LMHS Smooth Sailing Newsletter - Term 3 2022

When I look back at the term, I think how lucky our students are to have been involved in these extracurricular activities. Thank you to our amazing staff for their dedication, passion, and continued support to provide students with these incredible opportunities.

Congratulations to Year 7 & 9 students who performed well this year in NAPLAN. Our improved structures and school systems are allowing the teachers to teach at the point of need and provide students with a safe and supported learning environment.

Farewell Year 12 students of 2022. Best wishes for those of you who are sitting HSC exams. Thank you to our outgoing student leadership team. You have been a positive role model for the students and have a high standard for the next leadership group. Go with your heads held high and be kind, curious, and courageous.

Our students should have a life and education of choice, not chance, and whilst academic results are incredibly important, as to are the social, emotional and wellbeing outcomes.

I am proud to be part of something nobody can possibly understand until they set foot in a classroom and teach. I am proud to be on this journey with my fellow teachers because together we have the priceless opportunity to impact, influence and inspire the future of our world. I am proud to be a part of the profession that creates all other profession.

NSW Department of Education Student Behaviour Strategy

The Department of Education have released a new Student Behaviour Strategy (effective day 1, Term 4 2022). The philosophy behind it is to build an inclusive education system where every student is known, valued, and cared for, and all students can learn to their fullest ability. Students who feel supported and safe are more likely to be more connected to school and active participants in their learning. Positive and respectful learning environments promote wellbeing, engagement, and improved academic achievement. The Strategy supports a preventative, positive, student-centred, school-family-community approach in which consistency is key.

The student behaviour code published on the DoE website

What does this mean for students, parents/caregivers, and staff?

• Increased partnership between school, home, and the community
• A focus on positive student behaviour
• No more short or long suspensions. Maximum length of a suspension is 10 days
• Lake Munmorah High School, in consultation with our community will be developing a Student Behaviour and Support Management Plan (SBSMP) which will be an update of our current student behaviour and wellbeing processes.

More information will be communicated home once all school and department documents and processes have been finalised.

Mrs Sam Thomas

Rel. Principal

HSIE - Faculty Report

It has been a MASSIVE Term 3 in HSIE! Year 7 worked on their geographical skills and the topic of Landscapes and Landforms and our Year 9’s wrapped up the topic of Changing Places, with both years continuing with Geography in Term 4. Year 8 have been studying the historical period of Medieval Europe, while Year 10 studied the Changing Rights and Freedoms here in Australia and The United States of America, with both years continuing with History in Term 4. Our students should be so extremely proud of their efforts and dedication to this term, which was reflective in the high-quality assessment tasks received.

Term 3 saw our Year 11’s undertake their Yearly Examinations and finish their preliminary courses. A big thank you to Mr Anderson, Mr Brian, Ms Gray, Miss Britton and Miss Hoffman for getting our students through the first year of their Stage 6 studies, your support and knowledge was so valuable to our students. In the mist of all of this, our Year 11 Mock Trial Team (Legal Studies) continued their hard work, winning against Hunter School of Performing Arts (by three points). Charlotte T; Ashton W; Finn H; Duke A; Shae S-H; Riley H put up a stellar case and got their plaintiff off a reckless driving charge, who admitted to driving 30kms over the speed limit – (we know who to call next time we are in need of a lawyer). Once again, a big thank you to Mr Brian for preparing our future lawyers and his organisation of these significant experiences for our students. A little advice to our Year 11’s before they enter Year 12 in Term 4, the thought of embarking on your final year of school can trigger a range of emotions - excitement, nervousness, stress, nostalgia, anxiety, sadness or just impatience to get out into the world, so remember to stay calm, stay organised and to embrace every minute.

Term 3 is always emotional as we farewell our Year 12’s, who embark on their next journey in life. We have been lucky enough to take six Year 12 classes through their HSC of Ancient History, Business Studies, Business Services, Legal Studies, Work Studies and Modern History and we feel so special to have spent the past two years with you all. Thank you for all the great memories inclusive of late-night emails about assessment tasks, early morning classes and watching you grow into incredible adults. We have no doubt that you will thrive in your HSC – so good luck and remember the best is still yet to come!

Mrs Selby – HT HSIE (Relieving)

TAS - Faculty Report

Technology Mandatory

Year 7 Textiles, Food, Textiles, Wood, Metal have been progressing through the design process to create some excellent projects in the mixed materials context area.

Year 8 have been developing their hand sewing techniques and learning new projects that can be made from fibre and yarns. Some have created wall hangings, keyring "thingies", pompom creatures and learning to knit and crochet.

Food and Agriculture

Year 8 have been able to dabble in the garden and cook some tasty recipes in the kitchen - favourite for the term according to 8H was the pizza scrolls.

Stage 5 Industrial Technology – Timber, Metal

Students used their newly developed woodworking skills to design and produce a coffee table. The manufacturing process required students to use new machines in production and utilise their woodworking skills they have acquired over the past 18 months to produce excellent quality projects.

Food Technology

Year 9 Food Tech worked on a Celebrations Unit and created Children Birthday Cakes and a High Tea.

Year 10 worked on Food product Development, creating a new food item and packaging.

Child Studies

Year 10 students have studied food and nutrition this term and have made food suitable for children 0 - 8 some of these have been pikelets and cupcakes. They have also been cooking a preparing for a "baby shower" for next term.

Stage 6 Food Technology, Hospitality

Hospitality Students completed their final service periods in Coffee Shop, completing their competencies in food service. The students catered for presenters for Love Bites, had the Director General pop in for an unexpected visit and were professional and demonstrated their ability to work as part of a team under pressure. Congratulation Hospitality Food and Beverage team for a great year.

Cultural Celebrations

Aboriginal students catered for Naidoc celebration at the Yarn Up Day.

Stage 6 Industrial Tech Timber

Students in yr 12 IT Timber completed their Major Projects and folios for HSC marking in August. The students worked diligently over the last few weeks to get their projects completed to a high standard. After a covid disrupted 2 years, students are to be commended on their achievements in getting their projects completed.

From the TAS Faculty

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Science - Faculty Report

Calling all interested 2022 Year 9 students!!!

The Australian Brain Bee Challenge (ABBC) is an annual competition for high school students in Year 10 ONLY.

It is an online quiz-based competition with content related to the brain and its functions, the nervous system, neuroscience, psychology and mental health.

The 1st round of State competitions is on throughout Term 1, 2023.

If you enjoy science, and have able read & recall skills......then this prestigious competition is for YOU!!

Interested in this FREE opportunity.....come to the Science staffroom and have a chat with Mr Patrick , so we can prepare TOGETHER throughout Term 4 and participate Term 1, 2023!!

English - Faculty Report

This term our English Department has been involved in many events across the school, engaging with our broader school community, and encouraging a love of reading. During Week 7, we hosted ‘LMHS Book Week’ which encouraged students to participate in literacy related activities, guessing competitions, dress-up competition, and D.E.A.R reading. In addition to this, English also hosted the ‘Year 6 to 7 Transition Day English Games’ event where our partner primary schools went head-to-head with our current Year 7’s in a game of Spelling Jeopardy.

Year 7 English

This term year 7 students worked on their reading and communication skills through a study of drama texts. Classes read the play, Honey Spot, by Jack Davis. The play explores the friendship between an Aboriginal boy and a white girl and raises issues of race in a touching story of two families who seem to have nothing in common until danger strikes and forces them to face their prejudices. For their assessment task, students worked well in small groups to produce posters that conveyed the themes of the play or designed costumes for the characters. Groups created some visually appealing posters and costumes that effectively conveyed the play's themes. Students are encouraged to enjoy their holiday break and relax with a good book! We look forward to seeing you all back for term 4.

Year 8

This term, Year 8 Students have been introduced to the world of Shakespeare. They have immersed themselves in the plays and literary works of the great bard and developed a broad understanding of the historical and social conditions of the Elizabethan era. Through their studies, students learnt about Shakespeare's influence on the modern world, and worked in teams to create a research portfolio of artistic and imaginative pieces.

Year 9

Over the course of Term 3, Year 9 students at LMHS have been undertaking a study on Short Films. In class, the history, key techniques, themes and creative processes of these films have been focused on, in order to assist with the overall goal of creating a short film as a group.

Each group chose to focus on one key social issue and express their ideas in a step-by-step process. Each final product consists of a synopsis, script, promotional poster, storyboard and film. It was great to see so many eager students putting their ideas together in a creative fashion. There certainly is a director in us all!

YEAR 10

This term, Year 10 completed the study of a Shakespearean drama, including: ‘King Lear’, Macbeth’ and ‘Romeo & Juliet’. In class, students explored the traditional play, as well as, various adaptations and appropriations, highlighting Shakespeare’s relevance and influence within a modern context. The assessment task required students to work individually or in small groups to create a visual representation, diorama, storyboard, or compose their own scene. It was amazing to see so many students use their imagination, resourcefulness, and ingenuity to showcase their understanding and appreciation of Shakespeare’s work!

Year 11 English Standard

Students have been participating in a close study of text. They have been looking closely at the author’s purpose in the novel Jasper Jones and breaking it apart by looking closely at the techniques used and the effect they have on the reader. In the Year 11 Exams, students completed an essay on an unseen question, utilising quotes to exhibit how much they learnt this term.

Year 11 Advanced English

This term students have been busy working on their essay writing technique and delving into Othello and the world of Shakespeare.

Students have had a wonderful term learning about the language of Shakespeare and the universal ideas that still resonate today.

Year 12 English Standard

TRIALS. Year 12 worked so hard in completing their trials, and Mrs Wirz worked very hard in marking them!

We wish Year 12 all the best during their HSC next term and look forward to hearing about all of their success post school. We will miss you! Miss Welsh and Mrs Wirz.

Year 12 Advanced

Congratulations to the Advanced students on finishing their course and the hard work they are putting into study for the Examinations. We wish you all the best in the examinations and know your future will be bright!

HSC written exams will start on Wednesday 12 October 2022 with English Paper 1 and finish on Friday 4 November 2022

English Parent Teacher Interviews 2022

It was fantastic to see all the parents and caregivers and be able to support our students. Most of our English teachers were booked out, with some still calling during the week to talk to parents and caregivers who could not make a booking.

Years 7-10 Literacy Classes

LMHS were very lucky to receive a visit from the Director of Educational Leadership, Sharon McFarlane. She visited some of our classrooms and witnessed all the hard work our students have been doing in Literacy.

Trivia 2022

English won the Trivia night!

We had so much fun and the school raised over $1000 for the defibrillator. Hopefully, Trivia gets bigger every year.

PDHPE - Faculty Report

SNOW TRIP!!

The 2022 Snow Trip was a massive success!

For the first time in the last 3 years (thanks covid) the PDHPE Faculty was able to take a group of 48 students to Thedbo! The trip started off a little slow (with minimal sleep on the bus) however, by the 3rd day students were starting to shred down the slopes! A massive thank you to the students and their parents for showing such an interest in this trip each year! And thank you to all staff who make this trip possible!

RISE Class

7 AND 8 RISE 2022

Throughout this term we have spent each day working through a variety of topics as part of the English, Mathematics and HSIE subject areas with a significant focus on literacy and numeracy.

Year 7 bravely took on roles whilst reading various dramatic scenes and demonstrated their creative sides when discussing plot and various character traits.

They were extremely excited to finally make use of their calculators in order to evaluate area formulas and solve problems.

The students excelled in their study of geographical skills analysing climatic data and constructing climatic graphs.

Year 8 were total professionals when reading our dramatic texts. Each student whole heartedly threw themselves into their character choice taking on the persona of some very entertaining individuals.

They were also very excited (and relieved) to be finally using their calculators and excelled when working with formulas to calculate area and volume. To end the term, we had some fun measuring the angles in our initials.

The students were fascinated with the harsh and horrific individuals and events of Medieval Europe. I think I can safely say the most interesting aspect of this topic was crime and punishment and the black death.

This term we farewelled our SLSO, Miss Sarah Jeffcoat. She has been with us from the start, almost 2 years ago now. Sarah has provided nonstop support, guidance, and assistance to both the students and myself. On a lighter note, she has been the subject of many jokes and much laughter.

I believe in connections and relationships. Sarah believes in knowing students and how they learn. Together we believe in routines and high expectations. This is how we have all achieved such a high level of success in RISE.

We all wish Sarah well in her career as a High School Teacher and hope to see her at LMHS again. The RISE students ‘really hope she spends the holidays working on her drawing and tech skills.’

I always say this but each and every student should be enormously proud of their accomplishments. I know we are all looking forward to a fun yet relaxing holiday and look forward to getting together again in Term 4.

Kylie Bridge (CRT 7 and 8 RISE)

Sport Report

This term has been busy with students representing our school at the highest level.

We had two students earn NSW CHS State medals.

Congratulations to Tyler M who received 3 bonze medals at the NSW CHS Athletics Championships in Shot Put, Long Jump and 100m.

Congratulations to Jessica D who received a silver medal at the NSW CHS Gymnastics Championships, placing 2nd on the Beam.

Outstanding results to have two students on the podium at State Championships.

We had more students qualify for State Carnivals, with Phoebe W qualifying for NSW CHS Cross Country and Athletics. Outstanding effort to qualify for not one, but two State Carnivals in one year.

More state level representation saw Brooklyn L, Kiara K and Missy M compete at the NSW CHS U16 Rugby League Selection Trials after being selected as part of the Northern Zone Team. What a great achievement to be invited to compete with the best in the state.

We also some outstanding results a the Hunter Athletics Championships with Georgie H and Addison B narrowly missing out state selection, with Georgie placing 4th in U14 100m and Addison placing 4th in the U13 100m and 5th in 200m.

Our Year 8 TSP Netball Girls attended the Regional Schools Cup finals after winning the Gosford Gala day undefeated. The girls were placed in a tough draw but they played very well and it was a great honour to be invited to participate at this level.

Aboriginal Education

Goanna Academy

This term some of our Stage 4 and 6 students were privileged to be able to attend the Greg Inglis Goanna Academy, a program focused on improving the mental health outcomes for young people. Through their participation, students worked closely with local schools to help reduce the stigma around mental health, and develop valuable skills and coping mechanisms for mental health related concerns.

LMHS Junior AECG

This term we held our first Junior AECG meeting. We are so proud of our pioneer student members, who turned up to our inaugural meeting proud to represent their culture and provide a student voice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students at LMHS. Congratulations to our LMHS Junior AECG Executive Committee, who were nominated and elected by their peers.

Muru Bulbi Aboriginal Literacy Gala Day

This term, LMHS had the opportunity to attend the first annual Muru Bulbi Literacy Gala Day at Morrie Been Oval. Year 7 & 8 students had a blast, working in teams to complete literacy games and challenges. Competing against students from Gorokan and Northlakes High School made for a quality contest, and it was so lovely to hear students engage in genuine laughter and spirited competition. Thank you to our Year 10 and 11 student leaders for helping out during this day, and congratulations to all the students who took part.

Terrigal Dance Group

Through collaboration with the Dhinawan Mentoring Program, Term 3 saw some of our LMHS dancers receive the opportunity to represent their culture and our school at the Deputy Principals Conference at Crowne Plaza, Terrigal. Our dancers had the privilege of opening the conference and performing cultural dances for the audience. This was an amazing opportunity for all involved, and once again we are very proud of all participants.

Miss Sam Kaye

Relieving Head Teacher Aboriginal Education & Transitional Pathways

VET

Throughout term 3, year 11 students from VET Business Services, Hospitality and Construction completed their first round of work placement. All students gained valuable work readiness skills, with terrific feedback provided by host employers. Several of our students were offered part-time employment as a result of their successful placement. Congratulations to all students involved. Second round of placements for these students will take place in term 1 2023.

The VET team would like to congratulate our year 12 VET students on the successful completion of their course(s). Whether students achieved a full qualification or a statement of attainment, they should be proud of their efforts and achievement and for those sitting the HSC exams we wish them the best of luck. Reminder that qualifications are no longer posted home, students will need to log into their Students Online portal later this year or early 2023 to upload & print their certificate.

Mrs Fitzgerald

VET Coordinator

Support Unit

Another Semester of exciting learning opportunities is underway at Lake Munmorah High Support Unit.

Every fortnight we hold a Support Unit Assembly. This is an opportunity for students to present their work and/ or topic of interest to their fellow peers, further developing their confidence and social skills. Student Awards are presented by staff to commend outstanding work and effort.

Throughout the year students continue to develop their social and community skills, both in class and in external settings, whilst participating in various excursions, Community Access and Work Experience.

Purple class have been cooking up a storm in the kitchen. They have displayed excellent responsibilities, contributing to meal preparation and cleanup. Students favourite meals included frittatas, pizzas and cornflake biscuits.

White class have enjoyed walking and learning about the Fernleigh Track, a walking and cycling path created along the route of a former rail

The Red class have been getting outdoors for some fishing, and would like to Congratulate Mr Maiden and his wife on the arrival of their daughter.

We had students attend a Holistic Equine Horse program at Somerby, helping to develop their social and emotional strategies. It gave them tools to support emotional regulation, allowing them to build a connection with the animals and relate this to their own lives and experiences.

Congratulations to the 2022 NSW State Boccia Finals team! An amazing effort by all.

Making Waves Sailing Day, was an opportunity for students to see what they could achieve.

Students in the senior class’s have been doing work experience at Fairhaven Co Pack and orange picking at a farm in Dooralong where they have been developing their work ready skills.

The boys were very compeditive at the Inclusive Sport Ten Pin Bowling competition that was held over three sites, Warners Bay, Rutherfod and Taree. We came third overall in the competition and will be going to the state finals in Term 4.

CONGRATULATIONS YEAR 12!

This year 12 cohort is the largest to graduate since the Support Unit started in 2013. We would like to farewell our year 12 2022 students wishing you all the very best for the future, may you all be successful and happy in life. ‘Set your goals high and always dream big, because you’re only as big as the dreams you dare to live’. It has been a pleasure watching you all grow into fine young adults.

On behalf of the staff and students, we would like to congratulate Mrs Georgina Ward on her new Assistant Principal Support position at Warners Bay Public School. We will wish her all the best and know she will be an asset at her new school.

Wellbeing

In addition to the Wellbeing Programs outlined below, the Wellbeing Team has had a very active Term Three!

Our 'Wellbeing Hub' has continued running 'Breakfast Club' and the ‘Wii Sports Challenge’ each morning from 7:30am to 8:00 am. We are also open between periods 1-5 for student support as well as during both breaks for students to socialise and access wellbeing support and food.

I would like to thank Mrs. Georgina Ward for her contribution to the incoming Yr. 7 Year Advisor role and congratulate her on her appointment as Assistant Principal at Warners Bay Public School.

I would also like to congratulate and welcome to the Wellbeing Team, Mrs. Sara-Jane Bissett, who will be taking over the 2023 Yr. 7 Year Advisor role.

LIFECHANGER

A huge thankyou to LIFECHANGER facilitators, Kieran and Sophia, with the assistance of Sponsor MOA Coffee and Youth Advisory Chairperson Liv, for the delivery of their amazing LifeChanger program with our Year 8 cohort. LifeChanger have now worked with Year 7, 8 and 10.

Year 11 will participate in the program during Term 4. Feedback from Students has been super positive, with many students reflecting on goal-setting and ways to improve their self values.

Creating Chances

Creating Chances have attended Lake Munmorah High each Friday to work with twenty-five Year 9 leaders, assisting in preparing them to become Year 10 Mentors.

Creating Chances is a social enterprise that aims to inspire, develop, and empower young people to believe in themselves, and create positive change. The Youth Development Pathway uses sport to explore personal development, community building, social change, and post-school pathways.

R U OKAY DAY

We thank Coast Shelter, Headspace and Links Youth Service for their interagency approach to R U OK DAY, coming along to assist in asking the question “Are You OK?”

For R U OK Day, we checked in with our Yr. 9s during their creative session at Junior Love Bites.

We caught up with our senior students for a Headspace ‘Check In’. Thank you to Silus for sharing your knowledge and stories.

Links Youth Support also attended with R U OK packs for our seniors and staff.

Love Bites

The awesome team at Coast Shelter Love Bites attended Lake Munmorah High School to deliver a ten-week program to Yr. 8 and 9 students on Healthy Relationships, followed by a wonderful one-day workshop with the Yr. 7 cohort, to work through topics on Friendships, Cyber Safety and Positive Peer interaction.

Wear It Purple Day

Many Thanks to the RYSS Support Team, GSA Group for hosting Wear It Purple Day. The students and staff looked great!

MIND YOUR MATES

How do we know the signs that someone – one of your mates – is not necessarily coping or may be developing a mental health problem, especially when our familiar face-to-face gatherings are unavailable? Most of us have heard of or undertaken training in physical first aid, but, when it comes to mental health or emotional first aid, we are not so well trained or equipped.

This 45min ‘toolbox tool’ will enable you to recognise the signs of depression, anxiety and thoughts of suicide in your mate. This presentation is delivered by Lifeline skills-for-life suicide prevention trainers.

SAN REMO NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE

Each week, Caseworkers from LINKS Youth Support Services attend LMHS to deliver programs and Case Management to students who may need access to link in with resources in the community or support outside of school.

This term, LINKS have assisted with the delivery of Junior Love Bites Program and R U OK Day activities along with Daryl’s weekly Year 7 Program. LINKS also provided some students with their White Cards, First Aid Courses and Driving Lessons.

NGYALIA

Thank you, Mitch and Glen, for taking 6 of our LMHS students to the NGYALIA Program each Thursday in Term 3.

Ngaliya – We All Together, is a new Cultural Connections program by the Indigenous Justice Program at Regional Youth Support Services.

It focuses on bringing at-risk Indigenous young people aged 16 - 18 together for weekly activities and workshops to connect and engage with their culture and community.

Ngaliya is 7-week program running at our Yarning Circle and youth facility, Wyoming Youth Skills Centre.

Ngyalia includes several practical supports:

Get Job Ready–Resumes, interview prep & mock interviews.

Domestic and Family Violence Supports.

Healthy Living.

Preparing for Passing L & P’s Drivers Tests.

Drug and Alcohol Education.

Fit For Change Program

Many thanks to S/Cst Ha Son (Happy) who has been attending LMHS each Wednesday to take a group of YR. 8 students to the Fit For Change Program.

Mrs Emma Ironside

Year Advisor Reports

Year 8 - Miss Sam Kaye

Term 3 has flown by with an abundance of whole school activities that our cohort has been proud to participate in. A couple of the more specific programs that got the Year 8 spotlight this term are listed below:

Life Changer

This term Year 8 participated in the LifeChanger Wellbeing program. Lifechanger facilitators, Kerian and Sophia, came to LMHS to run engaging workshops that provided opportunities for participants to interact and collaborate with their peers and mentors. The program curriculum centred around building emotional, social and resilience skills, centred on the key themes of health, mindfulness, goal setting, problem-solving, gratitude and self-awareness.

Fit For Change

Through successful participation in the PCYC Fit for Change program, 10 very lucky Year 8 boys had the opportunity to partake in activities and workshops tailored to address the core principles of risk, need and responsivity. Mentored by S/Cst Ha Son (who participants affectionately referred to as ‘Happy’), students were collected from school every Wednesday and taken to Morisset PCYC. This immensely popular program not only gave our learners access to valuable knowledge, they also had the opportunity to participate in activities such as boxing, rock climbing and laser tag. We are very grateful for the effort and care that Happy and his crew put into the Fit for Change program for our teens, and we know that the skills they learnt will be carried with them for life.