Cross Country

We are planning to hold our Cross Country event next Friday 13 May beginning at 12:45pm. Parents are welcome to attend. Let’s hope the weather enables us to continue. Thank you to all our parents and children for their patience and understanding as we reconvened this fun event. Let’s get running!

Connect Groups

We kicked off our Connect Groups today. We will be meeting in gender based groups fortnightly on a Friday during pastoral care time. During our first sessions we will be focusing on ‘empathy’. Being able to show empathy by listening to our friends, understand their feelings and then acting will enrich our friendships. We follow Christ’s example. As it says in Philippians 2:3,4 "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."

NAPLAN

As you would be aware, Years 3,5,7 and 9 have NAPLAN assessments beginning next week. These are national assessments that we are required to do in Reading, Writing, Language Conventions and Mathematics. During the past few weeks, Years 3 and 5 students have been practicing this assessment format to become familiar with the layout and type of questions that are asked. We need to remember that NAPLAN is only one type of assessment that may be used to assess how your child is progressing in these areas. We use other formative and summative assessments to determine your child’s progress and give you feedback via SEQTA Engage and Semester Reports. We do analyse the school NAPLAN results and strive to improve our teaching and learning in areas of strength or where improvement is required. We encourage all our students to do their best.

Uniform

As we commence Winter uniform this term, can I draw parents attention to the uniform required, especially regarding hair for girls and boys and no jewellery should be worn apart from girls earrings. If you are unsure of requirements, please see the student diary or the school website.

Mr Paul Carter
Head of Junior School

School Camps

Last week all of secondary students went offsite for our annual camps. Our students took part in so many amazing activities including camping on Cockatoo Island, hiking up Mt. Kosciusko, learning to surf, abseiling down a cliff, canoeing on the water, hiking to a camp out, riding mountain bikes, sailing in the Sydney Harbour and so much more. There was also the opportunity across each camp to spend time exploring God’s Word and being challenged to consider what it means to be a follower of Christ. As staff here at Shire Christian School, this is the most treasured part of camp and we take part in these conversations with your children. Thanks to everyone involved in the camps, particularly our amazing school staff team.

Anzac Day Assembly

On Monday this week we held an Anzac Day assembly to remember and pay tribute to all our country men and women who have served our country in wartime and lost their lives. Thanks to Noah Wiseman who played the last post for us as well as Chloe Gould-Rahman and Hamilton Magrath who shared so beautifully about the power and significance of sacrifice.

Welfare Hub

Our school counsellors Nathan Green and Rebecca Mitchell have put together a super helpful resource for both parents and students to access. It’s our ‘welfare hub’ and can be found here. Further information about it has been written below by Nathan and Rebecca so keep an eye out for that.

Tasmania and Brewarrina Trip 

As you would be aware, we have two trips available to students in Years 10 and 11 towards the end of the year to Tasmania and Brewarrina. These trips are an excellent opportunity to travel to parts of Australia and be immersed in different environments. If you would like to receive more information about either of these trips, then please fill in the following form so we can send you the information.

As I finish this week, I want to leave you with the words of Paul from Romans 1:16-17. This is a passage I’ve been reflecting on this week and I’ve been reminded afresh of the righteousness provided through the good news of the gospel. What a glorious gift that is and something to never be ashamed of!

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. 17 For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”

Mr Peter Richardson
Head of Secondary School

With the aim to support and equip the community here at Shire Christian School, we have created the Welfare Hub. The Welfare Hub is filled with an array of resources that include websites, videos, fact-sheets, book recommendations, articles, and crisis numbers that cover a wide variety of mental health topics. Currently the Welfare Hub addresses anxiety, depression, grief and loss, suicide and self-harm, eating disorders, pornography, sexuality and identity, screen usage as well as information regarding how to access a Mental Health Medicare plan. We have carefully selected a number of resources for both parents and students.

The Welfare Hub has both resources from non-religious organisations such as Beyond Blue, Headspace and The Butterfly Foundation as well as a number of Bible-based resources from trusted organisations such as the Christian Counselling & Educational Foundation, Mental Health & Pastoral Care Institute, The Centre For Faith, Sexuality & Gender.

We hope you find the Welfare Hub a helpful and informative resource as you navigate various challenges that may arise for you or your children.

Having a supportive community is an important part of addressing mental health concerns, therefore, please reach out to the community here at Shire Christian School as we work together to support your child.

Nathan and Rebecca
School Counselling Team

We were mesmerised from start to finish watching the company manipulate technology to create the frenetic world inside Dorian as he wrestled with his own conscience, in a desperate effort to ‘be good’ but unable to resist the pursuit of youth and pleasure at the cost of his own moral fibre. While it was a clear reminder of the ever present need for us to draw near to God as we wrestle with our own sin, it was the form that the theatre took which really engaged us. Multiple LED screens shifted and slid through the air above the stage with live filmed moments displayed on them, some of which were filmed on mobile phones. Entire environments emerged, seemingly out of nowhere, and the cast consisted of only one woman, Nikki Shiels, who played all 26 characters capably assisted by multiple stage crew and cinematographers. It was truly a significant moment in theatre to have been present for this sold out show. As we headed back to the train station afterwards we eagerly discussed the many theatrical and moral elements that came up and we look forward to reflecting on the experience further when we come back to school.

Mrs Kathryn Breen
Assistant Head of Secondary School

We have a variety of careers this year and appreciate the willingness and availability of ex-students.  Unfortunately some careers are difficult to showcase as ex-students are unavailable and already at work by 7.30am in the morning!!  No matter what the career, however, many students have helpful insights to pass onto current students.

Monday we showcase Medical Science, Information Technology/Cyber Security, Pharmacy and Food and Agribusiness where an ex-student is now working for Hello Fresh.

Tuesday will be Law, Public Relations, Social Work and Sport Management.

Wednesday will be Interior Architecture, Floristry and Finance.

Students can come for breakfast and the presentation or just the presentation, an email has been sent to all students in Years 9 to 12 with instructions on how to register.

Mrs Robyn Buchanan
Careers Advisor

Our teams had a very successful day and we were so impressed by their commitment in preparing for the competition, and the excellent team work, focus and perseverance shown on the day in the face of many very challenging papers and tasks. 

Our results: 

• Year 5 – 2nd Art & Poetry, 3rd Ideation, 3rd Legacy with an outstanding result of 3rd overall !
• Year 6 – 1st Code Breaking, 2nd Science, 2nd Mathematics, 2nd Ideation, with an overall result of 2nd overall!

“One of the best birthdays ever! I had such a fun day competing in Mathematics, Ideation and Code Breaking. It was fun to work with new people and learn about new topics in the subjects I enjoy!” (Elissa Knight 6O)

“I loved the challenge of learning how to do new things and expanding and enriching my mind.” ( Hamish Wadds 6B)

Mrs Leonie Hampson

A special congratulations goes to Cooper Starr, who was selected in the U15 Boys CSSA team which completed at the CIS Touch Football Championships last week. Well done on this great achievement!

Mrs Kelly Henderson
Head of Sport

Well done to Kate Edwards who finished 2nd in the 17 years girls 200m Freestyle and 3rd in the 17yrs girls 100m Freestyle. We wish her the best of luck at the All Schools Championships in June.

Mrs Kelly Henderson
Head of Sport

It was a fun afternoon together as a Secondary School. Keep an eye out for the results in the coming days.

Mr Peter Richardson
Head of Secondary School

I am even encouraged by Paul’s reminding me that it is worthwhile for me to: “continue to work out [my] salvation with fear and trembling, BECAUSE it is GOD who works in [me] to WILL and to ACT according to his good purpose.” (Philippians 2:12b-13), and by his challenging me with words like: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, WILL guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7). As someone who is very prone to being ‘anxious’ about things, this is something I need reminding about often! 

But perhaps his most challenging word to me is his confident assertion: “I can do EVERYTHING through HIM WHO GIVES ME STRENGTH.” (Philippians 4:13).  At the Bible Study group I participated in last Wednesday night we were looking at the familiar story of ‘David and Goliath’ in 1 Samuel 17. I know it is very important in looking at this story that we don’t fail to recognise it primarily as a foreshadowing of the victory of Israel’s TRUE King, the Lord Jesus Christ, over every hostile force opposed to God and defying his rightful rule and power. (cf Colossians 1:13-17 - “For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”).

But David’s example ALSO seems to me to be a foreshadowing of the very principle Paul is pointing out to us in Philippians 4:13. David’s word to the enemy giant in the face of his overpowering size and his over-confident, mocking words was the simple, undeniable truth: “I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day THE LORD will hand you over to me, …” (1 Samuel 17:45b-46a). In other words, David was saying exactly what Paul would echo a thousand years later: “I can do EVERYTHING through HIM WHO GIVES ME STRENGTH.” And to me, that’s a good example I should strive to follow.

Let’s all resolve not to let the militant opposition we face today -opposition that is ‘mocking’ God’s rightful, sovereign rule in his world, and is denying the wisdom and TRUTH of HIS WRITTEN WORD - daunt us, or in any way discourage us. Let us resolve to STAND FIRM on God’s Word and trust him to carry through on the victory he has ALREADY won over Satan with all his lies and deception. “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labour in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:57-58).

Rev Bruce Christian

If a student is absent for a test, we will endeavour to provide an opportunity for the missed test to be completed during the prescribed test window.

Excessive preparation for NAPLAN is not recommended. We encourage you to look at the Public Demonstration Site with your child. This site provides an opportunity for students and parents to familiarise themselves with the test experience and functionality.

Years 3 and 5 students in literacy support will be completing all NAPLAN tests in their support class with their support teacher.

As the testing platform does not allow for Bluetooth connectivity, please ensure that your child has their own WIRED headphones for NAPLAN.

Mrs Natalie Bluhdorn
Acting Academic Head

Secondary students will go to the ICT Office and junior students will have it delivered to their class. Students cannot pick up a USB until a caregiver has filled out the survey.

We would like to thank families for their patience with this process and hope you enjoy revisiting Joseph!

CONTACT

Email: shire@ranier.com.au
Uniform Shop Phone: Leave a message at 8525 5152
Responses will be provided during opening hours

For more immediate assistance, Ranier head office details: 
Online: ranier.com.au/contact
Email: custservice@ranier.com.au

Details about ordering and payments were sent by email to parents earlier this week.

Edstart helps make it easy for you to manage school fees by providing flexible payment plans. You can reduce your annual school fee spend by extending payments over a longer period.

With Edstart, you can fund tuition fees, additional charges such as uniforms, extra-curricular activities as well as amounts in arrears.

To find out more, visit edstart.com.au/shirechristian.

Please note that in providing information about Edstart, the school is not providing any recommendation, brokering or advice services. The school does not receive referral fees, commissions or any other remuneration from Edstart.

There will be two livestreamed events:

• Thursday, 12 May (6pm-7pm) 

Register here

UNSW 2022 Medicine Information Evening Experts and current UNSW students discuss how the Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine will provide students with the theoretical understanding and practical experiences they need to launch their career as a medical professional.

Watch the recording

USYD Year 10 Information Evening

Come and learn about what the University of Sydney has to offer.  Select from either in-person session on Wednesday 4 May from 5.30pm-7.30pm, or virtually on Thursday 5 May from 5pm-7pm to hear about topics such as;  What is the ATAR?  How does scaling work?  What should you consider when selecting your subjects for Years 11 and 12?  What are prerequisites and assumed knowledge?  This event is open to students and parents.

On Campus Event Registration https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/year-10-information-evenings-2022-on-campus-registration-310281880457

Virtual Event Registration https://uni-sydney.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_dKR3h2AXRcatPw2VHvNxlg

UAC

UAC - Youtube How to Apply for 2023 for Current Year 12s

Our quick video guide for Year 12 students applying for undergraduate courses through UAC. 

to get started.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fxXSmZcXTJI&t=3s

https://www.uac.edu.au/future-applicants/year-11-and-12-students

University – General

Medicine UCAT Applicants: dates for your diary

All application and offer dates for semester 1, 2023 have been provided by the universities and are set out on our medicine key dates page. Check with each university to confirm deadlines and requirements and to ask any questions you have about the selection process.

Entry into undergraduate medicine degrees is highly competitive. Take the following steps to make sure your application is considered.

Register for the Undergraduate Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT). Important dates are coming up:

Booking deadline – 17 May 2022

Final booking deadline – 31 May 2022

Testing begins – 1 July 2022

Complete your UAC application by midnight 30 September 2022 – the application processing fee increases after this date.

Apply directly to each university’s medicine faculty. Address any extra requirements specified by each uni.

If you’re invited, attend an interview/assessment. Most unis will use UCAT results to select applicants for interview.

https://www.ucat.edu.au/about-ucat/ucat-anz-test-cycle/

https://www.uac.edu.au/media-centre/news/medicine-applicants-diary-dates

UCAT ANZ Test Format

The UCAT is a two-hour computer-based test which assesses a range of abilities identified by universities as important to practicing in the fields of medicine / dentistry / clinical sciences. The test consists of five separately timed subtests which each contain a number of questions in a multiple-choice format. 

Once the test has started it cannot be paused but each subtest is preceded by a 1 minute instruction section.

Candidates can apply for Access Arrangements to sit an extended version of the test if they have a documented medical condition or disability. 

Information on scoring and marking can be found here.

https://www.ucat.edu.au/about-ucat/test-format/

Dr Edward Boyapati Free UCAT Bootcamp For Parents, Aspiring Medical Students and Careers Advisers 

Dr Ray, Gastroenterologist at Monash Health offers UCAT mini test, discusses medical interviews, admission process, life as a medical student, and career as a doctor. Watch this two hour Bootcamp from the comfort, convenience & security of your home at any time!

https://www.medentry.edu.au/resources/free-resources

Dr Edward Boyapati MedEntry UCAT Workshop by Dr Ray

Gastroenterologist at Monash Health. 4-Day Workshop which covers all 5 UCAT subtests, interviews, entry process etc. Formal Instruction & Group Learning. The program has been carefully crafted to cover the strategies for UCAT success, in a fun, engaging and interactive environment. Careers Teachers are welcome to attend at no cost.

www.MedEntry.edu.au

University - Institutes

ANU - What is Law?

17 May 2022. 5pm

Law affects every aspect of our lives, but have you ever wondered about its origins and its evolution throughout history? Take a journey into jurisprudence with Associate Professor Joshua Neoh as he traces the philosophical roots of law and offers a deeper look at legal theory. This webinar will also introduce you to the degree programs at the ANU College of Law and preview student life at Australia's national law school.

https://www.anu.edu.au/study/events/what-is-law-a-masterclass-by-associate-professor-joshua-neoh

TAFE

Vocational education and training (VET)

VET gives people workplace skills and technical knowledge. It emphasises hands-on experience, and teaches many skills in demand in NSW.

https://www.nsw.gov.au/education-and-training/vocational

Is a traineeship or apprenticeship right for me?

An apprenticeship or traineeship is one of the best ways to get hands-on training and a nationally recognised qualification while being paid. They’re more than a foot in the door to gain experience - they’re a great way to start your career as they give you the skills employers need. You can even begin your apprenticeship or traineeship while you’re at school. And many of them are fee-free!

Apprenticeships

As an apprentice, you’ll spend three to four years learning a traditional trade such as building and construction, automotive, cooking, engineering, hairdressing or manufacturing. You’ll graduate as a qualified tradesperson.

Traineeships

As a trainee, you’ll spend one to three years, depending on your industry and qualification, learning a vocation in areas such as agriculture, information technology, hospitality, business, digital media or financial services.

To help you find the right location, course and provider, use these filters to refine these results

Compare the providers available to find the perfect match to how you like to study

https://skills.education.nsw.gov.au/apprenticeship-traineeship

TAFE NSW Degrees 

We offer a number of degree level courses and higher education options. 

• 3D Art & Animation

• Fashion Design

• Interior Design

• Information Technology 

• Business and Commerce

• Early Childhood Studies

• Property

• Community Services

With strong industry links to over 25,000 employers, your students will get both the practical skills and theoretical knowledge to land a job faster and succeed in their chosen career. For more info visit:

https://www.tafensw.edu.au/degrees/our-degrees

NECA Careers Paths

See where a career in electrotechnology can take you. This electro career map shows you the fantastic opportunities that lie ahead. The sky is the limit!

https://www.necatraining.com.au/electrical-apprentices/career-paths/#infographic

Apprenticeships R Us

Wanting to get into the NSW automotive industry but not sure where to start? Try a FREE pre apprenticeship program then choose to enrol in one of the available apprenticeships including;

• Light Vehicle Mechanic • Heavy Vehicle Mechanic • Panel Beater • Spray Painter • Parts Interpreter

Contact Apprenticeships R Us (02) 9891 6900 email at: career@apprus.com.au

https://www.apprus.com.au/  

Enquire and express your interest in an apprenticeship here: 

https://www.apprus.com.au/files/Apprenticeships%20Are%20Us%20-%20Expression%20of%20Interest%20Form%202019.pdf

https://www.apprus.com.au/  

Private Colleges

Becoming a Commercial Pilot – Basair Information Sessions Sydney

16 May, 2022 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

13 Jun, 2022 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

18 Jul, 2022 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

15 Aug, 2022 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

12 Sep, 2022 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

17 Oct, 2022 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

14 Nov, 2022 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

http://www.basair.com.au/Events

Brent Street Winter Camp

4th – 8th July 2022

Escape the cold and turn up the heat with a taster of Brent Street; 5 massive days of classes with 25 of our best teachers and choreographers! You’ll leave the workshop feeling inspired and pumped, ready to kick your dance goals in Term 3.

We welcome students from all studios across Sydney and Australia to enjoy our Winter Camp. It’s so much more than just dance classes; it’s an experience of making friends, a physical challenge and inspiring teachers!

Throughout the intensive, teachers will be on the look out for hardworking and fierce dancers to win a scholarship to the 2022 Spring Camp, so be ready to break a sweat! Brent Street is a wonderful place and we are excited to share a little bit of the magic with you at the workshop! See you there!

https://brentstreet.com.au/workshops/winter-camp-2022/

Reminder – Sydney Design School – Interior Design Open Day

On Campus Saturday 21 May 2022. 10am – 12pm

Join us for our biggest day of the year! Our Director Amanda Grace will take you through our flexible course options. Meet our passionate Educators and Careers Coach while exploring our inspiring student work.

If this event is moved online we will update you with a link to join us via Zoom. You can expect to receive this closer to the event date. Make sure you register below.

https://sydneydesignschool.com.au/information-sessions/

General

NSW Fire & Rescue Fire Station Open Day

Saturday, 14 May 2022. 10am - 2pm

Online Open Day - Thursday 12 and Friday 13 May 2022

Come behind the scenes of Australia’s busiest fire and rescue service at our Open Day on Saturday, 14 May 2022.

From fires, chemical spills, car crashes, natural disasters and humanitarian relief across the state, the country and even overseas - our firefighters are prepared for anything!

Open Day is your chance to meet a firefighter, see our trucks in action, check out our equipment and find out more about what we do. We’ll be on scene to answer your questions, show you around and help you prepare your home for a safe winter. We can’t wait to see you and show you what we have been up to.

https://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/page.php?id=619