Facilitator's News - Silkwood School

7
1 APRI L 2011
39 Shepherd Hill Lane
Mount Nathan QLD 4211
PO Box 760, Nerang 4211
Phone: 07 5596 2266
Fax: 07 5596 2199
reception@silkwood.qld.edu.au
www.silkwood.qld.edu.au
Vision
A community supporting
young people to realise
their potential; forever
learning, forever teaching,
in the service of
humanity.
Mission
To provide a unique
student centred learning
space that embraces an
integrated, holistic and
balanced approach to
children’s education.
Using a developmental
education model, we
encourage our students
to acquire the emotional,
social, physical, cognitive
and spiritual
competencies that will
enable them to lead
purposeful, fulfilling lives.
Facilitator’s News
Take up one idea. Make that one idea your life – think of it, dream of it, live on that idea.
Let the brain, muscles, nerves and every part of your body, be full of that idea, and just
leave every other idea alone. This is the way of success.
Swami Vivekananda
It is my turn this newsletter to help bring you some understanding of Habit 2, of which I am the
leader. “Begin With the End in Mind” is the habit of vision – the ability to dream, imagine and create a
picture of what you want to achieve, big or small, in your life.
My personal story is that it is not by chance I got to hold this leadership baton. I have always been a
dreamer and created by own personal vision when I was young. To say that visioning and supporting
others to create their own visions has been a big part of my life is really an understatement. It is my
passion! I love nothing more than to see the light and spark ignited in someone – when they can
picture and describe their dream and then set out, inspired, on their journey to create something
amazing.
Silkwood is a great example of this habit in action. It started with a group of people wanting to
achieve something magical in education for children. Everyone involved in that process held their
own individual idea, but it was the collaborative process that drew out a collective picture, and so the
Silkwood story began...
“A community supporting young people to realise their potential;
forever learning, forever teaching, in the service of humanity”
Silkwood began with no money, no buildings, no structure and this vision. This vision has been a clear
beacon of light and a strong force in supporting the growth, development and decision making of the
school. It plays a huge part in my role, as it is the guiding light from which I drive everything
strategically from and to, and my ally in times of decision making, change and conflict.
I personally became involved with Silkwood well before this vision was created, before the school was
even called Silkwood. My involvement came from my own vision for my two girls to have an
education that they would love and value, and which would support them to be the best people they
could be. This dream led to my involvement and journey of 15 years with Silkwood – from starting the
school to bringing the vision into reality. Being a real fan and believer in the power of this habit it has
brought so much to my life and in turn to others… If you are interested in learning more about this
habit check out Stephen Coveys books “7 Habits of Highly Effective People”. Otherwise watch this
space for our parent education program coming later in the year.
Another dream I have is to see every young person finish their education at Silkwood with a strong
sense of what they want in life and the confidence to go after it!
Valerie
this issue
Autumn Festival P.3
Earthquake Appeal Concert P.4
Annual General Meetings P.5
Silkwood Vacation Care P.8
SCCA News P.9
Community Noticeboard P.8
Page 1

TERM 2 - AFTERNOON PICK-UP CHANGE
A huge thank you to everyone for making our afternoon pick-up system a success. We have had the council called by the
neighbours many times and each time the inspector has come out he has been impressed with how well we are managing
things. The reports back to council have been that we have the most organised schooling pick-up system on the Coast! I
appreciate the efforts of both my team (don’t you think they really are the stars of the show!) and you all… fantastic work.
I would like to give a special mention to Andrew Kemp who has kindly volunteered most afternoons this term to help us out on
the road. His big contribution of personal time has been sincerely appreciated.
Next term we are returning to our original pick-up times below. On days when we may not be able to get all the traffic through
by 3.30pm for weather or congestion reasons we will keep the children at the pick-up until all the traffic has cleared and
everyone has made it through. You need not worry. If we have car-park traffic congestion your children will not be rushed to
after school care.
Families with siblings in different classes, your pick-up will be at the time specified for your ELDEST child’s class.
Pick-up time from the
set-down zone times are strict.
Please do not come early.
Children not picked up by this time
(unless they have an older sibling)
will be taken to OHSC by the teacher and booked in.
Fees will apply.
Prep 3.00pm – 3.10pm 3.10pm
Classes 1 to 3 3.10pm – 3.20pm 3.20pm
Classes 4 to 7 3.20pm – 3.30pm 3.30pm
TEACHER DEVELOPMENT UPDATE
The College of Teachers, as always, undertakes a great deal of development to support every teacher's learning journey. As
one of our mottos states, 'Learners learn best from learners' and we certainly strive to embody this.
This term we've been working solidly on Specific Learning Outcomes (SLOs) in the classroom and ensuring that the language of
learning is consistently embedded into all lessons; with particular focus on Proficiency Lessons. Alan Wagstaff has been
assisting with this process. You can help by asking your children, 'What did you learn today?' in addition to, 'What did you do
today?' Ideally children should be focused on what they are learning, not just on the 'jobs/tasks' they've been given to do and
our role as teachers is to rigorously facilitate this.
We've also introduced the 'Leader in Me' program which introduces children to the '7 Habits' and how to use these effectively
for setting goals, problem solving, self-direction and management, working cooperatively with others and self-reflection. In
syndicate meetings, teachers have been reviewing this integration and we have a secured a grant to further develop this
program; with the goal of enhancing student wellbeing. Lesson plans, games, activities and support resources are being
compiled by a small dedicated team to support this process.
Most syndicates participated in an 'Enhancing Music in Thematic Lessons' workshop with Alan Wagstaff to look at different
ways in which to use Music to support themes being explored in Main Lesson contexts. Ideas, suggestions and resources were
presented and left plenty for teachers to further consider.
Teachers participated in a 'Practical Lessons – experiential pedagogy' workshop with Alan Wagstaff, to explore ways in which
to further develop these afternoon sessions by forming community partnerships, creating networks and drawing up lists of
skills/opportunities of external & internal providers.
Teachers and staff participated in a 'team building' workshop earlier in the term with an emphasis on 'intra-personal' activities
to help connect individuals and further develop appreciation and understanding of each other – it was really well received and
everyone left feeling refreshed and renewed.
Last but not least, individual teachers participated in external Professional Development including attending and reporting
back on the following:
Leading Learning – Working Smarter in a Crazy World
Introduction grant workshop for 'Leader in Me' program
'Leader in Me' program development sessions
Over and out,
Kalindi
Teacher Development Manager
Page 2

What’s coming
up at Silkwood?
Monday 4 April
SCCA Meeting
Class 6 room
3.30pm-4.15pm
All Welcome!
Wednesday 6 April
Prep Autumn Festival
Thursday 7 April
Autumn Festival
Last day of school
TERM 2
Wednesday 27 April
First day of Term 2
Saturday 30 April
Earthquake Appeal Concert
Featuring Men Wot Sing
6.30pm in the School Hall
Click here for tickets & info
Monday 2 May
Labour Day Holiday
Thursday 5 May
Silkwood AGM
6.00pm – 7.30pm
School Library
Friday 6 May
School Photos
Saturday 28 May
Silkwood Bush Dance
4.00pm – 8.00pm
School Hall
Click here for tickets & info
Monday 13 June
Queen’s Birthday Holiday
Thursday 16 June
Winter Music Concert
Thursday 30 June
Winter Festival
Last day of school
AUTUMN FESTIVAL – Classes 1-7
Our Autumn festival, Terra Sole Piove, is scheduled for Thursday, 7 April. This year we have
combined the themes of autumn harvest and Harmony Day celebrations featuring an Italian
theme. It's about community, participation, inclusiveness and respect. Everyone belongs!
The festival is very child centred. Children will stay in their class groups and be involved in a
full day of rotational activities designed to provide a variety of experiences.
Please pack morning tea for your children. Lunch will be provided. We have hired a woodfired
pizza oven and the children will be treated to Margherita pizza (cheese, tomato & basil). If
your child has special dietary requirements (gluten free/no dairy) please advise the class
teacher as soon as possible.
Traditionally, Autumn is a time of harvest and stocking food supplies for the coming winter. To
acknowledge this tradition we kindly ask that each family donates a can of tinned food or dried
produce for our harvest display, which will be assembled class by class. Please give your
donation to the class teacher.
As there are many in our local community less fortunate than ourselves, the proceeds of our
‘harvest’ will be donated to a charity. The Nerang Neighbourhood Centre is an organisation
that distributes emergency food hampers for those in need in our local community. In
addition to tinned and dried foods, they will also accept some hardy, fresh produce such as
pumpkins, potatoes and apples. A representative of the charity will come to Silkwood during
our festival closing to be presented with our donation.
School will start at the usual time of 8.30am and children should come dressed in their orange
school shirts, in keeping with the Autumn theme. To assist with traffic flow we have staggered
pick up times as follows:
Classes 1 – 3
Classes 4 – 7
2.15pm
2.30pm
Please book your children into After School Care if you are unable to collect them at these
times.
If you would like to join us for the close of the Autumn festival, please be at the Hall at
1.30pm.
College of Teachers
CLASS 2 WATTLE RAFFLE
Will be drawn at Autumn Festival
Our raffle of two lovely framed paintings by established
artist and class parent – Simonn Schmacher-Gray, will
be drawn at the Autumn Festival.
Tickets still available at the School Office.
LOST PROPERTY
Lost property will be on a table outside the staff room from the morning of Tuesday 5 April
until the end of the day on Thursday 7 April.
Please take the time to look through the items.
Anything that is not collected by the end of the term will be donated to charity.
Thank you
Jake
Page 3

MUSIC NEWS!
Hi everyone – wow! It’s the end of term already with
just a week to go before the fabulous Autumn
Festival.
ORCHESTRA
For those in Orchestra this means a slight change to
the schedule – instead of a rehearsal this Friday,
1 April (which would clash with the Class 5, 6 and 7
Swimming Carnival) it has been postponed to next
WEDNESDAY, 6 April in the Hall. This has turned out
to be a Win-Win solution for us all, as we now get to
rehearse in the space we will be using on the day of
the festival, the day before, so that we can feel
prepared and leave our instruments relatively in tune
and not miss the Swimming Carnival – yippee!! As
the children are aware, string ensembles are still on,
as this will help us all keep our fingers ready, with a
nearly two week gap between orchestra rehearsals.
Next term there will be a few changes to the
ensemble days that mainly affect the violins, but I
will put a new schedule out in Week 1 with ensemble
times and all the information – they won’t be due to
start till Week 2 as usual.
CLASS 3 VIOLIN
For all those budding Class 3 violinists, we are
drawing to the end of Term 1 and have just ventured
into the realm of real music and now have a few
pieces that we can play in our repertoire. If you are
on the hire program then ALL violins must be
returned next week so that I can do an inventory
check over the holidays – they will be re-issued next
term. From experience, I have found that most
children like to have a break in the holidays, so I will
not be expecting them to practice over the holidays,
but violin will start WEEK 1 so come prepared!!
Also we have a LOST VIOLIN - Number 16 in the hire
program – I have searched the school high and low
to no avail, it has been missing for 3 weeks. Please
double check that you do not have an extra violin at
home, gathering dust in a corner because it has got
me completely stumped as to its whereabouts!
CLASS 6 MUSIC PROJECTS
The Class 6 Instrument Projects have been
outstanding this year and are currently on display in
the library, please feel free to have a look. Classes 2
and 4 have also been learning about instruments and
their families and have enjoyed studying the Class 6
posters and including them in some lessons.
Well I think that’s all the news – have a great holiday
break and I look forward to seeing you next term –
don’t forget that the Winter Concert will be in
Term 2 and is already shaping up to be a fantastic
night of talent with a bigger Orchestra and Choir next
term!
Love Mel x
JAPAN EARTHQUAKE APPEAL
FREE DRESS DAY – Thank you!
Thank you to all the children who recently supported our
fundraising appeal for the devastated families in Japan.
Starbright Prep
Earthquake
Appeal Concert
Featuring
Men Wot Sing
The world has been writhe with disasters in recent
months. Silkwood has recently had two initiatives to help
families and children in Japan with the aftermath of the
terrible tragedy that has befallen this country. Following
this theme we are proud to announce that Silkwood will play
host to sing sensations ‘Men Wot Sing’, who have kindly
volunteered to put on a concert to continue this wonderful
fundraising to help affected people in both Japan and
Christchurch.
Men Wot Sing is a much sort after A Capella Choir of
devilishly handsome, talented and modest men. They will
make you laugh, swoon and cry (with laughter). Please be
warned that Men Wot Sing is a PG rated performance group
and do use some toilet humour.
Silkwood’s very own Business Manager, Greg Gapp, is one of
the performers in this group, so at the very least come and
see him be silly!
We are looking for people who are willing to help with food
to sell on the night. If you are able to help out with
donations of goodies or help selling them on the night please
contact either Bonnie reception@silkwood.qld.edu.au or
Greg at businessmanager@silkwood.qld.edu.au
When Saturday 30 April 2011
Where Silkwood School Hall
Time 6.30pm, doors open at 6.00pm
Come along and support a really good cause!
Be entertained and have a good laugh!
For more information and to purchase tickets CLICK HERE
or visit the school office.
Page 4

CURRICULUM NEWS
A few bits of news this fortnight from the world Curriculum.
The school has received a small grant from Independent
Schools Queensland to complete a project based on our
Leader in Me program. Kalindi and Sam and I will be writing a
school wide set of lesson plans for all teachers to use. It was
great for Valerie and I to go to the project sharing day and hear
what other schools are up to. Silkwood always comes out
smelling of roses at these events
Thank you very very much to all those who came to our High
School talk on Wednesday – it was very well attended. With
something so new and shiny and much anticipated, it was
difficult to know how the information was going to be received
but it seemed to go down very well. We realise it is quite a
learning curve for parents to get their heads around the style
of learning we are aiming for and we will have more parent
info sessions when we can. In the meantime, I would
encourage you to ask as many questions as you feel you need
to. I am only an email away. I will also try to get some
information up on the website as soon as I can.
Also at the session we went to in Brisbane, talk got around (as
it inevitably does) to the Australian Curriculum. It was again
emphasised that schools will be free to teach and present in
the ways that their communities need. Parents will see very
little outward change at Silkwood and I would encourage you
all to treat any potential media hysteria with a calm head. Just
come and ask me please.
Don’t forget we are looking for resource support in all areas of
our curriculum – if you have a skill or idea to share in any area
of Main Lesson or Enterprise Education, we would love to hear
from you.
That’s it for now. Have a lovely restful break and I look
forward to talking curriculum with you soon!
Alicia
alicia.kemp@silkwood.qld.edu.au
Extract from Now Is the Time written by Patrick Lindsay…
find your spark
We all have a spark within us
that ignites our creative spirit.
Sometimes it’s overshadowed by the big obstacles
that threaten the light in our lives.
But our spark will survive our darkest times,
waiting to show the way to a brighter future.
‘If the divine spark were not native to us, how could it move us
to rapture?’
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749-1832)
SILKWOOD SCHOOL
ANNUAL GENERAL
MEETINGS
The Management Committee, College of
Teachers and Silkwood Community Care
Association would like to extend a warm
invitation to all members to attend the Annual
General Meetings (AGM) of both the Gold Coast
Steiner School Inc. and the Silkwood Community
Care Association.
Date: Thursday 5 May 2011
Time:
6.00pm – 7.30pm
Where: Silkwood School, Library
A link to a letter of invitation, containing
detailed information can be found in your
Silkwood Newsletter email.
POSITIONS VACANT
The Silkwood Management Committee is
currently is looking for new members for our
school board.
Nominations are sought from members and non
members who possess any or all of the following
skills and/or qualifications.
Accounting/Bookkeeping for a business
of similar scale to Silkwood
Administrative proficiency
An eye for detail
Experience in a management
committee for an association of similar
scale to Silkwood
Excellent written communication skills
Nomination forms are available at the school
office and supporting referees and curriculum
vitae are welcomed.
We ask for a minimum two year commitment
and would require your attendance every
second month at management meetings. If you
feel you may be interested or would like more
information, please contact Greg Gapp:
businessmanager@silkwood.qld.edu.au.
OHSC – LAST DAY OF TERM
The Last day of Term 1 is Thursday 7 April.
School finish times:
Class 1-3, 2.15pm – Class 4-7, 2.30pm
If you would like to book your children into
OHSC for After School Care, please book through
the school office or at OHSC.
Bridie Turpeinen
OHSC Coordinator
Page 5

SILKWOOD SCOUTS
Hello from Scout world at Silkwood.
As we wind down towards the end of first
term it has been an exciting time at Scouts:
the children have been swimming, canoeing
and horsing around as well as an end of
term camp this weekend.
We would like to say a GIANT thank you and
goodbye to our outgoing Treasurer
Kate Hildebrand for services above and
beyond the call of duty and Secretary
Deanne McInally for her comprehensive
minuting!
Kerrie has stepped into Kate’s shoes and we
are still looking for a secretary if anyone is
keen.
Scott Robinson has generously agreed to
stay on as President until he starts his
travels so we will be looking for another
pulse in a few months.
Scout and Cub numbers are small at the
moment and we thank these families for
their continued support.
If you are interested in Scouts or Cubs
please contact me.
Alicia
alicia.kemp@silkwood.qld.edu.au
STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT
Declan Kemp represented Silkwood at the
School Sports Diving Trials in Brisbane last week.
He came 1 st in the 12 year old boy’s category off
the 1m springboard.
Congratulations!
CLASS 7 NEWS
Class 7 have had a fantastic start to the year with plenty of
activity, responsibility and learning!
We are about to finish our Creative Writing Main Lesson called
‘Write Now!’ and I have been dazzled by some of the talent and
creativity in the class. The lesson has been made all the more
engaging through our use of web technology – we have a ML
Website instead of a book! It is a forum the students are very
comfortable in and the quality of the work has been
correspondingly high.
In our leadership role, we have taken on the hosting of the
assemblies, we contribute to thinking Win/Win with Silkwood
Saints playground duty and we are compiling photographs of the
school for the annual DVD.
The students of Class 7 have worked hard in their last first term
at Silkwood and have earned a rest over the holidays! More
news next term, bye for now!
Alicia
MOONLIGHT PREP NEWS
What we learned this week:
This week we completed our lines Main Lesson. We were so excited to
have created our very own book that we will be able to share with
others. This main lesson is primarily designed to help develop and
enhance pre-writing skills. The children enthusiastically identified the
letters and numbers that they could see emerging from the lines they
drew. As this is the children’s first experience writing in a main lesson
book, it is also a wonderfully relaxed and creative introduction to this
practice.
The class was a little sad to say good-bye to Bindi the Rabbit whose
adventures we have followed. She lived in our store room while we
were completing our lines book and had a great time eating cabbages
and bouncing around with the other toys.
Something interesting that happened this week:
The children have been very enthusiastic when using the seven habits
language at school. They particularly enjoy synergizing (working
together). They even made a synergizing play-dough snake during
group time! It has been so wonderful to see the enthusiasm and
creativeness which has accompanied this habit.
Upcoming events:
The Prep Autumn Festival will take place next Wednesday (6 April) from
9.00am to 10.45am (approximately). The festival will incorporate a
performance by the children, art and craft activities with the families
and of course a delicious autumn feast to share.
Warm wishes
Pam, Louise and Tammy
Page 6

CLASS 6 NEWS
Wow! What a term it has been for the children of Class 6 and myself. We have covered
and explored so much in a relatively short time and had a lot of fun and learning along
the way.
Our first Main Lesson saw us studying the ‘Secrets of the Earth’ in our Geology unit and
we visited Springbrook Natural Park – Twin Falls, Best of all Lookout and Natural
Bridge; and then Thunderbird Park to mine and excavate ancient metamorphic
specimens. The children presented amazing collections as part of their Geology
projects and these can be appreciated more fully in our classroom displays.
Our second study led us to the investigation of human and physical geography in
‘Geography of the SW Pacific’. We participated in a Maori cultural workshop; learning
how to weave with flax and sing traditional songs with sticks and the children have
developed very quickly some ‘poi twirling’ skills and routines. We also studied the
Yugambeh language region – including basic phrases and how to use an Aboriginal
calendar. Some vital geo-skills including mapping, location and direction were explored
further as well. Our birthday celebrations honour a fusion of Polynesian traditions and
customs and these have been well received by the birthday children thus far.
In our Environmental studies, we have been studying the Silkwood bush and riparian
corridor and often take strolls down the bush trail to explore the creek and the habitats
that proliferate our natural learning space. Whole lessons have been conducted in the
outdoor classroom (learn-scape seated area). We have learnt more about bush
regeneration and helped plant 160 trees in a degenerated area (the old junior
playground). We had the GCCC come to the school to teach us about the water cycle,
water conservation and how water is treated and visited Numinbah Valley
Environmental Centre to participate in water studies in and around the Hinze Dam and
Rainbow Falls Creek. Children examined water bugs and creatures to ascertain how
healthy the water quality was and canoed in the dam to observe the flora and fauna
necessary to keep this habitat in its natural state. We are going to do some testing of
the water in the Coolbunnbin Creek (Silkwood Creek) in the coming weeks.
The Class 6 children had their first experience of ‘Science on the Go’ and participated in
two highly interactive and exciting workshops with Sidney Hooker – “Matter” workshop
and “Polymers” workshop. The children had a wonderful time playing with Science and
Sid will return each term to work further with us.
Being a good talker myself, it comes as no surprise that I’ve inherited a class of good
talkers and luckily that talent has been put to good use! The children’s Geology talks
were excellent, as were their Music presentations and Australian Biography talks as
well. Their public speaking skills are really well developed already and we’re going to
use this to maximum effect by getting Class 6 groups to design interactive bush trail
walks/talks for younger classes as part of their Environmental studies.
Now of course, we’ve entered the ‘Rome Zone’ and the children’s’ venerable leader
(me), is leading them down the fascinating path that this study of ancient civilisations
reveals. Denis has been creating Roman heads/busts with the children in sculpture
classes and the children’s creative responses are very insightful.
We’ll be ending the term with a fun day in the pool with our Swimming Carnival and an
interactive Italian inspired Autumn festival.
Many thanks to Mel for her engaging Music lessons and to Beth for her calm and steady
support in Proficiency Lessons. Thanks also go to my fantastic Class Carers, Treva and
Suzette who have accompanied us on our excursions and been generally very helpful.
Salutes we call to you among all,
To you we give blessings,
Salutes through the year.
Kalindus Maximus Superbus I and Class Sixus Spectacularus
Enrolment Registrations
for future Prep classes
Our waiting lists for future Prep
classes are filling up quickly. Most of
our classes are full three years before
the Prep start date.
We urge families to submit enrolment
applications when their children are
born so they do not to miss out on a
place.
Please click on the link below to
download an Enrolment Application.
Enrolment Application
Page 7

Silkwood School Vacation Care
EASTER HOLIDAY PROGRAM - Book now!
Silkwood offers a Vacation Care program facilitated by
Bridie Turpeinen, our Silkwood OHSC Coordinator.
Bridie has a Bachelor of Arts and Certificate
III in Children’s Services and has taught children’s art
classes and facilitated many programs for children over
the past 6 and a half years.
Our Vacation Care program includes a variety of artistic
activities, craft projects, drama games, board games,
sport, cooking, self help skills, incursions, excursions and
both indoor and outdoor free play time.
Easter Holiday Program Highlights and Excursion
information...
Giant Volcano Experiment!
High Jump
Needle felt decorating onto mini felted eggs
Handball
Cooking Russian tea cakes
Autumn leaf long stitch
Groovy ‘Create a Badge’ workshop
Cricket
ICELAND BUNDALL SKATING EXCURSION
Design your own ice-skates art activity
Palm Sunday Branches
Knotted cloth hare
BOLLYWOOD INCURSION
Cooking Anzac biscuits
Dyeing hard-boiled eggs with natural dyes
Chocolate making
RSPCA COMMUNITY CARE FARM
EXCURSION
Woollen chickens
Easter Egg Hunt!
Links to the Vacation Care Booking Care form and
Excursion flyers, containing detailed information, can be
found in your Silkwood Newsletter email.
Bookings and information also available at the School
Office.
Silkwood
Bush Dance
Saturday 28 May 2010
Time: 4pm – 8pm
Place: School Hall
Music & Caller
Fiddle
in
the
Middle
Bring: Warm clothes, your family and your friends
Cost: $10 Adult 15 years +
$5 Child 5-14 (Under 5 Free)
$25 Family – 2 Adults & 2 Children
Advance ticket sales only - Limited space
Purchase your tickets online CLICK HERE
Early Bird Ticket Sales!
Buy your tickets online before April 20
to go in the draw to win the
VIP Car Park space for Term 2
CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS
Put your dancin’ shoes on and come on down
for some good old fashioned fun!
-
Food & Drinks available to purchase
For more information email or call Bonnie Domigan
reception@silkwood.qld.edu.au / 5596 2266
Vacation Care – Position Vacant
I am looking for reliable and qualified staff who are available to work
for 2 hours a day throughout Vacation Care at OHSC (Monday 11,
Tuesday 12, Wednesday 13, Thursday 14, Friday 15, Monday 18,
Tuesday 19, Wednesday 20 and Thursday 21 April).
I require staff who have a 2 year qualification, first aid and Blue Card
or working with children check.
You would be relieving OHSC staff for tea breaks and lunch and also
working as an OHSC Assistant.
The shift would be from 12.00-2.00pm each day (except for Friday 15
April which is 1.00-3.00pm due to an ice-skating excursion and
Thursday 21 April which is 2.45-4.45pm due to an RSPCA Farm
Excursion).
If you would like to earn some extra cash on top of your regular
wage then this might suit you!!!
Even if you are only interested in working for one day or for a couple
of shifts please contact me as soon as possible and I will slot you into
the roster!
I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Bridie Turpeinen
Silkwood OHSC Co-ordinator
ohsc@silkwood.qld.edu.au
Page 8

CRAFT GROUP NEWS
Hi There all you Crafty Folk!
Where did term 1 go? At the Heart to Hands
headquarters it has been a merry flurry of
stitching, colour, laughter and friendship… you
can’t ask for more than that!
The fruits of everyone’s labour are on show this
week at the end of term market. By the time
this goes to press it will likely be complete, and
hopefully another success for this wonderful
Silkwood community group. Don’t forget that
anything left over will be available for sale at
the office, so if you missed out, pop in to see
the lovely Bonnie and take a look.
A huge and heartfelt “THANK YOU” to all of you
that have come along and given so generously
of your skills, creativity and time. We have
been so enthused by the fantastic group we
have had this term… ‘roll on Term 2’ we say!
Speaking of which, our first Heart to Hands
session for Term 2 will be
Monday 9 May (Week 3 of Term 2 due to the
public holiday)
We look forward to seeing you there!
Finally, if you are interested in getting hold of
any craft materials or take home kits of the
projects completed this term (as well as a few
others), so that you can get creative during the
holidays, please contact Nikki via email
(nikkifletcher@internode.on.net).
Happy Easter and have a safe and fulfilling
holiday everyone!
From your crafty coordinators,
Nikki, Mia & Dionne
SCCA NEWS
This term has been productive for the SCCA and the sub-groups are all
travelling along well.
CRAFT
The Craft group have had big numbers and Nikki, Mia and Dionne have
created some amazing projects as you would have seen from their
regular newsletter and email updates. The SCCA have helped fund
some wooden benches, a shade sail and cupboard for the Craft Group,
Playgroup and OHSC to use. The Craft group have also branched out
with a new Craft Group being run up at Tamborine Mountain once a
week. I'm always impressed with the creativity and enthusiasm these
ladies have and they model teamwork extremely well.
BUSH AND LANDCARE
The Bush and Landcare team chipped in for a big planting and mulching
session with the Bush Regeneration Working Bee in late February and
Richard and Suzette have been volunteering once per week to keep our
habitats flourishing and nourished. Throughout the course of the term,
approximately 500 native plants, vines, grasses and trees have been
planted along the riparian corridor; with Class 6 chipping in to help with
planting 160 trees as part of their Geography studies.
TUCKSHOP
Jo Lee has taken a leap of faith and lifted the tuckshop to a new level by
expanding the menu and providing this service 4 days a week. With
Theresa and Masako on hand to ensure this operation runs efficiently,
the tuckshop has been a hive of activity and a successful foray into new
territory. Jo always has a smile on her face and is so happy to be
working at the school and providing this service – your energy and
enthusiasm is inspiring tuckshop ladies!
NUTRITION GROUP
The Nutrition group are trialling a 'brain food' nourishment snack-time
with Class 2T (Lauren) to see if this has any impact on better learning
engagement. Thanks to Tracee for kicking off this initiative.
EVENTS TEAM
Plans are already afoot for the Bush dance in Term 2 and anyone who
would be willing to offer support and assistance can contact Bonnie in
the office.
CLASS CARERS
The Class Carers are the classroom angels who help keep
communication flowing between the teachers and parents and help in
many untold ways and of course Class Carers are the backbone in
ensuring class and school events have the support and involvement of
the community. Bonnie keeps this team connected and informed and
the teacher’s value the class carers' efforts and contributions
enormously.
With thanks and appreciation for the community's ongoing support.
Kalindi
SCCA President
NEXT SCCA MEETING – Monday 4 April
Class 6 room
3.30pm-4.15pm
All Welcome!
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NUTRITION NEWS
Exciting donations to the School Library
Edie Wicker of nourishingecology.com has kindly donated
two fabulous books worth $100.00 to the school library.
The book’s cover traditional and fermented foods, such
as sauerkraut, kimchi and kefir to name a few.
Please visit the library to borrow these fabulous books.
Nourishing Traditions by Sally Fallon and Mary Ensig,
PH.D
The revised and updated Second Edition contains over
700 delicious recipes that will please both exacting
gourmets and busy parents.
Nourishing Traditions offers modern families a fascinating
guide to wise food choices and proper preparation
techniques. More than a cookbook, sumptuous recipes
are sandwiched between extraordinary, inspiring morsels
of wisdom and scientific research which make this book
an ongoing feast that will inspire for years.
Nutrition researcher Sally Fallon unites the wisdom of the
ancients with the latest independent and
accurate scientific research. Dr Weston Price, Dr Edward
Howell and other nutrition mavericks play a prominent
role in this diet wisdom masterpiece.
Get ready to throw some of your most cherished dietary
assumptions out the window as you learn about the
fascinating cross-cultural research on the nourishing
traditions of our ancestors.
Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A Price
This book distills the research of Weston A Price, a dentist
and independent nutrition researcher. In a decade of
travel around the world, Price and his wife studied the
health, dietary habits, and chemical composition of food
of dozens of traditional peoples of various racial
backgrounds. His research was done at a time when
many such groups still lived free of the influence of
Western civilization and what he called "foods of
commerce," i.e. heavily refined and denatured foods.
Price is basically, the Tony Robbins of diet - he sought out
the healthiest people on Earth and studied what they had
done for hundreds and thousands of years to stay
healthy. He looked at their Traditional diets as well as
what happened when they adopted Western diets. The
results are in this book, and it is well worth your taking
the time to read.
While others have followed his work, the changing nature
of the world now makes it impossible to duplicate his
research today. His work stands as a pivotal piece in
science and health as well as in history. This represents
the cumulative knowledge of millions of people over
thousands of years in a laboratory that includes the
entire world. Definitely non-trivial.
World Vision Thanks Silkwood School
In 2010 Silkwood School students opened their hearts to
support World Vision projects in Cambodia, Laos and Kenya.
The money raised was for families in desperate need for a
hand up out of poverty.
I was privileged to witness firsthand how this money is
changing lives in Laos early this year and want to thank your
school community from these families for your gifts that are
transforming their communities.
Their biggest challenge is food security and having enough
food to eat, to address this issue World Vision has livestock
banks where goats, pigs and fowls are shared amongst the
villages, seeds and education on how to diversify their crops
and Food for Work programmes so they can improve their
roads and bridges to allow access to markets, schools and
hospitals.
The next exciting improvement I visited was a Mother and
Child Health Clinic which is saving lives and improving the
health of whole communities, also a primary school where I
was able to help out.
I have so many stories to tell of how far your donations have
gone to making this world a better place for the families I met
in Laos. Thank you so much!
Our vision for every child, life in all its fullness.
Our prayer for every heart, the will to make it so.
Lenore Dickson
World Vision Youth Representative
Gold Coast
Gold Coast Airport Marathon
Junior Dash
2-3 July 2011
Our fabulous Class Carer from Class 6 – Treva McCartney, is
organising a team of interested Silkwood Students/ Parents/
Teachers to take part in this year’s Gold Coast Airport Marathon.
If you are interested in taking part please pick up a flyer from the
school office and register your name.
Run to have fun
Run with family and friends
Run for good health
Treva will be organising training sessions at school.
Visit goldcoastmarathon.com.au
Page 10

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD
PARENT BUSINESS DIRECTORY
Click here to view the current directory and to
access an application form to advertise in the
directory.
CARPOOLING
A great choice for the environment!
If you would like to find someone in your area
to carpool with please contact the school office
to advertise in this space.
Currently looking to carpool:
TALLAI/MUDGEERABA/WORONGARY/GILSTON
Kerrie Scott (Jordan – Class 3W)
Email - klsaks@optusnet.com.au
PACIFIC PINES AREA
McInally’s (Bryce Class 4)
Deanne - 0402 987 972
Scott - 0409 069 197
PALM BEACH
Anderson’s (Zai Class 1T)
Kelly - 0407 582 611
Build your dream home!
You are warmly invited to attend the
Sacred Essence
Open Night
Our monthly women's circle will be FREE for this night.
Please bring a friend to experience an evening of
inspiration, creation and relaxation
in the Moonlight Prep Room
Monday April 11th, 7-9pm
Bookings essential: please contact
melissa@myshatherapy.com
jennifer@ceremonieswithspirit.com
More info at our website:
www.sacredessencecircle.blogspot.com
4.41 hectares, Mount Nathan
21 Pemberton Close
5 minutes from Silkwood
Deceased Estate
Uninterrupted views of the Gold Coast
Auction on-site, Saturday 16 April
For more info Anthony Elek 0414 477 189
(Moonlight Prep Parent)
http://www.realestate.com.au/propertyresidential+land-qld-mount+nathan-2840333
Page 11

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD
SCHOOL HOLIDAY
PROGRAM AT
HARMONY HOOVES
This is Candy – who is one of the newest rescues with Healing
Hooves Inc. Silkwood kids met her at the after-school program
off the float via Louise Tozand’s Tamborine Mountain Horse
Rescue. Her previous owners were sending her to the
slaughter house as they could not afford the eye operation for
Candy.
Candy has fitted in nicely with the other rescues and after
having her feet, teeth and vet assessment needs an operation
on her eye, which has a possible tumour. The kids have
become very fond of Candy and asked to help in fundraising
with an Open Day selling chicks and ducklings, pony rides, face
painting and raffles.
Jodie rescues horses and other animals which work in with her programs to help
children and youth learn to care for animals and each other. “Horses saved me
when I was a kid, so all I can do is give back.” All the monies go back into renting a
facility and feeding the horses. “It’s a lot of work, but so rewarding when you see
the end result.”
Jodie also has a tepee which sleeps 10 people. If you wish to stay in the tepee,
make a donation and it will go toward the rescue horses. Unicorn and cowboy
birthdays are also available. A great idea for the Easter holidays!
Horsing Around After School Program – Term 2
265 Beaudesert-Nerang Road (Pink Tyre)
Starting Tuesday 3 May
Monday, Wednesday & Friday – 3.30pm - 5.30pm
Includes fruit snack, grooming, horse skills, tacking and riding.
Casual bookings $25 per child/day
or 20% discount if paid in advance for term ($180 - 9 weeks)
School Bus service from school - $2.00 per day
(payable to school office)
Booking forms available at the school office
For more information contact Jodie Alderton
Phone 5527 4782 / 0418 147 399
Jodie Alderton will be co-ordinating a school
holiday program at Harmony Hooves healing
centre. She is an experienced facilitator and
works closely with children in child care,
sports, camps & special needs children. Jodie
has a Cert 3/ Diploma in Community Services
and Youth Work children's services and is
Eagala Horse Accredited Coach. She has
worked with Bridie in OHSC with Silkwood
School, Blue Card, Disability card and Senior
First Aid Certificated.
Tuesday 19 April
Animal Interaction and Horse Work
• Meet farm animals
• Safety around horses
• Groom and understand horse
language
• Round yard connections
• Saddling a horse.
• Pony ride
• Make Easter chocolates
• Easter egg craft
Afternoon Tea: Fruit Muffins
Cost $40 9.00am -5.00pm
Thursday 21 April
Horse Camp Trail Rides
Learn Horse husbandry
Grooming
Saddle and tack Games
Horse skills
Easter Crafts
Afternoon Trail Riding
• Feeding horses
Afternoon Tea: Fruit Platter
Cost $40 9.00am -5.00pm
Riding Lessons available
$40 per hour - 1 on 1
Harmony Hooves
265 Beaudesert/ Nerang Road
Phone 5527 4782 / 0418 147 399
If you wish to advertise in this newsletter, the cost for each advertisement is $5.00 and is payable at the front office at school.
Submissions deadline
The deadline for submissions for the next Silkwood Newsletter is Wednesday 4 May 2011.
Please email reception@silkwood.qld.edu.au
DISCLAIMER
The advertising sections of this newsletter have been submitted by individuals. Silkwood School does not take any responsibility for
the content. The opinions expressed in the advertisements and notices do not necessarily represent the views of the school.
Page 12