PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

MUIRFIELD MATTERS Muirfield High School

Educating today for managing tomorrow

Muirfield Matters Newsletter Issue 1 Week 4 Term 1 2007

Barclay Road, North Rocks NSW 2151 Ph: (02) 9872 2244 Fax: (02) 9871 4106 E: muirfield­h.school@det.nsw.edu.au www.muirfield­h.schools.nsw.edu.au

SRC HAPPENINGS Welcome to the new school year. It has been a real pleasure to see the way the new students to the school have been ac­ cepted by those who have been here for some time. The Orientation Program for Year 7 was a great success and a lot of that suc­ cess can be attributed to the involvement of the Year 11 students. All the parents I have spoken with have said how much their sons/daughters enjoyed their first week of High School. Thanks must also go to Mr. Ison and Mr. Turner for the way that they involved all students and kept the momen­ tum of the week going. By now all of you should have received Muirfield News. Please make sure that you ask your child for this copy as it will keep up to date with what’s happening at Muirfield. Can I also congratulate you on the way that you have pre­ pared your children for the start of the school year. The uniform of students is excellent and we would hope that together we could maintain this standard for the rest of the year. We at Muir­ field are committed to every student being in uniform and every students engaging in learning within the classroom envi­ ronment. I have been around to all classes this past week and will continue to visit classes to ensure that all students are en­ gaging in the learning process. Thus far it has been very impres­ sive to see the students working in the classroom. Also we re­ mind you that despite what students say, we do set homework and we expect students to complete the work. This year shows great promise for all our students and we look forward to working together to ensure that your sons/daughters realize their full potential. At home please help us in reminding them of their diary and also of work that has to be completed. If you are unsure of what work has been set then you can access our website and you can follow the links to the Moodle site and you can see what students are doing at school and also what work has been set. Finally at the end of this bulletin you will find a calendar of events at Muirfield. Please take the opportunity to take this sheet off the Muirfield Matters and put it on your fridge or no­ tice­board so that you have an idea of all that is happening at the school.

S. Billington

REMINDER Please DO NOT drop your children off inside the school

grounds. The car park is small and becomes very congested before and after school. Please use Tiernan Avenue, oppo­ site the school, as a drop off and pick up point. Also, please be aware that cars parked on school property are not cov­

ered by any Department of Education Liability Insurance.

Hi it’s US again, your friendly Student Representative Council Presidents recapping on the great days of 2006 term 4 and the achievement by the SRC. A lot of things went on, mainly due to productive meet­ ings every Wednesday we were able to successfully plan and deliver through with great activities. These activities were designed for a more fun environment, student mingling with different age groups and the im­ provement of student run assemblies. If you where unfortunate not to attend the last week of 2006 you missed OUT on a LOT! There were numerous things happening that you would have loved, the peo­ ple that attended will tell you that it was “fantastic!” A lot of memories were made. Theme day was the first to kick off with a bang. It con­ sisted of 6 different themes. Fantasy, soldier, gangster , Christmas, 60s and rock star. Gangster, fantasy and Christmas taking out most popular categories. We met in the hall for the famous cat walk where the judges looked at each theme. With the winner was awarded bowling passes. Following was afternoon activities con­ sisting of sporting events or a kick back movie on a pro­ jection screen. Then on the second last day thanks to the input of the disco D.J Ryan Suisted + Jozef Banati and Mr Malcher the S.R.C were able to create an off the hook dance party in the drama room. We had disco lights going crazy and music blaring from wall to wall and students smiling from ear to ear. All years were mixing with each other it was great to see (Ryan + Jozef are yr 12 stu­ dents that are available for party hire so don’t be afraid to go to their website at www.myspace.com/betaentertainment and remember to say you’re from Muirfield High for a special discount). The S.R.C Presidents and committee wants to show you how much fun you can have at school, all within a friendly learning environment.. Through out 2007 we will be fundraising like crazy for worthy causes, we will have a wonderful and enjoyable 2007 and we hope that we can count on YOU to get involved and support US!

We just would like to send out our thanks to the people that came and enjoyed 2006. We hope that we can

deliver the same or more to Muirfield to create a better high school life with in 2007. Feel free to come up to either ourselves Gerardo Iacullo, Luke Suisted or one of your years S.R.C members.

Week 4 Term 1 2007, Page 2 Muirfield Matters

P&C Meeting Wednesday 14th March

8pm In the Staff Common Room

On behalf of the Executive I invite you to the next P&C meeting. Reports will be available for pre­ meeting reading at 7:45. The next meeting will fea­ ture the opening of our new Canteen by Mr. Alan Cadman.

Chris Cunliffe­Jones, President Muirfield P&C

All welcome!

MUIRFIELD HIGH SCHOOL

P&C ASSOCIATION

Welcome to you all for 2007. As the school year gets underway, the P&C has been busy. First my thanks to Lynda Rosevear and Beth Mitchell for their efforts in coordinating arrangements for the very successful welcome to new parents held last Tuesday. Secondly it has been exciting to see the refurbishment of the school canteen almost completed. Lynn Hayes and her committee have championed this refurbishment for several years – the result (with assistance from the federal govern­ ment’s Investing in our Schools Program) is most impressive. Thirdly, Baulkham Hills Shire Council has approved the DA for the Computer Market and it has been successfully trading each Sunday since 14 January. My special thanks to Lynda Rosevear, Ray Hayes and Steve Billington who committed much time and energy in the DA application. Fourthly the Uniform Shop has moved location and being doing brisk trade – opening for many extra hours to accom­ modate the start of the school year. Thank you to Jane Highman, Ros Cowell and the Uniform Shop sub­committee for your efforts. The year promises much. In discussions with the principal, he indicated the two priori­ ties for P&C support for the school in 2007 were the replace­ ment of the school’s (musical) keyboards and the installation of two 38,000 litre rainwater tanks. He has indicated he will present a detailed proposal to the P&C’s March meeting. In addition the social committee is canvassing ideas for a ‘unique’ event to bring together the school community – watch this space! Last night’s P&C Annual General Meeting, confirmed the P&C Executive for 2007:

President: Chris Cunliffe­Jones

Vice Presidents: Beth Mitchell

Chris Fitzgerald

Secretary: Lynn Hayes

Treasurer: Ray Hayes

I acknowledge the outstanding contribution to the school community of Julius Bronier, who did not seek re­election to the P&C executive, after many years of committed and dedicated service.

Chris Cunliffe­Jones President

School Website www.muirfield-h.schools.nsw.edu.au Check it out, it now includes some very

handy info as well as the newsletter online.

Need the services of a Justice of The Peace (JP) Mr. Ian Beasley can assist

you. It would be preferable to ring the school and make an appointment time which is convenient to all parties.

PARKING NOTICE

Did you know that it is illegal to park: On or near the school crossing In the school bus bay

The penalties for parking in these areas are up to $231 & can result in the loss of a demerit point.

Parking illegally puts children at risk!

Please obey all the parking signs around the school – they help keep children safe!

Council’s Compliance Officers will be enforcing parking restrictions at your school!

12­14 February

This article is written by many snippets from year 7 stu­ dents, all listed at the end.

We all got up early to make it to school by 7.15 all looked at the sky and prayed that the rain would hold out. We were all in the hall everyone was excited and a little scared (even the parents). We were ready to go and be­ gan to load the first bus when the rain hit us like 1000 volts falling from the sky.

In the beginning the camp was dreadful, late busses and endless pouring rain. The bus ride, my gosh! Mr T’s lame jokes were almost unbearable. The bus was also funny because every time I moved on my seat or other people got up we could hear a “squishhh’ sound­ we were sooo wet!!!! It made us all ‘crack up’.

One of the busses was late and we had to sit for ages in the hall, I was one of those people and wished I was quick enough to be on the first bus.

It was raining the whole day so we had to do games in­ side, we had to pop balloons blindfolded, balance a stick with 2 fingers and cut out letters of the newspaper to make the Australian anthem.

We were feeling a bit depressed because of the rain but the muffins, hamburgers, lasagne and icecream helped. It was fun to stay in the cabins with our friends too. Later that first night we had a bush dance and it “rocked”. The band made it really fun.

Later that night we waited for the peer support leader in our cabin to fall asleep and we told ghost stories into the night.

The next morning was fine (thankfully).The camp leaders gave us a lecture and told us to have fun on the “giant swing of death, the flying fox of death, canoeing in the lake of death…Dean asked if everything had death….. yes definitely!. You get the picture!) Mr Billington came up on Tuesday and some say he was excellent in the canoes. (he certainly got very wet). It was good to see the teach­ ers go on the activities such as our year advisor Mr Ison on the giant swing and the flying fox. (Mr Malcher and Mr Turner are a bit crazy on these activities) Canoeing was not as easy as it looks and required good teamwork skills. “My most frightening experience was as I got out of the canoes and went back to have a shower, there was a leech on my back” After that there was great paranoia about leeches but no others to be found.

Archery was good to improve aiming but not as easy as it looks as the bows were quite heavy to draw back. One

Muirfield Matters Week 4 Term 1 2007, Page 3

YEAR 7 ORIENTATION CAMP student said “it was easier to hit the hill than the targets” but some people even managed to pop the balloons .

Unfortunately abseiling and low ropes were not immediately available but then they were and some agile people like Kate were able to do the low ropes course blindfolded.

The second night had a talent quest with some very talented and some very ‘interesting’ entries. Some great dancers, some dreadful jokes some singing and even some instruc­ tion…. “how not to pillow fight” from Michael, David, Drew and Paul. Everyone was tired but managed to stay up late again.

We arrived back at school on Valentine’s day at 2.50. We had made some new friends and some people were very pleased to see their parents. The year seven camp had been fun!

Contributors: Kate, Edward, Elly, Taylor, Luke, David, Tameka, Taren, Elizabeth, Tom.

Muirfield Matters Week 4 Term 1 2007, Page 4

SCHOOL CAPTAINS REPORT UNIFORMS FOR 2007 As parents are considering the purchase of new uniform items for 2007 it is timely to remind parents and students about the dress code expected by the school.

The dress code is clearly outlined in the front pages of the school diary issued to all students and printed below.

UNIFORM ITEMS FOR BOYS AND GIRLS

Years 7 – 10 Years 11 & 12 Shirt Polo shirt, short sleeve,

bottle green with school crest

White, plain, short sleeve polo, blouse or business shirt with school crest

Trousers Plain black – no denim, stripes or logos, no tracksuit pants

Plain black – no denim, stripes or logos, no tracksuit pants

Shorts Plain black cargo, no denim, stripes or logos

Plain black cargo, no denim, stripes or logos

Jumper School collared sweat­ shirt OR 1/2 zip, high collar sweatshirt, with school crest

School collared sweatshirt OR 1/2 zip, high collar sweatshirt, with school crest

Skirt Plain black school skirt Plain black school skirt

Socks Plain black/white – no stripes, no logos

Plain black/white – no stripes, no logos

Shoes Plain black – no stripes or logos. No sandals, thongs, slip­ on or high­heeled shoes are permitted

Plain black – no stripes or logos. No sandals, thongs, slip­on or high­heeled shoes are permitted

However of recent times some students have taken a very flexible approach to the code as outlined.

Please ensure the following when purchasing uniform… *Black shorts, skirts or trousers are not to be made from

denim or tracksuit material *Black shorts, skirts or trousers do not have stripes or logos *Black shorts, skirts or trousers do not have striped patterns

or fleck through the material – simply plain black *Shorts are the cargo shorts recommended and not the

short shorts or board shorts currently being worn by some students

*Shorts and skirts should be plain black and modest *Shoes must be fully black and must be designed so that

they protect the feet of students. The soft, slipper type shoe that some students are wearing does not protect the feet

Ian Beasley

Opening Hours Monday 12:45­1:20pm & 5:30­6:30pm

Thursday 12:45­1:20pm

Allow us to introduce our­ selves! We’re your Captains for this year; Tiffany Hoy and Jozef Banati. These past weeks it’s been a whirlwind of BBQ tongs, interview chairs, Women’s Day letters and schedules as we dive into our projects for this term. Our Year 7 Leadership Team has been appointed, after much deliberation. It was fantastic to meet such a pas­ sionate bunch of interviewees! We have great faith in the Team’s capabilities for carrying out the tasks they will be set, and look forward to their becoming a bright driving force in Muirfield’s fundraising and awareness scheme. Yes, International Women’s Day is just around the corner; our Student Executive Team have been planning for this important event, including hailing the return of the Mother­Daughter Breakfast (Tiffany hopes to see you there, but we may have to smuggle Jozef in. Given his performance for the Year 12 muck­up photo, this should­ n’t be too hard…). This year’s International Women’s Day Assembly is particularly special, as both boys and girls will be present to celebrate together. Keep your ears open for more information. Speaking of important events, we’ve a multitude of dreams and aspirations for this year – covering everything from grounds beautification to environmental issues, to school promotion (visiting a primary school near you!). At the moment our prime focuses are the research of murals and rain water tanks. And, of course, those fabulous as­ semblies we love to host. And last but not least… On behalf of the Year 12 Formal Committee (including the heroic BBQ team), we’d like to thank everyone who helped support us by buying our “very nice” BBQ food at the Computer Markets on Sunday the 11 th – very much appreciated! So, we’ll see you around – sometimes in blazers, mostly incognito – but very recognisable and (we hope) ap­ proachable –

Tiff & Fez

All students are required to have a diary. All students in Years 7­12 are issued with a Muirfield HS diary free of charge. Students who lose their diaries must replace it at their own expense.

Students should keep their diary well organised to avoid missing due dates for homework and to plan their time to spread out their homework over a week. It is important to regularly check ahead in the diary. Students can also use their diary to plan which subjects they will study on differ­ ent days of the week. •Students should be bringing their diary to each lesson and to unpack it as part of their equipment and place it on their desks.

•Students who consistently fail to bring their diary should be dealt with in the same way as any student who does not bring their equipment to class.

• Students who do not bring their diaries will write their homework in the back of their class book or in some other form that is suitable to the teacher.

STUDENT DIARIES

Muirfield Matters Week 4 Term 1 2007, Page 5

YEAR 11 “TURN THE WHEEL” On Tuesday 13 Febru­ ary Year 11 set out on a bus trip to the H.A.R.T (Honda Australia Roadcraft Training) Facility at St Ives. When we arrived we were welcomed by a Rotarian who was vol­ unteering his time to help with the program. He outlined what we were going to learn and who will be speaking to us. Mr. Ewin split us into groups and we were taken into rooms and were spoken to by different people who would share there knowledge on driver awareness. A Constable from Frenchs Forest Police station shared his experiences about young driver accidents and what causes them. He told us that he has witnessed some very bad accidents and emphasised the point of safe driving. Then a man from HART explained how most accidents occur and what to do to prevent these. He told us to make sure you drive according to the road conditions. A very inspirational brain injury victim explained how his brain was injured while driving. He sped to “show off” to his friends and hit a car and landed upside down, nearly costing him his life. He was in a coma for 6 weeks and he had to learn to walk and talk again. This left him with a tremor in his arm and slurred speech. Just before lunch we got into a Honda Odyssey with a HART driver and he took us for a bit if a spin. He drove at various speeds on a purpose built track and was braking showing us how far it takes a car to stop when the brake is applied. One second delay and the person who has just ran out in front of you is now under your car. The day was enjoyed by all and hopefully it taught Yr 11

how to drive safely. A thank you must go to Mr. Ewin for organising the day and Mrs. Tucker, Mrs. O’Brien and Ms Frame for accompa­ nying us on the day.

By Mitch Blue Yr 11

Sunday 25 March 10am – 4pm

2007 sees the exciting return of the Epping Street Fair.

Proudly supported by Rotary Club of Epping, the Epping Street Fair on Rawson Street will feature: Market Stalls Food, Crafts & More Community Information Live Entertainment Talent Quest Junior Art Show Roaming Street Performers

Something for everyone.

A fundraiser for local charities.

There are still opportunities to promote your business by sponsoring the Street fair. To find out how you can be fur­ ther involved call Melissa Gillooly, Marketing Manager at The Epping Club on 9876 4357 or email melissa_gillooly@eppingclub.com.

EPPING STREET FAIR

Improvement and Growth On Tuesday 3 rd April 2007 we will be celebrating students’ demonstration of improvement and growth in class and in sporting activities. Students who will be receiving an award during this assembly will be given an invitation for parents and caregivers to participate in the assembly and a morning tea. Please return the response form to let us know whether

you will be joining us for morning tea.

to all students who will be receiving an award in this special assembly.

Muirfield Matters Week 4 Term 1 2007, Page 6

2007 EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS

All subjects 2 blue or black pens 1 red pen 2 lead pencils eraser ruler ­ wood or plastic ONLY protractor calculator glue stick 12 coloured pencils 1 highlighter

Students should not bring permanent marker pens e.g. Artline textas to school. Geography A4 exercise book (96 pages) History A4 exercise book (96 pages) Mathematics Exercise (Theory) Book (64 pages)

Exercise (Work) Book (96 pages) Compass ­ for drawing circles Plastic Textbook Cover (available from the school)

English A4 exercise book (128 pages) Quarto ( normal size) 64 pages A4 Display folder

Visual Arts A4 Visual Arts Diary drawing pencils 2B, 4B,6B

Music Exercise book with manuscript (96pages) or exercise book and separate manuscript book

PDHPE MHS sport shirt MHS black sports shorts Baseball cap or hat Trainers or joggers

SCIENCE A4 Exercise book (128 pages) Homework Exercise Book (64 pages) Scrapbook

YEAR 7

YEAR 8 All subjects 2 blue or black pens

1 red pen 2 lead pencils eraser ruler ­ wood or plastic ONLY protractor calculator glue stick 12 coloured pencils 1 highlighter

Students should not bring permanent marker pens e.g. Artline textas to school. Geography A4 exercise book (96 pages) History A4 exercise book (96 pages) Mathematics Exercise (Theory) Book (64 pages)

Exercise (Work) Book (96 pages) Compass for drawing circles Calculator Casio fx82 series Plastic Textbook Cover (available from the school)

English A4 exercise book (128 pages) Quarto ( normal size) 64 pages A4 Display folder

Drama Black trackpants/shorts Black t­shirt A4 Visual Arts Diary (logbook)

Visual Arts A4 Visual Arts Diary A4 exercise book (128 pages) drawing pencils 2B, 4B,6B

Music Exercise book with manuscript (96pages) or exercise book and separate manuscript book

Dance Exercise book (96 pages) Black tights and t­shirt Black hairband Dance shoes (optional)

PDHPE MHS sport shirt MHS black sports shorts Baseball cap or hat Trainers or joggers

SCIENCE A4 Exercise book (128 pages) Homework Exercise Book (64 pages)

YEAR 9 History A4 exercise book (96 pages) Commerce A4 exercise book (96 pages) History (elective) A4 exercise book (96 pages) Mathematics Exercise (Theory )Book (64 pages)

Exercise (Work) Book (96 pages) Compass for drawing circles Calculator Casio fx82 series Plastic Textbook Cover (available from the school)

English A4 exercise book (128 pages) Quarto ( normal size) 64 pages A4 Display folder

Drama Black trackpants/shorts Black t­shirt A4 Visual Arts Diary (logbook)

Visual Arts Visual Arts Diary 11"x14" A4 exercise book (128 pages) drawing pencils 2B, 4B,6B

Music Exercise book with manuscript (96pages) or exercise book and separate manuscript book

Dance A4 Exercise book Black tights and t­shirt Black hairband Dance shoes (optional)

PDHPE MHS sport shirt MHS black sports shorts Baseball cap or hat Trainers or joggers

SCIENCE A4 Exercise book (128 pages) Homework Exercise Book (64 pages) Scrapbook

YEAR 10 Geography A4 exercise book (96 pages) History A4 exercise book (96 pages) Commerce A4 exercise book (96 pages) History (elective) A4 exercise book (96 pages) Mathematics Exercise (Theory) Book (64 pages)

Exercise (Work) Book (96 pages) Compass for drawing circles Calculator Casio fx82 series Plastic Textbook Cover (available from the school)

English A4 exercise book (128 pages) Quarto ( normal size) 64 pages A4 Display folder

Drama Black trackpants/shorts Black t­shirt A4 Visual Arts Diary (logbook)

Visual Arts Visual Arts Diary 11"x14" A4 exercise book (128 pages) drawing pencils 2B, 4B,6B

Music Exercise book with manuscript (96pages) or exercise book and separate manuscript book

Dance A4 Exercise book Black tights and t­shirt Black hairband Dance shoes (optional)

PDHPE MHS sport shirt MHS black sports shorts Baseball cap or hat Trainers or joggers

SCIENCE A4 Exercise book (128 pages) Homework Exercise Book (64 pages) Display Folder for Revision Sheet Activities

Welcome to the new school year to all and I hope your Christ­ mas period break was thoroughly enjoyable. The purpose of this short passage is to make students and parents aware that one of my roles at Muirfield is as Boys Advisor. I am available as a support mechanism in the school to speak to boys about a range of issues as requested by parents, teachers or students themselves if they just need to clear their heads of issues con­ cerning themselves. I have dedicated a set period per fortnight for individual cases as they are referred to me. If you wish to take advantage of this opportunity, then it is a simple case of making contact with me, discussing your concerns and then I can take it from there. Please don’t hesitate to utilise this oppor­ tunity if you think it would be beneficial. Thank you, Mr. Turner.

BOYS ADVISOR

Muirfield Matters Week 4 Term 1 2007, Page 7

2007 EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS CONTINUED

YEAR 11

YEAR 12

All subjects 2 blue or black pens 1 red pen 2 lead pencils eraser ruler ­ wood or plastic ONLY protractor calculator glue stick 12 coloured pencils 1 highlighter

Business Studies A4 exercise book (128 pages) Legal Studies A4 exercise book (128 pages) Modern History A4 exercise book (128 pages) Ancient History A4 exercise book (128 pages) Economics A4 exercise book (128 pages) Society and Culture A4 exercise book (128 pages) History extension A4 exercise book (128 pages) Mathematics (ALL) Exercise (Theory) Book (64 pages)

Exercise (Work) Book (96 pages) Compass for drawing circles Calculator Casio fx82 series

English A4 exercise book (128 pages) Quarto ( normal size) 64 pages A4 Display folder

Drama Black trackpants/shorts Black t­shirt A4 Visual Arts Diary (logbook)

Visual Arts Visual Arts Diary 11"x14" A4 exercise book (128 pages)

Music Exercise book with manuscript or exercise book and separate manuscript book

Photography USB flash drive 1GB or larger Visual Arts Diary 11"x14"

ALL SCIENCES A4 Exercise book (128 pages) Homework Exercise Book (64 pages)

All subjects 2 blue or black pens 1 red pen 2 lead pencils eraser ruler wood or plastic ONLY protractor calculator glue stick 1 highlighter

Business Studies A4 exercise book (128 pages) Legal Studies A4 exercise book (128 pages) Modern History A4 exercise book (128 pages) Ancient History A4 exercise book (128 pages) Economics A4 exercise book (128 pages) Society and Culture A4 exercise book (128 pages) History extension A4 exercise book (128 pages) Mathematics (ALL) Exercise (Theory) Book (64 pages)

Exercise (Work) Book (96 pages) Compass for drawing circles Calculator Casio fx82 series

English A4 exercise book (128 pages) Quarto ( normal size) 64 pages A4 Display folder

Drama Black trackpants/shorts Black t­shirt A4 Visual Arts Diary (logbook)

Visual Arts Visual Arts Diary 11"x14" A4 exercise book (128 pages)

Music Exercise book with manuscript or exercise book and separate manuscript book

Dance black tights and t­shirt black hairband

Photography USB flash drive 1GB or larger Visual Arts Diary 11"x14"

ALL SCIENCES A4 Exercise book (128 pages) Homework Exercise Book (64 pages)

http://www.boardofstudies.nsw.edu.au NSW Board of Studies website ­ Past HSC Papers, practice multiple choice questions, syllabuses, exam comments etc

http://hsc.csu.edu.au HSC Online – summaries / notes / resources

http://www.schools.nsw.edu.au/index.php DET website – resources for parents & students

Year 12 2007 would just like to give a huge thank you to every one that bought roses and songs this Valentine’s Day! We hope that you enjoyed re­ ceiving the songs as much as we enjoyed singing them!! We have raised over $250 for our formal. Big thanks to Jozef, Bekim, Liz and Lauren for wak­ ing up at 5:30am to drive out to Dural to pick up the roses, Alex, Justin, Ben, Gerardo, Bekim, Sher­ een and Tash for singing the awesome songs such as “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough”, and our lovely helpers Jed, Michael, Claire and Lauren who helped us wrap the roses.

Once again, thanks to everyone who participated in this years’ Valentine’s Day!! Couldn’t have done it with out you. – Lauren Aspinall.

VALENTINES DAY FUNDRAISER

All students are invited to enter a competition for the best portrait of a woman who is significant in your life. This may be an individual such as your mother or a relative, friend or role model who has influenced you. Entries must be submitted to the Creative and Per­ forming Arts staffroom by Monday 19 March. Entries will be displayed in a school exhibition. Winners will be announced and prizes presented at a full school assembly. Portraits may be entered in one of the following categories:

Photography Photographs should be printed on quality paper. Minimum size 13 x 18cm (5”x 7”). Entries should be neatly mounted on black matt or card with entry form firmly attached to the back. Work must be original, recent work by the student. 2D Artwork Drawing, painting, mixed media. Minimum size A4. Entries should be neatly mounted on black matt or card with entry form firmly attached to the back. Work must be original, recent work by the student. Poetry or short story Entries should be typed and printed using at least 12 font size. Entry form to be attached to the work. Work must be original, recent work.

Entry forms can be collected from the CAPA staffroom.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY COMPETITION

WORK READINESS SEMINAR

Where: 11a Hudson Ave Castle Hill When: Friday 2nd March from 9:30am to 2:30pm (Light lunch will be provided) Cost: Free

Destiny Care in conjunction with The Hills Community Aid and Information Service Inc. will hold a one day seminar to cater for Income Support Recipients who are required to look for work after the July 1, 2006 changes.

This seminar will be the first of a three­part series to prepare you for the workforce and shall cover areas such as resume writing and job interview techniques.

We will also provide: Practical Assistance in job seeking and applications Guidance in the Job Search Process Support in upgrading of work skills (including English in the work place)

If you would like to know more or register for the semi­ nar, please call (02) 9659 2751 (Tuesdays to Fridays) or email destinycare@destinycare.org.au. Registration is required before 23 February.

a 11a Hudson Ave, Castle Hill t 02 9659 2751 f 02 9659 2755

e destinycare@destinycare.org.au

During the hot days of mid January a fire gutted part of the Fitness Centre and caused extensive damage to adjoin­ ing rooms and the roof of the hall. Thanks to the deci­ sive actions of John Nicholls, who was onsite and called the fire brigade, further damage was averted.

John smelt and noticed smoke rising out of the windows of the schools fitness centre and called the fire brigade. He also unlocked and opened all the gates to the school giv­ ing the fire brigade complete access. Pacing out the dis­ tance from the nearest fire hydrant to the blaze Mr. Nicholls’s was able to give information to aid the firemen setting up equipment to fight the fire.

A parent of two boys at Muirfield, John was donating his time working in the schools garden ensuring they would look good for the students return and survive the hot weather. Apparently the stifling temperature in the room where the fire started was above 50 degrees. This tem­ perature had built up over a few hot days and started an electric fire in a treadmill. If it wasn’t for the actions of Mr. Nicholls “the fire would have spread to the adjoining B block and library as well as destroying the Hall, Music rooms and the refurbished can­ teen”, said a NSW Fire Brigade officer. Our General Assis­

tant Mr. Rod Thwaites (pictured) also gave us invalu­ able assistance.

Muirfield Matters Week 4 Term 1 2007, Page 8

MUIRFIELD FIRE JANUARY 20 After such an enjoyable and successful Swimming Carnival on 16 February I am sure everyone is awaiting the House point results……...wwweeeelllllllllll you are just going to have to wait a little while longer as the points are tallied! In the next edition of Muirfield Matters we will announce the winning house as well as record times and which students will be representing Muirfield High School at Zone.

Maybe they should have got some Maths teachers to work out the points!!!!

SWIMMING CARNIVAL

Muirfield Matters Week 4 Term 1 2007, Page 9

Welcome all parents and students to 2007. I hope you have all settled in well and are enjoying being back at school. I have received some correspondence and would like to invite students to take advantage of a couple of events coming up. 1. Lord of the Weeds

This is a national competition in which students are expected to investigate a local weedy area and write a report describing the area, the weeds) and the appropriate management options to control these weeds. This weedy area could be local to the school or your home. Prize money is offered to win­

ning national entries and winning student reports are pub­ lished on the internet. This gives both students and our school excellent recognition of achievement. Students sub­ mitting reports will also receive nationalised certificates from the Weeds CRC. What students have to do. Firstly, if they are interested they should see me such that they can register in the competition. Then, find a weedy area to investigate and write their report about! All details regarding the competition, report format, expectations etc. can be found at the following web address; http://www.weeds.crc.org.au/for_schools/competition.html This competition and subsequent reports can be submitted in groups or as individual work. My Role Provide advice on the project, guide students with their re­ port etc. register students in the competition and provide any resources which may be required. It should be noted that this activity, including the physical study of a weedy area and report writing must be done by the student in their own time. Very little time will be provided as release from normal classes. This should not be a deter­ rent to any student who wishes to be a part of this national event and quite possibly make a difference in their own lo­ cal area through winning a grant from the Weeds CRC to reclaim the area which they identified. Interested students should see Mr. Turner A.S.A.P as registra­ tion is due by the 23 February and reports are due by the 25 May 2007. Go get those Wascally Weeds!

2. “Hot Spell 2007” If you are aged between 11­13 and are a great spella spelare spellar speller, then this competi­ tion might be right up your alley! It is organised by SBS as part of a television series to be held later in 2007. Spelling trials will be held in March in Sydney. Applications and information are avail­

able from me or you can apply online at www.sbs.com.au Applications close 23 February, so be quick! All the best to you all, Mr. Turner, Acting Head Teacher (Teaching and Learning)

GIFTED & TALENTED OPPORTUNITIES

LIVING WITH TEENAGERS (6 weeks)

A group for parents led by our Adolescent and Family Counsellor, exploring issues such as : How to Communicate with your teenager Building Self Esteem Guidance and Discipline Drugs and Alcohol Depression in young people Caring for yourself

When: Tuesday evenings 7pm to 9pm February 27th to April 3 rd 2007

Where: The Cottage, 3 Hammers Rd Northmead.

Cost: $15 for the manual

Bookings essential. Book early for this popular course. Phone: 8839 5100

Muirfield Matters

NEW PLAYERS WELCOME! Under 6’s Free registration. Under 6’s & 7’s free Waratah shorts & socks. All players under U6 to U9 free Rugby ball, cap, tee shirt & drink bottle. Exist­ ing players brings in a new player and win an MP3 player

For further information please see our web site WWW.northrocksrugby.rugbynet.com.au

Or contact Jane : 0425248112 Email : carpenters.3@bigpond.com

Or Paul : 0417203098 or 98691897

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN ENGLISH??

Free Graduated Licensing Scheme Workshops for Learner Driver Parents

Young drivers are three times more likely to be in­ volved in casualty crashes. That's why the RTA has introduced a new licensing scheme, with more su­ pervised driving practice for learner drivers.

To help parents to supervise learner drivers, the RTA has set up a FREE 2 hour workshop for parents offer­ ing practical advice on how to help learner drivers become safer drivers.

A FREE RTA parents' workshop will be conducted by David Riches and hosted by Parramatta City Council on Monday March 19 th at Parramatta City Town Hall (Charles Byrne Room) from 6.00 pm – 8.00 pm.

Early bookings are essential, so phone Council on 9806 5144 now to reserve your place, or email parentworkshop@optusnet.com.au

Year 7 English What are we up to? Year 7 have settled into their English routine of: 10 minutes wide reading, 10 minutes journal writing in different text types, and then 55 minutes on the unit studied. Currently all year 7 classes are studying poetry to reinforce and learn all the different poetic techniques. This gives stu­ dents a chance to be creative and analytical. The first year 7 assessment task is a poetry anthology with an analysis of one poem. Below are a few samples of student work on poetry.

Haiku and analysis from Luke.

Blood Runs Red Red, crimson and evil. The sky is filled with rage In the field of war.

This Haiku gives the image of a war cursed battle ground. The colours ‘red’ and ‘crimson’ with the adjective ‘evil’ sug­ gests the stains of blood and the image of skeletons scat­ tered across the once peaceful meadow. I have used per­ sonification for the sky. The sky is sitting in anger, its rage is at the foolish humans below, it is powerless to stop the death.

A rhyming and simile poem from Taren

Insomnia I tried doing crosswords, I tried counting sheep But stayed wide awake, While the sheep fell asleep.

I tried humming lullabies, Drank hot milk with malt I sound proofed my room, Made it quiet as a vault.

I tried reading books, Both ponderous and boring But they kept me alert­ While the whole house was snoring.

I tried relaxation, And poses from yoga ‘Till my blanket was knotted My sheet like a toga.

I tossed and I turned Like a doomed vessel keeling I counted each crack, And nail in the ceiling.

One last desperate cure! I had up my sleeve I did all my homework, And earned a reprieve.

ZZZZ… drifting off to sleep It worked like a charm. Then Bringyyy! Clatter! Bringgy! Went the stupid alarm!!

North Rocks Junior Rugby Union Club

Week 4 Term 1 2007, Page 10

Muirfield Matters Week 4 Term 1 2007, Page 11

GENERAL AND SUBJECT CONTRIBUTIONS

YEAR 7 2007 Contribution (all students) Amount $

General School Contribution 60

School Technology Levy 20

Visual Arts 35

Design and Technology 35

Sports Fees 10

Science and Agriculture 15

Music 10

ID/Library Card 5

Sub­total = 190

Parents and Citizens contribution (per family)* * please note that this contribution is per family and not per child

100

Total payment = 290

YEAR 8 2007 Contribution (all students) Amount $

General School Contribution 60

School Technology Levy 15

Design and Technology 35

Electives (Drama, Music, Art, Japanese, Dance) ­two per year 50

Sub­total = 160.00

Parents and Citizens contribution (per family)* * please note that this contribution is per family and not per child

100

Total payment = 260.00

Please make cheques payable toMuirfield High School

YEAR 9 2007 Contribution (all students) Amount $ General School Contribution 90

School Technology Levy 20

Science 10

Sub­total = 120.00

Additional payment for elective subjects

Woodwork 45

Food Technology 45

CAD/ Graphic Technology 45

Computing Studies 30

Agriculture 20

Music 15

Visual Arts 45

Parents and Citizens contribution (per family)* * please note that this contribution is per family and not per child

100

Total payment =

Muirfield Matters Week 4 Term 1 2007, Page 12

YEAR 10 2007 Contribution for all students Amount $

General School Contribution 90 School Technology Levy 20 Science 10

Sub­total = 120.00 Additional fees for the following elective subjects Woodwork 45 Food Technology 45 CAD/ Graphic Technology 45 Computing Studies 30 Agriculture 20 Music 15 Visual Arts 45 Parents and Citizens contribution (per family)* * please note that this contribution is per family and not per child

100

Total payment =

YEAR 11 2007 Contribution for all students Amount $ General School Contribution 120 School Technology Levy 20

Sub­total = 140.00 Additional fees for the following elective subjects Visual Arts 55 Photography 70 Industrial Technology 50 Hospitality 100 Software Design and Development 25 Information Technology (VET) 35 Information Processes and Technologies 25 Primary Industries 20 Science (Chemistry, Physics, Biology); Senior Science 20 Music 20 Parents and Citizens contribution (per family)* * please note that this contribution is per family and not per child

100

Total payment =

YEAR 12 2007 Contribution for all students Amount $ General School Contribution 120

School Technology Levy 20

Sub­total = 140.00 Additional fees for the following elective subjects

Visual Arts 55

Photography 70

Industrial Technology 50

Primary Industries 20

Software Design and Development 25

Information Technology (VET) 35

Science (Chemistry, Physics, Biology); Senior Science 20

Music 20

Parents and Citizens contribution (per family)* * please note that this contribution is per family and not per child

100

Total payment =

Muirfield Matters Week 4 Term 1 2007, Page 13

Term 1 2007

Term 1 commences 30 th January Yr 7/11/12 31 ST January Yr 8/9/10

Yr 11 Camp 28th February– 2nd March Week 5A Year 7 and 8 ELLA 6th March Week 6B International Women’s Day 8th March Week 6B

Mother­Daughter Breakfast Open Day 15th March Week 7A Year 7 Parent Day 15th March Week 7A Year 12 Half­yearly exams begin 28th March Week 9A Year 11 Assessment Week begins 2nd April Week 10B Formal Assembly 3rd April Week 10B Term 1 concludes 5th April Week 10B

Term 2 Term 2 commences 24th April Week 1A Anzac Day holiday 25th April Week 1A Stage 4 meeting 7.00­8.30pm 1 st May Week 2B Year 7­10 Formal Assessment Week 7 th May­ 11 th May Week 3A Year 7 and 8 SNAP 8th May Week 3A

Year 7 Reports issued 21st June Week 9A Formal Merit Assembly 26 th June Week 10B

Muirfield High School Calendar 2007

PARENT INFORMATION

Year 7/11/12 Parent Teacher Night 3pm­7pm 22nd May Week 5A Yr 11/12 Reports issued on night/ BBQ

Year 8­10 Parent Teacher Night 3pm­ 7pm 21stJune Week 9A Reports issued on the night

Year 10 into Year 11 Information evening21st June Week 9A BBQ 6pm­7pm

Muirfield Matters 12 September 2005, Page 14

CHRISTMAS CHEER

“Christmas is here to bring lots of cheer” – well not for everyone. Farmers in Tullamore and Goulburn have been enduring the longest drought in one hundred years. So, with this in mind, the students from Muirfield High School’s Year 12 Agriculture class decided that their teacher, Ms Karen Heap, had a brilliant idea! As the students live in suburban Sydney, they are able to turn on the tap and have almost an unlimited amount of water us­ age and have not been subjected to the harsh conditions that the farming communities of Tullamore and Goulburn are facing during the drought. With the assistance of Ms Heap, the class of ten students have spent three weeks collecting donations from local businesses and members of the school community to enable them to send gifts to the farming communities in these areas. The students were able to collect two hundred gifts to be distributed. The gifts included books, biscuits, food hampers and pamper packs. The gifts collected were for the adults as we wanted to make Christmas more enjoyable for them as they often forego their own pleasures to provide for their children. “We stayed after school to wrap the gifts for the farmers, we hope they like them” said Jennifer Dunn, a member of the Agri­ culture class. “My year 12 Agriculture class has worked really hard to collect this many donations, they have done our school proud.” Said Ms Heap. The students also would like to thank Mr Billington, the school principal and all other staff and students for their assistance.