for year 7 is
107 students. We
still have places available on flute, clarinet and cello so if you could
not make it on the night but would like to join our program, please
see us in the PAC as soon as possible.
A reminder to all year 7 musicians to please order your red music
jumpers, as soon as possible, from Primary School Wear, 18-20 Railway
Ave Ringwood East, 9879 5500.
Also please check the “For Sale” board in the PAC foyer for second
hand instruments. A lot more instruments have been added since
recruitment night.
Training Band commences Thursday 10 March, 8am in room 700, in
the PAC. All subsequent rehearsals will start at 7.15 am!
Training Strings will commence Friday 18 March at lunchtime, room
700 in the PAC.
All year 7 students please ensure you make contact with your instrumental
teacher and find out when your first lesson is by the end
of this week. Please see Ms Pero if you are having problems with
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Newsletter Number 2 March 4, 2011
locating your teacher.
Thank you to all the music staff, students and Music Association
parents who assisted in making recruitment night such a success.
Some good news on our most recent ex music students Out of the
VCE Music Class of 2010, 8 students are studying music and the remaining
4 are in Arts or Science. It is pleasing to hear that 5 students
are studying music at Box Hill Institute, the majority in music industry,
1 at Melbourne University, and 2 others studying at the Generations
in Jazz Academy with Graeme Lyall in Mt Gambier. Ex student
Tom Sly is also taking a sabbatical before his last year at Canberra
School of Music to do this very valuable course that is proving to
be a great gate way into university courses after 1 year of study for
those straight out of school and a great preparation year for those
almost finishing tertiary study. The ensemble they are playing in is
considered to be the National Youth Stage Band. Students from all
over the country have been auditioned to study with Graeme Lyall
for a full 12 months. There are a lot of professional players/teachers
who would like that opportunity to work with Graeme, let alone
students, so it is pretty significant that we have 3 ex RSC students,
out of the 18 students selected for this year from all around Australia.
Our stage bands, as well as 2000 students from all over Australia
are looking forward to hearing this ensemble perform with James
Morrison and Gordon Goodwin on the Saturday night at the Generations
in Jazz weekend this coming May.
All ensembles are up and running for the year and those people
who have not brought back their contracts yet, please do so in the
next few days.
Also don’t forget if a student is going to be absent from either a
rehearsal or a lesson please either contact the PAC office via phone
or email us on rscmusic@ringwoodsc.vic.edu.au preferably before
the event.
Wed May 19
Wed 25 May
Thurs 26 May
Thurs 26 May
Thurs 2 June
Sat 18 June
Vertigan TBC
Junior Concert/Intermediate Autumn
concert
Unit 1 VCE Music Performance
recitals
EMR Concert
Unit 3 VCE Music Performance
recitals
Senior Music Concert
Symphonic Band – Super Dooper
Saturday
Janine Pero
Director of Music
Performing Arts
I would like to begin this edition by heartily congratulating our two
Performing Arts Prefects for 2011 – Kirsty Gayther and Zak Marrinan.
Both of these students have been pillars of our “College which
perfoms” over the last five years and have thoroughly deserved
their roles this year. Kirsty, as well as being a mainstay of Production
in every year of her Ringwood student career, was a key member of
last year’s Performing Arts World Tour. Zak, another Production stalwart,
is the new poster boy of PA, undertaking studies in all three
disciplines of Music, Drama and Dance in his senior year. I could not
think of better role models for our younger students and I look forward
to working with them during 2011.
The audition process for Kiss Me Kate is now well and truly underway
and we have been overwhelmed by the interest from students
looking to secure a place in the cast for this year’s show. Unfortunately,
there will always be those who must miss out (our stage just
isn’t big enough for more) and I encourage those who receive the
discouraging news to consider being involved in one of the many
other departments available: orchestra, sound, lighting, staging,
makeup or marketing spring to mind.
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Thurs 10 March Training Band Rehearsal 8 am rm 700
Fri 18 March Training Strings Rehearsal lunchtime rm 700
Sat 2 April
Sun 3 April
Mon 4 April
Tues 5 April
Wed 6 April
Thurs 7 April
Stage Band Day Camps JSB & SSB
Stage Band Day Camps TSB & ISB
JSB Master class
TSB Master class
ISB Master class
SSB Master class
Term 2:
Mon 2 May Jazz Night
Wed 4 May Music Photos 7.30am
6-8 May Generations in Jazz Stage Band
Competitions, Mt Gambier
Tues 17 May Boroondara Eisteddfod
Mon 16 May Year 11 Music Performance – Steve
Vertigan TBC
Tues 17 May Year 12 Music Performance – Steve
Page 9
This year, we are also relaunching our parent auxiliary body, Extra
p.Arts. This organisation enables parents with an interest and willingness
to assist in the many opportunities afforded by Performing
Arts at Ringwood to chip in at a level that suits their skills and availability.
We will be hosting a Parent Information Evening in the Hall
on Tuesday, March 15 at 7pm and invite any parents who are interested
in joining us to learn more about how they can be involved.
Please see the attached flyer in this newsletter for further information.
On a personal note, I would like to express my personal thanks
to Mrs Jenny Smith, whose children have now graduated from the
school, for her tireless commitment to Extra p.Arts and her willingness
to ensure its smooth transition to new hands.
Finally, I would like to congratulate all of the staff in the incredibly
sizeable Music Department, and all of the students in the equally
massive Music Program, for yet another busy and energetic start to
the year. The PAC is buzzing on a daily basis and, despite the occasional
bout of jackhammering outside, the musical sounds are very
encouraging and bode well for another productive and successful
year.
Ben Moody
Director of Performing Arts
Music Association
EASTER RAFFLE
This year the Music Association is again running an Easter Raffle to

Newsletter Number 2 March 4, 2011
raise funds for our Music department. Last year, we proudly donated
$8000 to the department to purchase much needed equipment.
Our thanks to all the families who helped support this.
Tickets will be sent home with each Music Family and if you would
like to contribute an item towards the hampers - either easter related
or not - please hand it in at the General office.
Tickets are also available to purchase from the front office where
we have a small display of the prizes, and it will be drawn on the
evening of Thursday April 7th and winners will be notified.
Tickets are $1.00 each
Karen Carden
The Sports Pages
SENIOR ROUND ROBIN
Senior students participated in the summer round of Maroondah
Division sport on Monday the 15th of February. The boys and girls
tennis teams were comfortable
winners on the day, with the boys
winning easily and the girls also
getting through to Region finals.
The softball team also won both
games very easily and employed
some great team tactics. The girls
volleyball team dominated and
also went through the day undefeated,
whilst the boys managed
to win 3 out of 5 games. The baseball team were unlucky to miss
the win they needed to get through, while the boys cricket team
also played well and were solid contenders, but narrowly missed
out on progressing through to the next round.
SURF LIFE SAVING LEAGUE
On February 24th Ringwood entered their first ever Male and Female
Surf League teams. The competition was run by Lifesaving Victoria
at Pt Leo and involved swimming, sprinting and boarding, as
well as some very sore arms by
the end of the day! Both teams
performed very well on the
day, especially given many students
hadn’t been involved in
Life saving sports before. Some
of the highlights included Khy
Blizzard’s 3rd placing, Tristan
Blizzards 2nd placing and Aaron
Bentall’s 3rd placing in their age
groups Run Swim Run events. Josh Edwards finished 2nd in the
Intermediate Beach sprint, with Abby Couper also showing plenty
of dash finishing 3rd in the girls final. Well done to all students
involved, hopefully we can build on this year’s performance next
year.
UPCOMING DATES
10th March Division Swimming
25th March Intermediate Summer Round
28th March Eastern Region Swimming at MSAC
31st March Ringwood Cross Country
Kyle Simkin and Amy Malander
Sports Coordinator and AFL Sports Trainee
First Aid
In accordance with Department of Health guideline, Maroondah
City Council’s Immunisation team will be visiting the school to provide
immunisations to students in years 7 and 10.
This is the schedule detailed below:
The remaining dates for summer sport are Intermediate: March
25th, Year 8: April 6th and Year 7: April 1st.
The Ringwood Cross Country, which will be held on Thursday the
31st of March, is also approaching fast. Time to get the runners out
and start training for those keen to perform well.
DIVISION SWIMMING
Training continues for our swimming team on Monday and Thursday
nights after school in the lead up to the Division carnival.
As usual parents/guardians are most welcome to attend and show
their support on the competition day on March 10th at Ringwood
Aquatic Centre.
*HPV (Human Papilloma Vaccine) is given to only female students
in Year 7.
Immunisation cards have been distributed to all year 7 and 10 students
in form assemblies. If your child has not received one please
ask them to ask their form teacher for one or come to First Aid to
get one.
The council immunisation team would like all students to wear their
sports uniform on the day of the immunisations.
If you have any queries regarding school immunisation please contact
Maroondah City Council on 1300 88 22 33
ALL cards must be returned to the college whether your child is being
immunised or not, we MUST a card registering your preference.
Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.
Page 10
Shirley McInnes and Nancy Davies

Newsletter Number 2 March 4, 2011
Page 11

Newsletter Number 2 March 4, 2011
Year 9 – 11 Student Leadership 2011
Student leadership is a vital and essential part of our College, offering
students the opportunity to develop their skills and knowledge in positions of
responsibility. Through our leadership program, we aim to provide students
with a voice, which is an essential part of student learning and engagement.
After applications were submitted and considered, we are pleased to
announce the leadership appointments listed below for 2011.
All these students are invited to become active members of the Student
Representative Council, which is the key group within the school for student
voices to be heard. The first meeting will be held before school on Tuesday
8 th March. There will also be leadership training offered to these leaders
throughout the year, so all leaders must ensure they regularly check the
bulletin and their school email.
Congratulations to all our year 9 – 11 leaders!
Miss Kimberley Hall
Student Connections Leader
Performing Arts
Captains
Lachlan Roberts
Rachael Gayther
Hannah Macaulay
Ryan Smedley
Verity Brown
Matilda Edwards
Mitchell Roberts
Mitchell Pirera
Music Captains
Liam Whitbourn
Ashley Thomas
Justin Heskett
Clare Hosford
Tess Rodda
Corey Lucas-Evans
Mitchell Pirera
Sports Captains
Alistair Zuc
Nicolette Hornsby
Brandon Stelfox
Lauren Ricci
Sam Welsh
Rhylee Prescott
eLearning Captains
Jacob Carroll
Andrew Wiseman
Darmeshrai Palmer
Environment
Leaders
Maddy Mason
Luke Thomas
Jessica Pater
Maricris Gulay
Caitlin Smith
Veida Somerville
Year Level/House
Leaders
Stephen Amos
Tayla Crump
Thomas King
Emilie Evans
Alex Pezzimenti
Briana Holland
Christie Lay
James Agorakis
Makayla Fraser
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Newsletter Number 2 March 4, 2011
Form Captains/Tutor Group Leaders
Merinda Luc
Alexandra Brown
Brendan Lay
Corey Lucas-Evans
Hannah Brown
Vaibhav (Nick) Bali
India Brown
Courtney Smyth
Lachlan Dalli
Miranda Boyle
Jenny Zhong
Maddy Mackey
Svjetlana Music
Emily Treeby
Kaitlin Prosenak
Bianca Lamorticella
Daniella Hastas
Jake Brudenell
Stewart Ewenson-Allan
Ted Batchelor
Kyle Cooper
Luke Grundy
Maddy Mackey
Svjetlana Music
Emily Treeby
Jessica Webster
India Brown
Courtney Smyth
Lachlan Dalli
Luke Grundy
Luke Thomas
Michael Monaghan
Maddi Molnar
Leanne Fifite
Shane Bryden
Crystal Knowles
Emma Abraham
Sarina Monastirli
Chris Vanderhorst
Chelsey Tattersall
Megan Williams
Georgia Griffith
Holly Tregenza
Lydia Malesic
James Sanchez-Legg
Shaanine Dove
Alex Trushell
Ambassadors
Chris Jolley
Bianca LaMorticella
Madison Slade
Kimberly Henley
Briana Holland
Sophie Sumner
Adam Waterson
India Brown
Courtney Smyth
Lachlan Dalli
Luke Grundy
Maddy Mackey
Svjetlana Music
Emily Treeby
The year 7 and 8 student leaders will be showcased in the next
edition of the newsletter so stay tuned.
Page 13

Newsletter Number 2 March 4, 2011
In 2011 the MEC is continuing to work collaboratively
to improve the educational outcomes for all coalition
students. The following schools form the Maroondah
Education Coalition (MEC): Croydon SC, Croydon
Community School, Heathmont College, Maroondah
SC, Norwood SC, Parkwood SC and Ringwood SC.
Term 1 Activities
Year 12 Educational Seminar February 18 th
The MEC Educational Seminar for Year 12 students
from our six coalition schools was again a successful
event that attracted positive feedback from both
students and teachers.
Over 600 students attended Swinburne University –
Lilydale campus and participated in a range of
informative and practical sessions from Elevate, as
well as a presentation from Bob Hillman – VCE
English Assessor & Head of Year 12 at Trinity
Grammar.
Elevate Education provided 3 of the 4 sessions.
These were:
Student Elevation
Path of the Study Sensei
Time Management
Maroondah Education Coalition
All the sessions were well received by the students.
Feedback sheets indicated that 89% of the students
thought that overall the day was either, very useful (44%)
or useful (46%).
Some student positives for the day include:
I am no longer overwhelmed by the idea of 3 hours of
study a night
The day was fun and very informative
I learnt ways to balance and prioritise my time
I really came away with a sense of relief to know
there are ways to get through and to minimise stress
I’ve become more motivated. It’s inspiring.
I now have ideas on how to get organised
Loved the speakers and Bob Hillman was amazing
and extremely inspirational
Elevate speakers were inclusive and funny
It really helped with study habits. I’m less stressed
and I know what to do.
Learning how to set goals and use of colour in note
taking
That most people work hard to get good marks and
are not just naturally smart. Anyone can do well if
they try!
Learning time management. I now know how to make
a timetable.
I came out of the day with a better study focus
A positive atmosphere
The Year 12 Parent & Student Night with
Dr Michael Carr – Greg, February 16 th
This night was again a very animated and informative
evening with practical advice given to both parents and
students for ‘Surviving the VCE’.
Over 500 students, parents & teachers attended the
presentation at Deakin University – Burwood Campus.
Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many
parents personally thanking Dr Carr-Gregg at the
conclusion of the session.
Read Michael’s tips for
coping well in your
VCE year. (next page)
Explore the Michael
Carr-Gregg website.
Lyn McGoldrick – MEC Lead Learner
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Newsletter Number 2 March 4, 2011
How to stay focused and motivated in VCE
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Newsletter Number 2 March 4, 2011
___________________________________________
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Newsletter Number 2 March 4, 2011
Cost / Due Date
•
•
•
$ 75.00 for the Semester which includes tuition & refreshments.
If you are interested, please completed the permission /payment slip below and return to
the General Office by Friday, March 4.
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Newsletter Number 2 March 4, 2011
Welfare
TENNIS
HAIR
BRAIDING
HENNA
FACE
PAINTING
Ringwood Secondary College
Bedford Rd, Ringwood
9.00 to 5.00pm
Come n Try different sports and meet local
sporting clubs from...
BADMINTON
VOLLEYBALL
CRICKET
Also watch our young people as they compete in a
Plus heaps of other fun activities and a
FREE BBQ!!!!!
For more information please call
Migrant Information Centre’s
Youth Settlement Team
Tel: 9285 4888
FOOTBALL
HIP HOP
DANCING
BOLLYWOOD
DANCING
JUMPING
CASTLE
Sharlene Agnew
Student Welfare Coordinator
Page 18

Newsletter Number 2 March 4, 2011
Community Announcements
The Department of Education and Ringwood Secondary College do not endorse
the products or services of any private advertiser. No responsibility
is accepted by the Department of Education and Ringwood Secondary College
for the accuracy of information contained in advertisements or claims
made by them.
LEARN ABOUT YOURSELF !
As Marcel Proust, a late 19 th century novelist, wrote: “the real voyage of
discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes”.
Host an international high school student in July through Southern Cross
Cultural Exchange and prepare to be amazed at the way this unique
opportunity helps your family to become closer, to understand themselves
better and to see the world in a new light.
Carefully selected students will arrive in July for one or two semesters from
Europe, Scandinavia and Japan. They will attend a local secondary school, are
fully insured and have their own spending money.
Call S.C.C.E now on 1800 500 501, email scceaust@scce.com.au or visit our
website (www.scce.com.au) to be part of this rewarding experience.
We require volunteers for our Homework Club (established
2010), to assist students with understanding English words
and helping them with their assignments! No prior
experience necessary!
When:
Time:
Place:
Thursday (we may expand if we have enough
volunteer interest)
3:30pm-5pm during school terms
Ringwood Secondary College, Bedford Rd
Ringwood.
Interested? Please contact Cathy Kinnear via email
ckinnear@ringwoodsc.vic.edu.au or call on 9870 2002 (BH)
Training Session for Volunteers
We will hold a short training/information session for volunteers.
Exact date/time to be confirmed.
PIANO LESSONS at
Ringwood SC
Lessons have begun. There
are some vacancies if you
want to learn the piano
at School.
Ring Alex Boemo on
98026623 / 0408333295
Page 19

Newsletter Number 2 March 4, 2011
•
•
•
NORWOOD
Junior Football Club
Come and Play
Football in 2011
Season Starts
April 3, 2011
U8 to U16
All welcome
Contact Andrew Panayi
Director - Football Operations
0400 686 867
Or visit our web site
http://football.norwood.org.au
Tutoring Advertising
The Department of Education and Ringwood Secondary College
do not endorse the products or services of any private advertiser.
No responsibility is accepted by the Department of Education and
Ringwood Secondary College for the accuracy of information contained
in advertisements or claims made by them.
Page 20