MUIRFIELD HIGH

SCHOOL

Term 1 Week 3 Issue 1 2018

Muirfield Matters

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

From Ms Reeves:

HSC Results

School Uniform

New Staff

Cola Resurface

School Photos

School

Contributions Year 7 Starting

High School Year 12

Valentines Day

1

2

3

3

4

4

5

5

Year 12 Dress Up 6

From the P&C 7-8

Black Jacket

Pre-Orders

9

Volunteering in

Schools

10-

17

Student

Executive

Leadership

Course

18

NSW School

Vaccination

Program

19

Sporting

Achievements

20

How to Pay

Online at

Muirfield

21

Calendar of

Events

23

From the Principal: Ms Reeves

A big welcome to all parents and students to the 2018

academic year, after what I hope was a restful and

enjoyable holiday. I especially welcome our new parents

who have children commencing at Muirfield for the first

time this year. I sincerely hope your involvement with

Muirfield will be happy and beneficial.

Outstanding HSC Results

We congratulate our 2017 Year 12 for their many outstanding results. Our

Dux was Clare Bickham with an ATAR of 95.25. Clare had a broad

pattern of study – English (Advanced), Legal Studies, Mathematics,

Modern History and PDHPE. With Band 6s in three of her subjects and

Band 5s in two, Clare was rewarded for her hard work and sharp

intellect. Close on Clare’s heels was Caitlin Pollitt, with an ATAR of 95.1.

Caitlin also studied a broad range of subjects – English (Advanced),

Ancient History, Biology, Mathematics General 2 and Visual Arts – and

also gained three Band 6s and two Band 5s.

Mr Carpenter had yet another year with a student on the Top Achievers

in Course merit list for Information and Digital Technologies (IDT).

Matthew Swain came second in the state in IDT. Matt undertook IDT as

an accelerated student, sitting the HSC exam for IDT while in Year 11. Mr

Carpenter has had a student on the Top Achievers in Course, which lists

student who are placed in the top 10 in the state in the course, four out

of the last five years in IDT.

Clare Caitlin Matt

Page 2 Muirfield Matters

Twenty-four students were placed on the Distinguished Achievers List for a range of

courses.

Again, as was the case last year, over 80% of our courses had a greater

percentage of students in the top three bands than the state. Well done to all our

students and teachers.

School Uniform

It was really pleasing to stand under the COLA at our recent assemblies and see our

students return for the beginning of the academic year so well attired. Students

looked marvellous in crisp new shirts and appropriate black leather shoes. It is now

most important that this wonderful standard be maintained throughout the year.

Parental support of our school uniform policy is vital to maintaining this high

standard

Mark Arblaster English Ext 1

Isabel Barton Biology, PDHPE, Primary Industries

Joshua Bednar Business Studies, Mathematics

Nathan Bicerra PDHPE

Clare Bickham Legal Studies, Modern History, PDHPE

Lauryn Brown Modern History, PDHPE, Society and Culture

Rachelle Duffy Ancient History, English (Advanced)

Claire Garment Music 1

Georgina Harris Senior Science

Thomas Hunt Mathematics General 2, Music 1

Qiuyang Li ( Lydia) Mathematics, Mathematics Ext 1

Julie Linder English (Advanced), Legal Studies, Visual Arts

Josephine Mace English (Advanced)

Andrew Milne Legal Studies, PDHPE

Kate Milne Ancient History, English (Advanced), Primary

Industries

Amir Nikibin Senior Science

Caitlin Pollitt English (Advanced), Ancient History, Visual Arts

Jake Roeleven Software, Design and Development

Ben Stollery Mathematics General 2

Meg Stummer Biology, Primary Industries

Matthew Swain IDT

Kalpa Wijesekera Information Process and Technology

Caitlin Wilby English Ext 2

Page 3 Issue 1 2018

New Staff for 2018

As you know, we farewelled Mrs Sonja Anderson on the last teacher day of the

school year, as she was successful in gaining a promotion. Mrs Anderson was the

Deputy at Muirfield for over 10 years. We wish her the best and know that she will be

an excellent leader at Glenwood High School. We will be advertising the position this

term and should have a new Deputy to start Term 2.

We have had a small number of changes among the teaching staff. I welcome the

new teachers to our community. I know they will find this a wonderful place to teach.

Ms Stella Smit, HSIE, replacing Ms Eagle.

Ms Gita Uppal, Mathematics, replacing Mr Alvarez.

We are currently advertising for an Agriculture/Science teacher and an English/VET

Entertainment teacher.

New COLA Surface

Over the holidays, the resurfacing of

the COLA was completed. It certainly

makes the area look much more

pleasant. New dual-purpose netball

and basketball goals were also

installed, increasing the useability of the

courts. The work was largely funded by

the P&C. Mrs Williams, P&C President,

was successful in gaining a grant for

the refurbishment. I thank Mrs Williams

for her continuous work in supporting

Muirfield. Through her grant applications and active work in fundraising, many

improvements have been possible.

Ms Uppal Ms Smit

Page 4 Muirfield Matters

School Photographs

Mrs Scott did a wonderful job organising Photo Day. These photographs serve as a

wonderful memento of school life and are great to look back on in years to come.

The Year 12 Fun Photo continues to be a tradition at Muirfield where students show

amazing creativity and a great sense of fun.

School Contributions

Last year we sent out invoices for 2018 fees. The invoice contained full costing of

elective fees and general contributions. I thank those families who have already

paid the invoices. Subject contributions are used to purchase consumables for use

in class. The general contributions are used to fund the extras we all would like our

children to have and that are not provided for in government funding, such as

on-site technology support and improved outdoor facilities.

Fees are necessary for student electives to continue in their current format, while

the general contribution supports a variety of student programs and needs,

including the purchase of the most appropriate texts and resources to support

student learning. Parents will note the P&C contribution, which is also included on

these schedules. The P&C funds have been used to install air conditioners, replace

shade sails and install motorised blinds in cathedral ceilings in classroom. These

improvements make a great difference to the amenity, and to the experiences and

comfort of students.

It is most fortunate our parents and community do so strongly support the school

and value the education their sons and daughters receive. We need this support to

continue in 2018.

Page 5 Issue 1 2018

Year 7 starting high school

Since starting at Muirfield, Year 7 students have been plunged into school life. This big

step has been aided by our wonderful Year 11 Peer Support Leaders who have done

a marvellous job of organising activities and supporting students in their transition to

high school. My congratulations are extended to Ms Au for her fabulous organisation

of the program.

Next week, Year 7 head off to camp. This always proves to be the best way for

students to make new friendships, as well as building confidence and independence.

Year 12 Valentine’s Day celebrations

One of the lovely traditions at Muirfield is the Year

12 Valentine’s Day roses and serenading. Students

and staff order roses or songs to be delivered to

someone to show they care. The singers serenade

the lucky and loved recipient in class, the

playground or the office. I loved my song from an

anonymous admirer! This year’s performers

included Matt Swain, Aidan Marshall and Tim

McNee.

YEAR 12 DRESS UP

Will the real Mr Skevington step forward

Page 7 Muirfield Matters

From the P&C

Muirfield P&C Canteen:

If you would like to volunteer for one day per month to assist in our amazing

canteen, please speak to Jannine in the canteen, or email the committee at

mhs.pnc.canteen@gmail.com. We do appreciate and rely on all the help from the

wonderful canteen volunteers. We ask that new parents to Muirfield consider helping

out in canteen once per month – it is a lot of fun (with a little satisfying hard work!).

As the school is growing we really do need more volunteers.

Our Canteen Committee also requires some new members to assist with the smooth

operations in the canteen. A convenor and secretary are required. The canteen

AGM will take place on 6th March at 7.30pm. Feel free to email if you are interested:

mhs.pnc.canteen@gmail.com

A special mention to our canteen staff, Jannine and Jeannie, for running such a

clean and efficient canteen. The canteen has recently undergone inspection by the

Council Health Inspector who deemed it “the cleanest canteen I’ve ever seen” Well

done!

Muirfield P&C Uniform Shop

The Uniform Shop opening hours for 2018 are Monday and Thursday lunchtimes

12.30pm-1.30pm and the first Monday of the month, from 5.30pm – 7.00pm.

Please email Muirfield Uniform Shop queries to: mhs.pnc.uniform@gmail.com.

Note that the next uniform committee meeting will be held on Monday 5th March at

7pm in the school common room. This will be the AGM and we do require some new

members. Please email queries to mhs.pnc.uniform@gmail.com.

BLACK FLEECE JACKET ORDERS: It is time to plan ahead for winter.

See the attached flyer for instructions on how to order your black fleece winter

jackets via the Qkr! App/online. Note that orders will only be accepted up until bthe

end of Term 1, 2018.

***Black Fleece Jackets are available for pre-order only via Qkr!***

***Cost per jacket is $65***

***Orders taken in advance for delivery in Term 2 of 2018***

Thank you to those who have already placed their orders at orientation day.

Please note that Uniform Shop orders CANNOT be made via the

‘Muirfield High School’ website payment system

Page 8 Issue 1 2018

PARENT AND CAREGIVERS PLEASE DO NOT DRIVE INTO THE SCHOOL

GROUNDS

In the interests of student safety, parents and caregivers

are not permitted to drive onto school grounds at any time,

including before or after school, to drop off or collect

students, or to attend meetings with staff. There are

deliveries and staff accessing the car park at different

times during the day and the access is very narrow.

The only exceptions to this are when either you or your

passenger has a disability or if you are picking up a sick or

injured student.

STUDENT SAFETY IS UP TO ALL OF US

THANK YOU FOR PLAYING YOUR PART

P&C Positions:

We will be endorsing our newly elected nominees into their positions at our AGM on

14th March at 7.30pm in the school common room.

We do require a new P&C President as my three year term has come to an end. I am

willing and able to provide support and guidance to a parent who may be interested

and I have nominated for a Vice President role.

The P&C President role includes chairing of the P&C meetings on the second

Wednesday of the month (Approx. 6 meetings per year) and is also the chief liaison/

contact with the school for P&C related matters. Please feel free to contact me by

email, if you wish to find out more.

Please register your interest or send any questions via email to:

muirfield.p.and.c@gmail.com

GRANTS for individual sporting champions:

If any young sportsmen and women aged 12-18 years are “competing, coaching or

officiating at an official national sporting organisation (NSO) endorsed state, national

or international sporting championships, or a School Sport Australia state, national or

international championships”, this link provides information about an Australian Sports

Commission grant opportunity that they may be eligible to apply for: http://

www.ausport.gov.au/ais/grants_and_funding/local_sporting_champions

Narelle Williams – President

muirfield.p.and.c@gmail.com

Page 9 Muirfield Matters

BLACK JACKET PRE-ORDERS

Muirfield High School Black Fleece Jackets may now be ordered using our online

payment system. Our school winter jackets are fleece-lined, water and wind

resistant and very warm!

The P&C is accepting jacket pre-orders ONLY via the Qkr! payment system.

Pronounced “quicker”, Qkr! is a free and easy-to-use mobile app for iPhones and

Android smartphones that makes ordering uniform items very simple. We hope to

streamline the ordering and delivery of the jackets using online ordering.

***Black Fleece Jackets are available for pre-order only via Qkr!***

***Cost per jacket is $65***

***Orders taken in advance for delivery in Term 2 of 2018***

Why is Qkr! better for parents?

It is a secure mobile app that allows fast and

easy payments.

It gives parents or students the flexibility to

place orders when it is convenient for them.

There is no need to load funds in advance.

Parents or students need to use a credit or

debit card to make payment with.

How do you get Qkr! app?

Go to App Store on your iPhone or Google Play on your android phone.

Search for Qkr! by MasterCard and download the free app.

Follow registration instructions or sign in if you have already registered.

Use the search tool at the top right of screen to search for “Muirfield High

School” or if you have ‘location” enabled in your phone settings, just select

“Muirfield High School”

Complete the student profile for each child.

Select the Winter black jacket from the Menu.

Proceed to select the correct size and number of jackets required.

Then proceed to your shopping cart to add your card details for payment.

What if I don't have a smart phone?

You can use Qkr! online. You will need to register and you will then be able to order

uniforms online. Go to https://qkr.mastercard.com/for-everyone-australia/ and

select “Use Qkr! Online”

Page 10 Issue 1 2018

How do I collect uniform items?

You will be notified via the registered email address when the Black Fleece Jacket

orders will be available for collection by students. Jackets are anticipated to be ready

for collection in March.

Will Qkr! be used for other payments?

Muirfield P&C will explore extending online payments for other uniform items in the

future. If you require further information or have any concerns, please email Muirfield

P&C Assoc. Uniform Shop Committee on mhs.pnc.uniform@gmail.com.

**Please note that Uniform Shop orders CANNOT be made via the

‘Muirfield High School’ website payment system.

Child Protection for P&C Volunteers

It is the Department of Education requirement (see attached Fact Sheet) that all

parents and close relatives of children in the school, before they volunteer, must:

1 Provide 100 points of identification (See Appendix 6 Proof of Identity on pages 12

&13

2. Complete Appendix 5 Declaration for volunteers and non child related

contractors (See pages 14-17)

The front office staff are required by the Department of Education to check the

individual on the Departments “Not to be employed” list.

FACT SHEET

APPENDIX 6

APPENDIX 6

APPENDIX 5

APPENDIX 5

APPENDIX 5

APPENDIX 5

Page 18 Muirfield Matters

Student Executive Leadership Course

On the final two days of Term 4 in 2017, the Student Executive team ran a leadership

course for students in years 7-10. This successful program was aimed at developing

the leadership skills of individuals.

Upon arrival, students were divided into teams, where they were encouraged to

participate in a series of team-building activities and brainstorming challenges. These

activities included: scavenger hunt, music challenge, mini Olympics, newspaper

dress-up, and pass the parcel. In addition to this, students were also given the

opportunity to give back to the school through community service. Each team was

allocated to a teacher and an area within the school. The Red Team did a

remarkable job helping the PDHPE staff clean out and organise the sport store rooms.

However it was not all purely fun and games. We were lucky enough to have Craig

McNee, from the Tactical Operations Unit of the NSW Police, talk to the students

about the importance of leadership in everyday life. His inspiring and motivating

words of wisdom were much appreciated.

The victorious team won a well-deserved box of chocolates, for their overall spirit and

teamwork throughout the camp. However, the real champions of the day were the

Student Executive team, with the addition of Brittany Miller, Karla Wise, and Caleb

Jones. Finally, a big thank you to Ms Ansoul and Ms Smith for providing both

supervision and guidance in organising the course.

Page 20 Muirfield Matters

Sporting Achievements

Congratulations to Chris, Year 12 ,who

did extremely well at the Pacific School

Games that were held in Adelaide in

December 2017. He won Silver in 16 Boys

3 metre and 15/16 Boys mixed Synchro,

Bronze in16 boys 1 metre and 4th in 15/16

Boys Platform.

Congratulation so Zara, Year 11,

who won the 2017 NSW Junior Inter-

national Tournament

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Study Sensei Year 11

Future Park Excursion

Yr 11 & 12 Parent Teacher night & Elevate

International Womens Day Breakfast

Yr 8 Swim School

Hills Zone Open Netball trials

Yr 11 Chemistry Excursion

Open Evening

Hills Zone Open Basketball trials

Zone Swimming Carnival

Swimming Carnival

Yr 7 Camp Yr 12 Society & Culture Excursion

Yr 12 Hospitality Work Placement

Harmony Day food stalls

Yr 7 Open Classroom

Cross Country Yr10 Young Men’s Health Forum

Merit Assembly

Yr10 Science & En-gineering Excursion

Yr 9 Museum of Disease Excursion

Harmony Day wear orange

COMMUNITY NEWS AND ADVERTISEMENTS

Disclaimer: Advertisements placed in the school’s newsletter do not reflect an endorsement or otherwise by

Muirfield High School of that product or service

COMMUNITY NEWS AND ADVERTISMENTS

COMMUNITY NEWS AND ADVERTISMENTS

COMMUNITY NEWS AND ADVERTISMENTS

COMMUNITY NEWS AND ADVERTISMENTS

We are writing to let you know that the Parramatta Boys

Squadron of the Australian Air League has is enrolling ca-

dets for 2018 at its new meeting location at LOT 1 Edison

Parade, Winston Hills NSW 2153 on Tuesday evenings

from 7:15 until 9:15pm.

The Parramatta Boys Squadron is one of the oldest Squadrons in

the Australian Air League, forming in 1935 and for many

years met in their hall at Jubilee Park, Parramatta. Unfortunately,

progress took its toll and the hall that the Squadron had met in

since the 1940s will soon be redeveloped, so the Squadron has

taken the opportunity to move into a new area at Winston Hills. The Air League is inviting young people, who may be interested, to come down with their parents and learn

what the Air League has to offer. The Australian Air League is a nationwide organisation for young people aged

from 8 to 18 years. Staffed by volunteers and self-funding, it teaches leadership skills and provides a wide range

of interesting and exciting activities such as camping and hiking, sport and physical recreation, building and flying

model aircraft and ceremonial drill. Through classes and practical demonstration members learn the theory of

aviation and a wide range of associated topics such as Meteorology, Navigation, Aero Engines and Aircraft

Construction, as well as general interest subjects such as photography, field craft and community service. The Air League also provides a range of flying experiences for its members, from simple scenic joy flights

through to gliding and powered-flying training, from private pilot licence (PPL) through to airline entry stand-

ards – all in aircraft owned, operated and professionally maintained by our staff. Running a strong program that is both fun and educational, the Australian Air League is making fine citizens out

of young Australians. Currently there are also a number of other Squadrons in Western Sydney including

Penrith, Richmond, and Blacktown as well as Squadrons at Epping and Ryde. Girls with an interest in

aviation may also contact the Blacktown Girls Squadron via our 1800 number below. For more information please contact: Parramatta Squadron c/- Peter Gledhill <education.nswbg@airleague.com.au> Or NSW Group Raymond Bell (1800 502 175)