Another GREAT Week-5

Calendar dates

Term 1, 2014

College Swimming Carnival Monday 3 March
Year 10 Information Evening Wednesday 5 March
College Assembly Friday 21 March
Parent/Student/Teacher Interviews Tuesday 1 April

Some useful links

FHC Website

Compass Parent Portal

FHC Moodle- Student Learning Portal

Remember you can use Compass to approve absences

Dear all, welcome to week 5 Term 1.

As always it has been a big week at the College. Below are some stories from some of the more major events that happened. We began the week with 4 Senior Volleyball teams participating in the inter-school round robin and were thrilled with the number of students opting in so enthusiastically to this event.
In declaring my enthusiasm for students to take up extra curricular activities I would like to remind all VCE students that they should be doing 3 hours of home work and consolidating of their learning from each day, every night. On weekends, they should be doing at least that each day. I urge families to ensure their child in VCE is doing this. In these years it is time to scale back the part time jobs and ramp up the focus on homework. It is to late if they wait until mid year. We began our VCE program in November/ December last year for a good reason.
In Year 10 we would like to see students working towards the VCE homework targets and developing strong patterns of commitment to home study. It is simply not good enough to finish class and take no work home from that day. Consolidating learning, doing extension tasks, practice exam questions on the topics covered that day and reading material to either build on or reinforce learning are key EXPECTATIONS we have of students in years 10-12.

New Breakfast Club Launch 

This week we unveiled our new Breakfast Club sign at the official opening of the new location for Breakfast Club. Ben and the team have been renovating the old canteen outside the Deaf Facility for several months now. On Tuesday morning over 60 students came through Breakfast Club and enjoyed the new facility.

Mina's Wall Mural

Congratulations to our Year 11 student Mina who has completed a wonderful mural in the Middle Years Learning Centre entrance. She began working on it through her passion for Art last year. It is pictured below and we are very happy with the finished product. the celebration of our student's work is something we are passionate about at the College. Thanks Mina.

Year 7 Camp- Consolidating Transition

This week our Year 7 students went to camp Manyung. They have enjoyed some great weather which has enabled them to participate in all the activities at the Camp. The venue has a range of adventure activities that are very challenging and draw on students to overcome significant hurdles.

This week they went in the sea on surfboards, flew on the Giant Swing, took on the High Ropes Challenge Course, made pizzas and above all established stronger relationships with their peers and teachers. 

The camp is another component of our induction into Forest Hill College for our Year 7 students, who have made a very successful start to the year.

Peer Support at Year 7 Camp

On Thursday this week as part of our focus on ensuring our Year 7 students make a seamless transition into the College, their Year 10 Peer Support leaders made their way to camp to work with their Year 7 buddies. They participated in all activities with the students, had lunch with them and did some Peer Support games they had planned. Developing strong relationships between Peer Support leaders and Year 7 buddies is a key focus for us in this time of transition from primary School to Forest Hill College.

Vale Brendan Vickery

It is with great sadness we inform you that one of our past students, Brendan Vickery was tragically killed in a diving accident last week.   He was reported as missing after diving off a ledge into the ocean. Sadly his body was recovered earlier this week. He would have been 21 in September. It is a sad loss and our thoughts are with all of those who were close to him.

Another GREAT Week-4

Calendar dates

Term 1, 2014

Year 11 and 12 Sport Round Robin Monday 24 February and Friday 28 February
Year 7 Camp - Wednesday 26 February - Friday 28 February
College Swimming Carnival Monday 3 March
College Assembly Friday 21 March

Some useful links

FHC Website

Compass Parent Portal

FHC Moodle- Student Learning Portal

Remember you can use Compass to approve absences

Dear all, welcome to week 4 Term 1.

This week we had a range of interesting events at the College. I was particularly interested in our musical instrument demonstration day. With the advent of our new rehearsal space and the recording studio being constructed, there is a growing vibe around music that is continually happening. I hope that many students elect to take an instrument up and learn it as research indicates that there is a correlation between the learning of a musical instrument and success academically. At Forest Hill College we are always on the lookout for ways to improve students’ academic outcomes. This is certainly one I would encourage parents to guide their children towards.

This week we were also involved in the development of new marketing material. This always sharpens my focus around what the College is known for and what it aspires to be. The quality of the learning environment is continually improving at the College. The way our students wear their uniforms and the quality of the learning spaces and surrounds are key features of our school. The broader range of opportunities within and outside of the classroom are things we are rightly proud of. Our Deaf Facility, International Student Program, Debating, Homework Club, Production, Tribes, Maths Club, Impact, Developing Sports Leaders etc. and the list goes on. Forest Hill College is a great place to be involved in at the moment. The growth of the College and the programs within it lead to exciting times ahead.
 

I am currently writing our Annual Implementation Plan. This document will be presented to the College Council next week in draft format and finalised with the Leadership Team over coming weeks.

The DEECD released documentation this week designed at ensuring we have a safe and respectful relationship between homes and schools. We all know that a safe, supportive and inclusive school environment is essential for providing quality learning opportunities for all students. Meaningful and active engagement within and between families is invaluable in boosting a child’s learning and wellbeing. At Forest Hill College we are very proud of the relationships we have with all our families. There are a number of ways you as a parent can foster positive relationships with the College. Participation in your child’s education is critical. Be aware of the homework they have, attend sporting and musical  performances they are involved in, attend our College Assemblies and join me for morning tea after them in the Staff Lounge and  attend Parent Teacher Student Interviews each time they are conducted. Our first round for this year are on Tuesday April 1. Log on to Compass and Moodle and stay actively in tune with the work your children are doing in class. Join College Council or Parents Association and take the opportunities offered to attend College events such as the performing Arts Carnival and the College Production. Our first major College event is the Swimming Carnival at Nunawading Pool on Monday 3 March. We welcome your attendance.

 This week the DEECD asked all principals to make their communities aware that the Department does not provide personal accident insurance or ambulance cover for students. Parents and guardians of students, who do not have student accident insurance/ambulance cover, are responsible for paying the cost of medical treatment for injured students, including the cost of ambulance attendance/transport and any other transport costs. Private property brought to school by students, staff or visitors is not insured and the Department does not accept any responsibility for any loss or damage.

 

Peer Support

 

On Wednesday, the Year 7s had their second session with their Year 10 Peer Support Leaders in the gym. Last week, they got to know their leaders so this week it was time to play. The Year 10s organised a number of games for their groups and rotated through dodgeball, bowling, knockout and other team building exercises. The highlight, of course, was the mummy wrap where the groups selected a student to “mummify” by wrapping them in toilet paper. The Year 7s are excited to continue working with their mentors throughout term 1, continuing their transition into secondary school life and having fun.

Intermediate Cricket

On Monday this week Mr Cutler took out the intermediate cricket team for interschool sport. It was a warm and sunny day and perfect conditions for playing cricket. Our captain Josh lost the toss in the first game against Box Hill High and were told to have a bowl. With innings only being 45mins in length, it was important that early wickets were taken. Unfortunately, this was not the case and the Box Hill boys hit us to all parts of the park, finishing on 6/117 off their overs. Our best bowler was Jackson who took three wickets. We then hit the crease and tried to hunt down the total. Not only were Box Hill’s batters good, but their bowlers were pretty handy too. After our allotted overs, we finished on 9/49. A disappointing result, but we still had one game to go.

 

Our second game was against Koonung (who are always hard to beat). This time we won the toss and elected to bat first. Our opening pair of Jake and Jackson got us off to a flying start, with Jackson ending up retiring on 32. A number of other batters chipped in for some runs too which saw our score at the end of the overs to be 85. We then went into the field, and what a bowling display it was. Jake was the pick of the bowlers bowling 3 overs and taking an incredible 5/6. Amazing figures for any bowler, but this was extra special, as in that 5 wickets was also a hat-trick!!! Well done Jake. We ran out eventual winners in this game by 30 runs.

 

Overall a great team effort for the day coming home with a win and a bit of sunburn. I look forward to next year’s cricket bringing home the cup.

Mr Cutler

Strength Program

Each term our Chaplain - Ben Stephenson – has taken ten year 7/8 boys through the Strength program. The group meet for one period each week over 8 weeks of a term for group discussion, activities, illustrations and self-reflection material.

The program covers the 3 foundational concepts of Significance, Resilience and Courage.

Each week a new area of life is discussed pertaining to one of these 3 concepts. Including: Friendship, Anger, Respect, Healthy Relationships, Risk-taking and Goal-setting.

Strength aims for each student to walk away with:

- Developed holistic personal and problem-solving skills.

- Improved confidence and understanding of intrinsic value.

- Enhanced social support networks.

- Increased self-awareness.

We’d love for as many of our students to go through this program as possible – or it’s female equivalent run by our adolescent health nurse – as we have seen its value in their development.

 

 

Another GREAT Week-3

Calendar dates

Term 1, 2014

Year 9 and 10 Sport Round Robin Monday 17 February
Year 7 Instrumental Music Demonstration Day Tuesday 18 February
Photo Catch Up Day Wednesday 19 February
Year 11 and 12 Sport Round Robin Monday 24 February and Friday 28 February
Year 7 Camp - Wednesday 26 February - Friday 28 February
College Swimming Carnival Monday 3 March
College Assembly Friday 21 March

Some useful links

FHC Website

Compass Parent Portal

FHC Moodle- Student Learning Portal

Remember you can use Compass to approve absences

Dear all, welcome to week 3 Term 1.

Over the last 3 months I have been working with the College Leadership Team to investigate the possibility of the College partnering with a peak sporting body to enhance the Developing Sports Leaders Program. This week we met again and have commenced working towards the implementation of an elite soccer academy at the College. This would be a Year 7-12 program that provided elite soccer players an opportunity to train in an elite environment and receive a quality secondary education. The pathway for the students beyond the College would be an Advanced Diploma in Football at Melbourne University and/ or an elite playing career.

Also this week we enjoyed an evening with our Year 7 families. The Year 7 team put on a BBQ and Information evening to help the parents understand the processes the team use to ensure an orderly environment at the College. At Forest Hill College we place a large emphasis on the development of an effective Learning Culture. We use a range of strategies to ensure that, including Compass, our Effective Learning Behaviours, a structured bring your own device program.

To continue  improving our performance, we clearly what is expected of students, parents and staff and nurture the belief that all students can and will learn and succeed We believe that all students can and will achieve in the right environment. We strive to create that environment and when the home environment complements and works with the school, students have clearly established routines and structures to work within. Adolescents work best when they know these boundaries.

We actively encourage parents to be involved in their child’s education. College events are always open to parents and guardians to attend. The swimming carnival is on Monday March 3, Our next Assembly is on Friday 21 March 2014.

The BLOG and Compass are great ways to connect electronically. If you are very busy, saving compass to your phone is a good strategy, go to fhc.vic.jdlf.com.au and save to home screen on your phone or visit the itunes store and search for the app “compass student manager” and download it for free.

This week we saw our debating teams begin preparation for the 2014 debating season. At Homework Club 42 students and 9 staff members worked together, and our Impact team have hit the road running as they set up an exciting 2014.
Homework Club runs every Thursday after school in the College Library and we have many staff support students with their attendance. This is a great way to get an extra bit of free tuition, and some homework done with the help of our expert staff. Stay tuned for details of the Principals Reading Challenge as it swings into action very soon.

College Council Election Process

Nominations are now open for College Council. The nomination forms are available at the General Office. Nominations close Monday 24 February 2014.

 

Breaky Club

We had over 50 people through the Shack Thursday morning for the first Breaky Club back for 2014.

Bacon and Egg rolls were on the menu.

Reminder that all students are welcome to join us at Breaky Club every Tuesday and Thursday morning from 8am for $1.

Another GREAT Week-2

Calendar dates

Term 1, 2014

Year 7 Parent Connections Night - Tuesday 11 February
College Photos - Thursday 13 February
Year 7 Instrumental Music Demonstration Day - Friday 14 February
Year 7 Camp - Wednesday 26 February - Friday 28 February

Some useful links

FHC Website

Compass Parent Portal

FHC Moodle- Student Learning Portal

Remember you can use Compass to approve absences

Dear all,

 

welcome to week 2 Term 1.

 

 

It has been pleasing to see as I walk around classes that most students have settled into some really good practices already. The Year 7 students seem to all be on our network now and using their new devices for learning. Their classes appear settled and they look like they belong at the College already.

The Study Centre has been re arranged and some new expectations around it's use are being established. So far it has been used well by most students. The culture we are developing is aimed at creating a quiet, individual study space to optimise the study period time students have at school. We now have Home Group at the start of the day and expect all VCE students to be in Home Group, even if they do not have class period one. This means they will have increased opportunities to study in a really good space, and we need them to have a clear purpose about the way they use this time. 

We expect our VCE students to be studying at least 2 to 3 hours additional to the class time they have every day. This is the only way they can guarantee they are doing enough work to get their best possible ATAR at the completion of their VCE. This takes significant sacrifice and discipline. Our students have to be aware that this is what the best students in the state are doing, and they need to match or better these efforts to get a placement in the Tertiary course of their choice.

 

Our Year 12 students have returned to classes following their Study Skills Camp. The camp focused on the "how" of VCE success and hopefully inspired our students and developed some skills that they can apply this year in their study. The evening activity of Laser Tag and 10 Pin Bowling was a nice release for the students after a heavy day in the Lecture Theatre. Thanks to the staff who made this camp a reality and arranged fantastic presenters to work with our students.

 

Parents should keep an eye on the Compass Newsfeed.

Every Day is an Opportunity to Make a New Happy Ending. ~ Author Unknown

 

 

Our Year 12 students were given the opportunity to experience a taste of University life, earlier this week, at Deakin University.

After navigating themselves around scaffolding/building rubble, students found Lecture Theatre 4, effortlessly, and were ready to commence two days of engaging lectures/workshops. The speakers this year talked to our students about various ways to improve their learning behaviours to enable success. Although our guest speakers presented material that was vastly different, they all conveyed the message that achieving one’s personal best requires “grit”, “organisation”, “effective time-management”, “work-life balance”, and to achieve this students need to have SMART goals in place.

On Monday evening, students had the opportunity to socialise with each other and staff, enjoying games of bowling and laser tagging. I would like to thank our Year 12 Students on being great ambassadors for our College and for the fun night had by all at bowling. Thanks to all the staff who attended the 2 days at Deakin Uni; to staff who attended bowling and to the following guest speakers:

• Dr Maria Gindidis( Lecturer- Monash University)

• Tony Thompson (VCE English teacher/assessor, Author)

• Daniel Sharp (VCE Help and Study Skills-Director)
  
  

I know they have given our students plenty of food for thought, that will enable them to seize every opportunity in 2014.

Good Luck Year 12’s, have a great year, we are there beside you.

Mrs Kamvissis

Careers/Pathways Leader

Chinese Year of the Horse

Friday 31st January marked the first day of The Year of the Horse and Chinese New Year Celebrations.

 

The morning started off with Ms Cheryl Roberts, one of our Chinese Language teachers teaching all staff how to wish somebody in Chinese "a happy new year". The merriment continued at Forest Hill College as Chinese, Korean, teachers and students - of all nationalities -  got together for lunch and celebrated by eating a feast of Chinese food provided by the International Student Program.


It was a really happy, delicious day and the International students who were away from their parents felt a little more at home with Chinese New Year being recognized and celebrated by the College. A big thankyou to all the ISP staff for making it such a great day and a Happy Year of the Horse for you all!

 

 

Year 7 & 8 Chinese New Year Activities

 

Happy Chinese New Year! 新年快乐！恭喜发财 ! 马年大吉！This year is the Year of the Horse. In China, Chinese New Year celebrations officially continue for 15 days, so since last Friday (January 31) we have been celebrating with a number of fun activities.

Last Friday, the Year 7 Language programme began with a celebration of Chinese New Year including learning a Chinese New Year Song, chopsticks competitions, and guessing lantern riddles. At the end of the lesson, students each received a Chinese red packet as they greeted their teacher with the Chinese New Year greeting.

Year 8 Chinese language students have also celebrated with these activities in their classes during the last week.

Last Friday students throughout the school celebrated Chinese New Year in their home groups by guessing lantern riddles. I wonder if you can guess any of them??

1.    Wash it and it isn't clean. Don't wash it and then it's clean. What is it?                                  

2.    It will follow you for 1000 miles but not miss home. It desires neither food nor flowers. It fears not water, fire, knives, nor soldiers. But it disappears when the sun sets behind the western mountains. What is it?

 

3.     One east, one west. They die without seeing each other. What body part is it?

 

College Library News

With the very warm weather this week the College Library has been a popular lunch time option for many students. Students have used the space for study, reading, socialising and playing games. Scrabble and chess have been the most popular games  along with the Manga and Magazine collections.

Homework Club started Thursday afternoon and even though it was very warm approximately 45 students attended. Homework Club is available to all students every Thursday afternoon from 3.20 to 5pm. Teachers are available to assist students with any homework tasks.