9 August 2019

Newsletter Articles

Congratulations to the cast of Spotlight! The Musical

Back row (L-R): Adam Greenwood, Connon Shepherd, Brayden Warner, Jack Meldrum, Leanne Coleman, Georgia Rawlinson, Monica Jenkins, Bethany-Kate Phillips, Demi Rogers.
Front row (L-R): Cooper Bliss, Akira Selway-Glaister, Toby Woods, Callum Rawlinson, Aneisha Whitmore, Taya Vardon, Bethany Hancock, Maisen McInerney, Taylor Skinner, Nicole Kruse and Kayla Malkin.

From Our Principal

Busy Times At Kapunda High…

Celebrating the Arts – Congratulations to the cast and crew of ‘SPOTLIGHT!’

“Arts education…is one of the most creative ways we have to find the gold that is buried just beneath the surface… [It is] training that prepares them to become confident young men and women”. (Richard W Riley, former US Secretary of Education).

If you didn’t get the opportunity to attend the school musical, Spotlight!, last week at the Chapel Theatre, then you definitely missed out on a great night’s entertainment.

The message of Spotlight! was ideal for a young and relatively inexperienced cast of students who had spent their lunchtimes over the past six months in rehearsal working together to create something special.

And ‘gold’ was definitely discovered with some fine individual and ensemble performances emerging. Hopefully, the students involved will be inspired to continue as future theatre opportunities emerge.

I’d especially like to acknowledge the amazing work of Mrs Christie Bridge who wrote this musical whilst on maternity/parenting leave in 2018 but also recorded the music, directed and produced the show. It was truly a labour of love – well done, Christie.

Thank you also to the small band of staff members, ex-students and parents who supported Christie on this journey. A special acknowledgement to former student, Shannon Skinner and teachers, Craig D Cope (Sound and Lighting) and Carolyn Thorne (Stage Manager) for their commitment to the production.

Celebrating the Arts: Country Music Camp

Earlier this week, six of our instrumental music students attended the annual country camp on the Yorke Peninsula – along with a healthy contingent from Kapunda Primary School. Culminating in a concert for family and friends at the Moonta Town Hall on Tuesday night, over sixty students from schools north of Adelaide came together to make magic…or at least wonderful music!

Many thanks to our resident music teacher, Mrs Carolyn Thorne, for her ongoing encouragement and support – as well as our visiting instrumental teacher, Mr Jacob Staer, for his work with our students.

Improving Academic Vocabulary – A School Improvement Focus

“The limits of my language are the limits of my mind. All I know is what I have words for” (Ludwig Wittgenstein)

At Kapunda High School we are always looking for opportunities to improve students’ achievements and a focus on literacy also fits with the Department of Education’s goal in developing a world-class education system that is based on what evidence says, ‘works’.

In a world where literacy skills are highly valued, it is not enough to use imprecise terms such as ‘stuff’ and ‘thing’ in formal written and verbal communication.

Our focus is on teachers in all learning areas teaching subject-specific vocabulary using a six-step approach that has been found to ‘work’ in a range of contexts.

As we commence this ‘journey’ this semester, the expectation is that all teachers will initially ‘trial’ this approach with at least one class. For most teachers, this will be a year 8 class but may also include other year levels.

At our recent staff development day, teachers practised the six-step approach with their colleagues and also shared ideas for step 6 – the game-playing element.

We will be measuring progress through the PIVOT student survey at the beginning of Term 4 – anticipating that our Year 8 students in particular will report that their teachers are having more of a focus on vocabulary.

However, longer term, we are looking to impact NAPLAN results in both reading and writing and also SACE results.

Swinburne University Camp Experience

Co-ordinated by the Country Education Foundation, ten of our Year 11 students had the opportunity to attend the Swinburne University Open Day in Melbourne recently.

Fully funded by the university, the students flew to Melbourne on Saturday, July 27 and returned home on Monday, July 29.

The visit to Swinburne University opened students’ eyes to a range of courses – particularly those with a hi-tech focus – as well as life on campus.

Whilst in Melbourne, the students also had a tour of the MCG and got to eat out in Chapel Street, South Yarra where they were staying. Again, all of this was paid for by the university.

Teachers, Mrs Erin Carpenter and Mr Shaun Hausler, reported that the students’ behaviour was ‘beyond exemplary’ and said that they had a fabulous time learning about university life and opportunities.

I’d like to thank the Country Education Foundation for making this possible and offering this opportunity to our students. The Kapunda High School Centenary Foundation which makes scholarships and grants available to our graduating students is affiliated with the Country Education Foundation.

Farewell to our Japanese Homestay Students

Last week we farewelled our Japanese homestay students at our fortnightly assembly. After arriving on Wednesday, July 24, the students participated in English language and cultural activities as well as visiting Kapunda and Freeling Primary Schools. Additionally, students and their homestay buddies went on an excursion to the Gorge Wildlife Park and enjoyed meeting our native animals.

I’d like to especially thank our ten homestay families for hosting the Japanese students. Students spoke about the rich experiences they had with ‘their’ families – heading to Adelaide, the beach, the market, the local Chocolate factory, the local football and netball, etc. All of this gave them great insight into Australian life.

A big thank you also to our local co-ordinators, Mrs Trish Sweet and Mrs Kristin Hodge – as well as the staff at Kapunda High School who offered a range of special lessons for the students.

ADVANCE NOTICE: School Closure and Staff Development Day (aka Pupil Free Day)

There will be a school closure on Monday, 2 September and a staff development day on Tuesday, 3 September.

There will be no school for students on either day.

On September 3, staff will be involved in a variety of learning related to formative assessment (continuing on from our recent staff development day), further work on vocabulary, career strategy and use of ‘smart classroom’.

Kristen Masters
Principal

Careers Pathways

Doorways 2 Construction Taster Day

Last week, our Year 9 students were offered the opportunity to engage in a Trade Taster Day; an opportunity to explore the Doorways 2 Construction Course in our Trade Training Centre on Hawke Street. They learned about what courses are on offer, what learning occurs – both theory and practical, what pathways undertaking these Vocational Education and Training (VET) Courses can lead to and how this learning fits within SACE completion.

There has been a lot of positive feedback (from the trainer, Mr Stansborough and the students) about what a positive experience it was.

Those who participated are now in a better position to know whether they wish to choose Doorways 2 Construction through the subject counselling process.

If parents/caregivers or students have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Penny Chancellor at penny.chancellor315@schools.sa.edu.au or on 8566 2203.

Capabilities PLP Chain Making Activity

Last Week, our Year 10 students, who are undertaking their first SACE subject, Personal Learning Plan, engaged in a Chain Making Activity.

Through this activity, the students ‘run their own business’ and have to manufacture paper chains under fairly intense and ‘high pressure’ conditions! Whilst there is a lot of fun had by class members (and a fair bit of competitiveness), this is also an opportunity to draw comparisons between the Paper Chain business and how this reflects or symbolises the work place our students will one day enter. We looked at what skills they used, what they improved the longer they ‘ran their business’ and how this relates to/why they will need to develop the SACE capabilities which are necessary to thrive in the ever-changing world of work:

• Literacy
• Numeracy
• Information and Communications Technology
• Critical and Creative Thinking
• Personal and Social
• Ethical Understanding
• Intercultural Understanding

Year 10 student parents and caregivers – it would be great if you could ask your child what they learned through this (and other class) activity(s) and what they know about the SACE Capabilities. Through reflecting on these deeply, they learn more about themselves which, in turn, helps them better connect to the learning opportunities and activities offered to explore future pathway options.

We were really impressed by the genuine way students engaged with this activity.

Penny Chancellor and PLP teachers

Tafe campus and short courses

Please see information from the Barossa Tafe campus below about upcoming short courses and longer courses delivered at that site. If you have any queries please don’t hesitate to contact Penny Chancellor at penny.chancellor315@schools.sa.edu.au or on 8566 2203.

Mock Interviewers

Next term, our Year 10 students undertake Mock Interviews as part of their learning and preparation for applying for employment positions both as students and beyond school. We have a number of very supportive, local employers, professionals and community members who have generously donated two hours of their time for several years in a row. Along with these mock interviews being authentic learning for our students, we have also received equally positive feedback from the interviewers who find the experience valuable also.

Each ‘Employer’ interviews five or six students for the same, school leaver role. They provide feedback on the cover letter and resume. Once the students have been interviewed, they invite the small group back and one candidate ‘wins’ the position – the interviewer explains what led them to make this decision. In this way, all students can then reflect on what they will do differently, or how they will better prepare for interviews in future.

Would you be willing to donate two hours of your time to support students with this learning experience? Do you know someone who you could suggest we contact? We would be really keen to hear from you. Please contact Penny Chancellor at penny.chancellor315@schools.sa.edu.au or on 8566 2203.

Penny Chancellor
Assistant Principal (VET, FLO, Careers)

Senior School Information

Looking for a career…

Anyone not sure of the career path they would like to follow should use one of the university or TAFESA online course navigators. These ask students a variety of general questions and then give a list of careers that could be of interest or provide information about a myriad of occupations. You don’t have to do a university course; it is designed to give you some ideas.

This term, in long home group, Year 12 students are looking at TafeSA and University new courses for 2020. Aerospace and Environmental Engineering, Cybersafety, Artificial Intelligence and Creative Industries are a focus this year.

Also, we have gone through the SATAC application process for tertiary studies. Keep an eye on the KHS Facebook page for the release of the new UNISA clip on applying through SATAC for tertiary courses in 2020.

Tertiary Open Days

Visitors can have campus tours, experience hands on activities, speak to current students and lecturers and besides having a fun day can pick up lots of information. Year 11 and 12 students have the option to attend the Flinders University Open Day on Friday, 16 August through the school.

Flinders University Open Day

Friday, 16 and Saturday, 17 August
9:30am - 3:30pm

UniSA Open Day

Sunday, 18 August 9:00am - 4:30pm
City East + West Campus

Adelaide University Open Day

Sunday, 18 August
9:00am - 4:00pm

TAFESA Open Day

Adelaide College of the Arts and Adelaide City Campus (Light Square)
Sunday, 18 August
10:30 – 2:30pm
Information Sessions

Visit the website

Tabor College of Higher Education Open Day

181 Goodwood Road, Millswood

ph 8373 8777
Saturday, 18 August 10:00am - 3:00pm
Tabor offers courses in: Arts, Counselling, Youth Work, Teaching, Ministry Theology and Culture, Education Support and VET courses.
Recent inclusions: Bachelor of Intercultural Studies, Bachelor of Ministry and Certificate III in Education Support.

Torrens University Open Day

82-98 Wakefield Street, Adelaide
enquiries@tua.edu.au

ph 1300 575803
Saturday, 17 August 9:00am - 1:00pm
Day In A Life workshops in September: spend half a day shadowing a student on campus
Torrens offer 9 Degree courses and 2 Diploma Courses, class sizes of 25 students, work on a trimester system and fast track for a 2 year completion. No prerequisites for courses. Guaranteed entry of 60/65 ATAR. All degrees have international experience.
Career focused programs in Business, Education, Design, Health, Nursing and Sports Management.

CQUniversity

44 Greenhill Rd, Wayville

Future Student enquiries 13 27 86
Offers Vet and University Studies.
Programs are offered in Accident Forensics, Occupational Health and Safety and Psychological Science (prerequisite: English), Information and Communications Technology.
Guaranteed entry of 65 ATAR.

Charles Darwin University

SATAC also processes applications for Charles Darwin University located in Darwin.

Minimum 60 ATAR for most courses

University and VET courses

Most popular courses Education, Law, Nursing, Psychological Science, Social work and Engineering.

All universities have course and admissions information in the SATAC Guide 2020

The next Newsletter will feature new courses and FAQs about the admissions process. Pathways into tertiary study, the STAT test, the ATAR and the CSPA test (TAFESA).

Tracy Warner
Assistant Principal, Senior School/SACE/HPE

$20,000 available in 2020 from Kapunda High School Centenary Foundation

Many rural and regional students thinking about university study or vocational training courses have no idea what the expected costs will be, and many will be reluctant to take on that risk according to the Country Education Foundation of Australia (CEF), of which Kapunda High School Centenary Foundation is a member.

Said Centenary Foundation Secretary, Mrs Anne Hornsey, “Each year since the start of our Centenary Foundation in 2007, we have noticed a significant increase in the need for financial support to country students. We are pleased our Foundation has been able to make a difference to a number of these students”

To help allay some of that financial worry, and to encourage students to commence their tertiary studies or training in 2020, the Centenary Foundation has recently released details of its grant offerings for 2020.

Including $10,000 worth of continuing support in 2020, there is another $20,000 available in grants available to current senior students, and former Kapunda High School students who will be under 25 years of age as at 1 January 2020.

At a recent Information Session for Years 12s held at Kapunda High School, Mrs Hornsey advised students that a total of $215,000 had been made available to almost 80 successful applicants, since the first grant was made in 2009.

Principal Ms Kristen Masters addressed students on what the Selection Panel would be looking for at the interview level of the selection process and advised all students to put significant effort into presenting themselves in the best possible way.

Three students who had received grants for 2019, Patrick Dempsey, Courtney Loffler and Michaela Massey returned to the school and spoke of their experiences to the current students. They expressed appreciation to the Centenary Foundation for its support and encouraged all students to ‘have a go’ and apply for the offerings available.

Students may apply for the local Foundation scholarships via the Country Education Foundation website:

In the first instance, applications are to be made online. The local Selection Panel will then choose which applicants will move onto the interview round in the Selection process. Applications close on 30 September 2019.

At the recent Year 12 Information Session on the 2020 Centenary Foundation Grants available were: (L to R ) Patrick Dempsey, Courtney Loffler, Corey Wall, Michaela Massey, Thomas McInerney and Lucy Drewett.

9-A-Side Football

Five KHS teams (three boys and two girls) of Year 9 students enjoyed a fun day ‘having a go’ at playing games of football against other schools: Burra, Eudunda, Balaklava and Clare.

Community Notices

Young Carers Fundraiser Trivia Night

Friday 9 August

Barossa Valley Golf Club
191 Golf Course Road, Nuriootpa
$10 per person
Tickets from CADL prior to event or online @ www.humanitix.com.au
Starts 6pm, BYO snacks. Drinks and hot food available over bar
RSVP: Carers and Disability Link Ph 8562 4000
Come along to this family friendly event and support young carers in our community

Saver Plus

Year 12 students - 2020 Hawker Scholarship

Applications for the 2020 Charles Hawker Scholarships open on 9 December, 2019 and close on 8 January, 2020. An application form and further information about C.A.S. Hawker and the scholarship is available from the link below or by contacting the secretary to the Trustees in Adelaide on 08 8127 1654.

Hawker Scholarships are valued at up to $60,000.00 over three years and are amongst the most generous privately funded residential scholarships available to Australian undergraduate and postgraduate students.

There are a number of scholarships awarded each year. The Trustees offer them to capable students of principle and character, who have demonstrated a committed to the wider community. Selection is based on personal qualities, as well as academic ability.

Since 1990, the Hawker Scholarship Trustees have awarded $6 million dollars to 126 Australian students, including a significant number from regional areas.

The Young Writer's Award is now open!

Warm up your pens and start writing those amazing stories. Entries close on 16 December.

Young Writers - check out the resources available to you by visiting the Writers Toolbox on the Young Writers' Award website.

Be inspired - grab a copy of one of our prior year’s winners today - just click here

For more information visit: