2013 Senior Admissions Handbook - The Southport School

Senior Handbook 2013
S

The Southport School
Senior Handbook 2013

2 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
Table of Contents
Headmaster’s Welcome...................................................... 3
School Captain’s Welcome................................................. 3
Welcome from the Parents and Friends............................ 4
Years 8 - 12 Orientation Day Schedule.............................. 5
Year 7 Orientation Day Schedule....................................... 6
School Mission Statement.................................................. 7
School Motto....................................................................... 7
School War Cry.................................................................... 7
School Prayer ............................................................7
School Hymn........................................................................ 7
Senior School Timetable - Years 8 - 12.............................. 8
Year 7 Timetable.................................................................. 9
2013 Calendar Dates........................................................... 10
Quick Contact Numbers .................................................... 11
Where to Look..................................................................... 11
General Information............................................................ 12
Intranet ................................................................................ 12
Stationery Packs and Textbooks......................................... 12
Medical Forms..................................................................... 12
Updating Personal Details.................................................. 12
Houses and the House System........................................... 13
The House System............................................................... 15
Boys’ Education................................................................... 16
Curriculum Matters.............................................................. 18
Robotics Program................................................................ 21
Gifted Education................................................................. 22
Co-Curricular Program........................................................ 23
Services................................................................................. 24
Outdoor Education............................................................. 24
Camps................................................................................... 24
TSS Learning to Lead - Becoming “Ideal Leaders”.......... 25
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DOE)..................................... 26
Round Square...................................................................... 26
The Chapel of St Alban....................................................... 28
Psychologist/School Counsellor......................................... 29
The Harley Stumm Centre - Senior Library........................ 29
Music..................................................................................... 30
Vocational Education & Training........................................ 34
School Uniform.................................................................... 34
School Rules......................................................................... 37
Student Obligations Regarding the Use of Textbooks.... 41
BYOD Requirement: Internet Connected Device............. 41
Developing Positive Behaviour.......................................... 42
Anti-Discrimination & Harassment Policy.......................... 43
Map of the Senior School................................................... 46
Map of the Prep School...................................................... 47

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 3
Headmaster’s Welcome
It gives me great pleasure to welcome you into the community of The Southport School. I look forward to
meeting you personally if I have not already done so.
You have joined a great school with an enviable history and strong traditions which stretch back to the
beginning of the last century. The hard work done by generations of previous Old Southportonians in
building the tone and reputation of the School is their gift to you. I know you will rise to the challenge on
maintaining and enhancing that reputation, which you in turn will pass onto those boys who will come after
you.
I wish you well in this new and exciting direction of your life.
Mr Greg Wain
Headmaster
School Captain’s Welcome
Welcome to TSS in 2013 and congratulations to all who have chosen this great school to continue your
learning experience and pursue your dreams. I can assure you with great confidence that your schooling
experience at TSS will be very enjoyable and upon leaving the history, traditions, knowledge and memories
you have experienced during your time at TSS will hold a special place in your journey throughout life.
The Southport School will present you with countless opportunities that very few schools in Australia can
offer and this is what makes TSS such a special place. I encourage you to embrace everything that TSS has
to offer, to move outside your comfort zone and really get involved. However most importantly build strong
mateships with the people around you and enjoy your time at TSS. I look forward to meeting and welcoming
you into the TSS community and wish you all the best for your years ahead on your new journey at The
Southport School.
Sam Rasmussen
School Captain 2013

4 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
Welcome from the Parents and Friends
On behalf of The Southport School Parents and Friends Association Inc., welcome and congratulations on the enrolment
of your boy at TSS.
The P&F is a very active organisation in supporting the School not only by means of funding various “legacy” projects
for the school, but also providing funding for the requirements of a large cross section of various School activities.
Over the last few years, the P&F has provided funds to air-condition the Chapel, for the new Prep Pavilion, the
refurbishment of The Old Gym Cafe and, most recently for the new Village Green Grandstand.
As well as this, the P&F provides a diverse and variety of funding to all our various “Friends of ” groups, by assisting them
to purchase an array of sporting equipment for the various sporting groups, a number of musical instruments for the
music department and funds for support of the Cadet Forces within the school.
A large part of our funding is generated from the School Store which is operated by the P&F, where our charter is to
return the monies raised, back into the School for the benefit of the boy’s. As we move forward, not only does the Store
carry clothing for your son but also “support” clothing for Parents. Please feel free to shop for yourself at our Store, and
wear the School colours when cheering your Son on.
The P&F has 11 hard working and enthusiastic sub-committees, who raise funds to ensure that the boy’s sporting and
cultural activities remain viable. These groups are titled “Friends of ” and there is no doubt you will be exposed to their
efforts during your time at TSS. “Friends of ” groups include Athletics, Basketball, Cricket, Gymnastics, Music, Rowing,
Rugby, Sailing, Football, Tennis and Prep. All of these groups involve Parents giving up their time to support the Director
of that particular activity, the school and, most important of all, the boys.
I hope you too will think about joining one of these groups, as I can assure you the camaraderie and effort that each
parent put’s in, can be seen by the satisfaction of seeing the each boy’s enjoyment in that particular activity. Throughout
2012, it has been my privilege to attend a variety of the support groups AGM’s and social events; and it never ceases to
amaze me how many TSS parents continue to commit themselves to help the boys in their chosen activity through these
support groups which, in turn, assists the school.
As a parent, I encourage you and your son, to take every opportunity to embrace what this wonderful school has to offer
you both. At times it will seem exhausting, but I can assure you it is all worthwhile. The time goes all too quick.
Finally, I welcome you all to TSS, where you will find it is much more than just an educational intuition, it will become
part of your everyday life not only while your son is at the school but far beyond after he has left.
Welcome to the TSS Community.
David MacInnes
P&F President
P&F Functions
Our P&F operates several functions with the aim of ensuring all parents, new and returning, have an opportunity to
come together.
Tuesday 29 January
6pm Annand Theatre – Headmaster’s Presentation to ALL TSS parents – hosted by the
P&F who will be providing a light supper and a cash bar afterwards;
Tuesday 19 March
Our Annual General Meeting (AGM) is being held on March 19 at the Annand Theatre.
Thursday 29 August
The P&F Presidents Dinner will be held on Thursday 29th August 2013 at Q1 Sky Point
Tower. This is a fabulous event for all parents to come together and enjoy great food,
good wine and greater company.
Please refer to our website - http://www.tss.qld.edu.au/Community/ParentsandFriends/PandFHome.aspx for further information
and full details.
Your P&F Committee looks forward to meeting you at one of these functions.

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 5
Years 8 - 12 Orientation Day Schedule
Program for Orientation Day - Tuesday 29 January 2013
Students are required to be in full day uniform (not Chapel dress).
Year 8 students must bring their TSS sports uniform
8.00am – 9.00am
New Boarders move into Boarding Houses. Day Housemasters will be available to meet
parents on the Chapel Lawns outside the Dixon Gates.
9.00am – 10.30am
All new students and parents assembled inside Annand Theatre located near roundabout
on Dixon Drive for welcome to TSS.
Boys move to the Arch of the Good Shepherd with Housemasters, Pastoral Care
Teachers, House Captains, Wardens and Prefects.
10.30am – 11.00am
Morning Tea is served to the boys at the Houses.
Parents move to Morning Tea at the Dining Hall.
School Photos are taken in House order in the Memorial Room.
11.00am – 12.30pm
All Year 8 boys are assisted by Pastoral Care Teachers in collection of Timetables, Record
Books and Textbooks.
Years 9 - 12 boys move to the Centenary Sports Centre.
Years 9 - 12 DO NOT COLLECT TEXTBOOKS UNTIL 1:00PM.
11.00am – 11.45am
Parents are invited to return to the Annand Theatre to be addressed by Headmaster, Mr
Wain.
11.45am – 12.00pm
Prefects and House Captains return to assist parents and offer school tours. Parents may
leave and return at 3.00pm to collect their son(s).
11.45am – 12.30pm
New Boarding parents meet at the Chapel.
12.00pm – 1.15pm
Lunch for all new boys in Dining Hall (no parents), Prefects, House Captains, Kit
Mentors, Housemasters & Management.
1.00pm – 3.20pm
Orientation Program begins for all Year 8 students only. Boys to meet at Centenary Sports
Centre.
Day Boys may be collected by parents at 3.20pm.
Boarders to remain at their Boarding Houses.
1.00pm – 3.00pm
Collection of textbooks and timetables for ALL NEW Years 9 – 12 students. Years 9 - 12
day students may then leave. Boarders to remain at their Boarding House.
2.45pm – 3.00pm
International Students ONLY – Student Visa processing, Admissions Office.
3.00pm
Afternoon tea in Boarding Houses for all Boarding parents (old & new) and their
families. Boarders to remain for the evening.

6 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
Year 7 Orientation Day Schedule
Program for Orientation Day - Wednesday 30 January 2013
What to Bring:
Summer Uniform - Akubra, shorts, belt, short - sleeved shirt and long socks
TSS Bag which should include - TSS swimwear, PE uniform (includes House shirt), combination padlocks
and Lunch (Morning tea provided)
8.45am - 10.15am
10.25am - 10.30am
Welcome
Year 7 Parents and boys held in the Annand Theatre
Year 7s walk through the Arch of the Good Shepherd (Sheil Building)
Parents walk to the entrance of the ‘Arch of the Good Shepherd’ at the front of the new Sheil Building
with the Year 7 Cohort
Official Opening of the Bennett Building and Morning Tea
10.30am - 11.00am
Year 7 Boys and Parents meet together for official opening of the Bennett Building
Morning tea is served
Headmaster’s Presentation
11.00am - 11.50am
Parents are invited to classrooms B10, 11 and 12 where Mr Wain will deliver a presentation
Year 7 boys will walk down to the Centenary Centre with KIT Mentors and staff for activities
11.50am - 12.30pm
Core Teacher Sessions
Year 7 Core Teachers present an information session to all parents in their respective classes
Lunch
12.30pm - 1.30pm
Year 7 boys will eat lunch at the Centenary Centre – supervised by Year 7 Co-ordinator and Core
Teachers
Year 7 boys stay in PE Uniform
Pool
1.30pm - 2.15pm
Year 7 Boys will get changed into swimming gear and participate in a free swim supervised by Year 7
Co-ordinator and Core Teachers
Year 7 Boys get changed into school uniform and move to Bennett classrooms with Year 7 Core
Teachers
Core Class Time
2.30pm - 3.00pm
Year 7 Core Teacher time with students
Locker Access and collection of timetables
Record Books and text books can be picked up Thursday and Friday
3.00pm - 3.20pm
3.20pm
Photo Shoot
Individual photo shoot begins in Memorial Room
Boys depart for the day

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 7
School Mission Statement
‘To challenge each boy to achieve excellence in a Christian community where education embraces the whole of life.’
School Vision
The Southport School will be acknowledged as a world-class day and boarding school for boys, a balanced and holistic
Christian learning community in the Anglican tradition, working with families to create outstanding young men who
are confident, happy and responsible, with highly developed skills in the areas of leadership, thinking, creativity and
emotional intelligence.
Strategic Priorities
Within the context of providing a safe, supportive and encouraging Christian environment, we will:
1. Maintain our strong academic ethos and further develop our learning enabling IT systems and Learning
Management system ‘learning@tss’.
2. Create and implement a world-class Years 7 to 9 ‘Learning to Lead’ program aimed at developing our boys’ academic
abilities, 21st century leadership skills and intelligent dispositions. This program will include positive psychology
courses, thinking skills, Habits of Mind and the Chinese living, language and culture program.
3. Implement the recently developed and piloted Model of the Ideal TSS Teacher to invest in our staff and to continue
to build TSS as a ‘learning organisation’ where all staff seek feedback, reflect on practice and are continually learning.
4. Maintain TSS as a school for Boarders, with a continued strong commitment to Country Boarding.
5. Construct the three stages of the Academic and Leadership Centres, including the Leadership Centre, Year 7
Transition Centre, Creative Visual Arts Centre, Lecture Theatre, staff facilities and learning spaces for Drama and
Robotics.
School Motto
“Palmam QUI MERUIT FERAT” Let he who
merits it bear the Palm
School War Cry
Tokio! Tokio! Shav-en-us, gavin,
Pe Kinny, nish nah, Lay Kinny Shin.
Kinny, Kinny, wuff-wuff,
Kinny, Kinny, Shah.
Southport! Southport! Rah, Rah, Rah.
Tokio – Tokio! Shavenus kavoo,
Come on Southport – Red, White, Blue,
S-O-U-T-H-P-O-R-T; Southport!
Tokio! Tokio! Tokio!
School Prayer (Written by the Reverend A.J.A. Stonier).
Almighty God, we thank you for this The Southport
School.
We give thanks for the service of teachers and pupils;
of domestic and clerical staff;
of parents and friends;
of Old Boys and the school council –
may all continue to work for the common good.
Make us a truly Christian community
where education embraces
the whole of life.
Within the school may we find acceptance,
healing, and growth through faith in Christ and,
in turn, service to others.
We ask this through Him who as a man taught by
caring,
Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
School Hymn
Here I am, Lord
I, the Lord of sea and sky,
I have heard My people cry.
All who dwell in dark and sin
My hand will save.
I who made the stars of night,
I will make the darkness bright.
Who will bear My light to them?
Whom shall I send?
Refrain
Here I am Lord, Is it I, Lord?
I have heard You calling in the night.
I will go, Lord, if You lead me.
I will hold Your people in my heart.
I, the Lord of snow and rain.
I have borne My people’s pain.
I have wept for love of them.
They turn away.
I will break their hearts of stone.
Give them hearts for love alone.
I will speak My word to them.
Whom shall I send?
Refrain
I, the Lord of wind and flame,
I will send the poor and lame,
I will set a feast for them.
My hand will save.
Finest bread I will provide
Till their hearts be satisfied,
I will give My life to them.
Whom shall I send?
Refrain

8 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
Senior School Timetable - Years 8 - 12
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
8.25am warning bell
8.25am warning bell
8.25am warning bell
8.25am warning bell
8.25am warning bell
Move to Class
Move to Class
Move to Class
Move to Class
Move to Class
Roll Call
8.30am-8.40am
Roll Call
8.30am-8.40am
Roll Call
8.30am-8.40am
Roll Call
8.30am-8.40am
Roll Call
8.30am-8.40am
Period 1
Period 1
Period 1
Period 1
Period 1
8.40am-9.30am
8.40am-9.30am
8.40am-9.30am
8.40am-9.30am
8.40am-9.30am
Period 2
Period 2
Period 2
Period 2
Period 2
9.35am-10.25am
9.35am-10.25am
9.35am-10.25am
9.35am-10.25am
9.35am-10.25am
Morning Tea
Morning Tea
Morning Tea
Morning Tea
Morning Tea
10.25am-10.50am
10.25am-10.50am
10.25am-10.50am
10.25am-10.50am
10.25am-10.50am
10.40am warning bell
10.40am warning bell
10.40am warning bell
10.40am warning belll
10.40am warning bell
Period 3
Period 3
Period 3
Period 3
Period 3
10.50am-11.40am
10.50am-11.40am
10.50am-11.40am
10.50am-11.40am
10.50am-11.40am
Period 4
Period 4
Period 4
Period 4
Period 4
11.45am-12.35pm
11.45am-12.35pm
11.45am-12.35pm
Assembly
11.45am-12.35pm
Leadership
11.45am-12.35pm
Chapel
Chapel
12.40pm-1.00pm
MAU, SUR
house meetings
12.40pm-12.55pm
Mel, Rad, Wal, ATK, KAI, TUR
12.40pm-1.00pm
Atk, Kai, Tur
Mentor Period
12.40pm-12.55pm
Mel, Rad, Sur, Wal, Bid, Del
house meetings
12.40pm-12.55pm
mau, sur
Chapel
12.40pm-1.00pm
Mel, Rad, Wal
Mentor Period
12.40pm-12.55pm
Atk, Kai, Mau, McK, Tho, Tur,
sur
Lunch
Team/Club Meetings
12.35pm-1.35pm
1.30pm Warning Bell
Cadets
11.45am-1.05pm
Lunch
Lunch
Lunch
Lunch
1.00pm-1.35pm
1.00pm-1.35pm
1.00pm-1.35pm
12.35pm-1.35pm
12.55pm-1.35pm
12.55pm-1.35pm
12.55pm-1.35pm
1.05pm-1.35pm
1.30pm warning Bell
1.30pm warning Bell
1.30pm warning Bell
1.30pm warning Bell
Period 5
Period 5
Period 5
Period 5
Period 5
1.35pm-2.25pm
1.35pm-2.25pm
1.35pm-2.25pm
1.35pm-2.25pm
1.35pm-2.25pm
Period 6
Period 6
Period 6
Period 6
Period 6
2.30pm-3.20pm
2.30pm-3.20pm
2.30pm-3.20pm
2.30pm-3.20pm
2.30pm-3.20pm

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 9
Year 7 Timetable
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
8.15am Move to Class 8.15am Move to Class 8.15am Move to Class 8.15am Move to Class 8.15am Move to Class
Roll Call & Pastoral Time
8.20am-8.40am
Roll Call & Pastoral Time
8.20am-8.40am
Roll Call & Pastoral Time
8.20am-8.40am
Roll Call & Pastoral Time
8.20am-8.40am
Roll Call & Pastoral Time
8.20am-8.40am
Period 1
8.40am-9.30am
Period 1
8.40am-9.30am
Period 1
8.40am-9.30am
Period 1
8.40am-9.30am
Period 1
8.40am-9.30am
Period 2
9.35am-10.20am
Period 2
9.35am-10.20am
Period 2
9.35am-10.20am
Period 2
9.35am-10.20am
Period 2
9.35am-10.20am
Period 3
10.20am-10.50am
Period 3
10.20am-10.50am
Period 3
10.20am-10.50am
Period 3
10.20am-10.50am
Period 3
10.20am-10.50am
Morning Tea
10.50am-11.40am
Morning Tea
10.50am-11.40am
Morning Tea
10.50am-11.40am
Morning Tea
10.50am-11.40am
Morning Tea
10.50am-11.40am
Period 4
11.45am-12.35am
Period 4
11.45am-12.35am
Period 4
11.45am-12.35am
Period 4
Assembly or
Library Session
11.45am-12.35pm
Period 4
11.45am-12.35am
CHAPEL
12.40pm-1.00pm
Mau, Sur
House Meetings
12.40pm-12.55pm
Mel, Rad, Wal, Atk, Kai, Tur
Chapel
12.40pm-1.00pm
Atk, Kai, Tur
House Meetings
12.35pm-12.55pm
Mau, Sur
Chapel
12.40pm-1.00pm
Mel, Rad, Wal
Leadership and
Kit Mentors
12.40pm-1.00pm
Lunch
12.35pm-1.05pm
Lunch
1.00pm-1.35pm
12.55pm-1.35pm
Lunch
1.00pm-1.35pm
12.55pm-1.35pm
Lunch
1.00pm-1.35pm
12.55pm-1.35pm
Lunch
1.05pm-1.35pm
Year Level Assembly
1.05pm-1.35pm
Period 5
1.35pm-2.25pm
Period 5
1.35pm-2.25pm
Period 5
1.35pm-2.25pm
Period 5
1.35pm-2.25pm
Period 5
1.35pm-2.25pm
Period 6
2.30pm-3.20pm
Period 6
2.30pm-3.20pm
Period 6
2.30pm-3.20pm
Period 6
2.30pm-3.20pm
Period 6
2.30pm-3.20pm
Students are expected to arrive and sign in on time every day. If a student is LATE he MUST report to Student Services.
Only then may he go to class. If this procedure is not followed the student will be marked absent and a text message will
be sent to the boy’s parents.

10 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
2013 Calendar Dates
This calendar is also available on the website www.tss.qld.edu.au
Term One
Tuesday 29 January 8.30am Orientation Day for all Year 8, and Years 9-12 New Students
4.00pm Boarders will return
Wednesday 25 January 8.30am Orientation Day for all Year 7 Students
Term One begins with House Meetings, followed by Period 2
Wednesday 27 March 3.20pm Term One ends
Term Two
Monday 15 April 4pm Boarders will return
Tuesday 16 April 8.30am Term Two begins with Period 1
Thursday 20 June 3.20pm Term Two ends
Term Three
Monday 15 July 4pm Boarders will return
Tuesday 16 July 8.30am Term Three begins with Period 1
Thursday 19 September 3.20pm Term Three ends
Term Four
Tuesday 8 October 4pm Boarders will return
Wednesday 9 October 8.30am Term Four begins with Period 1
Thursday 28 November 3.20pm Speech Day – Term Four ends at the conclusion of the ceremony
The following student free dates will be taken by the School:
• Monday 29 January
• Monday 15 April
• Monday 15 July
• Tuesday 8 October
• Monday 21 October
The following public holidays will be taken by the School:
• Australia Day Monday 28 January
• Good Friday Friday 29 March
• Easter Monday Monday 1 April
• ANZAC Day Thursday 25 April
• Queen’s Birthday Monday 10 June
• Gold Coast Show Friday 30 August
• Queen’s Birthday Monday 7 October

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 11
Quick Contact Numbers
Preparatory School
Preparatory School Reception & Absentee Line.....................................................................................................07 5531 9943
Head of The Preparatory School................................................................Jeff Symms.......................................(07) 5531 9943
Deputy Head - Pastoral Care...................................................................... Mark Wyer.......................................(07) 5531 9943
Deputy Head - Curriculum................................................................... Kathryn Barry.......................................(07) 5531 9943
Chaplain............................................................................................Father Phil Crook.......................................(07) 5531 9958
Sports Master............................................................................................... Alex Kelley.......................................(07) 5531 9943
Music Master........................................................................................ Trisha Matthias.......................................(07) 5531 9943
Library..................................................................................................... Deb Schinckel.......................................(07) 5531 9849
Senior School
Senior School Reception..........................................................................................................................................07 5531 9911
Absentee Line/Student Services...............................................................................................................................07 5531 9850
Sport Wet Weather Line............................................................................................................................................07 5531 9860
Headmaster................................................................................................... Greg Wain..........................................07 5531 9931
Deputy Headmaster.................................................................................. Alan Parsons..........................................07 5531 9866
Dean of Students Years 7, 8 & 9......................................................Richard Dobrenov..........................................07 5531 9933
Dean of Students Years 10, 11 & 12..................................................Andrew Hawkins..........................................07 5531 9986
Dean of Boarding.................................................................................... Daniel Brown..........................................07 5531 9902
Year 7 Coordinator..........................................................................................Karel Bos..........................................07 5531 9904
Studies Department................................Jo Inglis, Bryce Golburg & Michelle Green..........................................07 5531 9852
Sports Department...................................................................................... Bryan Hain..........................................07 5531 9828
School Counsellor....................................................................................Scot Gannon..........................................07 5531 9952
School Chaplain.................................................................... Father Jonathan Whereat ........................................07 5531 9956
Business Manager......................................................................................Ross Cardiff..........................................07 5531 9939
Accounts Office.................................................................................... Keith Reynolds..........................................07 5531 9959
The Store.......................................................................................................... Les Gray..........................................07 5531 9823
Senior Library...........................................................................................Andrew Stark..........................................07 5531 9987
A comprehensive list of numbers can be found on the Intranet (TSSNet)
Where to Look
The following is a list of websites containing specific information.
• Subject choices http://www.tss.qld.edu.au/Parents_And_Students/senior/academicProgram/academic/SubjectSelection.aspx
• Assessment Calendar http://www.tss.qld.edu.au/Parents_And_Students/senior/academicProgram/exams/examhome.aspx
• School Calendar http://www.tss.qld.edu.au/Parents_and_Students/Calendar.aspx
• The Senior Library http://www.tss.qld.edu.au/Parents_and_Students/Senior/SeniorLibrary/SeniorLibraryHome.aspx
• Round Square http://www.tss.qld.edu.au/Parents_and_Students/Senior/SeniorRoundSquare/SeniorRoundSquareHome.aspx
• Gifted & Talented Program http://www.tss.qld.edu.au/Parents_And_Students/senior/GiftedandTalented.aspx

12 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
General Information
Intranet
The TSSNet resources include our subject notes and homework, encouraging you to be aware of your son’s learning
experiences – plus study skills, daily notices, staff telephone and email contacts and a wealth of other information. You
will find TSSNet by following the link from the TSS home page (www.tss.qld.edu.au). Access to the TSSNet resources
requires a login and password. Currently we use a community login for parents as follows:
Username: parent
Password: brothers (from 30 January 2012)
TSS offers a superb range of facilities that students will use. In the Senior School there are eleven labs, incorporating over
730 computers for class and out-of-hours use. Four labs have specialist software where boys may study design, media,
music and robotics. There is a campus wide WiFi network to enable students access to IT resources from either their
own laptops, or school provided devices.
For Boarders, each house is equipped with a lab of computers and a printer which may be used on a shared basis. There
is also a pervasive WiFi network to allow the boarders who have laptops, controlled access to the Internet.
The IT Help Desk can be contacted directly on 07 5531 9889.
Stationery Packs and Textbooks
At the beginning of each year, all stationery and exercise book requirements can be ordered online via a link on our
website. These items can be ordered for the back to school period prior to the beginning of the academic year. Day boys
orders are sent to their home address and boarders packs are sent directly to the Boarding House. Textbooks are loaned
from our School Library and must be returned in the same condition otherwise a fee will be charged.
Medical Forms
A medical summary form for each student will be sent to their parent/guardian annually. It is the responsibility of the
parent/guardian to update the student’s medical details. A non-return of the medical summary will be taken as no change
to the medical records. Please contact the Health Centre on 07 5531 9927.
Updating Personal Details
It is also the responsibility of a student’s parent/guardian to contact the School to advise of any change in your contact
details. This can be done online through the TSSNet login (as mentioned above). Alternatively please contact the
Database Administrator Mrs McKennariey, on 07 5531 9981.

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 13
Houses and the House System
The Senior School is divided vertically into the twelve Houses: eight day boy Houses and four Boarding Houses. There
is also a Boarding House (Rogers House) for boys in Year 7.
The House System is the strong foundation on which the School organises, operates and cares for its boys. A boy’s
identity at the School will be synonymous with his particular House. The House System is the backbone of our pastoral
care program and a student’s involvement in his House is extensive. From having his name on rolls to competing
in House events, the House System makes a statement about who a student is. The House System also affords boys
wonderful opportunities for responsibility and leadership.
The following list provides contact details for the day and boarding houses for the Senior School:
atkinson House
Colour
Sea Blue and Orange
Emblem
Seagull
Motto
“Make Me Your Brother”
Housemaster Mr Virgoe Buckland
Telephone 07 5531 9910
Email virgoe.buckland@tss.qld.edu.au
Delpratt House
Colour
Royal Blue and White
Emblem
Gryphon’s Head
Motto
“Tasche Sans Tache”
(Honour without Blemish)
Housemaster
Mr Karel Bos
Assistant Housemaster Mr Ken Connors
Telephone 07 5531 9904
Email
karel.bos@tss.qld.edu.au
Colour
Red, Green and Gold
Colour
Purple and White
Biddle House
Emblem
Biddle Lion
Motto
Viriliter Agite (Act Manfully)
Housemaster
Mr Graham Swinton
Assistant Housemaster Mrs Julie Watson-Hayward
Telephone 07 5531 9947
Email graham.swinton@tss.qld.edu.au
Kaiser House
Emblem
An Eagle
Motto
“Wer Ehre sucht, der diene”
(Let him serve, who seeks
honour)
Housemaster Mrs Eleanor Mackie
Telephone 07 5531 9948
Email eleanor.mackie@tss.qld.edu.au

14 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
Maughan House
Housemaster
Colour
Grey and Navy Blue
Emblem
Wyvern
Motto
“Meliora Sequimur”
(We seek higher and better
things)
Mr Mark Wilkins
Telephone 07 5531 9937
Email
mark.wilkins@tss.qld.edu.au
Radcliffe House
Colour
Light Blue and Yellow
Emblem
Minotaur
Motto
“Surgite ad vincendum”
(Rise up to Overcome)
Housemaster
Mr John Gayton
Telephone 07 5531 9913
Email john.gayton@tss.qld.edu.au
McKinley House
Housemaster
Assistant Housemaster
Colour
Maroon and White
Emblem
A Lion Rampant
Motto
“Peraget Angusta ad Augusta”
(Through narrow straits to
victory)
Mr Tony Watt
Mrs Eleanor Mackie
Telephone 07 5531 9903
Email
tony.watt@tss.qld.edu.au
Surman House
Colour
Lime Green and White
Emblem
Dolphin
Motto
“Fide et Labore”
(By Faith and Hard Work)
Housemaster
Mr Denzel Wilson
Telephone 07 5531 9929
Email denzel.wilson@tss.qld.edu.au
Melbourne House
Housemaster
Colour
Black and White
Emblem
A Pegasus
Motto
“Doxa Theou Anthropos
Mestos”
(The Glory of God is the
Complete Man)
Mr Ian Luxton
Telephone 07 5531 9928
Email
ian.luxton@tss.qld.edu.au
Thorold House
Housemaster
Assistant Housemaster
Colour
Gold and Black
Emblem
Stag
Motto
“Devant si je Puis”
(To the fore, if I am able)
Mr Daniel Brown
Mr Adrian Blundell
Telephone 07 5531 9906
Email
daniel.brown@tss.qld.edu.au

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 15
Walker House
Housemaster
Colour
Sherwood Green and
Gold
Emblem
A Unicorn
Motto
“Ad Victorian per Unitatem”
(Victory Through Unity)
Mr Steve Roberts
Telephone 07 5531 9942
Turnock House
Housemaster
Colour
Red and Black
Emblem
Horse
Motto
“Ubertas et Fidelitas”
(Productiveness and
Faithfulness)
Ms Corinne Miller
Telephone 07 5531 9920
Email
steve.roberts@tss.qld.edu.au
Email
corinne.miller@tss.qld.edu.au
The House System
The House System at TSS was instituted in 1909, the School being divided into three Houses, McKinley, Delpratt and Thorold,
named respectively after the first Housemasters - Messrs. J. McKinley, M.G. Delpratt and C.C. Thorold. From the earliest
times, the House System has been more than just a convenient sub-division of boys into groups for sporting purposes.
The boarding Houses have been organised as separate entities for living and pastoral care. But there has always been a common
dining room. When the present buildings were first occupied in 1928, this principle was sustained by allotting one floor to each
of the Houses. In 1954 it was possible to augment the boarding accommodation for each House by joining the then new Library
and Dormitory Block to the existing building and at the same time to provide suitable accommodation for Housemasters
within McKinley and Delpratt Houses. A strong tradition of family association within the Houses has developed. There was
a large jump in enrolments when, with the reorganisation of Secondary Education in Queensland in 1963, the Scholarship
Examination was abolished and the Year 8 students became part of the Secondary School.
As the increasing numbers have placed a great strain on the ability of the Housemasters to provide personal supervision and
Pastoral Care, the decision was taken in 1972 to establish two new Houses at the beginning of the school year 1973. The new
Boarding House was known as “Kaiser House” named after the Senior Master Mr A.H. Kaiser, who as student and Master was
a member of the school from 1937-88. This continued the tradition of naming the Houses after a prominent Assistant Master.
The Day Boys were organised into a separate House named Walker House after Mr M.R. Walker, a former Senior Master at the
school who died in 1959 after serving for 31 years. Similar pressures have continued to the present day and further new Houses
- all of them for Day Boys - were formed. Radcliffe House, named after Mr A.J. Radcliffe Old Boy who attended from 1935 to
1938 and served as a Master from 1946-1978, was formed in 1975. In 1979 three new Day Boy Houses, Surman, Turnock and
Melbourne were established.
Mr F.H.W. Surman who died in September 2001, was a Master in 1941-42, and again from 1951; he was Assistant to the
Headmaster from 1961-1972 and Director of Studies from 1972-1985. Mr T.H. Turnock who died in 1992, attended the school
from 1920 to 1923 and served as a Master from 1928 to 1941. Mr H. Melbourne who died in 1949 was a Master from 1914 to
1932, including a period as Master of the Preparatory School, and came out of retirement to rejoin the staff from 1940-42 to
help overcome war induced shortages.
Two more Houses were established in 1986, Atkinson House and Maughan House. Mr T.C. Atkinson was Registrar until 1992,
having been a member of the teaching staff from 1959 to 1969 and again from 1972 onwards. The Rev. B.E. Maughan was
Housemaster of Delpratt House for 22 years and was a member of the teaching staff from 1959 to 1988.
In 1987 further developments were set in motion; a fourth boarding house and a house for all Day Boys in Year 8 were brought
into being. In 1988 these were named Biddle House and Morse House respectively, after Mr H.A.T. Biddle who was a member
of the staff from 1964-82 and Housemaster of McKinley House from 1970-82, and after Mr R.W. Morse who had been a
member of the staff from 1957-1991. Morse House was disbanded in 2007 when the School moved to a vertical Pastoral Care
System within Houses.
In the Prep School, a similar House System was established: Mitre, Shepherd, Dixon and Musgrave. Rogers House is the
House for Prep School boarders, named after Mr Peter Rogers, Master of the Preparatory School 1974 – 1994. In 2013 Year 7
moved to the Senior School and it was decided Rogers House would house Year 7 Boarders.

16 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
Boys’ Education
Meeting Contemporary Challenges in Boys’ Education
With all the new research and growing number of ‘experts’ in the field, you would think modern parenting would be
somewhat a breeze.
Nothing could be further from the truth.
Finding ways to successfully navigate your family through the complexities of modern living while often juggling
additional responsibilities can be a challenge.
However, when your child’s school is active in discovering, interpreting, evaluating and presenting the latest research and
methodologies, the way forward can suddenly become very clear.
TSS, under the Headmastership of Greg Wain, is such a school. Greg’s keen professional and personal interest in matters
relating to the education and raising of children, particularly boys, gives parents a clear and straightforward presentation
of what works and what doesn’t and why.
Since his arrival at TSS nearly five years ago, Greg has offered primarily new parents the opportunity to attend one of
his Boys’ Education Information Sessions in which he discusses the need for boys’ education which is focused on what
works best for boys.
However, he also has recognised the need for current parents to renew their thoughts on raising their sons based on this
new brain research and these sessions have now been extended to include all parents.
Many parents, after hearing Greg’s presentations, have been pleasantly surprised at how simple some of the techniques
are which help with raising children, particularly in the adolescent years.
“Often Mum and Dad attend together and several couples have remarked it is the best marriage guidance counselling
they have received! This comes from the research showing the hard wiring and developmental differences between
boys and girls as well as men and women – men are not hopeless, just different!” said Greg. “When these differences are
understood, men and women are better able to see various strengths and challenges.
“There are a number of physical brain differences which we are only now beginning to appreciate courtesy of the
advancements in diagnostic equipment,” said Greg.
Historically, much scientific research on brains was done after the subject was usually advanced in years and deceased.
Advancements in technology mean that brains can now be studied during the subject’s lifetime with age comparisons
made using the same subject.
“Already basic differences are showing boys and girls are very different, not just in terms of their development, but also in
how as men and women we perceive and interact with and within the world.
“For example, physical differences in the formation of the cochlea mean boys do not hear as effectively as girls. Female
teachers need to talk relatively loudly, certainly louder than they might perceive is necessary, in order to be heard by boys.
On the plus side, boys are 10 times less likely than girls to be distracted by extraneous noise. This means girls prefer a
quieter learning environment while boys can ‘tune out’ superfluous noise quite effectively. This probably explains why
males are so good at watching the television and not being distracted by anything else happening in the house at the same
time!”
Using the example of pre-school aged children, Greg highlights another major difference between boys and girls, which
emerges at quite a young age.
“Girls will see ‘what it is’ so if you ask them to draw a picture of their playground they will fill it with details such as
colours, flowers, swings, toys and other children. On the other hand boys see ‘where is it in space’ and try to capture the
motion of the scene. This typically leaves you with a ‘pretty’ picture by the girls while the boys often present a picture
with very little use of colour but lots of lines to represent movement. Both drawings are valid yet show the difference in
our ‘hard-wiring’.
“I strongly hold the belief that teachers who understand these differences will be more effective in the classroom
particularly in an all-boys’ environment such as TSS.”
Greg says dealing with teenage boys can be more successful when techniques, which take into account the differences
between males and females, are used.
“If you want to get your point across to a boy, speak low, slow and loud and use motion to attract and keep attention.
Don’t depend on facial information as this is often overlooked by males,” said Greg, who also said this holds for
husbands as well as boys! “You can engage boys in books by talking about time-lines or an exciting event first, which
gives males a point of reference from which to engage in the book.”

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 17
Greg said it was important to remember that boys do have emotions, yet they often lack sufficient emotional vocabulary
to enable them to express their feelings, again because of hard wiring developmental differences.
“This can become quite crucial for males as they become adults and make it difficult for them to connect with others
when the world is not going according to plan. As parents and educators it is up to us to help them develop their
vocabulary to allow them to verbally express themselves in times of emotional need, but also to understand boys, and
men, may not need to ‘talk things through’ as much.”
A great believer in the brain differences between boys and girls, and armed with a growing bank of evidence to support
this, Greg says it is important to find the right way to ‘reach’ boys in order to ‘teach’ them.
“This starts as easily as identifying the learning styles of individual students and then applying teaching techniques to
suit,” said Greg.
“At TSS we are encouraging teachers to find out the learning styles of their individual students. One simple model we
use is VAK. Visual learners learn by seeing, auditory learners learn by hearing and kinaesthetic learners learn by doing.
“I have a theory that the school curriculum, mostly in words, advantages auditory learners, many of whom, being well
rewarded by the school system, return as teachers and teach in their auditory style, relying predominantly on talking,
reading and writing.”
However, Greg says between 30 and 40 per cent of students are visual learners and many others are kinaesthetic learners.
Visual learners need to ‘see’ the whole before they can understand the ‘parts’.
“For a visual learner, skim reading first to get the whole picture and then going back and reading in detail is the best
approach. Visual learners need lots of charts, mind maps, diagrams, maps, and to use colours to highlight important
information.”
On the other hand, kinaesthetic learners need to be able to move around regularly, take frequent breaks, use bright
colours when re-writing notes, and to trace key words with their fingers.
“At TSS we want our teachers to ensure, over a day, and over a unit of study, that all learning styles are catered.
“As a boys’ only school, we have many visual and kinaesthetic learners, and we encourage our teachers to have a globe or
map of the world in class, and a time-line along the wall so boys can ‘see’ and ‘point’ to where things are in the world,
and on the time-line of world events. This plays to their relatively advanced spatial relations intelligence.”
This simple approach and change in traditional teaching thinking not only helps visual and kinaesthetic learners but all
learners by associating what they are learning with a place and a time – and learning by association of concepts is a very
effective learning technique.
“Recently we also began exploring a more advanced learning style system called Paragon, which is based upon Myers-
Briggs personality theory, so our learning styles are linked to our personal styles and thinking style preferences,” said
Greg.
“By reintroducing our parents to the Boys’ Education Information Sessions we aim to strengthen the bond between the
School and parents to create a cohesive team effort to help all our students grow to their potential in a nurturing and safe
environment.”

18 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
Curriculum Matters
From the Head of Learning and Teaching; Jo Inglis
A sincere welcome to all newcomers – boys and parents – to the TSS Studies Department. Our goal is to assist and
support each boy in his academic endeavours so that he can achieve to his academic potential.
The Southport School curriculum aligns with the Australian Curriculum in English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities
and Social Sciences, The Arts, Languages, Health and Physical Education and Technologies and is further enriched by the
religious education program Life & Faith, together with a comprehensive and diverse Leadership program. Years 10, 11 &
12 offer boys a foundation education which leads to specialisation in areas of personal interests and strength, promoting
preparation for tertiary studies via OP and non-OP pathways, and the world of work through Vocational Education.
In Years 11 & 12, we offer three study pathways
The Southport School offers a wide range of Queensland Studies Authority (QSA) subjects leading to an Overall
Position (OP) for university entrance together with Authority-Registered subjects which do not lead to an OP, but
can contribute towards a tertiary entrance score. Vocational offerings include a Certificate III in Business with The
Southport School as the Registered Training Organisation (RTO) as well as opportunities to complete certificate courses
through external RTOs. Boys wishing to gain nationally recognised qualifications issued under the Australian Quality
Training Framework can undertake school-based traineeship/apprenticeships or attend an outside training organisation
such as TAFE. Boys who select a non-OP (or QTAC Rank Score) pathway will make their subject selections from a
combination of OP subjects, non-OP subjects and vocational courses.
The development of explicit thinking skills, positive and productive mindful dispositions and communication strategies
complement the curriculum from Kindergarten to year 12. Furthermore, lessons devoted to the promotion of boys’
reading and information literacy serve to develop academic potential. The curriculum at TSS is challenging and caters for
the needs and interests of all boys. Opportunities abound for boys at every level of ability and potential, with significant
opportunities in extension activities through accelerated classes and involvement in the Gifted & Talented and Honours
Programs. For all TSS boys, the rewards for determination and effort in the academic realm are many and varied with
chances for all to succeed and for some excellent achievers to find their way to prestigious honour boards that are already
adorned by the names of past scholars.
There are three simple academic rules to follow:
1. Come prepared for work
2. Work
3. Respect the rights of others to work
Boys who follow these rules, work collaboratively with their teachers and peers to give of their best in the classroom will
reap the rewards of their efforts.
Years 7, 8 and 9
In Years 7, 8 & 9 all boys are engaged in learning experiences in Leadership, Life & Faith, English, Mathematics, Science,
Humanities and Social Sciences, The Arts, Languages, Health and Physical Education and Technologies.
Year 7 boys are based in a home classroom and venture to specialist facilities for Science, Languages, The Arts, Health
and Physical Education and Technologies. As you enter Year 8 you will be asked to choose a language from Chinese or
French. In Year 9 you may select two electives from Chinese, French, Art, Drama, Design & Technology, Digital Studies,
Music, Robotics and Graphics. Years 8 and 9 boys work to a six lesson timetable across all school facilities and enjoy a
home base within their Day or Boarding House. Your timetable will be very important to you and should be displayed in
your Record Book. Your TSS Record Book is one communication link between your parents and the School and should
always be available to your teachers, your tutor, your Housemaster and the School administration. In your Record Book
you will record set homework, the time you spend on homework and collect information about your progress at School.
Your parents will want to know how you are progressing in your studies and participation in the School Community.
The School will provide you and your parents with a brief progress report at the end of Term One followed by a more
detailed report at the end of Semester One in July, and again at the end of Semester Two in December. The July and
December reports will include an academic grade from ‘A+’ to ‘E-’ in each subject, a rating for diligence and a written
comment. Students who achieve at least six ‘A’s will qualify for inclusion on the prestigious Dean’s List honour board.

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 19
Year 10
Year 10 is an important transition year in preparation for senior studies in Years 11 and 12. The Year 10 curriculum
offered at The Southport School expands students’ range of choice to allow a much greater degree of specialisation. The
structure of the curriculum consists of compulsory whole-year subjects; English, Mathematics, Australian Curriculum
History and Science, Life & Faith and Health and Physical Education, together with a wide range of single-semester
elective subjects from which boys choose six, three to be studied in each semester. Each of the elective subjects is
designed to lead directly into the corresponding Year 11 subject. Whilst none of the elective subjects are strictly
prerequisites for Year 11, it is very important to note that in some cases a student may find himself at a significant
disadvantage in Year 11 if he chooses to do a subject for which he did not complete the corresponding Year 10 elective
subject.
Curriculum Handbooks
Curriculum Handbooks are available online for all year levels from Year 7 to Year 12. To obtain this information, as well
as the relevant subject selection form, visit the School’s website:
http://www.tss.qld.edu.au/Parents_And_Students/senior/academicProgram/academic/SubjectSelection.aspx
Important Points for Academic Success
HOMEWORK is what you have to do because your teachers have set work for you. You will usually have homework set
in different subjects a few times each week.
STUDY is the work you do when you revise and learn during the term. Perhaps you are studying to learn for a test,
exam, a speech or an essay. Study often takes second place to homework because it is not set by a teacher with a deadline.
This is why study can sometimes be neglected.
Set aside time every night for STUDY as well as HOMEWORK.
FOR USE AT HOME: Rule up a timetable for each week and show which subjects and how long (minutes) to spend on
HOMEWORK and STUDY for every day of the week.
Most of your time will be spent on homework but make sure you spend at least some time studying each night. At the
very least, go over the notes or books for all the lessons you had that day. If you do this and only this you will improve
your marks on tests and exams.
How much time for Homework/Study?
Year Level
Hours per week for
Homework/Study
Year Level
Hours per week for
Homework/Study
7 7
8 8
9 9
10 10
11 11
12 12
*Minimum: senior syllabi recommend 3 hours of work/study outside of lessons for each subject
Study Habits
• Take organised but brief notes.
• Be organised; plan your work, write the plan down.
• Stick to your written plan.
• Improve your reading and writing skills by helping yourself and by seeking help.
• Train yourself to remember better.
• Learn to concentrate; eliminate noise and distractions.
• Keep healthy, sleep well and study when you feel best or when your schedule says so.

20 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
Reporting
Year 8 to Year 12 boys receive full reports at the end of each semester and a progress report in the middle of Semester
One. Year 10 students will also receive a progress report in the middle of Semester Two.
Literacy & Numeracy Up-Skill Program
The Literacy & Numeracy Up-skill Program offers assistance to boys in Years 7, 8 and 9 who have been identified
through various testing instruments as those who would benefit from extra tuition to achieve sound grades in English
and/or Mathematics. Boys are invited to join the program on the basis of test results, term and semester reporting and/
or the recommendation of their English or Mathematics teacher. The program takes place on Tuesday afternoons from
3:30pm until 5:00pm and involves TSS teachers of English and Mathematics working with small groups of boys or with
individual boys to improve the acquisition of knowledge, skills and processes required by the curriculum. Boys who
accept a position in the Up-skill program are expected to attend every session.
English as a Second Language (ESL)
ESL support is provided to boarders in Years 7 to 10 during evening prep. The program covers a combination of English
skills, particularly reading and writing, and also allows students to receive extra help with their school assignments.
Reading skills are developed by teaching boys strategies to read more effectively, while improving their writing skills
through grammar practice, self-correction and relevant writing tasks. Students are also be able to seek guidance from
the teacher to check assignments to see if they understand what they are expected to do and are answering the question
correctly.

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 21
Robotics Program
Nearly everyone is familiar with the LEGO brick. It spans differences in age, gender, culture, and levels of skill. It is
therefore the ideal classroom solution which can include all students in the learning process.
Teaching with LEGO provides important opportunities for students to acquire a wide range of personal skills for the
future through:
• Promoting creative thinking
• Improving communication skills
• Strengthening the ability to acquire understanding.
The Southport School has developed a World Class ‘Prep Year to Year 10’ LEGO Technology and Robotics Program.
The classroom programs are designed to support a four-step learning process consisting of the following phases:
Connect, Construct, Contemplate and Continue.
One of the key aspects to ‘learning by making’ is the fact that students learn best when they can either relate new
experiences to their existing ‘knowledge bank’ or are exposed to an idea so compelling that it inspires them to learn more
about it. This is the Connect phase.
The Construct phase is all about constructing things in the real world and piecing knowledge together in the mind. The
children plan, program software or build solutions to solve given Challenges.
An important phase in an effective learning process is the Contemplate phase, which involves students taking time to
think about what they have seen or constructed, and deepening their understanding of what they experience. They
discuss the project, reflect and adapt their idea, and the teacher encourages this process by asking questions.
The Continue phase builds on the natural urge to want to know more. Doing so will lead students to a new Connect
phase, thus allowing them to enter a positive learning curve, where they overcome increasingly difficult challenges.
Optimal Learning
Learning is best when students are given the opportunity to explore the world on their own, but within a guided
environment. When students actively construct things in the physical world, it helps them to build understanding in
their own minds. This enables them to create even more sophisticated solutions, yielding more skills, more knowledge,
and more solved challenges in a self-reinforcing cycle. Students retain more of what they learn from a creative process of
this kind. This is called learning by making.
Let It Flow
Research into human development and learning has demonstrated that being challenged to the limits of one’s ability
is fun, and creates experiences that are rich in learning. When students are sufficiently challenged, and thus enjoying
themselves, learning becomes as natural as breathing - you aren’t even aware that you are doing it. And when the
challenge of solving a problem is matched to the student’s current level of knowledge and skills, a formula for optimal
learning emerges. This state is called Flow. Students who create their own solutions to problems experience the thrill
of genuine achievement - an experience altogether different from simply memorising the achievements of others. This
makes learning an adventure. The more empowered students feel, the more they enjoy their classes, and the more they
begin to take charge of their own learning process.
LEGO Toolsets and Programs by Grades.
Each of the LEGO Technology and Robotics Year level programs are based around a Technological or Engineering
theme.

22 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
The Prep Year program develops fine motor skills with the Duplo Tech machines kits and creative ‘free build’ tasks. The
program is taught in the individual Prep Level classrooms by the Class Teacher.
In Year 1, students are taught by a Specialist LEGO Technology Teacher. The theme of ‘Structures and building
Techniques’ utilise the LEGO Duplo Structure kits. Students build and investigate simple building and balancing
theories.
In the Year 2 LEGO Technology classes, boys develop their understanding of Mechanisms and Machines. Students
investigate Gears, Pulleys, Lever and Wheels using the LEGO Mini Machines kits.
Year 3 begin their Robotic Engineering training with the LEGO Wedo kits.
This robotics kit is designed for younger children. It provides hands-on learning experiences for building and
programming smaller robotic models. Activities are designed to actively engage children’s creative thinking, teamwork,
and problem-solving skills.
Renewable Energy and Advanced Machine principles are the themes for the Year 4 Program. Students complete their
‘Advanced’ Simple Machines training and develop an understanding of Renewable and Non-Renewable Energy.
The programming software ‘Scratch’ and the LEGO Wedo kits are integrated to allow students to create Computer
Animations with Robotic Sensor triggers in the Year 5 LEGO Robotics course. A class based theme is used to
demonstrate how Robotics systems can be used in Multi-Media presentations.
The Year 6 students continue their Robotic training with an introductory course into the LEGO NXT Robotics
Mindstorm system. The course allows students to investigate Sensors, Motors and simple Programming structure.
The Year 7 students continue their Robotic training in the Senior School Robotic Laboratory. Intermediate
programming techniques are taught using the LEGO NXT Robotic System.
Year 8 students have a 13-week rotation of Robotic Engineering and use the LEGO NXT Robotics sets to build and
program robots to compete in class challenges such as Hill Climbing, Robot Sumo and ‘Widget’ Collecting.
In Year 9, students can elect to take Robotic Engineering as a one year specialist course. Boys continue their Robotic
training using the LEGO NXT robots and NXT-G programming language. Challenges include ‘a Lunar meteorite
collecting Robot’ , designing and building a Robot to entering into the Robocup Junior Rescue competition, creating
datalogging robots and solving the FIRST LEGO league yearly challenge.
The Year 10 Robotics and Information Processing Technology course extends students programming skill by using the
text based language of ‘Robot C’. Robot C is a derivative of C++, an industry standard programming language. The
LEGO NXT robots are easily adapted to using ‘Robot C’ and students can see the Robotic Engineering progression from
School to University to Industry.
The Southport School has a Young Engineers’ Society which meets weekly after school. The Society has been a huge
success for the School in various local, State and International competitions and has student membership from Years 3
and beyond.
The Young Engineers Society students develop skills in
• Prototyping, designing, problem-solving and team work.
• Gaining hands-on experience with programming, sensors, motors and intelligent units.
• Real life situation challenges which engage in hands-on STEM education.
Tell me, and I will forget. Show me, and I may remember. Involve me, and I will understand. Confucius, 450 B.C.
Gifted Education
The unique learning needs of bright and gifted students are fostered through the Gifted & Talented and Honours
Programs here at TSS.
These programs are designed to challenge students, empower them, encourage risk taking, creative thinking, individual
accountability, foster independent learning and the pursuit of excellence.
They are designed to nurture, support and extend boys from the Preparatory and Senior School who demonstrate high
levels of ability and academic potential. Selection for the G&T Program in both the Senior and Preparatory School is
multidimensional with an emphasis on ability testing and profiling of the top 5% to 10% of students. Current research
indicators of the characteristics of Gifted and Talented student achievers and non-achievers are also considered in the
identification process.

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 23
G&T Preparatory boys are clustered together within their year level classes and meet weekly with their Prep G&T
specialist teacher. In the activity filled G&T classroom the curriculum focuses on extending the younger boys’ higher
order thinking skills, creativity and innovative learning techniques, emotional intelligence and knowledge seeking. 2013
will see the start of two multi-aged Honours classes, a Year 3 and 4 Honours class and a Year 5 and 6 Honours class
which cater for both high achieving G&T students and high academic achievers. Prep G&T also offers a variety of one
and two day workshops throughout the school year and a G&T parent support group.
Senior G&T boys meet on a weekly basis with a G&T specialist teacher to work in like-ability groups where they
develop their thinking dispositions and skills while examining topics such as brain physiology, emotional intelligence,
independent work habits, overcoming thinking blocks, accelerated and successful learning strategies. Looking at multiple
perspectives and exploring deeper philosophical issues, without necessarily a definitive answer, is the basis for this
learning. Students from Years 10-12 also get the opportunity to participate in G&T conferences. A Year 10 Gifted and
Talented elective was implemented in 2008 and continues in 2013 to provide gifted students with a timetabled semester
class to advance their learning. These students have the opportunity to work in a university-like manner on a major
project and listen to guest speakers and experts from within and outside the TSS community. The course is run with
TSS’s e-learning platform and students receive a grade for this elective.
The Senior School Honours Program complements the G&T program by offering further opportunities for high
ability students to address academic subjects in greater depth, enriching and accelerating their education. Importantly,
this program also provides opportunities for those students who, through their persistence and hard work, can be
recognised as high achieving academics. Various subject areas offer Honours and facilitate a variety of models such as:
extension within the classroom, independent learning projects completed by students and mentored by their teachers,
cluster groups of like-ability students, external national awards/competitions and accelerated English and Maths classes.
Emphasis is placed on mentoring the students to achieve their best whilst reflecting on their own learning journey
towards becoming inquiring, independent learners.
The Gifted and Talented Resource centre, located behind the library in the Senior School, is designed to be comfortable,
fun and stimulating. The centre is equipped with stimulating reading material, various thinking/problem solving games
and puzzles, chess sets, computers and printers to enable independent work. This G&T space acts as a drop-in centre
where students of like ability from Years 7–12 can gather encouraging a like-minded community of learners to grow and
develop.
Further information regarding our Gifted and Talented provisions at TSS can be found on our website
http://www.tss.qld.edu.au/Parents_And_Students/senior/GiftedandTalented.aspx or email Mrs Angela Foulds-Cook - Associate
Dean of Teaching and Learning/ Head of Gifted Education Reception - Year 12 at angela.foulds-cook@tss.qld.edu.au
Co-Curricular Program
TSS is an extremely dynamic environment and considerable expectation is placed on staff and students to involve
themselves wholeheartedly in the co-curricular life of the School. What follows is a summary of key aspects of the
co-curricular program and other facets of student life in which you will inevitably find yourself actively involved during
your time at the School.
Co-Curricular Expectations
Students are expected to be enthusiastically involved in at least two (2) sports or activities in Years 8 to 11, whilst
strongly encouraged to maintain this interest in their senior year. Many co-curricular opportunities are available either
throughout the year or on a seasonal basis. Very few boys spend their time uninvolved, as it is quite difficult not to be
engaged with the choices available.
GPS Sports & Activities
• Term One - Swimming, Rowing, Cricket, Sailing, Debating, Golf
• Term Two - Rugby, Soccer, Cross-Country
• Term Three - Football, Track & Field, Tennis, Basketball, Gymnastics
• Term Four - Pre-season: Cricket, Rowing, Swimming, Sailing
For more information please visit http://www.tss.qld.edu.au/tsssport
• Performance Activities
• Drama (School major production and House), Music (Choral, Orchestras and Bands) & Speech and Variety Club.
• Cadets and Services

24 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
Services
The Services program is an essential component of the School’s community ethos and reflects our commitment to
the IDEALS of Round Square, discussed previously in this document. Service to the community plays a key role in
preparing boys for a life after School and instils values of care and concern for others. This program manifests itself in
various ways in different year groups where the principles of community are expressed either through involvement on
camps, to work in the broader community or participating in the cadet corps.
Community Service
During IDEALS Week, held in the last week of Term 3, Year 10 boys who are not cadets will be immersed in their
Outdoor Education camp. Year 11 and Year 12 boys not involved in the cadet program will engage in community service
activities in their House Groups.
Cadet Choices
The Southport School is unique in offering experience in all 3 services of the Australian Defence Force Cadets (ADFC)
which is Australia’s largest youth development organisation. Australian Navy Cadets (ANC), the Australian Army Cadets
(AAC) and the Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) are all represented.
Cadet Service is compulsory in Years 8 and Year 9 (optional for Years 10, 11 & 12). The Annual Training Program focuses
on experiential leadership development, teamwork, physical fitness as well as service related knowledge and skills.
The Services Program involves the entire School Community where boys engage in on and off-campus activities with
Defence Force Veterans and RSL Organisations. The training year culminates in a Tri-Service Parade where all cadets
(year 8-12) form up on the boatshed ovals and demonstrate marching techniques taught throughout the training year.
Cadet Service at The Southport School has a long and rich history with service spanning over a century. It is integral to
the ethos of leadership development and is a unique, challenging and rewarding experience.
Outdoor Education
Learning beyond the classroom happens with our extensive Outdoor Education Program developed for students in Year
4 to Year 11. At the TSS Stradbroke Island complex, boys are encouraged to appreciate beach ecology and its environs.
Our other rural education and adventure camp at Hidden Creek provides facilities for abseiling, orienteering, bush
walking, rope courses and canoeing. Both camps are integral to the personal development of each student and attendance
is compulsory.
Further information regarding Outdoor Education can be found online at - http://www.tss.qld.edu.au/Parents_And_Students/
senior/OutdoorEducation.aspx.
Camps
Year 7 City to Island Curriculum Challenge
The Year 7 cohort will be participating in a number of curriculum challenges located between the School campus (City)
and South Stradbroke Outdoor Education Centre (Island). The boys will be participating in their core class groups
and the major emphasis will be to introduce some key curriculum elements from subjects in practical activities and
challenges in an outdoor setting.
Year 7 Stradbroke Camps
These camps are undertaken in class groups and are based at our Outdoor Education Centre on South Stradbroke Island.
Boys will be exposed to pastoral and social activities in an outdoor education environment. These camps will occur in
either Term Two or Term Three.
Year 8 Stradbroke Camps
These camps are undertaken in class groups and are based at our Outdoor Education Centre on South Stradbroke Island.
Major emphasis is placed upon an environmental study of the island, developing boys’ social skills and camping skills
in preparation for later camps. It usually includes an overnight canoeing and camping trip to a nearby island campsite.
These camps occur in either Term 2 or Term 3.

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 25
Year 9, 10 & 11 Camps
The Year 9, Year 10 and Year 11 camps build sequentially upon the skills and knowledge developed on the earlier camps.
As well as many activities mentioned above the boys are required to engage in a 2-4 day hiking experience in small
groups. This is a physical challenge as well as an opportunity for leadership and social development. The Director
of Outdoor Education will provide all relevant details for Year 9, 10 and 11 camps closer to the time of their respective
camps.
Year 9 camp is conducted in Term One. Information will be distributed to students during Week 1 of Term One, and it is
encouraged that you respond quickly to facilitate efficient organisation for this camp.
Year 10 camp is usually conducted in Term Two, and Year 11 camp in Term Three.
The boys will need to have a larger hiking pack and a bushwalking tent (shared between 2 boys) for these camps.
Outdoor Education experiences are a compulsory component of your sons’ education and families must make every
effort to ensure their sons can participate in this activity.
Note: Please refer to the 2012 School Calendar for further information on all school camps throughout the year (http://
www.tss.qld.edu.au/pubsevents/calendar.asp).
TSS Learning to Lead - Becoming “Ideal Leaders”
We believe every member of the School Community has leadership ability and the potential to lead in particular
situations. All members of the School Community are Learning to Lead. Specifically for students, TSS provides young
men with the capacity to Learn to Lead as they develop skills for achievement, personal growth and well-being
IDEAL Leaders at The Southport School:
…enhance their community by building positive and productive Christian relationships
…develop intelligent dispositions, thinking skills and knowledge
…pursue well-being and balance

26 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DOE)
The Duke of Edinburgh Awards programme is an internationally recognised, worldwide youth award scheme conducted
in over one hundred and thirty countries.
As well as being a lot of fun and providing valuable learning, a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is recognised by the wider
community as an award earned by self-motivated, determined and responsible young people.
The Southport School is a licensed operator and so offers students, on a voluntary basis, the opportunity to work towards
achieving this award(s). The vast array of extra-curricular and community service activities conducted by the School
easily satisfy all sections the Duke of Edinburgh Awards.
If any new student is interested, it is suggested to join early in the year to utilise many of the School’s activities for an
award. Please contact Mr Craig Humbley on 07 5531 9902, or further information regarding the DoE Award can be
found online at http://www.tss.qld.edu.au/Parents_And_Students/Senior/DukeofEdinburghaward/EdinburghHome.aspx
Round Square
The Southport School offers students of the school wonderful opportunities that are facilitated by the association the
school has had since 1974 with The Round Square. Acceptance as a member was the turning point in the direction of the
school. It facilitated the development of vision outside the confines of the state or the country, making the school and its
members, past, present and future, part of the world of education and a much broader experience.
TSS, for 17 years, was the only school accepted into the organisation in the Southern Hemisphere. Our association
has seen many members of our community involved with aspects of the organization impelling new experience,
connections and friendships. TSS is the environment of today, with comprehensive and inclusive programmes thanks to
its membership of Round Square and adoption of Hahnian (so named in recognition of the founder of Round Square –
Kurt Hahn) educational philosophy.
Round Square offers a clear philosophy of education which includes six pillars — the foundation of the development of
creative, responsible, caring people. The Pillars of Round Square facilitate experiences that are pursued for the sake of
knowledge and building character. These include International Understanding, an important quality for the times we
live in as understanding builds a base for real tolerance. Democracy and democratic processes — in the organisation of
the school it affords students the opportunity, and forum to question what is happening in their environment and with
grounding in Leadership skills and opportunities for positions of responsibility, empowers students to make change in
their environment.
Environmental Understanding challenges the students to accept responsibility for their physical environment both
school and wider afield. The school has a thorough Outdoor Education programme. Beginning in Year 3 the students are
impelled to develop skills, accept challenge and adventure through the grades with developmental degrees of difficulty
in each year group. This leads to the self-organised camp in Year 11. In Round Square schools, challenge is everywhere.
Students are not only expected to do well in conventional ways, but to serve and to lead. Leadership is encompassed
in the previous four areas with many of the students offered leadership opportunities. The last of the foundations is
Service. This is striving to achieve balance between self-improvement and self-denial in the interests of others. This is all
combined with the formal skills of education. The school, through the Round Square philosophy and Mission Statement
of the school addresses the whole person not fragmented parts.
Much of what your sons experience, or are impelled into, in their years at the school lay a foundation for their future.
The reward of this education will become part of your sons’ lives in their future. There is immediate benefit from
involvement in all of the activities the school offers, yet the reality is that years down the track a real understanding of the
Hahnian philosophy will sit comfortably and be a strong foundation. As your sons grow into manhood they will create
new ways and visions not only for themselves, but potentially for the whole human race.
To understand our involvement with Round Square and the opportunities available outside those that are interwoven
into the operating of the school, I present a concise account of Round Square.
Round Square Mission Statement
Round Square is a worldwide association of schools which share a commitment, beyond academic excellence, to personal
development and responsibility through service, challenge, adventure and international understanding.
Round Square’s member schools are widely known; but the common bond they share is less recognised and understood.
This bond is important, however, and powerful; for Round Square is an organisation that embodies one of the twentieth
century’s foremost revolutions in education.

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 27
This revolution led to the creation of dozens of outstanding schools, and to Outward Bound, the United World Colleges,
the Duke of Edinburgh awards, and other innovations. It continues to influence education in many countries, and
inspires educators at each Round Square school. As of 2013, there are 81 member schools, with eight in Australia and a
number of regional schools.
Kurt Hahn’s philosophy of education inspired the vision of the Round Square, with quotes such as “in your disability is
your opportunity” and “Plus est en vous” and “There’s more in you (than you think)”. You can see that he was driven to
inspire and impel youth into learning experiences to develop the whole person.
His motive for these innovations was educational. Hahn knew that self-discovery comes through challenges. Hahn died
in 1974. The Times of London remarked that “no one else in our day has created more original educational ideas and, at
the same time, possessed the gift of getting them into practice.”
Student Exchange
At TSS, Mr George organises student exchanges. Most often these are term-length exchanges of one student for another,
though sometimes they are full or half year in duration. Exchanges are worked out on a school-to-school basis, with no
tuition money changing hands and students travelling on tourist visas. Exchanges also bring young alumni interested in a
career in education for ‘gap’ year (pre-university, post-secondary) internships at member schools as teaching aides. These
experiences bring a fundamental alteration in human relationship. Students ask questions about their education and level
of personal independence, returning with resolve and a strong direction for their future.
It is a singular honour at any Round Square school to be sent on exchange.
The Round Square network makes it possible to match an exchange student to a school with minimal bureaucratic
burden and little cost beyond travel and incidentals. Because exchange is popular, each school is enriched by an
annual inflow of visitors bringing the views and values of other nations and cultures, and by returning students whose
perspective on society, education and the world has been deepened through personal experience. At TSS exchange is
encouraged at Year 10 level for term four, which has proved to be the least disruptive academically. Other year group
exchanges are certainly accepted, as are different times of the year. There are also short term national and regional
exchange opportunities starting with a two week opportunity in Year 8.
Students that have demonstrated a real commitment to Round Square at TSS are chosen for exchange.
Round Square Service Projects
Each Round Square school presents an array of service opportunities to its own students. The scope of activities is
enormous, ranging from support for the ill and elderly to child care to maintenance and rehabilitation of natural areas
to operation of life-saving. Internationally thousands of hours of such volunteer-service work are performed by Round
Square students each week. Students also take on emergency service when help is needed. Schools train students in skills
needed to be ready to help others in cases of emergency or disaster.
From time to time, an opportunity to serve requires the efforts of a team from several schools. Such ‘service projects’
normally take place during school holidays, and may be structured in either of two ways:
School-based projects are organised, staffed and logistically supported by a ‘base’ school. These are opened to all Round
Square students once they are up and running and have proved to be successful.
Round Square International Service Projects: (RSIS) Larger projects may be directed by Round Square itself. The
organisation has the leadership, expertise and funding needed to take on complex, logistically difficult projects, such as
school construction and disaster-relief projects mounted since the early 1980’s at locations in India and Kenya. Students
at Round Square schools raise money each year to supply construction and emergency-relief materials. These funds are
kept in The Prince Alexander fund (PAF) for ‘bricks and mortar’ purposes only. These projects are advertised and open
to all Round Square Schools with students over sixteen being eligible. Currently there are projects in India, Kenya and
Thailand.
All service projects are organised according to the ‘Round Square Ground Plan’ policies and procedures, which promote
safety and effectiveness. Each is followed by an evaluation to ensure service will have an educative result for each student.
Mr George holds all information regarding what is available, and you can find information by contacting him, or by
reading the school home page under Round Square or at www.roundsquare.org.
Each year Round Square schools are asked to nominate candidates for the Kurt Hahn Prize, given to one or more
students who have acted courageously to serve mankind or preserve life. This is Round Square’s only award. It reflects
Hahn’s belief that great things — service of consequence, even heroism - are within the reach of prepared young persons,
and that such deeds should be identified and celebrated. In 1981 Marc Napier (‘76 — ’81 Radcliffe House) was awarded
the Kurt Hahn prize for his courageous effort in rescuing people from the surf whilst on surf patrol.

28 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
The Annual Conference
Each year Round Square schools send teams of representatives to a five-day conference held at a member school. The
teams, including students, the head of school, a member of the faculty/staff, and a trustee/governor, are expected to be at
least 50 percent comprised of students. During the Conference, the prior year’s collaborative activities are reported and
evaluated and new projects are planned. Discussions examine topics of importance to schools and the world, especially
as they relate to the special theme of each Conference. An address (usually from a prominent public figure) called The
Hahn Lecture is a feature.
The Annual General Meeting (participated in by heads and trustee/governors of member schools, but open to
observation by all) is held at this time. Through activities, expeditions and events designed by the host school, visitors are
introduced to the host school’s country, culture and environment, and to a theme topic.
Friendships and alliances form; prejudices based on national or cultural differences can be overcome. Much preparation
and leadership for each annual Conference is taken on by students at the host school. Annual Conferences move from
school to school and country to country. Hosting a Conference is prized as a significant challenge to the skills and morale
of every member of the host school’s community. TSS hosted the Annual Conference in 1995.
Conferences for Younger Students
The Junior Regional Conference is held for Year 8 — 9 students over a three or four day period usually early in the year,
and a Regional Conference open to Year 10, 11 & 12 students in the June/July holidays.
Within each conference the six pillars of Round Square are explored so that there will be International Understanding,
Leadership, Environmental Awareness, Adventure, Challenge, Leadership and Service components in each conference.
A host school arranges a schedule of events and activities, and students and faculty members from each of the region’s
schools attend. These regional gatherings are reported in the TSS Review, Echo newsletter, and at the following year’s
Conference. With the Junior Conference we have linked a period of exchange, usually two weeks, for delegates to the
Conference which is reciprocated later in the year. TSS hosted the Regional Conference 2010 and the Junior Regional in
2004.
The Round Square Student Committee (RSSC)
The Committee consists of students interested in Round Square from all age groups, students who have been on
exchange or to a conference and incoming exchange students. Students on the Committee accept roles specific to them
to research or action. The RSSC comprises of Office Bearers elected into the position by the student committee. The
Round Square Student Committee meets regularly for meetings to discuss and plan areas of Round Square within TSS.
Activities for fund-raising to support the Prince Alexander Fund (PAF) for Round Square International Service projects
are items on the agenda. The Preparatory School have a programme in place for Year 5 and 6 students to be involved with
Round Square through independent student initiated service projects and meetings.
To learn more about the Round Square organisation or Round Square Schools, refer to the TSS home page at www.tss.
qld.edu.au and locate Round Square under TSS Senior School or ask Mr George.
You also can refer to the Round Square Home page at www.roundsquare.org.
The Chapel of St Alban
Welcome to the Chapel of St Alban. During their time at TSS, the boys are actively involved in the Christian life of
the school as expressed through regular visits to Chapel services. We believe that developing a spiritual awareness is
a significant part of personal development. For many old boys the chapel is a place of pilgrimage, many return to be
married and have their children baptized in this special place.
Services include:
• A weekly service- Monday nights for boarders, Tuesday or Wednesday for Day houses.
• An Annual Service for each Year Group
• An Annual Thanksgiving Service for each House to which parents are warmly invited to attend and support.
• A Year 11 or 12 member of each House is appoint to the role of sacristan to coordinate House involvement in chapel
services.
• Wednesday Holy Communion at 8am (parents and friends are especially welcome at this quiet service)
• A number of sporting teams have short services with prayer, thanksgiving and reflection.
• There are Regular Wedding and Baptism Services in the chapel.
• Occasionally we have funerals for families who have strong ties with TSS.

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 29
• The annual Confirmation Service
• We hope to offer to family and friends of TSS a regular monthly service to support the Christian life of the families
linked to the school.
Every year students are joined by brothers, sisters, parents and friends in the preparation classes and service. Please feel
free to visit the chapel for the services, for quiet and for private prayers.
Chapel information line and voicemail: 07 5531 9956.
Website: http://www.tss.qld.edu.au/Community/Chapel/Chapel.aspx
Psychologist/School Counsellor
As part of the Pastoral Care provisions at The Southport School, the school provides a range of student services.
Counselling is one such service.
The School Counsellor, Mr Scot Gannon is a registered Psychologist with the Australian Health Practioner Regulation
Authority (AHPRA) and a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS) He has experience in special
education, the assessment of learning difficulties and the provision of educational support. He also has a background in
behaviour management and parenting programs with young children and adolescents.
Mr Gannon is a foundation member of the Anglican School Counsellors Network , an affiliation of School Counsellors
who act as a response group in critical incidents in member schools.
He is also a member of the Queensland Association of Student Advisors and sits on the BOND University Human
Research Ethics Committee.
Counselling and support are provided for students experiencing difficulties coping with the academic demands of
schooling or with personal issues, which may impinge on school performance.
Assistance can also be provided for parents who are experiencing conflict or other management issues with their sons.
The School Counsellor has significant input into the formal pastoral care program offered at each year level in the
school. In this instance the Counsellor is a resource for Pastoral Care Teachers in areas such as bullying, conflict
resolution, study skills and motivation, career guidance, subject selection, self-esteem, peer pressure, drugs and alcohol,
and personal and social development of young children, and adolescents.
Lastly, the School Counsellor assists individual students when making decisions about subject selection, prerequisite
subjects forfurther education, entrance to universities in Australia and overseas and general career planning. Close links
have been forged between TSS and many Queensland , interstate and overseas providers of tertiary education and TSS
has recently become a test center for the US College Board SAT examinations.
The School Counsellor, Mr Gannon, can be contacted directly on 07 5531 9952.
The Harley Stumm Centre - Senior Library
Challenging boys to achieve their maximum potential is the core concern of the Harley Stumm Senior Library. This is
achieved by establishing a positive learning environment and a high-level academic and professional service for all who
visit the space. The library team is committed to providing expert advice and assistance to all students and dedicated to
establishing a collaborative working relationship with both teaching staff and boys.
Access to the library space in academic time is by class groups or on an individual permission slip via the classroom
teacher. Boys are welcome to access the library’s facilities and resources during recreational times: before school, recess,
lunchtime, after school, but they will be encouraged and directed to use the library space as an academic arena during
such times. Boys may also access the library during evening Prep. On these occasions, boarders require a permission
stamp (from library staff) or their Housemaster’s signature in their Student Record Book prior to arriving at the library.
There are many and varied library resources available online via the Library Homepage. These online databases are
specifically selected for their academic content and relevance to the areas of study being undertaken by students. For
further information regarding on-line resources, please follow the link: http://goo.gl/HJOs4. Other resources available
for boys include: a wide ranging and up-to-date collection of non-fiction resources, an extensive collection of fiction,
a variety of magazine and newspaper publications, and borrowing rights to AV and ICT equipment (laptops, digital
cameras and data projectors).

30 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
Boys who are ‘information literate’ and understand their information needs become successful, life-long learners.
Becoming actively engaged in a world of ideas and knowledge is essential for all boys who are keen to achieve at school
and life. The mission of library staff is to work with boys and assist them in developing the confidence to locate,
interpret, and critically assess information. The scaffolding that underpins these skills is allowing all boys to gain timely
and integrated instruction in the processes of research, analysis and understanding.
In cooperation with the English Department, a comprehensive Reading Programme is offered from Years 7 to 10. Boys
have timetabled reading periods in the library where the expectation is that, with some guidance, they will select and
read a variety of novels each term. Boys are required to respond in a variety of ways to the novels they have read. The
Reading Programme is an essential component of developing solid literacy skills at TSS as it enhances boys’ vocabulary,
reading comprehension and spelling – all of which are the foundations of learning.
Opening Hours for the Harley Stumm Senior Library are as follows:
Monday.............................. 7.00am to 5.00pm
Tuesday to Thursday......... 7.00am to 5.00pm
............................................ 6.45pm to 9.00pm
Friday................................. 7.00am to 4.00pm
Sunday............................... 1.00pm to 4.30pm
The Harley Stumm Senior Library welcomes all members of The Southport School community. Further information
regarding the Senior Library’s facilities and resources is available from the Library Homepage found at http://goo.gl/tOZdO
or by contacting library staff.
Music
The activities of the Music Department at the Preparatory and Senior School at TSS are vigorous and exciting, offering
a diverse range of opportunities from work in the classroom, through group and individual instrumental tuition, to
co-curricular activities for larger groups. This strand focuses on students making music and developing the ability to
think and express themselves in sound. Through immersion in repertoire from various cultural and historical contexts,
students learn to aurally and visually identify, respond to, and use the elements and patterns of music. This develops the
ability to hear what is seen and see what is heard.
Students learn to recognise and interpret emotional, spiritual and expressive content in the music they hear and
perform. Meaning is constructed through engagement with music that is carefully chosen for its musical content, with
the abilities, experience, need and prior knowledge of the students in mind. By singing, playing instruments, listening,
moving, improvising and composing, students experience satisfaction and enjoyment as they learn.
For further information regarding the Music Store or for relevant application forms, etc., please visit our website - www.
tss.qld.edu.au/academic/music/music.asp, or call Ms Kinkead directly on (07) 5531 9922. Alternatively, please call the
Director of Music, Mr Cooke, on (07) 5531 9936.
Forward
An education in music is invaluable in the development of the whole person. The benefits are enormous and wide
spread, covering all areas of cognitive, spacial, creative and emotional development.
The Music School at TSS offers a wide range of pursuits from learning an instrument (in solo or small group situations),
voice, theoretical and compositional endeavours, speech and drama and effective communication. As well, opportunity
exists for students to participate in ensembles.
The faculty of the Music School includes some of the most professional and expert musicians in Queensland, enabling
an educational experience second to none.
Over TSS’s century long history, the Music School has produced distinguished musicians who have established
themselves on the professional concert stage, in orchestras, in institutions of higher learning and throughout the arts
world.
Maintaining its role at TSS as an innovator and leader in music education, the Music School remains committed to
offering a caring and stimulating environment in which students are encouraged to reach their full musical potential.
Speech and Drama
The Speech Division of the Music Department offers:
a) Speech and Drama: Includes Drama and Speech, Performing Text and Acting. This subject is
performance orientated and offers assessment in speech, spoken interpretation and dramatic performance.
Examinations with Trinity College London are recommended.

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 31
b) Communication Skills: Focuses on life skills which include the ability to speak in public, interact with
other people and express ideas in work and leisure situations. Skills to enhance expressive utterance in
both informative and persuasive language are an integral part of this course. Examinations with Trinity
College London are recommended.
c) Corrective Speech: Correction of speech sounds is the purpose of this subject. Assistance is also given
with reading difficulties. Students with English as a Second Language (ESL) will benefit from this
course.
In all subjects voice production and articulation are essential. Tutoring is also available for debating, drama, reading in
Chapel and other performance activities.
Music
The School’s aim is to foster and develop an interest in music through music in the classroom, individual tuition and
instrumental and choral groups which consist of choirs, bands, orchestras, chamber groups and Ensembles, and from
time to time other speciality groups may be formed.
Music in the Classroom
The Preparatory School
In Prep to Year 7 music literacy is developed through singing, listening, movement and creating music. The programme
is developmental and students experience a wide variety of activities, both vocal and instrumental.
The Secondary School
Students in Year 8 study music in an “intensive study mode” where four lessons per week are taught for four weeks in
each semester. Students study basic musicianship through analysing repertoire, composition and performance.
In Years 9 to 12 there is an elective music course that covers musical performance, composition and analysis of repertoire.
Students work with the latest music software in a computer keyboard lab.
Instrumental/Vocal Music
Lessons are available in both the Preparatory and Secondary Schools in the following subjects:
Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Saxophone, Bassoon, Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone,
Euphonium, Tuba, Electric Bass, Classical, Contemporary Guitar Styles & Jazz Guitar, Singing, Piano, Pipe Organ,
Percussion & Drums and Music Theory.
Making music is a collaborative process and requires interaction with others. Therefore, as boys become more
proficient, they will be expected to become members of the school music groups.
Studio Concerts/Student Recital Nights
During each term, concerts are held to provide opportunities for students to perform as a soloist. At these concerts
parents and friends are invited to hear student performances in a relaxed and comfortable environment.
Scholarships
HJ King Music Scholarships are offered annually for students from Year 8 onwards. This scholarship is for boys who
excel on an instrument or voice.
Organ Scholarship is offered every two to three years for students who show an interest in, or proficiency on, organ
(classic pipe organ).
Both of these scholarships offer part remission of academic fees. An Information Sheet and Application Forms for both
scholarships are available online from our website from January 2011.
Recording Exam Results on Senior Certificates (Music and Speech)
Trinity Guildhall London and AMEB
Queensland Studies Authority has announced that candidates who sit for particular grades in Years 10 and 12 are eligible
to have those subjects recorded on their Senior Certificates. For more information on this, please contact the Music
Department.

32 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
Fees
Lessons will be billed per semester. There are 15 lessons per semester and a minimum enrolment of one term is
required.
**Group Lessons (boys sharing a ½ hour lesson)..................................................... $21.00 per lesson (15 Lessons - $315.00)
Private lessons (½ Hour)............................................................................................. $34.10 per lesson (15 Lessons - $511.50)
Long Private Lessons (1 hour)............................................................................ $67.10 per lesson (15 Lessons - $1,006.50.00)
School Instrument Hire Surcharge:.............................................................................................................. $330.00 per annum
Students sitting music exams are responsible for their own entry fees and accompanist fees.
**Please Note: Group lessons are only available for the first year of music tuition in the Prep School. However, group
lessons are available for speech until Year 6. There are no group lessons in the Senior School.
Termination of Lessons
It should be clearly understood by all parents and students that initial enrolment for instrumental or speech lessons is
for one term. If lessons are to be discontinued at any time, the School requires notice in writing (using a “Change of
Enrolment” form) to be forwarded to the Director of Music from parent or guardian. Four (4) weeks notice is required.
However, the deadline for cancellation each term is prior to the commencement of the following term. Change of
Enrolment forms are available from either the Preparatory or Senior Music Departments or from the TSS Music
website. Please note verbal advice to the teacher or phone call cannot be accepted.
If this notice in writing is not received in due time, then half a term’s fees will be payable.
This requirement does not apply, of course, in cases where parents have been advised by the Director of Music to
discontinue lessons.
Boarders’ Practice
A supervisor is especially employed by the Music Department for this purpose and students must report to the
supervisor before beginning their practice. Students who take music lessons through the school will be given preference
to rooms and practice times. Practice times are from 6.15pm – 8.15pm Monday to Thursday. The 6.15pm time slot is to
encourage Rogers House boarders to attend regular practice.
Examinations
It is advised that for your son to maintain suitable progress in his music studies, an examination be undertaken yearly
with either Trinity Guildhall or AMEB.
Music and Speech Awards
Music and Speech Award requirements available on the school website..
Purchase of Music Supplies
Southport Music offers competitive prices on all sheet music and music accessories.
Hire of Instruments
It is expected that the majority of students will purchase or hire an instrument after the introductory tuition.
The Music Department has a number of instruments available for hire to beginners (Violins, Violas, Cellos, Double
Basses, Oboes, Bassoons, French Horns, Tubas & Euphoniums).
Once School instruments are hired, they become the responsibility of the boy and his parents. They are supplied in good
order and any damage (beyond normal wear and tear) must be made good. Parents should insure School instruments
against theft. Insurance documentation will be cited by the Director of Music. Valuations can be supplied. Parents,
whose economic circumstances would prevent them buying these instruments, should approach the Director of Music
concerning an extended hire period. After one year of hire, students are expected to purchase their own instruments.
Southport Music can arrange hire of a large range of instruments through Musicorp.
Lesson Times
Lesson times will take place during school hours. Students in Years 11 and 12 in the Senior School and Year 7 in the Prep
School have preference for the out-of-hours times, depending on teacher availability. It is advised that students only
undertake a maximum of two lessons a week in school hours.

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 33
Punctuality
Punctuality is important to the successful operation of the instrumental/speech tuition programme. Students who are
habitually late, or frequently miss lessons, for frivolous reasons may be removed from the programme.
Notice of Inability to Attend a Lesson
If the student is absent from school for any reason (illness, family reasons, school excursions, etc.) the parent must notify
the instrumental teacher personally or the Music Department prior to the commencement of the school day. If this is
not done, the lesson will be charged and not made up. It must be understood that no allowance can be made for single
lessons missed through forgetfulness. Provided prior notification of the absence is given, teachers will attempt to make
up lessons missed through school excursions, where possible.
Lessons missed through the absence of a teacher will be made up or credited at the end of each semester.
In the event of the Music/Speech lesson clashing with a school exam, excursion, or camp, it is the student’s responsibility
to inform the teacher prior to the event so that an alternative lesson time can be arranged.
Note: Boys who fail to attend lessons, without appropriate notice, are considered to be missing school periods and will
be disciplined accordingly. These lessons will be charged for, with no obligation on the part of the teacher to make up
the lesson.
For prolonged illnesses special arrangements must be made with the Director of Music. No lessons can be arranged
until the Director of Music has the signed Music Application Form to hand.
Instrumental Music and Speech Enrolment Form
Before your son can commence music/speech lessons, a completed enrolment form needs must be returned to the Music
Department Office. This form can be found within the Music Brochure and can be returned via fax 5531 9923 or email
jan.kinkead@tss.qld.edu.au. For any questions relating to Music, please contact Jan Kinkead on 5531 9922.

34 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
Vocational Education & Training
VET in Schools is a program funded by both the federal and state governments to support new directions, new strategies
promoting specific jobs-related training. The government plan is to produce an educated, well skilled work force, capable
of leading the country’s economic growth and development through the 21st century.
So, what does this mean to you and your sons enrolling at TSS?
Year 10 is a crucial year for decisions concerning future directions. What are my strengths, interests and abilities? Where
do I see myself after school? What are my realistic possibilities when I leave school? How do I achieve my goals? These
are big questions requiring thought, discussion and advice. Throughout the year, the Year 10 boys are led through a
program of careers education, providing time for the boys to ponder these and related questions and to seek information
firmly aimed at future directions. It is important for our boys to come to know themselves, their personality types and
preferred learning styles, as well as understanding pre-requisite subjects needed for certain university courses, the QTAC
application process and the alternatives to the pathways to university.
The Careers Education program investigates some of the many useful websites, dedicated to school students trying
to sort fact from fiction, in an attempt to become well-informed decision makers. This in turn, should lead to better
decisions, more focussed students and more meaningful senior subjects, which are studied with a specific goal in mind.
In addition, through a partnership with Griffith University, each student completes a questionnaire, leading to a Careers
Match Profile, which is another useful tool in setting career goals. Along with the general aptitude tests conducted by the
school counsellor, this profile helps boys and their parents to match subjects with tertiary goals.
The school firmly believes in the benefits of work experience as another tool in this decision-making process. Our
boys are encouraged to undertake at least one placement in a workplace of choice to explore the world of work. These
placements can occur in holiday time or on a one day / week basis. It is hoped that by experiencing the world of work,
the boys will clear up some myths or at least gain some insight into a job which may be of interest. This, in turn, will
hopefully help in the selection of senior subjects, as well as identifying the areas of interest and enjoyment. In addition,
work experience exposes boys to the demands of the workplace and they come to realise the importance of intangibles
such as initiative, presentation and grooming, punctuality and enthusiasm. In short they begin to develop their
employability skills.
Many boys choose to undertake a school-based traineeship or apprenticeship as part of their senior schooling. This
program provides trainees with an opportunity to “earn as they learn”. Trainees are paid for their on-the-job training,
which consists of a minimum of 48 days a year. In addition, the provision of the theoretical coursework by a registered
training organisation, which complements the on-job training, is paid for by the government. The employer gains an
employee specifically trained in the knowledge and skills needed in that particular business, while the employee gains an
edge over the competition, as well as wages and a nationally recognized qualification. It is a great scheme where all parties
win.
It is hoped that the VET pathway at TSS will produce young men with the knowledge, skills and confidence to be
directly employable upon leaving school and/or students who are better prepared for tertiary studies and the world of
work.
For any enquiries, please contact Mr Halpin (Coordinator of Vocational Education and Training) on 07 5531 9896, or
email mike.halpin@tss.qld.edu.au.
School Uniform
The Store is located near the tennis courts (on the Senior Campus) and can be contacted on 07 5531 9823. Uniform
requirements for the Senior School are listed below. The Store is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4.30pm. Please
also visit http://www.tss.qld.edu.au/Community/TheStore.aspx for detailed information including uniform lists.
The Store will also be closed on Monday 28 January 2013, for Australia Day.
Pre-loved Uniforms
A full range of pre-loved clothing is available all year round, at the rear of The Store next to the changing rooms.

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 35
Summer Dress
This form of dress is worn in Term One and Term Four.
• Black leather lace-up school shoes (polished)
• School long socks with garters
• School charcoal grey short trousers
• Black belt
• School open neck shirt
• School pullover (optional)
• School Akubra
Winter Dress
This form of dress is worn in Term Two and Term Three
• Black leather lace-up school shoes (polished)
• Short grey socks
• Long grey slacks
• Black belt
• School open neck shirt
• School pullover (optional)
• School Blazer
• School Akubra
Formal/Chapel Dress (for formal occasions and as directed)
• School Blazer for Years 7 – 12
• Long-sleeved blue shirt
• School tie
• Long grey slacks with black belt
• Short grey or black socks
• Black school lace-up shoes (polished)
• School pullover (as required)
• School Akubra
Miscellaneous
1. Duty Officials must wear School Blazers when on duty.
2. Students awarded a Representative Blazer may wear it at any time, unless directed otherwise.
3. Physical education dress is as follows:
--
Gym shoes
--
White socks
--
Navy sports shorts
--
House sport shirt
--
School track suits may be worn in
cold and wet weather to P.E. classes.
--
Sports hat
The School Hat
The School Hat (Akubra or TSS sports cap) is to be in the possession of all boys at all times between 8.25am and 3.20pm.
It is compulsory to wear the School Akubra while travelling to and from School with the single exception that cyclists
while riding are to wear a helmet.
The School sports hat is to be worn for P.E. lessons, general sports training and outside recreational activities.
All boys playing games or engaged in outdoor activities during morning tea and/or lunch breaks must wear an approved
school hat.
Dress To & From School
Coming To School
You must always wear full School uniform to travel to School each morning with the one exception of an official School
or House sports practice that starts before 7.15am. Full School uniform includes wearing the School hat.
Going Home
The normal dress to travel home at the end of the School day is School uniform (including hat). The following
additional points are made:
• Travel by Bus: School uniform is compulsory at all times.

36 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
• Travel by Car: Provided you are collected within the School ground sports/cadet uniform may be worn
after Sport and Services. If you are collected on the road outside the School grounds then
full uniform must be worn.
• Travel by Bike: School uniform, unless after 5pm following a sports practice. A helmet is compulsory.
• Walking: School uniform, unless after 5pm following a sports practice.
Please Note:
Sports Uniform
a) If your route takes you through a business area e.g. Southport Shopping Area, Southport Park, you must
wear uniform
b) You must never mix uniforms. You must be completely in School uniform or completely in PE dress or
completely in correct uniform for your sport.
Basketball
• Official Basketball Singlet (supplied through the
sport department)
• Navy Basketball Shorts
Cricket
• “Whites” – long or short trousers
• School Cricket Cap (optional)
• School Sport Hat (optional)
• White Cricket Hat (optional)
• Long sleeved Warm-up shirt (optional)
• White Bike Pants (optional)
Cross Country
• Competition Singlet
• Blue TSS Sports Shorts
• Blue Bike Pants (optional)
• Long Sleeved Warm-up Shirt (optional)
• School Sport Hat
Gymnastics
• Specialised Competition Kit
Rowing
• Competition Singlet
• Boatshed Shirt for training or white PE Shirt
• Blue TSS Sports Shorts
• Blue Bike Pants (optional)
• White Towelling Hat for training
• School Sport Hat for Regatta days
• Long Sleeved Warm-up Shirt (optional)
Sailing
• Long Sleeved TSS Sun Shirt
• TSS Sailing Shorts
• Enclosed footwear (neoprene booties preferred)
• School Sport Hat
Soccer
• School Soccer Jersey
• Blue TSS Sports Shorts
• School Football Socks
Swimming
• Wet Shirts (optional)
• School Swimming Togs
• School Swimming Cap (optional)
• Long Sleeved Warm-up Shirt (optional)
Tennis
• Short Sleeved Competition Shirt
• Blue TSS Sports Shorts
• School Sport Hat
Track & Field
• Competition Singlet
• Blue TSS Sports Shorts
• Long Sleeved Warm-up Shirt (optional)
• Blue Bike Pants (optional)
• School Sport Hat
Rugby
• School Rugby Jersey
• Blue TSS Sports Shorts
• School Football Socks
• Blue Bike Pants (optional)
• School Tracksuit

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 37
School Rules
The rules which follow are not intended to be comprehensive, nor is it possible to legislate for every eventuality. You
should use your own common sense and judge for yourself whether your actions are in the interest of the School or
wider community.
If in any doubt, you should ask someone you trust.
The following rules will naturally be supplemented by House Rules and by rules which apply to particular activities such
as athletics, swimming, and so on.
1. Standards of Uniform and Appearance
Dress
• Day boys will wear the approved School uniform when travelling to and from School no matter what form of
transport is used.
• Day boys will wear the approved School uniform if they intend to conduct business of any nature in a recognised
business area, during their journey to and from school.
• Day boys will ensure that neatness is maintained and that School uniform, sports uniform, and cadet uniform are
not mixed.
• Jewellery, such as rings and chains, are not to be worn.
Hairstyle
The School requires that hair be styled within the following limits:
• It must be reasonably short but no shorter than an electric comb setting of No. 3.
• It must be brushed neatly, shaped to the head and clear of the collar and ears.
• Boys are to be clean shaven and sideburns no lower than the earhole.
• No boy is permitted to cut their own hair or another boy’s hair.
• Extremes of style, perms, use of colour, dye, gels and the like are not acceptable and may result in the student being
suspended from school until his appearance is acceptable.
Appearance
All boys will recognise and accept the School’s high standards of dress and appearance and wear the uniform correctly
and neatly.
2. Absences – General Policy
It is not School policy to permit students to be absent prior to or following holidays for the purpose of extending long
weekends or vacation periods. Parents are expected to make arrangements which occur during holiday periods rather
than extending into term. Appointments or arrangements which will lead to absence on those days should therefore be
avoided. Only in exceptional circumstances will the Dean of Students consider any application to vary these provisions.
Late Return After the Holidays
Boys who return to School after the term has commenced must report to their Housemaster and Student Services before
taking their place in class.
Sickness, Unforeseen Absence or Lateness
• Parents are asked to contact the School directly by telephone on 5531 9850 if a day boy is to be absent from School
or School activity or is likely to be late for School. It is School policy to contact parents by a text message when a day
boy is absent from classes if such absence has not been notified.
• Every day boy who is absent from School (or a School activity) must, on return, present to his Mentor Teacher a
written statement from his parents, explaining the circumstances.
• Every day boy who is absent from School during an examination must provide a doctor’s certificate explaining his
absence.
• In case of late arrivals, students are required to report to Student Services with a note from parents explaining their
lateness. Student Services will issue the boy with a receipt to be presented to the class teacher. Unexplained late
arrivals will result in a Lost Sheep Community Service detention during lunchtime.

38 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
3. Illness
Other Absences
• Any day boy who knows in advance that he needs to leave the School for a legitimate appointment (medical, dental,
or driving test, etc.) must bring a note from his parents to his Housemaster, who will annotate the Record Book.
The boy is required to sign out at Student Services before leaving the School Grounds during School hours.
• All requests for permission to be absent from School for reasons other than those listed above should be addressed
to the Dean of Students/Dean of Boarding well in advance of the event.
Emergencies, Accidents or Illness
When any of these occur at School, a day boy or boarder will be sent to the Health Centre where Sister will inform
parents, and the Dean of Students/Dean of Boarding. In the event of urgent medical treatment being required, the boy
will be sent immediately to a doctor or to Pindara Hospital and parents notified.
4. Punctuality
Minor Accidents and Illness.
Day boys or boarders who are taken sick during the School day, or incur a minor accident, seek permission to leave their
class or activity and report to the School Health Centre where Sister will take the appropriate action. After school hours,
all reports are made to the Master on Duty.
• Any boy who arrives for a lesson after the class has commenced will be regarded as late and may have this recorded
on his file.
• Boys who are late for School must report to Student Services.
5. Classrooms, Buildings and Grounds
• If boys arrive at a classroom before the teacher they should line up quietly outside the classroom.
• Boys should leave all classrooms in a neat and tidy condition.
• Verandahs, stairways and balconies are out of bounds at recess and in the lunch hour unless boys are waiting to
attend an official meeting. At no time are these areas to be used for running, playing games or eating.
6. Record Book - Compulsory Years 7-9, Available for Years 10-12
7. Homework
8. Property
9. Lockers
• All boys are to be in possession of a Record Book and to take it with them to every class.
• Failure to present a Record Book on request, failure to maintain a Record Book in respectable condition, and the
defacing of any Record Book are all serious offences.
• Parents are asked to sight and sign Record Books on a fortnightly basis.
• All work set as homework is to be entered neatly in the Record Book which should also show the time spent
completing the task.
• If set work has not been done, the boy should report this fact before the beginning of a lesson. Any homework not
done should be completed out of school time as a detention and given to the member of staff concerned.
• All property should be clearly marked with the owner’s name.
• Books and other property must not be left around the School grounds.
• Any ‘lost property’ found should be handed in directly to the Laundry where lost items are kept.
• Any damage must be reported to the Housemaster immediately.
Lockers are provided for all boys for the storage of School books or property. Each boy must provide his own suitable
lock and leave a spare key with his Housemaster. A combination lock is recommended, with the Housemaster provided
with a copy of the combination. Each boy is responsible for the condition of his locker. Under no circumstances may a
boy open a locker or interfere with a locker belonging to another boy.

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 39
10. Paper, Rubbish and Litter
11. Social Media
12. Bicycles
All rubbish is to be placed in the receptacles provided. Food and drink other than water are to be consumed at the Café,
in the Day House Area, in the Dining Hall or in the Boarding Houses only. No food or drink other than water is to be
consumed at any other location in the School without the specific permission of a member of staff.
Social media are not be used by students of The Southport School to cause hurt to others in any way including
cyberbullying. Students may not refer to school staff or the School itself in a derogatory fashion in any form of social
media.
• Bicycles are to be kept locked and the School cannot accept responsibility for them.
• Bicycles must not be ridden across any grassed areas or along any footpath.
• Bicycles must be parked in the areas provided.
• The use of bicycles must comply with Queensland road traffic regulations, including the wearing by the cyclist of an
approved helmet.
• Bicycles are not to be kept for use by Boarders.
13. Matches, Explosives, Firearms or Fireworks
14. Bounds
These may not be brought into the School precincts or maintained there for any reason.
• Bounds are clearly defined as all School property between Ferry Road, Winchester Street and the Nerang River.
• Boys must not leave the School between the time they first arrive and 3.20pm without permission. Permission will
be available, when merited, from either the Dean of Students/Dean of Boarding, if the intended period of absence
is during class time, or from a boy’s Housemaster if the request is during lunch. In either case permission is to be
recorded in the Record Book and the boy must sign out in person at Student Services.
• All House areas are out of bounds during class time.
• All classrooms and laboratories are also out of bounds except during School hours or at prep times or under a
Master’s supervision or, at his discretion.
• No boy may enter another House or House Area without direct permission from the Housemaster, his Assistant or
the Master on Duty.
15. Motor Vehicles
The parents of a day boy in Year 11 or 12 may make a written application, on the prescribed form, for their son to drive a
motor vehicle to and from School. The parents and the boy must be aware of, and abide by, the following rules:
• A day boy driving to and from School must park his vehicle in the area set aside by the School for that purpose.
• Each vehicle intended to be parked at School must be registered with Student Services.
• The Dean of Students will maintain an up-to-date record of all boys permitted to bring vehicles to the School. The
record shall include the boy’s licence number, registration number and a description of the vehicle.
• No student is to travel with any other student unless written permission is received from both parents.
• No boarders are permitted to travel as passengers in day boy driven vehicles unless written authorisation from
boarding parents has been given. (Parents of day boys should be clearly conversant with this rule, especially in cases
where they entertain boarders as house guests).
• The day boy parking area is out of bounds to all boys other than registered users of the vehicles.
• It must be understood that in giving permission for day boys to travel to and from School in motor vehicles, the
Headmaster means just that and no more. Day boys will use such approved vehicles for the purpose of attending
normal School activities and will use the shortest trafficable route between School and home.
• No day boy will use a motor vehicle at lunch time or during normal School hours.
• A day boy granted approval to use a motor vehicle may use such a vehicle while attending sports and other activities
conducted at School. However, he must use transport provided by the School when attending sports and other
activities conducted elsewhere.

40 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
• Any day boy granted approval to drive a motor vehicle to and from School must observe all the conditions applying
to wearing of School uniform and School conduct.
• The School will not accept responsibility in the event of any accident or misadventure.
• No boarder is permitted to drive on the School campus or to keep a car on the campus.
16. Café and Eating Areas
17. Tattoos
• No cafeteria property is to be taken out of the Café.
• Rubbish must be placed in the receptacles provided.
• Boisterous behaviour in the Café is strictly forbidden.
• Trading Hours: Recess and lunch time during the week and any other time that is announced.
• Any food or drink purchased at the Café is to be consumed within the immediate surrounds of the Café and the Day
House Area.
• No food is to be taken and consumed anywhere on the School Grounds other than the Café, Day House Area,
Dining Hall or Boarding Houses without the direct instruction and supervision of a member of Staff.
Queensland legislation requires a person to be 18 years or older to receive a tattoo. TSS strongly discourages its students
to make the life decision of getting a tattoo.
If a student does however have a tattoo it is a school requirement that it be covered at all times at School, during School
functions or any occasion that a student can be clearly identified as a TSS student whether they are in uniform or not.
18. Anti-Drug Program - Random Drug Testing Policy
During 2012, after much discussion with, and agreement from, the Student Leadership Groups in each secondary Year
Group on how best to completely eradicate any drug experimentation by our boys, The School Council approved a
random drug testing program.
The boys and the Headmaster see this as providing a very strong reason for TSS boys to say ‘No’ to drug experimentation
– that they are tested and any positive test has serious implications. This policy received over ninety five percent support
from parents and boys.
Hence as part of our strong anti-drug program at TSS the parents of current boys and boys applying to enrol at the
School will be required to sign a random drug testing consent form. Random urine testing by qualified drug testers will
occur from time to time. In the first instance, a positive test result will be handled in confidence, by the Headmaster
only, in a family counselling mode. The boy will be informed first and then the parents. If the boy and parents are willing
to work with the School to ensure any experimentation stops immediately, then the boys will be allowed to continue at
TSS. Parents will be encouraged to seek any help needed for the boy should the issue require. The School will also assist
if required.
A second positive test result will mean the boy must leave TSS as he is clearly not serious about adhering to one of our
five key commitments – to be drug free while at TSS.
This policy provides boys with a second chance, which was not previously available. (Prior to this, boys were
automatically expelled for drug use or possession at School.)
Five Key Commitments
All boys enrolled at TSS must sign a pledge (on the same sheet of paper as their parents sign the drug testing consent
form) to commit to the following as part of their responsibilities as a member of TSS;
As a member of The Southport School I pledge to:
1. Look after others
2. Work hard in my studies
3. Be involved in extracurricular activities
4. Be drug free
5. Look for opportunities to show leadership by making things better for others.

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 41
Student Obligations Regarding the Use of Textbooks
The School provides boys with the majority of required textbooks. These texts are ordered by each Head of Department
and are stored and distributed through the Library. The price of these items is incorporated in school fees.
Students should be aware that when borrowing these items they are to ensure:
• That all items are returned to the library by the due date and in the condition that they are originally lent allowing
for reasonable wear and tear. Failure to do so will incur the replacement cost of the item being added to the boy’s
school account
• They check all books upon borrowing and immediately return any that are damaged or defaced.
• That the item returned is the same copy as on the student borrowing record. All textbooks have an individual
number that is located on the spine of each book
• That this number is recorded in the table provided in the student record book
• That the borrower’s name is written inside each textbook in the space provided
Failure to do this will mean that any non-returned item will be assumed lost and charges will apply. When a ‘lost’ item is
returned, a credit is issued to the student’s account.
Further details can be found online at - http://goo.gl/IgpjU
BYOD Requirement: Internet Connected Device
TSS students in Years 8 to 12 are required to Bring Your Own Device for use in academic lessons. Year 7 students may
BYOD, but are not required to do so as Year 7 classrooms will have access to technology. Responsible use is expected and
it is at the discretion of the classroom teacher as to whether use of the device is permitted in that subject and/or lesson.
Specific details and advice regarding suitable devices can be found on the Studies Department webpage.
Students are required to read and comply with the Learning@TSS Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and the TSS Internet
Use Contract before accessing online resources.
During lessons, students may be permitted to use earphones attached to devices if appropriate, only at the discretion
of the teacher. Students are expected to limit the use of earphones attached to devices during breaks so that social
engagement between TSS community members is maintained and nurtured. Excessive use of earphones will result in
their confiscation.
At all times students are on campus or in school uniform, students should be aware of the special dangers posed by
interactive websites and social networking services and may not use such services without the express permission of a
supervising teacher to:
• Publish personal details of themselves, teachers or other students
• Publish images or videos of any school activity
• Identify themselves as members of The Southport School
• Engage in any form of harassment or bullying.
Mobile Phones
No student is to have more than one mobile phone and that phone is to be on their person, or left with a teacher, at all
times. Students are absolutely and solely responsible for the security of their devices, phones, and other mobile electronic
devices.
Inappropriate use
Inappropriate use of any device and/or failure to comply with the above expectations and procedures will result in the
following consequences:
1. The device will be confiscated and delivered to Student Services for safe-keeping.
2. The device will be clearly labelled with the owner’s name. Details will be recorded in the Confiscation Log.
3. For a first offence, the student is to collect and sign for the device after 3.20pm on the afternoon of the offence.
4. For a second or subsequent offence, the device is to be held at Student Services until collected by the student’s
parent or guardian.

42 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
Developing Positive Behaviour
The Southport School is an Anglican School and as such reflects the Ethos and Characteristics of an Anglican School
as promulgated in the document, “An Ethos Statement for Anglican Schools in the Province of Queensland”. This
document describes the prime characteristics of an Anglican School as:
• A Christian School that lives the Gospel message of forgiveness, reconciliation, mission and loving service to God
and our neighbour
• Exhibiting tolerance and respect for others
• Exemplifying a high respect for intellectual endeavour
• Making a positive contribution to the wider political, social, economic and artistic life of our culture
• Living a commitment to tradition and dignity within School worship and School life
• Promoting a sense of social responsibility through a service ethic and social justice
It is within this context and in proactive support of the School’s Vision that the discipline processes in place at The
Southport School are embedded. Further, in the context of the characteristics outlined above and in line with a
commitment to developing “the whole person” of the student, those responsible for the Pastoral Care of the students are
central in the implementation of policy and practice.
Student Welfare
The continued wellbeing of students in the School is of paramount importance to all involved in the TSS Community.
The School attempts to foster a climate whereby each boy realises his fundamental right to feel safe and to be treated
with respect.
The School encourages an environment that unambiguously sends the message to all members of the School
Community that bullying is totally unacceptable. It is within this environment created by class teachers and the House
system that a boy should feel secure in the knowledge that his Pastoral Care Teacher and Housemaster are there to help.
Other people in the School to whom a boy may go for help include:
• The Chaplaincy
• The School Counsellor
• Other Senior Staff Members
• The Deans of Students and Dean of Boarding
• The Deputy Headmaster
• The Headmaster
There is an accepted procedure for all staff to adhere to should any students face problems in this area. The School
would recognise a boy’s welfare to be at risk if a boy felt he was being subjected to bullying of any nature

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 43
Anti-Discrimination & Harassment Policy
At The Southport School (“TSS”), we are committed to maintaining an environment free from all forms of
discrimination and harassment. TSS promotes equal employment opportunity for its entire staff and prohibits
discrimination against its students.
Our aim is to:
• create a working environment which is free from discrimination and harassment and where all members of staff and
students are treated with dignity, courtesy and respect
• implement training and awareness-raising strategies to ensure that all employees and students know their rights and
responsibilities
• provide an effective procedure for complaints based on the principles of natural justice
• treat all complaints in a sensitive, fair, timely and confidential manner
• guarantee protection from victimisation or reprisals
• encourage the reporting of unacceptable behaviours
• promote appropriate standards of conduct at all times
Maintaining a School Environment Free From Discrimination and Harassment
Staff at TSS recognise the need to maintain a positive working environment free from all forms of discrimination and
harassment. We understand the need for teachers to be positive role models for our students and our staff are committed
to:
• modelling appropriate behaviour themselves
• monitoring the School environment to ensure that acceptable standards of conduct are observed at all times; an
• promoting positive attitudes to prevent discrimination and harassment at the School
• reporting Discrimination or Harassment
TSS takes all reports relating to the discrimination or harassment very seriously. If you suspect that circumstances of
discrimination or harassment have occurred at the School, you are welcome to contact the Headmaster, who will ensure
that the matter is investigated and resolved in a timely way.
TSS prohibits victimisation of any person who makes a complaint or any person who acts as a witness to a complaint.
Enrolment
Enrolment at TSS is offered to students regardless of their race, religion or disability. We offer enrolment on the
following conditions:
• parents must undertake to support the ethos of TSS
• parents must accept the conditions of the enrolment agreement, including conditions related to the payment of fees
and the student’s academic progress and behaviour
• the School will consider whether it is able to sufficiently meet the student’s needs, by considering its capacity to take
further enrolments and the availability of resources
TSS has a waiting list and we will generally give preference to applications made on behalf of children who are siblings of
existing students or applications made on behalf of children who are sons of past students.
Students with Disabilities
At TSS, we will endeavour to meet the needs of our students to ensure that they are able to participate in and benefit
from the wide range of the School’s activities.
We recommend that parents of a student with a disability should notify us if the student needs special support. Parents
are welcome to contact the Headmaster regarding any concerns or specific needs that a student may have.
If the student has specific requirements we ask that parents have these identified by a professional. The Headmaster,
or his representative will then meet with the parents to assess the situation and where possible, we will arrange for the
necessary requirements to assist the student to participate in the School’s activities.
When providing special arrangements for students with disabilities enrolling at the School we consider:
• the availability of resources and personnel necessary to sufficiently meet the student’s needs
• maintenance of the student’s dignity, respect, privacy and confidentiality

44 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
• the aims and requirements of the curriculum and the integrity of our courses
TSS may decide not to accommodate a student with a disability if meeting the student’s needs would cause an
unjustifiable hardship to the School or its other students.
Harassment
At TSS we consider all forms of harassment to be unacceptable behaviour, which will not be tolerated under any
circumstances. We believe that all staff and students should be able to work in an environment free of intimidation and
we are committed to ensuring that incidents of harassment do not occur.
Harassment can occur in a variety of forms. It may be physical, verbal or written and may include transmissions by post,
fax, phone, video or email. Although in general, harassment of another person will not be found to occur if the conduct
is relatively minor and is not repeated, there are some actions or remarks which are so offensive that they constitute
harassment in themselves, even if they are not repeated.
If necessary TSS will take disciplinary action against any individual who harasses another person.
Who to Contact?
If you would like further information or if you suspect that a situation of discrimination or harassment has occurred,
please feel free to contact the Headmaster. Where necessary, the Headmaster will investigate the matter, discuss the
appropriate actions with you or may refer to the relevant authorities.

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 45
TSS Internet Use Contract
Ongoing access to the internet at The Southport School will only be available to boys who have read, understood, signed
and dated this contract.
The Southport School provides access to the internet for educational and research purposes that are consistent with the
school’s curriculum objectives. Use of the school’s internet access is a privilege and not a right.
This contract lists three mandatory activities and ten prohibited activities that must be adhered to in order to enjoy
ongoing access to the internet at TSS.
Mandatory Activities
1. Immediately minimising the screen and informing a teacher if any material with offensive, abusive, racist,
pornographic, sexist or excessively violent content is accidentally accessed
2. Immediately informing a teacher if any harassing or threatening message is sent to you, if you receive anything that
makes you feel uncomfortable, or if you know of any other student receiving such material
3. Immediately informing a teacher if you know, or suspect, that another student knows your password
Prohibited Activities
1. Altering, moving or deleting files belonging to others
2. Providing your password to another person
3. Using another person’s password
4. Accessing sites or files during class time that are not relevant to the lesson
5. Hacking or attempting to gain unauthorized access to the files or network of any organization or individual
6. Accessing any proxy sites that attempt to mask or hide their identity from the school’s network security
7. Accessing, downloading, sending or displaying offensive, abusive, racist, pornographic, sexist or excessively violent
material
8. Violating copyright laws (including copying and transmitting documents, software, music files or video files)
9. Plagiarising (including copying and presenting as one’s own, the work of others found on the internet or school
network)
10. Damaging computer hardware or computer furniture
Consequences of breaching the TSS Internet Use Contract
Any breach of TSS Internet Use Contract will result in a change to the student’s internet access. Depending on the
severity of the breach a student’s internet access may be entirely removed. Other possible consequences could include
a significant forced reduction in the download speed and capacity of a student’s access or a restriction in the duration
of their access. Detentions and suspensions will also apply to breaches of the Internet Use Contract. Parents will be
informed whenever any of these consequences are applied.

46 The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013
Map of the Senior School

The Southport School Senior Handbook 2013 47
The Southport School Preparatory Campus
Map of the Prep School
WINCHESTER STREET
FERRY ROAD
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
10 11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
Jordan Builidng
Administration Centre/Reception
Conference Room
Head of Preparatory Office
Deputy Heads’ Offices
Sportsmaster
Gifted and Talented
Sports Shed
Classrooms: Years 4-6
Stevenson Building – Abraham Art Rooms
Tuckshop
Moore Music Centre
Pearce Theatre
Stevenson Building
Staff Room
Chaplains‘ Office
Cribb Building Classrooms:Reception - Year 1
The Pearson Early Learning Centre (Preschool)
Shaded Eating Area: Years 2-4
Classrooms: Year 3
Classrooms: Year 2
Prep Pavilion
Trevor R Wood Resource Centre
Tech Space
Robotics and LOTE Program
COLLEGE AVE
LUPUS STREET
PARKING
PARKING
PARKING
PARKING
16
10
9
5
8
PLAY
GYMS
7
6
11
BENOWA ROAD
PARKING
14
14
12
13
1
4
PLAYING FIELDS
15
18
17
4 4
2
BASKETBALL
COURTS
3
CRICKET
NETS
‘MR E’
TENNIS
COURTS

The Southport School
Winchester Street, Southport 4215 Q Australia
T +61 7 5531 9911 F +61 7 5531 9977
W www.tss.qld.edu.au
The Corporation of the Synod of the Diocese
of Brisbane trading as The Southport School
CRICOS Provider No 00523F