Filter Content
- Principal's Report
- Dates to Remember
- The Prospect High School Association General Meeting
- Australian Brain Bee Challenge
- News from The Nest Café
- National Tree Day
- The Big Interview With...
- Learning Dispositions
- Legal Aid Presentation
- Sculpture Gallery in the Library
- NDIS Tasmanian Pathway to Post School Life
- COVID-19 Updates for Term 3
- House Polo Update
- Virtual Learning Centre Update
- Library News
- Write A Book in a Day
- PHS Arts Evening
- Library Event
- Canteen Special
- Community Notices
- Leadership and Support Staff 2022
Dear Parents/Guardians, Students and Friends of Prospect High School,
Welcome to the first newsletter for Term 3. I hope families had a restful and safe holiday. Students have started well and had a productive first two weeks.
This term we welcome back School Business Manager, Debbie Chancellor from leave and Syed Atique to the IT Support team replacing Doug Austin who is working at Launceston College this term.
Attendance - Every school day counts
Regular attendance ie 90% and above is encouraged to maximise learning opportunities.
If your child is unwell, they need to stay home. However if your child is well enough to attend school, they should be at school. Every day, Monday to Friday. Prospect High School monitors attendance closely. Please let Care teachers know when your child will be absent.
The reality of missing school is not good. Data shows us that regular school attendance is one of the best things a child can do to set them up for success. But if they don’t attend, things get harder for them. Data shows that:
- If your child misses even just one day a fortnight, that adds up to 20 days of the school year. That’s the same as missing four whole weeks of school!
- If they miss one day a week, that doubles to eight weeks of school they’ll never get back.
- Over the course of their childhood, that equals two and a half years of vital education they’ll never receive…
The data also tells us the better a child’s attendance rate, the better their future will be, and they will experience more opportunities.
School is where they learn and grow alongside their friends, and where they benefit the most. Going to school not only promotes academic success, but also helps build important social skills, routines, relationships and confidence.
Helping your child regularly attend school will set them up with good habits for life
If you or your child is struggling to get to school, help is available. Please contact the school on 63 444744 to discuss.
Covid Update
Prospect High School continues measures to prevent the transmission of Covid. This includes air purifiers and fans in classrooms, sanitizer stations in classrooms and non-classroom areas, physical distancing practices inside and outside and regular Covid cleaning. While masks are not mandated it is encouraged and required if students and staff are close contacts. Adults and students who are close contacts also need to test each day and only come on site if the test result is negative. Please keep your child at home if they are unwell and/or have symptoms.
Write a Book in a Day
On Tuesday three teams of students (Grades 7-10) spent yesterday competing in the unique challenge of writing a book in a day. This activity requires many skills from all team members such as time-management, creative ideas, writing and illustrating as well as being able to work together to produce the final product. There were many great ideas and enthusiastic writers and illustrators working hard all day to produce creative stories. Thank you to Ms Bambridge, Mrs Williams for organising and supervising this event.
School Association
The School Association will be holding a meeting on Tuesday 9th August in D block. These meetings are a great opportunity for parents to become involved in decision making and building a partnership with the school. New members are welcome. Please contact the office on 63 444744 if you are interested and the agenda will be forwarded.
Kind regards
Lee Barker
Principal
TERM 3 | |
Tuesday 9th August - 5.00pm | Next School Association Meeting |
Tuesday 20th September from 5pm | PHS Arts Bazaar |
Friday 30th September | Last day of Term 3 |
Thursday 6th October | Public Holiday - Launceston Show Day |
TERM 4 | |
Monday 17th October | Start of Term 4 |
Monday 7th November | Public Holiday - Recreation Day |
Wednesday 21st December | Last day of Term 4 for Students |
The Prospect High School Association General Meeting
Tuesday, 9th August in the school Café
from 5.00pm and all are welcome.
There are three parent committee vacancies yet filled, with positions held for a period of two years. We encourage parents/carers to come along to a meeting and consider taking up a position. This is a great opportunity to and support the school community. If you have any questions please contact the school Principal, Lee Barker.
This terms meeting agenda will include the 2023 Student Leader Board Process and Prospect High School Reconciliation Action Plan - Vision for Reconciliation (What does reconciliation mean?) and other current topics for Term 3.
It would be great to have more parent/carers onboard.
Australian Brain Bee Challenge
The Australian Brain Bee Challenge (ABBC) is a competition for high school students in year 10 to learn about the brain and its functions, learn about neuroscience research, find out about careers in neuroscience and to dispel misconceptions about neurological and mental illnesses.
There are 4 rounds: Round 1 – online Quiz, Round 2 – Regional Finals, Round 3 – National Finals and Round 4 – International Finals
Prospect High School congratulates Charlotte, who after completing Round 1 made it through to the Regional Final. Round 2 was held at the end of Term 2 in Hobart and following extensive and diligent study, Charlotte achieved first place and we travel to the National Finals later in the year.
Enjoy reading what Charlotte has written about her experience. Hopefully it encourages more students to participate next year.
“The neuroscience competition, called the ‘Brain Bee Challenge’, was held at the Medical Sciences Precinct at UTAS, Hobart. There were at least two people from each school, and only me from Prospect. Before we started, we had morning tea provided by UTAS and time to relax before the test started. When it did, we went to a lecture theatre where we did the test on our devices we brought. The test went for an hour, and the questions were quite hard. When the test was over, we had a professor come in and teach us about neuroscience. Specifically, how attention works. That was one of my favourite parts. We went back to the main lobby and had lunch. They prepared models and pictures of brains in the foyer for us to mess with.
They then split us into school groups (I went with the students from Scotch Oakburn) where we got to tour the lab. There we got to see the inner workings of neuroscience research. We talked to lots of different scientists and saw some of the lab equipment. Some scientists were working on researching Multiple Sclerosis, and some on strokes. We got to ask questions while they explained what they were researching. The guy taking our group on tour was new to the lab, and he got lost trying to get us back to the lobby. It was a fun and interesting experience. When we were back, they announced the winners. First third, then second, then first… Which was me! I won a prize of three neuroscience related books picked out by the person managing the competition, and a certificate. Since I won, I get to go interstate to represent Tasmania, which may take place in Sydney. Overall, it was an educational experience, and I got to see and talk to real people working in neuroscience. And I can’t wait to get back to studying for the next round!”
There is always lots happening in The Nest Café – here is a snapshot of what classes have been up to:
Barista Basics Tier is back and students are honing their Coffee making and Hospitality Skills each Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday morning. These classes enable students to receive one on one instruction and gain confidence in a small team environment. We have expanded our recess 1 offerings and students unselfishly volunteer to make drinks and serve students in their own time.
9/10 Catering continue to provide biscuits and weekly specials to the canteen and food for functions and The Nest Café while also developing their learning dispositions of Flexibility, Collaboration and Creativity. This term we are completing our Terrific Toasties assessment for staff and students – exploring, preparing and producing sandwiches which go well above the standard ham and cheese. Some exciting creations are in the works and we look forward to serving these during the term.
CONGRATULATIONS!
During the holidays we received news that the creative catering team of Hayley, Sofia, Georgia and Georgia had won the presentation section of the Tasmanian Hospitality Association School Cooking Challenge. The students won a $200 voucher at Cataract on Paterson for their wedding and birthday cakes.
I am so proud of these students who are always motivated to try new techniques and create opportunities for learning.
9/10 HY Foods
As part of our Cultural Connections unit 9/10 HY Foods prepared an authentic Spanish Tapas feast complete with Flamenco music and (non-alcoholic) sangria. As the rain poured down we then tested our Spanish general knowledge and finished with churros and chocolate! I am super impressed with the flexibility of our students who always display a willingness to try something different and their collaboration and persistence to get these things done. Muy Bueno!
Cert I Hospitality
Our students have started a unit on Working Effectively with Others – examining communication and ethical decisions in the workplace. Practically we are about to start our non-alcoholic beverages- we will be preparing and serving smoothies, juices and mocktails and creating a recipe book to document and standardise our service. This will culminate in our Aladdin Bazaar Art evening – where we will serve Persian inspired mocktails and nibbles to our guests. More info to come!
Adrienne McMahon
Hospitality and Catering Teacher
Last Thursday, the Nature Nuts planted shrubs around the cross-country track as part of National Tree Day.
The shrubs are a boundary for the new section of the walking and running track. They are also there to improve the natural environment. All the shrubs are Tasmanian Natives and are shelter for animals like bandicoots. They provide food and attract pollinating insects and birds. We are hoping the plants will grow and improve the biodiversity of the area.
Quotes from students,
“I like growing native plants!”
“I like working in nature and helping the environment.”
“I like working in nature.”
“I like planting things.”
“I like knowing I am helping the planet!”
“I like being outside and working hard”
“I like working as a team.”
Students will be planting more in the coming weeks. Please be mindful of the tree covers and stakes that are used to protect the young plants.
Shae Barker
Onstage: Beggar and Member of the Ensemble
Offstage: Publicity Crew Member
- Why did you want to be involved in this production?
I wanted to be involved in Production because it sounded like a fun opportunity, and it is out of my comfort zone, and I wouldn’t usually choose this type of class.
- Who is your favourite character and why?
I don’t really have a favourite character, I love all the characters because of how different they are but if I had to choose it would probably be Genie because I like how magical and cheerful he is.
- What is your role in this production and what are you enjoying about it?
My role in this production is a Beggar and Jewellery seller and I am also part of the publicity team. I am enjoying all the different opportunities and working with new people.
- What’s the biggest challenge been for you so far?
The biggest challenge for me so far would be Covid because it is hard when people are away or you are away and have to catch up and also making sure publicity things are out on time, like these interviews.
- What are you most excited for?
I am most excited to see the production in action and preforming on stage.
- What’s been the most enjoyable thing about production so far?
The most enjoyable thing for me is getting to work with new people and being a part of the onstage crew learning dialogue and dances.
- What would you say to people who want to be involved in production in future years?
I would say go for it whether you want to be part of the onstage or offstage. Production is a great and fun opportunity for everyone.
Sculpture Gallery in the Library
9/10 Art Viney have been experimenting with the use of paper as a key material to create sculptures. Drawing from the idea of human relationships with animals, the students have chosen to create pieces that explore both the positive and negative impact of our co-existence. Some of these pieces are currently on display in the PHS Library, and more will soon follow. Come in during a break time and have a look! (If you are walking past the art room, please also look up and you will see a fantastic jelly fish swimming by!
NDIS Tasmanian Pathway to Post School Life
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) are running online sessions for parents/carers of young people in years 9-12 and education support staff. This session will cover NDIS-funded supports for school leavers. Note: registrations close 3 days before the date of each session.
Dates are as follows:
- Session 3: Wednesday 21st September 7:00pm - 8:30pm
- Session 4: Tuesday 27th September 3:45pm - 4:30pm.
Welcome back to school for the start of Term 3!
The health and safety of students and staff has, and always will be, our top priority. Our Term 3 approach to manage COVID-19 is outlined in our COVID-safe schools operational plan. The Plan builds on everything we’ve learnt since the start of the pandemic.
The Department of Education (DoE) has worked closely with Public Health to ensure schools continue to be safe places for learners. Many COVID-safe measures that you are familiar with continue to be in place to limit the impact of COVID-19 in our schools.
With increased COVID-19 cases in our community leading into Term 3, our staff and visitors are strongly recommended to wear face masks when indoors, or if they are unable to physically distance. Wearing a face mask is not a requirement for students, however it is strongly recommended by Public Health indoors as well as when they cannot physically distance. Students will be supported to wear masks by their school when they choose to.
Face masks and rapid antigen tests continue to be readily available for students and staff at all Tasmanian Government schools.
It is common to see increased illness at this time of year, so it remains important that we all continue to practise our COVID safe behaviours, stay at home if unwell and get tested.
As always, when your child is well, the best place for them to be is at school learning with their friends and teachers.
We will need to continue to be flexible as some elements of our plan may change during the Term. We will continually monitor the situation, make changes as necessary and keep school communities informed.
Read LessAvailable for purchase now on Qkr. Students can wear these tops during PE lessons or on Carnival days, but it is not to replace the school polo.
Virtual Learning Centre Update
Welcome to Term 3.
A reminder that being at school is the best place for our learners. COVID-safe measures continue to be implemented, so that all students can learn in class safely.
If your child is well enough to attend school, being in the physical school environment is the best place for them.
If your child needs to stay home due to illness, but is well enough to continue learning, they can access the Virtual Learning Centre via Canvas. If your child is unsure of their school username and password to access the VLC, please let us know and we can provide these to you.
For Kindergarten to Year 10 students, the VLC provides access to an online learning program where you will find lessons and activities for your child on various focus areas including Reading and Writing, Number, Science, Physical Activity and Wellbeing.
In Term 3, the VLC will no longer run daily live sessions with a teacher, rather the courses will be self-directed, and your child can complete activities of interest to them for the relevant year level.
[In Years 11 and 12, short term enrolments in Virtual Learning Tasmania courses and access to optional stand-alone VET units of competency will continue. Online tutorials for English and Mathematics will no longer be available.]
You can also access resources and ideas to support learning at home at Learning at home - The Department of Education Tasmania
Whilst we acknowledge that illness may mean students are at home for a short time, we look forward to having all our students in class with us during Term 3.
For more information about the Virtual Learning Centre and changes to program delivery, please visit the Department of Education website.
If you need support translating or interpreting this information, contact the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450
Read LessLeadership and Support Staff 2022
SCHOOL EXECUTIVE
Principal
Mrs Lee Barker
Assistant Principals
Mr Mario Bergamin and Ms Bonnie Hall
School Business Manager
Mrs Debbie Chancellor
GRADE TEAMS
Senior Grade Leaders
Grade 7 Mr Brendan Poke
Grade 8 Mr Brendan Liddell
Grade 9 Ms Anna Collins
Grade 10 Ms Sandra De Paoli
Years 11/12 Ms Jennifer Pollard
Grade Leaders
Grade 7 Miss Kirsty Wilson
Grade 8 Mr Brad Colson
Grade 9 Mr Steven Andrews
Grade 10 Mr Will Reynolds
Years 11/12 Mrs Jan Phillips and Mr Thomas Leydon
SUPPORT STAFF
School Psychologist
Mr Gene Colgrave
(Monday and Friday)
School Social Worker
Mr Brendan Dixon
(Monday, Thursday and alternate Tuesday)
School Health Nurse
Mrs Mia Blair
(Monday and alternate Tuesday)
Chaplain
Mr Tobias Verhaegh
(Monday and Tuesday)
NOTICEBOARD