CALLING Issue 49 - February 2014
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Queen Margaret
CALLING Issue 49 - February 2014
Issue 49 – February 2014 – QUEEN MARGARET CALLING 1
From the Principal
Delivered to my office recently was a suitcase that belonged to Old
Girl, Diana Beauchamp (1953- 1956). Inside were mementoes
from her time at the College: a gut-stringed tennis racket in a press;
a frayed panama hat with friends’ signatures on the brim; sports
badges; house colours; school magazines and exercise books filled
with cursive script written in faded blue ink. This glimpse into
the life of a QMC school girl sixty years ago illustrates how much
education and society generally have changed over the time.
A
s an independent school it is essential that we are exciting possibilities and fresh challenges. In 2013 we restructured
responsive to change. Our students will live and work in the school management and appointed a new leadership team
a world that will depend on their readiness to access new to start in 2014. We begin this year with the Senior, Middle and
ideas and adapt to change with energy and confidence. Of course the Junior Schools all led by a Head of School responsible for both the
College traditions such as the prefect system, the silent, reflective pastoral and academic needs of students. This arrangement best fits
walk to assembly and House competitions, established early on in our curriculum offering of the three International Baccalaureate
our history, are greatly valued. These enduring rituals give us roots, programmes and provides a focused approach to address the needs
a sense of belonging and continuation. However, it is change that of girls at various stages in their development.
gives us branches, letting us stretch and grow and reach new heights. In this edition we profile the three new Heads of School. I am
A former Principal, Molly Gambrill, wrote in the 1961 Te privileged to lead this team of experienced, vibrant, and interesting
Karere: “Both tradition and the adventurous spirit which welcomes teaching professionals. I look forward to working with all of the
change have a place in our school life. Each is needed to balance the new Heads and believe that this new arrangement will optimize
other. Tradition is vitally necessary in the shaping of the essential learning outcomes for girls and continue the ongoing and exciting
qualities which youth needs to be guided towards, but here its development of the College.
influence should end. From here the will for progress should take All the best for 2014.
over. Nothing can stand still - life is constant change- to be really
alive we must change also.”
Education is a cyclic process with new students enrolled each
year and new staff appointed. 2014, like any new school year, presents Carol Craymer
2 Issue 49 – February 2014 – QUEEN MARGARET CALLING
From the Board Chair
Another new year begins at QMC and it is with some pride that
the school looks back on the achievements of last year.
A
cademically, outstanding IBD and NCEA examination 12. Another welcome
results were achieved by our students from 2013’s Year addition to the Board
13 students and also our current Year 12 and 13 students in 2014 is Guergana
and I congratulate these young women on their success (which Guermanoff, whose
you can read more about in this edition of QMCalling). The Board daughter Gabriella is
acknowledges the commitment and skill of the teachers who have in Year 6. Guergana
helped these girls achieve success. brings experience in the
At the end of the school year I attended the Leavers Dinner international education
where the 2013 Year 13 students were farewelled and noted with sector to the board,
interest what each of them recorded in their year book as their which we welcome at
destination for 2014. While a number were following the well a time when we want
worn path to New Zealand universities, it was clear that the to remain relevant to
opportunities for our students have expanded in a globalized world international students and consider some opportunities in that area.
with scholarships and places offered now to a range of universities I congratulate the new Heads of School on their appointment
outside New Zealand and pleasing to see QMC students doing so and look forward to their input into the running of the school.
well in those international selection processes. The global world With the restructured management team now in place, the Board
is more accessible every day and QMC seeks out experiences that will focus on the implementation of the strategic plan, Momentum
foster international-mindedness. Plus, published late last year, a copy of which has been posted on
The Board begins the year farewelling and thanking one of its the school website. As I noted last year, one of the components of
members, Andi Shirtcliffe, for her outstanding contribution to the our plan is a refresh of our property plan with the previous 5 year
College as President of the Parents’ Association and as a board cycle completed with the opening of the Hobson Development.
member. She is succeeded by an Old Girl Shonagh McLeod, owner That facility is now so well integrated into the life of the school, you
of Word of Mouth Catering, whose daughter Alexandra is in Year wonder how we got by without it!
We start this year with a strong roll, which is a
testament to the quality of the experience that our
teachers strive to provide to all our students. At the
start of the year it was my pleasure to attend the
traditional Prefects Commissioning Ceremony and
it was delightful to see a new Year 13 cohort step up
as student leaders. I wish them, the staff and all QMC
girls the best for 2014 and may it be as successful and
exciting as 2013.
Paul Foley
Guergana Guermanoff Shonagh McLeod
Contents Febraury 2014
2 From the Principal 13 Introducing...
3 From the Board Chair Leadership Trip
4 The Dual Qualification Pathway Success 14 Celebrations 2013
6 A Picture Tells a 1000 Words Community Service
Seventeen University Scholarships 15 Aquathlon QUOTS Challenge Queen Margaret College,
7 Two Perfect Scores 16 Musican: Eva Prowse 53 Hobson Street, PO Box 12274
8 Gold Not Once But Twice 17 President: Ruby Sycamore-Smith Thorndon, Wellington 6144
Kowhai Joy 18 Celebrating 70 Together
T 04-473-7160
9 Computer Programming Champions 19 Welcome Back to School 2007 - 2012
Bioethics Seminar Invigorates Year 6 Obituaries F 04-471-2773
10 The Old School Bell Rings in a New Era 20 America Bound E administration@qmc.school.nz
12 2014 Leaders www.qmc.school.nz
Issue 49 – February 2014 – QUEEN MARGARET CALLING 3
The Dual Qualification
Top IB Diploma and NCEA Scholars
Tamara Jenkin Shruti Iyer Victoria Smaill Grace Huang Divya Patel
IB Diploma 45 IB Diploma 45 IB Diploma 43 IB Diploma 42 IB Diploma 42
Full marks in: Biology, Full marks in: Biology, Full marks in: Business & Full marks in: Chemistry, Full marks in: Business &
English, History, Japanese, Chemistry, Extended Essay, Management, Environmen- Extended Essay, Mandarin Management, Chemistry,
Mathematics SL, Theory of French B, Mathematics SL, tal Systems and Societies, ab initio, Physics Extended Essay, Mathemat-
Knowledge, Visual Arts Physics French B, Theory of Knowl- ics SL, Physics
edge, Visual Arts.
Mikayla Heesterman Jessica Palairet Jean Lean Kate Skinner Catherine Sangster
IB Diploma 40 IB Diploma 40 IB Diploma 40 NCEA Excellence NCEA Excellence
Full marks in: History, Full marks in: History, Mu- Full marks in: Extended Excellence in: Drama, Excellence in: Biology,
Mathematics SL, Visual sic, Theory of Knowledge Essay, Physics Physical Education Chemistry, Physics
Arts
Rosie Gordon Jessica Bunnell Rebecca Jones Long
NCEA Excellence NCEA Excellence NCEA Excellence
Excellence in: English, Excellence in: Visual Art Excellence in: Media Studies
Drama, Materials Technol- Photography
ogy
4 Issue 49 – February 2014 – QUEEN MARGARET CALLING
Pathway Success 2013
1 0 0 % o f o u r Ye a r 1 3 C o h o r t h a v e
gained University Entrance
Two Perfect IB Diploma Scores of 45
and a further six students were awarded
marks of 40 or over
100% Achieved NCEA Level 3
50% of L e vel 1 students achie ve d
C er tific ates of E xcellence
Further Individual Academic Success
An IB Diploma Individual Sub- Level 2 Certificates of Excellence Laura-Jane Douch
ject Grade 7 or ‘A’ Pass in Theory Hannah Andrews plus Excellence in Zahra Elmetri
of Knowledge (TOK) or Extended Level 3 Statistics & Modelling Brittany Eng
Essay Zofia Arthur Zoe Fuller
Aimee Alexander Extended Essay Anna Atkinson Amy Galvin
Olivia Chrisp Theatre Grace Carden-Horton Annabelle Hammond
Bronwyn Ensor Theatre Georgia Garden-Bachop Lauren Hansen
Imogen Finlayson Theatre Emma Gordon Caitlin Heesterman
Erica Lee Japanese, TOK Charlotte Hewson plus Excellence in Brittany Hogan
Jessie Payne Extended Essay, TOK Level 3 Statistics & Modelling Peri Jeffries
Casey Pattinson Film, Theatre Grace Robinson Jessica Kanji
Arlia Roselin Business & Manage- Sian Stephens Sabrina Kao
ment Georgia Stewart Kate Kenna
India Scully Theatre Madeline Tew Kezia Leuthart
Freya Slessor Theatre Loewn Whyman Zoe Lovell-Smith
Michelle Too Extended Essay Jayde Maguire
Xiaowei Qian Extended Essay Level 1 Certificates of Excellence Ayla Murphy
Sophie Arbuckle Amy Ngan Kee
Level 3 Excellence Subject Endorse- Sophie Ashton Maisie Ryall
ment Lucy Bolter Isabel Sheat
Kezzia Flynn Visual Art Photography Niamh Brady Kirsty Simpson
Kathy Marshall English Grace Brosnahan Antonina Smolnicki
Lia Penny Visual Art Photography Tabitha Byrne Sophie Stewart
Rosanna Reid Materials Technology Kenzy Cooper Charlotte van Boheemen
Lucy Riddle Physical Education Hannah Cope Hannah Withers
Ella Sheedy Physical Education Georgia Crawford Jessica Yule
Louisa Slack Materials Technology Fiona Curtis Luisa Zeilinger
Sou Mieng Tran Economics Lily Dalton
Issue 49 – February 2014 – QUEEN MARGARET CALLING 5
A Picture Tells a 1000 Words
Three outstanding achievements attained in NCEA Visual Arts Photography.
I
n the final week of Term 4, 2013, Georgia Stewart was informed commended. Jessica along with Kezzia Flynn (Year 13, 2013)
of her success in winning the Still Photography section for Year have also both had their photography boards selected for the Top
12 and 13 students in the Eyecon Canon Competition for her Art Annual Exhibition. The exhibition features the top NCEA
portfolio Reflections. Level 3 portfolios in Visual Art. The Top Art Exhibition provides
Georgia Stewart who is now in Year 13 explains her Reflection an opportunity for secondary students and teachers to gain an
portfolio. “For my series of work, Reflections, I explored the idea understanding of what is required to achieve Excellence at Level 3.
of loss and grief, and the hole it leaves in people’s lives. I lost my It also allows members of the public to see the high quality art being
mother to cancer two years
ago and wanted to depict the
emotional journey through my
body of work.
I did this through the
use of mirrors, showing the
outside world where the
deceased person no longer
exists, the mirror shows the
flipside of memories you are
left with. I used black and white
Above: Georgia Stewart’s Photography
photography on the premise
that it is more emotional. As
Ted Grant once said, “When
you photograph people in
colour, you photograph their
clothes. When you photograph
people in black and white, you
photograph their souls.”
In the same competition
Jessica Bunnell (Year 13,
2013) was awarded highly Jessica Bunnell’s Photography Kezzia Flynn’s Photography
Seventeen University Scholarships
A number of 2013 Year 13 students have been awarded one or more University Scholarships,
including two out of the ten University of Auckland Faculty of Law Scholarship and four over-
seas scholarships. We congratulate all those who received scholarships and wish them luck with
their future study.
Grace Huang Michelle Too
New York University, Abu Dhabi Scholarship University of Auckland Faculty of Law Scholarship
Bridget Liddell University of Canterbury Emerging Leader’s Scholarship
Four Year Tennis Scholarship Elon University, North Carolina, US Johnsonville Youth Grants Trust
Sophie Macadré Victoria Excellence Scholarship
Four Year Hockey Scholarship Michigan State University, US Divya Patel
Shruti Iyer Victoria Excellence Scholarship
University of Monash Scholarship Mikayla Heesterman
University of Otago Academic Excellence Scholarship Victoria Excellence Scholarship
University of Auckland Scholarship Catherine Sangster
Jessica Palairet Victoria Excellence Scholarship
University of Auckland Faculty of Law Scholarship Johanna Jacobson
University of Auckland Scholarship KPMG Internship 2014
Tamara Jenkin
Victoria Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Scholarship
6 Issue 49 – February 2014 – QUEEN MARGARET CALLING
Two Perfect Scores
Shruti Iyer and Tamara Jenkin gained perfect
marks of 45 in their IB Diploma.
I
n 2013 students from 2,463 schools in over 140 counties
participated in the IB Diploma. New Zealand currently has
thirteen schools offering this international qualification, which
has been running since 1968. Initially a qualification created for
globally mobile families, it has become increasingly appealing for
students who desire a broader, internationally focused education.
At Queen Margaret College a further six students gained marks
of 40 or more. All eight girls will receive special recognition in
the New Zealand IB Diploma Award Ceremony annually held at
Premier House in Auckland with other New Zealand students who
have gained marks of 40 or over.
“I offer my congratulations to Tamara and Shruti, for
their hard work and dedication over this two year pro-
gramme. We are all tremendously proud of their ac-
complishments.” Principal Carol Craymer. Shruti Iyer and Tamara Jenkin
Shruti Iyer talks about the IB Diploma and Tamara Jenkin talks about the IB Diploma
where she is heading next: and where she is heading next:
Where were you when you found out your mark? I was just Where were you when you found out your mark? Driving
back from India, my initial reaction was incredulous disbelief, home in the car. I had been at work all day, nervously anticipating
followed by feeling absolutely ecstatic. checking my results that night. When I received my result I was
What subjects had you studied? Three higher level sciences ecstatic. I had never expected 45: my predicted grade was lower and
- Physics, Chemistry and Biology - as well as standard level I really had the impression it was unachievable.
Mathematics, French and English. What subjects had you taken? English, Japanese, History,
What was your Extended Essay on? I chose to do my Extended Maths, Biology, Art
Essay in the field of biology. My entire project was based on the What was your Extended Essay on? I did my extended essay
effects of antioxidants on living cells. So naturally I learnt a lot about in English and the topic was “Religious Allusion in the Lord of the
antioxidants and their importance and explored the controversy Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien”. I really had fun looking more deeply at
surrounding prescribed antioxidants. I also discovered some one of my favourite series and was able to develop my writing style.
important generic skills such as how to manage my time better, What and where will you study? I have decided to study an
how to match things up to the criteria and how to layout a scientific LLB/BA at Victoria University in Wellington. I’m planning a career
paper. in international human rights law and this degree enables me to do
What University Scholarships have you been offered? Law and Political Science/International Relations, as well as keeping
Initially I applied only for Otago University and Auckland up with my Japanese which I love. With this as my chosen course,
University which are the only two universities that currently offer there wouldn’t be any substantial benefits if I went away to any other
Medicine in New Zealand. I then decided to investigate options in university. Victoria has a great reputation internationally, a lovely
Australia. I have been fortunate to have received a scholarship from atmosphere and an excellent Law school - so I’m very happily able
Otago University, Auckland University and Monash University. to stay in Wellington and be near my family.
What have you decided to do and where? I will be studying What is a defining moment from your education at Queen
Medicine at Monash University, Melbourne. Margaret College? It’s hard to pick a specific moment. Aside from
A defining moment for you at Queen Margaret College? I was having some amazing teachers and opportunities to get involved in
in Year 11, sitting in maths. I have always loved maths but I started so many different areas it was being part of such a phenomenally
to become complaisant about studying. During this particular intelligent and talented year group. I loved having a supportive,
lesson, I received some disappointing marks and realised my marks understanding community around me and enjoyed all our friendly
were slipping. This disappointment forced me to realise that if you competition! Apparently I came home after my first day and said I
truly want something, you simply cannot count on luck and natural loved QMC already because “there are people like me there”.
ability. I learnt the value of hard work. My mum also wisely told me What has been the best part about completing the IB Diploma
at the time, I had to learn to use my failures as stepping stones to for you? The best parts of completing IB Diploma were being able
achieve my next goals. Both of these had a profound impact on my to push myself, do research into topics I found interesting and learn
academic life and on the rest of my life in general. great time management and study skills.
Issue 49 – February 2014 – QUEEN MARGARET CALLING 7
Gold Not Once But Twice
Ilena Shadbolt has received her second Gold Medal for ICAS writing, making her the top New
Zealand writer of her year twice in a row. In December 2013 she attended the award ceremony
in Auckland with her family and Principal, Carol Craymer, watching on.
I
lena had an excellent year in 2013, receiving the Year 7 school
prize for English, Mathematics, Physical Education and was
awarded the Kirsty and Merran Gunn Rosebowl. She also
represented the Wellington Region in Athletics, Cross-Country,
Netball and Triathlon.
Along with Ilena’s success Queen Margaret College students
achieved 12 High Distinctions, which puts the girls in the top 1%
and over 75 Distinctions, which is the top 10% over all six exams.
“Congratulations to all Queen Margaret College students who
sat ICAS exams in 2013. The exams are important aspects of our
Learning Enhancement Acceleration Programme (LEAP) as it
affords students a chance to be challenged through an international
examination. Opportunities such as these are significant learning
exercises during their foundation years and puts our girls in good
stead for future learning.” Carol Craymer comments.
The International Competitions and Assessments of Schools
(ICAS), offers Computer Skills, Mathematics, Science, Spelling,
Writing and English exams. The exams are sat by around two million
students from throughout Australia, Asia Pacific, Hong Kong, India,
Malaysia, Singapore, South Africa, the USA and New Zealand
annually.
Ilena is pictured with Peter, from our brother school Scots College, who was
awarded the Gold Medal for ICAS Science.
Kowhai Joy
D
uring the 2013 season of WOW Wearable Arts, Year 13
Materials Technology student, Lia Penny was given the
opportunity to display her garment Kowhai Joy in the
window at Te Papa. Now she has been given an opportunity to
permanently display her work in Auckland.
Sue Lytollis, the Communications Advisor for Women’s Refuge,
saw Lia’s work when it was on display at Queen Margaret College.
She noted how the yellow kowhai theme of Lia’s work struck a chord
with the Women’s Refuge branding and symbolic use of the kowhai
flower, which symbolises strength for women in Maori culture and
the yellow colour symbolises joy and new beginnings.
Lia has gifted her project work to the Women’s Refuge and it will
be on display as a centrepiece in their new Yellow Belle store, and
also in their organisation offices at a later date. This is a wonderful
collaboration and a perfect future use of Lia’s creation.
The garment was originally inspired by the kowhai flower in the
Te Papa photography image collection. The bodice of the garment
includes the use of Pak ‘n’ Save yellow plastic shopping bags.
Lia Penny is also the artist behind the cover of the 2014 edition
of Te Karere, a piece taken from her Year 13 Photography board.
Lia Penny with her garment, Kowhai Joy.
8 Issue 49 – February 2014 – QUEEN MARGARET CALLING
Computer Programming Champions
Some of the world first computer programmers were females. Take Grace Hopper for exam-
ple. She was one of the first programmers of the Harvard Mark I computer who developed the
first compiler for a computer programming language. Today computer programming is a male
dominated subject area. However, Queen Margaret College students are aiming to take back
the coding world where the number of well-paying jobs is set to double by the year 2020.
T
he College recently introduced computer programming
in Year 10 as part of the Digital Technology course. It is
arguably the most challenging aspect of the course.
In 2012 a Year 10 Queen Margaret College team won the
Wellington Regional Programming 4 Girls Challenge and in 2013
a new group of Year 10s attended the competition vying for their
chance to help retain the College’s title.
Jennika Patel, Katherine Lopez, Su Ying Shen, Charlotte
Hollywood, Grace Clark and Nicole Bewley joined forty other Year
10 students at the Wellington Regional Competition hosted by the
Victoria University School of Engineering. The challenge is a global
initiative held across multiple countries, including 17 locations in
New Zealand.
The competition involves a three part challenge in teams of two,
where the girls plan, create, programme, and test. After a prolonged
judging session, Su Ying Shen and Charlotte Hollywood were
awarded first place.
Judge, Dr Monique Damitio, with Su Ying Shen and Charlotte Hollywood.
The girls have further been invited to the national round of the
competition which is a three day event in April 2014. We wish them
both well and congratulate all six girls on their outstanding efforts. “The Committee is committed to actively seeking out highly
And as the world continues to respond to a need for more qualified women … to include in the pool from which Board
women in the computer programming world, Apple recently vowed nominees are chosen.”
to diversify its nearly all-white, all-male Board of Directors with a So maybe one day soon we will see a Queen Margaret College
tweak to its corporate charter. student sitting on the Apple Board of Directors.
Bioethics Seminar Invigorates Year 6
Q
ueen Margaret College hosted a number of Bioethics seminars for students
in the Middle School, as part of the Learning Enhancement Acceleration
Programme (LEAP) last year. This thought provoking seminar was
presented by Dr Deborah Stevens who towards the end of the year was invited to
return and lead a two hour programme with some Year 6 students.
Bioethics is a study into the controversial ethics which arise out of the advances
in biology and medicine. It looks into the morals of medical policy, practice and
research. Dr Stevens’ knowledge of the impact of contemporary culture on citizens’
values development, decision making, behaviour and wellbeing is grounded in her
background in science, psychology, education and public medicine.
After her seminar in Year 6 a number of the girls reflected on their experience:
“Awesome! This session completely opened my eyes. Two hours is not long
enough, I wish it went all day.” Laura Howell
“I had no idea what Bioethics was. It was a fantastic experience and I would like
to look more into the food side of it. Two hours was not enough. I loved it.” Lily de
Groen
“This has been an amazing opportunity. When I first walked in I had no idea
what Bioethics was and now I have a deep understanding.” Amelia Ware
“Before I came I had no idea what to expect, but when we started going two hours
felt nowhere near long enough. I wanted to keep on going.” Rebecca Stevens Dr Deborah Stevens
Issue 49 – February 2014 – QUEEN MARGARET CALLING 9
The Old School Bell Rings in a New Era
Kathleen McDonnell - Head of Junior School part of encouraging girls to explore all opportunities open to them
K
athleen McDonnell, former Deputy Principal, now fills without limitation.
the role of Head of Junior School. Kathleen has a Bachelor … students having their own device and access to ICT:
of Education from Victoria University and last year Having laptops and access to ICT in schools is important but more
completed her Master in Education from ACU, Sydney. A mother of important is the way in which they are used to enhance teaching and
two daughters who attend the College, she can often be seen taking learning. Unless the access to ICT or individual devices improves
students out for runs at lunch wearing her funky socks. learning outcomes and opens up new ways of knowing and doing,
Kathleen speaks on … we may as well stick with a slate and chalk.
… her philosophy towards teaching: Whether teaching three … gaining a global education: I think wherever children are
or fifteen year olds, it is critical to provide meaningful engaging they need to have an awareness of their place in the world. Context
learning experiences. is everything and in the first instance, our primary task is to open
Inquiry learning is the current ‘trend’ but good teachers have children to the possibilities engaging them first in their own context.
always taught in this way. From this microcosm, we can be part of their discovery of the global
Dewey wrote, “If you have doubts about how learning happens, macrocosm.
engage in sustained inquiry: study, ponder, consider alternative … subject of choice: I have a love of literature and film so if I
possibilities and arrive at your belief grounded in evidence.” had to reinvent myself as a teacher, it would be English.
The theories of Vygotksy, Bruner and Dewey, who promote … favourite Wellington Café: Maranui in Lyall Bay or closer to
active learning, inform my practice. home Prefab!
… the importance of single-sex education for females: In the … Favourite Book: Tim Winton’s Cloudstreet has to be the
1980s I was aware of the imbalances that were evident between the winner. He floats big themes on the ebb and flow of the tides of two
boys and girls. Through research and practice, I endeavoured to families and such beautiful wisdom emerges out of the journey of
address these issues. his characters.
In a girls’ school, we have to find balance between presenting … most awe inspiring location visited in the world: It would
strong messages for academic achievement and providing a plethora have to be the very beautiful Cape Leveque in the Kimberley. It is the
of additional opportunities for growth of confidence. north-westernmost point in Australia where red earth meets golden
… STEM education: It is imperative that we engage girls in sand and the aqua waters of the Indian Ocean.
Science, Technology and Mathematical activities from a very young … favourite quote: “What is our purpose? Happiness! How do
age. It goes with the territory of gender issues in education and is we get there? Kindness and compassion!” Dalai Lama
Rena Day - Head of Middle School sound technological decisions both in and out of school.
R
ena Day is from Ireland and has made her home in New … gaining a global education:
Zealand since 1991. She has a Bachelor of Arts in History, Being Irish myself with three ‘Kiwi’ sons I am fully aware that a
Geography and Sociology and Higher Diploma in Education global educational focus is paramount. Many students, because of
and Diploma in Religious Studies from the National University of their heritage, family employment or desire to be leaders in their field,
Ireland Maynooth and is currently half way through her Master in will study, work or vacation overseas. Therefore it is vital young New
Education from Victoria University, Wellington. Zealanders are educated so that they have the skills and knowledge
Rena Speaks on … necessary to compete with their counter-parts worldwide.
… her philosophy towards teaching: My philosophy of teaching … subject of choice:
is simply the realisation of human potential through inspirational The subject closest to my heart is History. It has been my passion
learning in and outside of the classroom. since childhood. In this subject you have the privilege of teaching
… the importance of single-sex education for females: As a and inspiring students to be the History makers of the future.
product of single sex schooling I endorse an all-girls environment … favourite Wellington Café:
and believe it leads to stronger educational outcomes. Through A local La Cloche. I have been going there for years.
it, girls are able to develop into articulate confident women who … Favourite Book:
interact positively with both men and women in the adult world. Ulysses by James Joyce is a great Irish masterpiece illustrating
… STEM education: STEM is designed to enhance education Joyce’s utter command of the English language.
in science, mathematics, engineering and technology by ensuring … favourite movie:
students develop the skills to excel in these traditionally male Made in Dagenham, it dramatises the 1968 Ford factory sewing
perceived subjects. STEM enables the students to extend their ability machinists strike that aimed for equal pay for women. It’s a film that
and understanding in these fields which connects the subjects to blatantly condemns sexism and shows, despite its mostly light tone,
the labour market. Our society needs New Zealand students to be the real cost of fighting for civil rights.
leaders in these fields to compete internationally. … favourite quote:
… students having their own device and access to ICT: It hangs in my office a gift from some of my previous students
Students today are ‘digital natives’ and our role as their ‘’be the change you wish to see in the world” Mahatma Gandhi.
educational hub is to ensure they have cutting edge ICT skills and
are digitally responsible citizens, intellectually articulate to make
10 Issue 49 – February 2014 – QUEEN MARGARET CALLINGSusan Watterson - Head of Senior School subjects of ‘choice’, but the very foundation of much of our economic
I
ntroducing Susan Watterson, who joined Queen Margaret society.
College to assist with the implementation of the IB Diploma. … students having their own device and access to ICT: Our
She has now successfully supported three cohorts to completion. education for our students must mimic what they will face in the
A self-explained, “life-long learner” she has two Masters degrees real world. Our focus is in sharpening their skills with programmes
(French and Educational Administration) and a Diploma in which will help students educationally and intellectually and also to
Education, Post Graduate Diploma in Second Language Teaching, make them aware of the misuse of technology, particularly in social
and Commerce Teacher’s Diploma. She also has a PhD in Education, media with its potential for so much good, yet so much harm.
which she gained in America. … gaining a global education: Gaining a global education
Susan speaks on … is well-entrenched at QMC. International-mindedness is not an
… her philosophy towards teaching: Students are setting out option - it is a prerequisite for a successful career.
on their journey of life and it is in our hands to make that journey … subject of choice: I have subjects for which I have more talent
as satisfying and fulfilling as possible. In most businesses, faulty and training than others and for me this is English Language and
products can be recalled. Our students cannot. They need to leave Literature, which I adore. Any foreign language is fascinating to me
us with the opportunity to be independent learners and responsible and is a portal to the world.
citizens. … favourite Wellington Café: I do not drink tea or coffee
… the importance of single-sex education for females: The old and live in a rural area of Paraparaumu! While Wellingtonians are
concept that somehow girls are deprived if they are not constantly in drinking coffee, in my free time I am cutting trees, mowing paddocks
the company of boys as in a co-educational school are now very dated and picking plums.
as modern girls enjoy the benefits of a focussed study programme … Favourite Book: Anything by Shakespeare, as I continue
in school and an active social life outside of school, where they mix to be fascinated by his deep knowledge of people, both men and
easily and confidently in mixed company. women of all classes, and his ability to convey universal themes.
… STEM education: The government aims to increase the skills … favourite movie: My favourite movie is a series of TV
of students in science, mathematics, engineering and technology. programmes which studied a diverse group of children in the UK
This is to meet the needs of the 21st century life and of the labour from age seven in 1964 till their current age of 56. It is called the
market, to improve science literacy across the population and Seven Up series and is unique in its longitudinal study of a group of
to make us, as a country, more internationally competitive. It is diverse children over a period of 49 years.
important that our students take their rightful place in a world … most awe inspiring location visited in the world: The most
where knowledge of these subjects is imperative as they are not just inspiring location to me is Alaska – the most beautiful state in the
world.
Issue 49 – February 2014 – QUEEN MARGARET CALLING 11QMC 2014 Leaders
Head Prefect Ella Brown
Deputy Head Prefect Grace Robinson
Junior School Prefect Zofia Arthur
Middle School Prefect Hazel Perkins
Middle School Prefect Alexandra Wright
Hobson Prefect Therese Featherston
Secondary Sports Prefect Hannah Andrews
Primary Sports Prefect Lucy Marsland
Music Prefect Charlotte Hewson
Drama Prefect Loewn Whyman
International Prefect Francesca Griffin
Community Service Prefect Sian Stephens
QUOTS Prefect Claudia Simpson
Berwick
Year 10 House Leader Caroline Lyons
Year 8 House Leader Kaylee Alexander-Hall
Year 6 House Leader Annika Bohra
Senior House Prefects Ella Monnery
Madeline Tew
Braemar
Year 10 House Leader Georgia Taylor
Year 8 House Leader Riley Newell
Year 6 House Leader Giuliana Barnett
Senior House Prefects Georgia Garden-Bachop
Matilda Walter
Glamis
Year 10 House Leader Hannah Sinkins
Year 8 House Leader Lily Symes
Year 6 House Leader Katharine Kominik Fraser
Senior House Prefects Grace Gaudin
Urvashi Patel
Lochleven
Year 10 House Leader Olivia Watson
Year 8 House Leader Lucy Gray
Year 6 House Leader Rachel Gillam
Senior House Prefects Sarah Lyford
Madison Robb
Stirling
Year 10 House Leader Claire Davis
Year 8 House Leader Eden Woodrow
Year 6 House Leader Emily Agate
Senior House Prefects Sarah Paulin
Emily Ross
12 Issue 49 – February 2014 – QUEEN MARGARET CALLINGIntroducing...
Ella Brown - Head Prefect
M
eet Ella Brown our Head Prefect in 2014. She has attended
Queen Margaret College since 2007. Ella followed in the
footsteps of her two older sisters, Rosey who now lives
in France and Lucy who is working in Auckland. Both are former
pupils. While Ella may be the youngest of three girls she has carved
out her own path to success.
Ella is a keen sports women so it is not hard to see why being able
to play competitive sport has been a defining aspect of college life
for her. She has been involved in netball, basketball, dragon boating
and waterpolo at the College and is in the New Zealand Waterpolo
Youth Squad. Last year Ella received the College Sport Wellington
Sports Person of the Year Award for Waterpolo.
Ella comments, “I have been able to experience great success
in sport at the College. I have endured some tough finals and
demanding tournaments, which has made me a strong team player
on and off the field. I was then able to develop my leadership skills
through coaching.”
Along with sport, Ella was able to develop leadership skills
in the Middle School when she was picked as the Year 10 House
Leader for Stirling. Further to this she explains, “Over my time at
Queen Margaret College I have been privileged to be surrounded
by excellent role models ranging from coaches, prefects, house
leaders and teachers. Their presence and leadership has assisted me
in building confidence, whilst inspiring me to be the best I can be.”
This summer Ella spent Christmas in Christchurch with her
grandparents, followed by bungy jumping in Queenstown. In one Grace Robinson and Ella Brown.
word Ella defines herself as, “Enthusiastic”, so what can we expect
a leader challenging me to step up as a role model. My aim for 2014
from Ms Enthusiastic in 2014?
is to increase inclusiveness, fun and school spirit.”
“Because I am a very enthusiastic person who likes to have fun I
Grace leaves us with her best piece of advice, “My Dad told me
want to convey that into my duties. I want to share my joy with other
to ‘Follow your dreams, you can do anything…except high jump’”
girls and enhance the school spirit at all levels.”
Leadership Trip
Ella leaves us with the best piece of advice given to her, “‘Don’t
look at life through the rear-vision mirror.’ It is advice that my
parents use and is relevant to me as it reminds me to look forward to
I
the future and that tomorrow is always a new day!” n the middle of January, Grace and myself (Ella) had the
opportunity to attend the Student Leadership Conference held
Grace Robinson - Deputy Head Prefect
G
at Bond University on the Gold Coast. We were awarded this
race Robinson is the 2014 Deputy Head Prefect and in her opportunity by the Parents Association and cannot thank them
unique way defines herself in one word as “loud”. Grace enough for allowing us to have this valuable experience. We met
started Queen Margaret College in 2010 as a Year 9. and worked with 160 girls, all of whom were leaders of their own
On her first day of school she remembers, “Being extremely schools just like us, from Australia, New Zealand, Philippines and
daunted as it was a big step up from my local school. However, the also China.
girls in my year were so friendly, which made the transition much Each day we attended workshops to help us develop our
easier.” leadership skills, however we also participated in challenges within
Since then Grace has busied herself with piano, debating and our groups such as the Super Amazing Race and The Apprentice.
a bit of Shakespeare, where she acted in one of the Sheila Winn The conference was run by the Alliance of Girls Schools with
Shakespeare pieces, Love’s Labor’s Lost. Grace has also played the help of an amazing not for profit organisation called ‘Rising
badminton, social netball and volleyball at school and along with Generations’. Everything was fun and the skills learnt were very
Madeline Tew she coached the QMC 12 netball team, which was beneficial. Being surrounded by lovely girls and inspiring speakers
undefeated in 2013. Grace is a drama girl at heart but if she was to was so rewarding.
pick her second favourite subject it would be chemistry. Both Grace and I left knowing that we had grown as people and
Over the summer Grace spent much of it in the water down at look forward to seeing how we can use our new skills as leaders in
her family holiday house in Tata Beach, near the Abel Tasman. 2014.
As Grace looks to 2014 she explains, “I am excited about this Ella Brown
leadership opportunity. Since Year 9 my teachers have shaped me as
Issue 49 – February 2014 – QUEEN MARGARET CALLING 13Celebrations 2013
At the 2013 Prize-giving we were honoured to have Old Girl Deirdre Tarrant as our guest
speaker. The stories she shared from her past and advice given was inspiring and appreciated
by all who attended.
The following is a list of girls who were either missed from the Prize-Giving list included in Te Karere or were not awarded on the
night. We congratulate each of these girls on their achievements in 2013:
Caroline Kay: Certificate of Achievement in Year 9 Chinese, Eng- Rachel Kemp Whimp: Performing Arts Middle School Bar: Music
lish, French, Mathematics Julia Lockerd: Consistent Effort in Year 6
Grace Goddard: Certificate of Achievement in Year 10 English, Tiuana-Marie Aiono, Charlotte Wilson, Olivia Erskine, Paris
Humanities, Japanese, Music Lokotui, Ilena Shadbolt: Middle School Sports Bar for Athletics
Clare McDonald, Katherine Lopez, Charlotte Hollywood and Alexandra Heather-Sclater: Senior School Sports Bar and Sports
Matisse Uluilelata: Achievement in Year 10 Music Fern for Triathlons
Community Service
Year 7 raised $500 at the Thorndon Fair for Year 3 baked cupcakes to raise funds for relief
Autism New Zealand. after the typhoon hit the Philippines.
Year 8 with the support of the Junior School ‘Pack the Wellington City Mission Bus’.
14 Issue 49 – February 2014 – QUEEN MARGARET CALLINGAquathlon QUOTS Challenge
F
or the second year running, Year 4 and 5 students part-took in an aquathlon. Held in Term 4 of 2013 an invitation to participate was
extended to students from Scots College. The boys accepted and this created the Year 4 and 5 QUOTS challenge for the year. The
aquathlon’s main purpose however was to raise funds for the Mary Potter Hospice, a charity which has been supported by the College
for many years.
On Friday 22 November students, teachers and family members gathered at Thorndon Pool, where each student swam lengths of the
pool followed by a run before tagging the next person in their team. On the day Queen Margaret College won the QUOTS challenge.
However, the real winner was the Mary Potter Hospice as both Colleges, with the support of their communities, raised over $2,500.
The money was presented to the Hospice at the ‘Strawberry Festival’ at Midland Park where Year 4 Aquathlon Angels sang to the lunch
time crowd.
A number of families and businesses supported this event and we wish to extend a special thank you to; IRIDE - Cycle store, The Aharoni
Family, The Gee Family, The Yiappos Family, The Selby Family, The Shadbolt Family, Team Monza Triathlon Coaching, Buoy Hair Salon,
The Benn Family, The Mark Family, The Hockley Family, The Fordham Duncan Family, The Bygraves Family, The Khera Family and Moore
Wilson.
Issue 49 – February 2014 – QUEEN MARGARET CALLING 15Musican: Eva Prowse
At the 2001, 2002 and 2003 Prize-givings Eva received the top award in Music and she was
jointly awarded the Lisa Cohen Prize for Discrimination in Arts in 2003. She was the Prefect
in charge of Year 7 and 8 and performed in both Senior Orchestra and Chorale. It has been ten
years since she ventured out into the unknown to make her mark on the world and her resume
is now quite impressive.
We ask her what she has been up to since leaving Queen Margaret College.
A
fter Queen Margaret College I studied Music and Classics at on what’s right at the time.
Victoria University (I grew up playing Classical violin) and Since leaving College my biggest obstacle is myself, performing
I continued to play music at gigs around Wellington. On and songwriting can be so personal that it’s hard to stand back and
completion of my degree I worked at the New Zealand Symphony look at things objectively sometimes without being self-conscious
Orchestra (NZSO) as an Artistic Coordinator. During this time I about it all. Luckily I have always had other work that I have really
began to couple my love of playing music with writing songs, which enjoyed, which has allowed me to pay the bills. For me my greatest
led me to get involved with Fly My Pretties and eventually record success has been making my first record and being involved with Fly
my own album I Can’t Keep Secrets. After a stint in London where My Pretties.
I recorded an EP with a fellow kiwi musician, I am now back in I love what I do because I get to share the experience of
Wellington writing songs for another album and have been working performing and playing music with others. You cannot beat the
as Tour Manager for the Royal New Zealand Ballet. feeling you get from playing your music to an appreciative crowd.
My parents said ‘do something creative’ after school, so I always I also love songwriting and recording, as you hear ideas grow and
knew I was going to work in the Arts and play music, but I am still transform into songs, often turning out completely differently from
surprised that I have managed to get a balance of both, working as where they began life.
an Arts Administrator/Tour Manager and also being a musician. I At school my favourite subjects were Music, Classics, English
hope to continue to swing between the two in the future depending and Physics. Physics comes in handy when you get into recording
music. For me a highlight of school was the friends I made at Queen
Margaret College that I am still great friends with today and going
to the National competitions with the choir and the various plays/
musicals I was involved in.
If I were to give young females advice it would be, as my mum
always says: ‘Take every opportunity’… But I think you also have
to create your own opportunities as much as you can: Try lots of
different things, be lots of different things.
Eva’s Resume
Eva Prowse has performed sell-out shows with New Zealand
super-group Fly My Pretties and features on their live albums A
Story and Fly My Pretties IV. She has sung for the Royal NZ Ballet
and also sung and played violin on the 2009 NZ Music Award Folk
Award winning album Trouble on the Waterfront.
Eva has recorded violin for Family Cactus’ album Spirit Lights,
as well as backing vocals and violin for Barnaby Weir’s solo album
Tarot Card Rock and Will Rickett’s solo album West Wind.
Eva recently spent time in London, performing regular solo
shows around the city, including with fellow kiwi artists Anna
Coddington and Jayson Norris and during the London 2012
Olympics at the Kiwi House.
While in London, Eva wrote and recorded songs with fellow New
Zealand musician Henry Marks, for their project H & Eva. Their
debut Crazy Eyes EP has recently been released. Eva’s own debut
album I Can’t Keep Secrets was released in 2010. It was produced by
Samuel Flynn Scott (The Phoenix Foundation), and features some of
New Zealand’s finest artists.
Now, Eva is back in Wellington writing and recording her next
album due for release in 2014.
16 Issue 49 – February 2014 – QUEEN MARGARET CALLINGPresident: Ruby Sycamore-Smith
“Faster internet and fair student support are two key issues for students. Students, Dunedin and
New Zealand need fast internet to do well in the 21st century’s global society. We need to make
and sell low-weight, high-value products and services to be part of this global society. We need
to learn in the fastest internet environment we can get.”
A
bove is former Queen Margaret College student, Ruby From here Ruby has successfully campaigned to be the 2014
Sycamore-Smith, being quoted in the Otago Daily President. “Running for the position of President was an incredible
Times. Ruby is 21 years old and at the end of last year she experience that I will never forget. I realised that you really can
successfully ran for President of the Otago University Students’ achieve anything that you put your mind to. Queen Margaret College
Association. While this was a stressful process she comments, “I strives to teach students to be passionate learners, resilient women
believe that the background and support that was offered to me at and future leaders. It is this I believe, which created a belief in myself
Queen Margaret College has equipped me with the right tools to be that allowed me to push my boundaries to get where I want to go.”
in this position.”
Ruby moved down to the chilly south in 2011 to study her
Bachelor of Arts with a major in Communications and a minor in
Marketing. Unlike many others though Ruby chose to take a more
active role in university life, one which could allow her to have a say
on matters such as student welfare and be the voice of her peers.
Over the past few years Ruby has been the Campaigns Officer
and Welfare Officer, where she has worked closely with the Ministry
of Social Development. One particular initiative of Ruby’s was
Puppies on Campus, which many of you might recall reading about
in the News.
Ruby comments, “It was to promote a greater relationship with
the SPCA and encouraged more students to volunteer. The SPCA
puppies were brought onto campus and students spent time with
them during the exam timetable which allowed some space to de-
stress!” Ruby Sycamore-Smith and Christina Panagiotelis at Back to School Drinks.
Issue 49 – February 2014 – QUEEN MARGARET CALLING 17Celebrating 70 Together
P
ictured is the Queen Margaret College class of 1957. Ten
years ago these proud Old Girls held a reunion to celebrate
their 60th birthdays. Ten years on and they have all returned
to celebrate their 70th birthdays at the College. Below are some
notes written by Wendy Harland (Fleming) regarding their visit:
The first of us came to Queen Margaret College in 1949 as
littlies in the preparatory class, with the water in the “duck pond”
too deep for our toes to reach the bottom. The last of us left as
seniors at the end of 1961 (some able to swim very well!), to ‘follow
the beckoning future’.
The facilities at the school have been enhanced considerably
since our time there, and the atmosphere was just great. We did
notice the absence of the swimming pool, but anyone who tried
swimming in the “duck pond” would agree that it didn’t meet the
needs of a modern school! In our time we had also enjoyed the use
of two tennis courts, but the reduction to one was overwhelmingly
compensated for by all the new indoor sporting facilities.
And as for the facilities for learning languages, music and
everything else….worlds away from our time, but the special
atmosphere of QMC was still there.
18 Issue 49 – February 2014 – QUEEN MARGARET CALLINGWelcome Back to School 2007 - 2012
At the end of last year the College hosted Back to School Drinks for recent leavers of the Col-
lege. Students from 2007 through to 2012 joined the Principal, Carol Craymer, in Hobson
House as they caught up with friends and explored the College’s newest facility.
Obituaries Contact the College
It is with much sadness that we note the passing of, Former pupils who want to contact the College with information
regarding:
Sonia Gill (née Simpson) • Obituaries
1951 - 1955, Berwick • Reunions
• Achievements
Jill Larsen (née Hay) • Or if you have an interesting story to share
1951 – 1955, Lochleven Email: communications@qmc.school.nz
Brenda Willis If you would like to contact the Old Girls’ Association regarding:
• Memberships
1946 - 1950, Braemar
• Joining the Committee
Our heartfelt condolences are extended to their • Old Girls’ Business Directory
Email: oldgirls@qmc.school.nz
families.
Issue 49 – February 2014 – QUEEN MARGARET CALLING 19America Bound
This year two of our 2013 leavers were
awarded American University Sports
Scholarships: Sophie Macadré will attend
Michigan State University on a four year
Hockey scholarship, while Bridget Liddell
will attend Elon University on a four year
Tennis Scholarship.
S
ophie Macadré has been playing field hockey from the age
of five years and was captain of our first XI Hockey team
last year. Sophie shares with us her love of hockey and
how she gained the scholarship.
“For me one of the most amazing things about hockey is that
it is a team sport. I am able to be a leader, mentor and learner all
at once. Because of the amount of hockey that I have played over
my life I was privileged enough to learn about the university
field hockey scholarships that they have in America. I never
thought that I would have an opportunity like this as I always
thought that I would do my tertiary education in New Zealand.
I was recruited by four incredible universities who all offered
me scholarships. The decision of where to go was incredibly hard
but I went with my heart and chose Michigan State University.
In order to gain my scholarship I had to demonstrate that I was
a team player, a leader, passionate and committed.
My advice to a QMC girl, young or old, is to go out and
go after what you want. If you want something, don’t wait
for it to happen. I approached the universities and made this
opportunity happen for myself. Be brave enough to take control
of your future.”
O
ver the last few years Bridget has led a busy life
balancing her tennis commitments with schooling.
She has received the Queen Margaret College Beable
Cup for Sports Woman of the year three years in a row and
named College Sport Wellington Sports Person of the Year for
Tennis for the last four years.
Bridget has played overseas including New Caledonia, Fiji,
Hawaii and in 2012 was invited to attend the Australian Open
Juniors Tournament. It is fair to say Bridget’s list of titles and
tournament wins is too extensive for us to list. Bridget did
however have an ultimate objective to gain a scholarship for
university in America. In September 2014 she heads to Elon
University to begin her four year tennis scholarship.
“I went on a trip to American to see five universities and
from them picked Elon because it was beautiful and I really
liked the team and coach. There are seven others in the team,
whom I briefly met on my trip and my coach will be Elizabeth
Anderson.
Gaining the scholarship is definitely a turning point for
me because for the past five years it has been what I have been
working towards.”
20 Issue 49 – February 2014 – QUEEN MARGARET CALLINGYou can also read
