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St Andrew’s Anglican College
Quarterly Publication
Edition 4, Spring 2021
#DIAMONDSTRONG
Key Dates Term 1, 2022
26 Jan 31 Jan 4 Feb 7 Feb
Australia Day Public Year 11 and 12 Year 7s first day First Day of Term 1
Holiday Online Learning
10 Feb 10 Feb 21 Feb 26 Feb
Secondary Swimming Year 6 Leadership Year 7 Camp Week 1 Scholarship Testing
Carnival Camp
28 Feb 10 Mar 11 Mar 20 Mar
Year 7 Camp Week 2 Business Networking Secondary Music Corporate Golf Day
Function Workshop Weekend
21 Mar 22 Mar 28 Mar 1 Apr
Diamond Splash Cross Country Year 9 Connections Primary Easter Chapel
Carnival - Year 3 to 12
1 Apr
Term 1 Last Day
40 Peregian Springs Drive
2 Peregian, QLD 4573
07) 5471 5555
Editorial enquiries to: marketing@saac.qld.edu.au
Page 2
Contents
College
& Staff
News
Page 4
Primary Secondary
Page 22 Page 31
Co-curricular
Page 47
Aquatic Alumni
Centre Page 68
Page 66
Page 3
Welcome to the final edition of Spirit for 2021.
Following is an excerpt from what I shared with our community
at Presentation Night at the end of 2021.
In 1989 an epic film was released. It was the second in a series
that was a blockbuster and had all of us ready to see where
the next script might take us. It was, Back to the Future 2.
For those of you who need reminding, the teenage character
Marty McFly time travels in the infamous Delorean and things
get messed up, due to changing things in the past which alters
things in the future. In this film, Marty goes forward to 2015
from 1985 and then of course we know he has to return to
1955 in order to fix up 1985. However, what I love about this 7 students or even our current Prep students will need to move
movie is the way in which the director, Robert Zemekiss tries confidently into their futures. We believe it is a balanced and
to predict what 2015 might be like. There are floating cars, holistic education, one that is concerned with both a rigorous
automated petrol stations, a sequel to the Jaws movie, but they academic path and the whole person. One that encourages
still have phone booths and no personal devices. students to become active and caring members of local and
global communities. To become inquirers, knowledgeable,
For all of history, humans have tried in one way or another thinkers, communicators, principled, open-minded, risk-takers,
to predict the future, or what might lie ahead. Will electric balanced and reflective. These attributes represent a broad
or hydrogen be the way of the future for vehicles? Will we range of human capacities and responsibilities that go beyond
see issues of social inequity disappear? So what about in intellectual development and academic success. These are the
education? About six years ago, the Queensland Curriculum and skills required in our current and future workforce.
Assessment Authority embarked on a journey to revolutionise
the way Queensland would approach Year 11 and 12. I was part But how do we achieve this? We have been talking a good
of the Ministerial Working party that met to establish what deal about our personal capacity pillar and how this underpins
would eventually become the Senior Assessment system under all we do. It is about the knowledge, skill and personal and
which we now operate. At the time, we knew we had to review social capabilities that promote effective management of self,
the old OP system but there were also whispers from down relationships and learning. This encourages flourishing and the
south that the ATAR wasn’t necessarily the best way forward. courage and commitment to positively shape the future. It’s
Sadly, like many government steering committees, the path being intentional about the opportunities St Andrew’s provides
of least resistance was chosen and we find ourselves with an for our students. But it goes deeper. It also goes to our culture.
approach that claims to take the best of other Australian states’ It goes to how we value and support each unique student.
Senior systems and in many ways they are right.
It’s our goal here at St Andrew’s to do our very best to equip
However, where our group missed out was in not stopping to each student with the foundations to allow them to tackle what
try and see into the future, to respond to the fact that the ATAR lies ahead. A rigorous education of the basics, that focuses on
mark was increasingly being side-lined as universities explored literacy and numeracy and then spreads out into an approach
broader means to select their students. Studies by the Mitchell that includes the ability to nurture an inquiring mind and the
Institute a few years ago raised questions about the ATAR as a capacity to critically think and reflect.
consistent measure of ability. In other words, universities and
indeed employers are interested in more than a simple number. As you can see from everything in 2021, this is why we continue
Obviously, we need to establish ways of ascertaining academic to offer a broad array of opportunities for every student. A St
capacity as we celebrated at our recent Presentation Evening. Andrew’s student should develop a mindset of ‘having a go’,
However, we know that a bigger picture is required. to find out about themselves and to develop and embed these
qualities. They should be exposed to the full array of Arts and
What this means for those of us at the coal face in schools is culture, to the outdoors, as well as have opportunities to see
that we must look into the future and ask what our current Year what they can achieve in both competitive and non-competitive
Page 4
physical pursuits. As an Anglican School, we see the exploration It is my job, supported by our Council and Leadership teams to be
of service to others and faith as integral to all we do. And constantly assessing and re assessing strategically how we best
students need to develop a sense of personal responsibility prepare our students for life beyond Year 12. But if COVID has
for their own pathway into the future, learn how to deal with taught us anything it is that the future can’t be taken for granted,
mistakes, and how to truly be mindful of others. that flexibility and agility are the key to everything we do. So as a
College, we endeavour to remain agile, to try and see where the
Whatever your thoughts on the Christian faith, there is a future lies, we seek to be realistic and respond with excellence.
wonderful verse from the Bible, an Old Testament prophet, One thing of which we can be sure is that we want our students
called Micah who wanted to highlight what God required of to walk confidently into their futures, having as their foundation
his people. I think he summarised it beautifully and should be an outstanding primary and secondary education.
an aspiration for all. And what does the Lord require of you. To
do justice, to love kindness and to walk humbly with your God.
Indeed the qualities and traits we are talking about are ones
that the Bible speaks of time and time again. Best wishes,
Chris Ivey
Page 5
CHANGING
of the Guard
At the conclusion of 2021, our Head of Learning, Jenny Grant retired and we are indebted
to her energy, vision and wisdom. During the recruitment process for this role, a key aspect
based on the current needs of our College, was to provide strategic and innovative leadership
to all aspects of learning as well as the wider College vision. We live in interesting times when
schools are looking at new ways of learning, new skills on which to focus and an increased
need for staff to flexible and open to new ways of thinking. After a thorough search, we
welcome Maggi Gunn to the role of Head of Teaching and Learning for 2022.
Jenny Grant Favourite memory/moment from your time?
What has been your biggest achievement in your I have too many favourite memories to count. Having a working
time at the College? meeting with Brad Bowen, in the pool at the 2020 swimming
Being part of the critical response team in 2020, who rolled carnival, sitting on large floating chairs, is one moment that I
out online teaching and learning to the College community. We cherish. What other school ropes off a lane so that students
shared our approach with any schools that asked for guidance and teachers can bob about, have fun and catch up? My
and it was great to see our model copied in many schools recall is that we didn’t have our laptops but I may be wrong –
around Australia. perhaps we did!
What has been your biggest challenge? Plans for 2022 and beyond?
Coping with the diverse challenges that come with being in In this current climate, ‘beyond’ is definitely an unknown. In
charge of Teaching and Learning from Little Saints to Year 12. 2022 however, my husband Jon and I plan to join the tribe of
On any given day, I might have been delving into the curriculum grey nomadders, lapping the country, threading the needle of
of the Prep student (with massive help from their amazing border restrictions and sending postcards to our colleagues
teachers) and the next minute, I would be looking at the QCAA from exotic, far away destinations.
requirements for our Year 12 Extension subjects.
Maggi Gunn
What will you miss most about the College? Tell us a bit about your background.
Honestly, I will miss teaching my wonderful English and Growing up on Sunshine Coast and in Brisbane, I remember
Literature Extension classes because teaching is what I love realising that I wanted to be a teacher when I was in Year
above everything else. And of course, it’s a cliché but I will miss 9. I have taught Mathematics, Accounting and HPE in state
my colleagues – so many laughs, so many challenges, so many and independent schools in Queensland, ACT and Western
great people working hard to achieve the best outcomes for Australia. Over the last 20 years, I have enjoyed middle
our students. leadership positions in curriculum, pastoral care and co-
curriculum and appreciated the opportunity to contribute
What has St Andrew’s taught you in your time here? at operational and strategic levels as an executive leader at
That humour really is part of our recruitment criteria. I have Brisbane Girls Grammar School and Pacific Lutheran College.
loved working with people – students and teachers and parents
- who can overcome significant challenges and know that at the Why St Andrew’s?
end of the day, laughter is part of learning and growing. I am delighted to be joining the St Andrew’s learning
community where the focus is on encouraging learning,
What makes St Andrew’s so special? creating opportunities and building connections. The College
St Andrew’s truly believes in holistic learning. It is not and has has a reputation as a place of strong and positive energy, a
never been just about the OP/ATAR. It is about the happy child, supportive and caring community and a school that is creative,
achieving to their personal capacity, at whatever level that may innovative and future-focused. I look forward to meeting and
be. working with students, staff and families.
Page 6
Council
MEMBER PROFILE
Why do you love what you do? SUE SIMON
Working in a school, every day is different and provides Council Member
opportunity to make positive differences in the lives of
others. What is your regular
job/profession/area of
As an educator, the quality of facilitation of learning expertise/background?
opportunities is the most important factor in students’ I am a Senior Lecturer in the
academic success. As a leader, it is a privilege to have School of Education and Tertiary
opportunity to look to the future, think strategically and Access at the University of the
influence the goals and systems that best support and provide for Sunshine Coast and former
transformative learning experiences for students. school principal, including being
the Foundation Principal of St
What do you hope to bring to St Andrew’s? Andrew’s from 2002 to 2006.
I have a genuine and enduring passion for teaching and learning and
an unwavering commitment to equipping and empowering students Why/what inspired you
with the capacity, skills and enthusiasm for learning, the ability to to join the St Andrew’s
think critically, the curiosity to seek and tenacity to solve problems, Council?
and the courage to embrace challenge and remain resilient My continued interest and
throughout their time at school and beyond. passion for St Andrew’s since
being part of the community
What goals you hope to achieve in this role? from its inception.
I look forward to working collaboratively in a school that values the
uniqueness of every student and seeks to maximise each student’s What do you see as a
potential to achieve success by providing an educational experience priority for Council for the
that fosters a love of learning, supports them in being their best near future?
selves and prepares them for a changing and evolving future. To retain what has been
established as being highly
Where do you see Teaching and Learning heading? successful educationally, and
The future of teaching and learning is very exciting. We’ve learned to be open to new directions
more about the brain in the last decade than in all recorded history! and opportunities for students
Research has provided revelations about the structure and function that will suit their learning and
of the human brain and how the brain learns and continues to aspirations in the future.
inform best teaching and learning practice. Improvements in
technology empower collection, analysis and synthesis of data, To you, what makes St
provide community and global connection and enable personalised Andrew’s stand out from
learning opportunities where collaboration and co-creation is other schools?
possible and learning occurs anywhere and anytime. Barriers St Andrew’s has a highly positive
between school and ‘the real world’ are dissolving and students are culture (its Spirit) and a unique
able to apply their knowledge and learning in real-life contexts and combination of aspiration for
connect locally and globally. Learning is forever and school is where high achievement and breadth
experiences and opportunities provide for routines, habits and ways of opportunities for its students
of thinking, learning and working that equip students to become (its Vision).
lifelong autonomous learners, innovative problem solvers and active,
compassionate citizens.
STAFFNews
We pay tribute to two dedicated staff members,
Ron Bartholomew and Maree Froud, who are
retiring from St Andrew’s after each serving our
community for more than 10 years.
Favourite memories from your time?
Ron: A few are up there -
• reaching - but not necessarily the trek to - Everest Base
Camp in 2017.
• watching my two sons run in the Diamond Dash in our first
year up here.
• the generous thank you cards you get from some of our What is the biggest change you’ve seen over your
students at the end of a year. time?
Maree: So many wonderful memories but one that stands out Ron: Obviously in schools and in society IT has expanded
is Dave Elley standing on a tower with a megaphone directing exponentially. That has both good and bad connotations.
the entire school community for the 10 Year Anniversary Back in the day, teaching was simpler, easier, more fun and less
College photo. If anyone finds heaven on earth it was Dave that stressful. (But then I would say that wouldn’t I!)
day. Another classic was the 2004 music performance evening Maree: Obviously, the growth of the school has been
(unlike now, there was very little to work with at that stage) – exponential – there is simply so much more of everything!
possibly one of the most excruciating evenings ever but also Going from working in F Block to the best room in the Hub was
one of the funniest thanks to Xanthe Coward (a primary school a very welcome change.
teacher at the time) who deserved an Academy Award for her
emceeing that night. Obviously watching Amy and Lucy (my Plans for life post St Andrew’s?
daughters) graduate were very special moments as well. Ron: People ask me what I am going to do next year and I
sincerely reply “less”. They think I am joking! I have a favourite
What do you love most about what you do? table at Peregian Beach which will get a few more visits now.
Ron: Any teacher who doesn’t say ‘the holidays’ is telling tall My wife and I have done the seachange thing so I reckon a
tales, but also: treechange might be an option down the track especially as
• working, learning and laughing with young people – my both our sons now live in southern states.
students. (Apparently ‘my banter game is strong !’) I know Maree: I have always worried that I would find retirement
I don’t look young but I still feel it thanks to them boring however I am now ready to get up when I want to, go
• hearing students say they love Humanities where and when I choose to and simply just please myself.
• helping the so called ‘average’ students do well, ya gotta
love over-achievers. Anyone can teach the smart kids.
Maree: It has been wonderful working alongside some truly
inspiring people and, at the same time, hanging out with young
people. Spending most of my time in the Secondary school
has required me to learn a huge range of subjects. For me, life
at St Andrew’s provided me with a level of challenge without
too much stress – I loved coming to work every day. It’s a great
feeling to support young people to believe in themselves and
work towards a goal.
What are you going to miss most about St Andrew’s?
Ron: As above, but also some of the people here who have
become mates, sharing a staffroom with two of them for 10
years, coaching touch footy and beating our arch rivals in Grand
Finals. (Robbo calls me Wayne Bennett, but I think that is more
to do with my age than coaching ability).
Maree: I think, most of all, I will miss the way I feel so valued –
my hard work and efforts have always been acknowledged by
my team.
Page 8
TOP
Teacher
Prep teacher Tjitske Linthorne this year has completed the national Highly Accomplished and Lead
Teachers (HALT) certification to place her among the nation’s most proficient teachers.
HALT certification is overseen nationally by the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership
(AITSL) and undertaken locally by certifying authorities including ISQ. Teachers applying for certification
undergo a rigorous evaluation process that involves gathering evidence of their teaching practices,
classroom observations and peer and student reviews.
What inspired you to become a teacher? range students who manage to slip under the radar. These
Walking into classrooms when I was doing the Marketing and tracking systems allow me to check progress on a weekly basis
Development role at Sunshine Coast Grammar School I was and target my teaching and learning strategies to bolster their
continuously inspired by the difference a teacher can make; development.
academically, socially and emotionally. An honour and a
privilege which I appreciate every single day. What has 2021 been like for you as a teacher/what
changed/what did you learn – do you have any
What do you love most about your profession/work/ anecdotes to share that illustrate your experience
your students? with colleagues/students/parents?
I LOVE my job and I am excited to come to work every day. I I have worked as a Walker Learning mentor to both colleagues
see so much growth and excitement around learning. When within the College and in the wider community (as far away
the children are banging on your door at 8.15am you know as Mt Isa). I have realised how fortunate we are that we had
they want to be there and they want to learn. I take my role a leadership team who saw the value in a pedagogy that
as ‘mum away from home’ very seriously – ensuring they feel promotes oral language, literacy and numeracy skills and
valued, challenged and supported, and understand the need to centres its learning around the whole child. 2021 has been
treat everyone with kindness and respect. another exciting and innovative year for me!
How has your teaching changed as a result of the What hopes do you hold for your students at the end
certification process or what have you learned about of each year?
yourself as a teaching professional? There are two I want every student to leave Prep loving school and being
main areas where my teaching has changed: visually and excited about learning new things. I want them to be curious,
creatively supporting cultural differences within the classroom kind and respectful. And most of all I want them to come back
and using sophisticated tracking systems to ensure that every and say hello to me on a regular basis!
child is meeting their personal goals. It is often the quiet middle
Page 9
STRATEGIC PILLAR: KNOWLEDGE AND LEARNING
THINKING
Routines
Our strategic pillar of Knowledge and Learning focuses on an ongoing
commitment to equip our staff with continued professional development
to enable them to develop a culture of curiosity, independence and
critical and creative thinking in our students. This year staff embarked
on a project focusing on Spheres of Thinking.
2021 saw our continued focus on the development of our
Spheres of Thinking which is an integral part of our Teaching
and Learning Framework. Our Spheres of Thinking ensures
processes are being developed where learning to think is the
focal point in all facets of education, as learners are nurtured as
thinkers with the lifelong foundations of learning how to learn.
One of our key focus areas has been Visible Thinking (see
diagram on pg. 11) and we were privileged to have the
opportunity to work with Mark Church from the Harvard
School of Education Project Zero Cultures of Thinking team
and co-author of ‘Making Thinking Visible’ and ‘The Power of
Making Thinking Visible.’
Led by Mark Church and our Head of Thinking and Learning
Enrichment Jillian Green, a select group of teachers from both
Primary and Secondary formed study groups and engaged
in a virtual learning journey with Mark from his hometown
in Seattle USA. The focus was to learn how the use of Visible
Thinking and routines can switch on for learners the powerful
thinking which is vital for nurturing and shaping thinking
classrooms and cultures. In addition, using the expert research
from Harvard University’s Project Zero we delved into the
practices of Visible Thinking to promote student engagement
at high levels, cultivate deep understanding, enhance thinking
dispositions, and raise capabilities in teaching, student’s
learning and ultimately encourage deeper thinking.
Page 10Examples
ERB S
FROM IN THE
EV DESIGN
IV C CLASSROOM
IT
01 02
EN
Business
C O GN
TERED LE
QCAA provides a common Design Thinking is a basis
language of thinking, deeply for creative design and can
rooted in research guide notions of divergent and
convergent thinking
SPHERES
AR
OF THINKING
NIN
G
04 03
ING English
T HI
Coaches provide practical Deep and active thinking is
support and coaching for supported through Visible
NK
teachers in the classroom Thinking routines
NK
IN
HI
GC N G T
OAC H I VISIBLE
We have worked on the development of a school thinking
culture will also assist in improving and maintaining high
pedagogical practice in teaching and learning environments
Mathematics
and ensure teachers gain a deeper and more meaningful
picture of each individual as a learner and their journey as a
learner.
This work with Mark Church will continue in 2022 with
continued professional development for all teaching staff and
Science
key study groups. We, as a College, value the importance of
continuing to develop both staff and student capacity and
capabilities to ensure our classroom culture plays a significant
role in nurturing the development of students’ thinking
dispositions.
Visual Art
Page 11MEET OUR
2022 Student Leaders
Introducing our 2022 College Captains and Vice-Captains,
William Law, Kira Hunter, William Peterson and Ella Sobey
What inspired you to nominate for Captain? the College that will help the entire school, which is why I’d
WL: I always wanted to make a difference at St Andrew’s and consider them leaders, regardless of any title they have.
inspire those around me with my actions, so I thought what WP: Being a good role model and leading by example through
better way to try and become the College Captain? my daily actions and attitude towards my final school year.
K: I asked Tia, one of the 2021 captains, if she enjoyed the It also means helping the younger kids and ensuring that
position and whether she recommended I go for it. Tia said everyone feels welcome and safe at school. I feel I know a great
it was a lot of hard work, but she loved it, and it was beyond number of students across all year levels so this helps me be
worth it. Even though I was unsure how stressful managing able to achieve this.
study, and a leadership role would be, I was inspired to apply. E: A leader to me personally is a listener, someone that hears
WP: I felt I could make a worthwhile contribution in my senior people who are not in roles of leadership. A person who is
year at the school. Having been at the College since Year 2 I humble and empathetic, yet holds attributes of a great role
felt that I had a good feel for the College and its growth and model. For me, a true leader is one who guides the success of
development over the years and could understand and relate their peers.
to students.
E: Ever since my first day of Year 7 I had always aspired to be What do you love about St Andrew’s?
a captain of this school. After watching each of the previous WL: The amazing network between staff and students. Even
Captain’s graduate, this passion grew, and I knew I wanted to in my grade alone I feel everyone can see eye to eye and get
make a difference within the school. along. What’s better is that our relationships with teachers and
other staff have blossomed over this year as we get to know
What does being a leader mean to you? them better as seniors and hopefully these relationships can
WL: Being a role model for other students to look up to, but continue.
also a representation of the student body I stand for. It means K: The number of opportunities we’re given across every
making the right choices for the people who I support and department, and how involved the teachers are in them. Some
support me back. of my highlights at St Andrew’s include rock climbing with Mr
K: Being able to connect with the student body and act as a Goodall and volleyball tournaments with Mr Kelly. When a
voice for them. If I don’t do that, then none of my initiatives teacher is willing to take time in their day to drive you a decent
will resonate with the students, which is why it’s so important distance, it makes you feel valued as a student, and gives you a
to be involved in a variety of opportunities where you can talk deeper insight into their personality.
to and gain the perspectives of students across year levels.
Several of my friends have made a significant contribution to
Page 12WP: St Andrew’s is a school that embraces all and has a place events to further build a culture where everyone is supportive
for all - whether that be on the sporting field, in the band, of others and wants them to succeed and feel a part of the St
on the stage performing or academic pursuits. The endless Andrew’s community, right from the primary years through to
opportunities available to students allows them to pursue the seniors.
whatever they are interested in and passionate about. I love E: I hope to keep the spirit and culture of St Andrew’s alive.
the culture and approachability of the teaching staff which I’m sure all the 2022 captains would agree we that we hope to
helps students to achieve their very best. improve connections within and between cohorts.
E: I love the culture and people of this school. I have made
friends I hope to have for a lifetime. The teachers genuinely If you were Prime Minister what would you change?
want their students to be the best versions of themselves. I feel WL: Probably steering Australia to a greener future. Trying to
welcomed and have a sense of belonging at this school. I also make us a forefront country in solving social issues by making
love the spirit of the school, in all of its aspects from the field better actions now, rather than later. Examples could be making
to music performances. nuclear reactors legal and embracing indigenous cultures even
more.
What do you hope to achieve? K: I would welcome refugees into Australia and close all
WL: Building upon the school spirit, such as more student offshore detention centres, as well as invest in more renewable
participation in all events, sports, and exhibitions. They are energy. I would also sign a treaty with Aboriginal and Torres
experiences we don’t get to enjoy it as much as we grow up, Strait Islander peoples.
and we need to be proud as St Andrew’s members. WP: Well at the moment it is challenging times so I think
K: As Captain I want to create a stronger community amongst getting back to normality is really important for all Australians,
the students so that people will attend events that they from both a mental health perspective right through to
wouldn’t typically go to and show support for their friends. supporting businesses to get back to normal. From my
This includes sports games, music and arts events, and service perspective being in my senior schooling years I think
opportunities. I’m hoping we can steer the focus towards progressive job opportunities and housing affordability are
these events by promoting them and showing how fun directly relevant to me.
they are, leading to students getting involved in a variety of E: I am very passionate about the environment so I would focus
opportunities. on our environmental policy. I would hope to reduce our global
WP: I hope to further develop the school spirit around sporting emissions and increase the use of reusable energy.
2022
Leaders
Perry Harris Rosie Proctor Emma Carrier Phoebe Kennedy Bodhi Nash Rosie Proctor
STUDENT COUNCIL CHAIRS ARTS LEADERS
Luke Duregger Madi Koy Peri Habermas Perry Harris Rosie Proctor
MUSIC LEADERS
Page 13Jeshua Morgan Myra Harward Seb Williment Lily Lethbridge Connor Wilson Ava Condon
AFL ATHLETICS BASKETBALL
Harry McNamee Claudia Toohey Luca Warman-Flood Lila McIntyre Rylan Sandford- Madison
Bell Bebbington
CRICKET CROSS COUNTRY FOOTBALL
Zara Warren Sarah Gordon Joe Siemon Jess Robson Oscar Timm
EQUESTRIAN NETBALL RUGBY SAILING
Tim Bain Lucy Bowen Will McGarry Lyla Crouch Will McCaig Jessica McCaig
Moore Moore
SURFING SWIMMING TENNIS
William Bertholini Jessica Caffery Nic Ivey Ali Baker-Lahey Fraser Young Abigail Kerz
TOUCH VOLLEYBALL WATER POLO
Page 14STRATEGIC PILLAR: PERSONAL CAPACITY
STRENGTH OF
Character
At the end of the schooling year, each years of study involving fifty-five scientists. It concluded that
there were six virtues and twenty-four character strengths that
Primary student is presented with their were valued across cultures, religions, gender, and race. So
‘Character Strength’ certificate. These often psychology can focus on pathologising and figuring out
‘what is wrong’ yet Character Strengths is about figuring out
certificates acknowledge the growth in what we are doing right and how we can do better.
personal capacity, the development of
the whole student and who they are as a While the development of all of the twenty-four character
strengths is important in a child’s growth, at the end of
person. each year, the staff identify in each child in their class the
character strength that they believe has shown to be the
Character Strengths are an integral part of the pedagogy in the
strongest one over the academic year. A significant amount
Primary School at St Andrew’s. More than simply a compliment
of thought and consideration goes into the recognition of this
on each child’s behaviour, our character strengths are defined
particular character strength for your child. It is our hope that
as the distinctive qualities that are the best in us. They reflect
encouraging this strength will truly bring out the child’s best.
what is important to us, what we value.
This is a wonderful opportunity for you to discuss with them
all the ways in which they have shown Vision and Spirit at
Research into character indicates that when we know and apply
school this year. For more detailed information about character
our own specific character strengths, our wellbeing and life
strengths please visit:
satisfaction improves. Students work better and improve more
quickly when they apply their character strength to their work.
www.viacharacter.org/character-strengths
Peterson and Seligman (2004) developed The VIA Classification
of Character Strengths and Virtues. This was the result of three
Wisdom Courage Humanity Transcendence Justice Moderation
creativity bravery love appreciation of beauty creativity teamwork
curiosity persistence kindness gratitude curiosity modesty
judgement honesty social intelligence hope judgement prudence
love of learning zest humour love of learning self-control
perspective spirituality perspective
Page 15FAREWELL
Class of 2021
Final Assembly Speech
Alice Ayton: When I look back on my six years at St Andrew’s
they are impossible to describe. I guess standing here today I
feel a little like the person I was in Year 7. Hesitant about what
the future would hold but excited to take on every challenge
and opportunity given to me.
My journey at St Andrew’s has been filled with an
overwhelming sense of community, especially the moments I
have shared with my fellow graduates.
I know that big dreams are made up of the little moments
and I can whole heartedly say that each and every one of
you has made a difference to my dreams through an array
of little moments. Whether it was being lost in the bush on
Year 7 orientation camp, suffocating from Lynx Africa on
the Stradbroke Island minibuses, or watching your great
coordination in ballroom dancing classes. Moments like these
have shaped us into the people we are today, and I couldn’t be
prouder to say I am a part of the class of 2021.
After being through many ups and downs, through thick and
thin, we have made it here. It is our turn to walk up that path
for the final time and write the next chapter of our lives.
For all the other students of St Andrew’s, here are some final
words of advice. Take advantage of every opportunity, make
the time to build relationships with your teachers, and most of
all cherish the friendships you make at school. Just remember
you only get to complete school once.
To my teachers. Thank you for your support and motivation
to drive me and all of us to do our very best. Your tireless
dedication to help us not only learn, but become better people
is what makes the St Andrews experience so special. I couldn’t
have made it through this year without you and I know all
of us are very grateful that you have been there to guide us
throughout this year.
As they say “what feels like the end is often just the beginning”
Page 16so to the class of 2021, congratulations, we did it. I will miss
you all dearly but now I must farewell you all into your bright
futures and I wish you all the best.
Robbie Buxton: I have spent over 70 per cent of my life within
this community and today I walk out as a student for the final
time. There are so many things I will miss here at school. I
will miss the laughter in homeroom on arrival at school each
morning, the rapport that develops between students and
teachers, racing to get a handball court at lunch time, all the
friendships I have formed ranging from early days in Prep right
through to students who have joined the College with such
enthusiasm in the last 1-2 years… the list is endless. Over the
past 12 years, it has been these small moments that have
defined my life here at the College and has provided me with
the overwhelming sense of family. The family that I can never
thank enough. A family that involves staff, parents and our
student peers.
To the parents of the class of 2021. I speak on behalf of our
cohort when I say – you are the reason we have made it this
far. Your endless love and guidance has always given us the Our training is our life here at St Andrew’s and the qualities
motivation to persevere. You have always been by our side that we have learnt over the past 13 years. We have been
through the ups and downs. You’ve been our rock when we guided and mentored by all the staff. But equally, as students,
have needed you most. we have all learnt from each other, from the strength of the
friendships we have formed over the years.
Furthermore, to the teachers of St Andrew’s. Over the past few
years, you have become more than teachers – you have also And in the future, when we come across those difficult times,
become our friends. Your commitment has helped us achieve we will again rely on each other. These are the people who
all that we have this year and we cannot thank you enough. will support you and who will be there for you. These are the
people who best understand you. These are the people you’ve
Back in 650BC, the Greek philosopher Archilochus said: “In trusted with your fears, secrets, dreams and ambitions - and
times of difficulty, we don’t rise to the occasion, we fall back to they are now the lifelong friends who will be there for you in
the level of our training”. both the joyous and the difficult times.
Here at St Andrew’s, we love to celebrate our successes, our It is now time for us all to explore our own future paths. Have
achievements and our awards. But the mark of a true person, high expectations of yourself and of the people around you.
a true human being, is their ability to deal with adversity. To Remember always that the standard you walk past is the
meet failure, to learn from mistakes, and to rise again stronger. standard you accept. And above all, do the right thing. Because
doing the right thing is never the wrong thing.
Page 17ENRICHMENT
Success
FUTURE PROBLEM SOLVING PROGRAM
The Future Problem Solving (FPS) Program is a fundamental Global Issues Problem Solving
part of the Extension program for our Year 6 to 9 English Year 6 – Solving the futuristic problem of ‘Personalized
and Quest Extension programs. It aims to foster higher order Medicine’ in two hours lockdown where the team completed
thinking skills through the development of critical thinking the six step problem solving process - Will, Molly, Hamish & Jai
and creative problem solving within our students. FPS has – 3rd Place and received an invitation to the International Final
a multitude of all-encompassing qualities for all students as in 2022.
learners in the 21st century. FPS offers a range of divisions
for students to work within and these include Global Issues Scenario Writing
Problem Solving, Community Problem Solving and Scenario Year 6 – Yve had to write a piece on the National Finals topic
Writing. Personalized Medicine - Finalist.
We had many of our students compete in the Future Problem TOURNAMENT OF MINDS
Solving National Finals on the 15 October in a virtual final in We had another fabulous and successful year in Tournament
Community Problem Solving, Global Issues Problem Solving of Minds albeit a little different once again due to Covid
and Scenario Writing. It was a fantastic day and all our students restrictions. Our teams had to submit videos into the
put in a fabulous effort. We had some wonderful results which Queensland Final and our results were:
were: Primary Social Science Team – 1st Place Qld Champions – Evie,
Clementine, Telahlee, Emily, Abby, Molly & Charlie
Community Problem Solving Primary STEM Team – 1st Place Qld Champions – Sebastian,
Primary – ‘Another Roof’ - helping to raise awareness and August, Charlie, Orlando, Blake & Hamish
support homeless people on the Sunshine Coast – Abby, Hailey, Secondary Social Science Team – Honours – Ella, Eve, Chloe,
Emily & Telahlee – 3rd Place Gabby, Sally, Rhani & Maria.
Primary – ‘Health Legends’ – Improving the Health of the St
Andrew’s community – Kate, Matilda, Mia & Miya – 2nd place Our two Primary teams then competed in a modified virtual
and received an invitation to the International Final in 2022. National Final on Saturday 16 October. Teams competed in a
Secondary – ‘Gum Leaf Revolution’ – Raising awareness and 15 minute Spontaneous Challenge where they had to solve an
supporting our Koalas on the Sunshine Coast – Oli Taylor & unseen problem and present their solutions.
Chloe Roberts – Finalists
Secondary – ‘Screen Savers’ – Raising awareness and Only a first place was awarded to teams on the day and while
supporting students with healthy screen time choices – Tessa, our teams weren’t fortunate to gain first, it was an extremely
Tara, Sophia & Georgy – 3rd Place rigorous competition, and our teams did a splendid job!
Page 18COLLEGE
Fair
What a wonderful day of music, rides, good food and
fun at our College Fair in Term 4! After the past couple
of years, it was great to see our community together
again connecting and having a great time. Thank you to
our wider community for your support, we hope you
enjoyed the day.
Special thanks to our sponsors CARMEX Australia,
Mortgage Choice, Peregian Beach, Mark Bain
Constructions, Hot 91, Terella Brewing, Sunshine &
Sons, Peregian Beach Hotel, David Berns Real Estate,
Integral Construction, White’s IGA Peregian Beach,
Mercury Group.
We had some great prizes on offer in our raffle with
lucky winners walking away with prizes from Mitre 10,
Terella Brewery, Vuly, Kmart, Noosa Gift Co., The Boat
Shed and Aussie World.
Page 19NURTURING
Relationships
Each year the Anglican Diocese of Southern Queensland others, particularly those with who we might not naturally
selects a theme for Anglican schools and churches to focus resonate or who hold significantly different worldviews to us?
their attention. In 2020, as part of its three-year vision of Being
Together, we concentrated on Practising Peacemaking. In 2021, We sought to combine this teaching with opportunities for
our focus turned to Nurturing Relationships. practical application through our regular volunteering for the
Daily Bread Soup Kitchen, bush regeneration projects, regular
Relationships are key to who we are. Archbishop Phillip Aspinall guest speakers and our annual ‘Empty Christmas Tree’ appeal.
reminded us that the way we treat others, even those we don’t These gifts were delivered through the Anglican Church of
like or who are different to us, matters. Noosa to struggling families and those seeking shelter from
domestic violence on the Sunshine Coast.
As the population of the Sunshine Coast increases and our
school community grows with people from across the globe, We welcome 2022 with the arrival of Simon Surgenor who is
we will come across more people with different backgrounds currently the Jr School Chaplain at The Scots College in Sydney.
and experiences to us. Our interactions with those who hold We look forward to what he will add to the College Ministry
different opinions, beliefs, hopes and dreams will increase. Team as he delivers an exciting program and leads our focus
They may even think completely differently or have opposing on student opportunities to grow Personal Capacity in Primary
priorities to us. Jesus told us to love others regardless of who School.
they are or where they are from. This included the radical step
of loving our enemies and doing good to them. This may seem Rev Gary McClellan
counter-cultural for many, yet this is the teaching of the Bible,
and a teaching St Andrew’s Anglican College upholds.
In 2021 as part of Nurturing Relationships we had the
opportunity in both the Primary and Secondary College to
focus on Connecting, which was the theme of our Chapels in
Semester 2. The key question has been, how can we strengthen
understanding, compassion, empathy, and openness towards
Page 20LANGUAGES
Many students living on the Sunshine Coast don’t understand
how acquiring a language can be useful to them. It’s not a
prerequisite for any university courses. When they travel
Term 4
overseas, they can always find someone who speaks English,
and if all else fails, there’s Google Translate.
The advantages of acquiring another language are plentiful.
People who know more than one language are more
employable in what is now a truly global employment market.
More companies than ever are engaging in international
business and need people with foreign language skills. In
addition to this, people who know other languages have more
fun when travelling. They are more open-minded, and they
have better interpersonal skills, another feature that is highly
sought after in the job market today. Moreover, many studies
have shown that second language learners enjoy enhanced
cognitive abilities such as better working memories, increased
creativity, improved problem-solving and multitasking skills. In
addition to this, learning a second language advances literacy
skills in one’s first language.
At St Andrew’s, we strive to combine academic rigour with
interactive, culturally inclusive, and engaging activities to
support the acquisition of Mandarin and Spanish. These are
some of the activities in which students were involved.
Chinese Lion Dancing
People perform lion dances at Chinese festivals or big occasions
to bring good fortune. As this tradition is performed to bring
prosperity and good luck for the upcoming year, it was most
suiting to have a performance for our College Fair as part of
our cultural program. Students worked enthusiastically with
Ms Cleyne preparing at lunch times, choreographing, and
strengthening their work to bring a festive and international
spirit to the day.
Spanish Musical Statutes
Year 7 Spanish students enjoyed an interactive game of Spanish
Musical Statues in Ms Solti’s class. The game was based on our
fun and energetic song study completed in Term 4. Students
were required to dance to the music and sing the lyrics in
Spanish – what a joy to hear the chorus of 40 Year 7 students
all singing together in Spanish!
Spanish Running Dictation Race
Year 7 Spanish students also participated eagerly in a running
dictation race in Ms Napoles’ class. The activity required
students to race to find parts of the class story pinned up
outside the classroom. One student had to remember the part
of the story that they had read and race back and dictate it to
their partner who wrote it down. Teams then had to reorganise
the different parts of the class story in the correct order.
Students became highly competitive, and it was great to see
the creative tactics in which many teams engaged to give them
a winning edge.
Ms Meisha Napoles
Head of Languages
Page 21HEAD OF
Primary
As we conclude another productive and positive year in the
Primary School, it is a time to both celebrate the past 12
months and reflect on the achievements we have gained and
those crucial elements which ultimately guide our future
decisions and development.
Michael Fullan, an educational researcher, sums up beautifully
what I believe has been an essential factor in each child’s a mathematical concept. It may even simply be being a loyal
educational journey throughout 2021. He says, friend. Whatever the achievement is, the value lies in the fact
that the students have done their very best at that particular
‘The research is clear: nothing motivates a child more than time. We can ask no more of our students than to endeavour
when learning is valued by schools and families/communities to make every effort their best.
working together in partnership…These forms of involvement do
not happen by accident or even by invitation. They happen by We have had so much to celebrate in our Primary School
explicit strategic intervention.’ this year, and, as always, I express my thanks to a number of
people. My endless gratitude to the wonderful and professional
In reflecting on these words, the success of a child’s schooling Primary teaching staff who have shown great care, compassion
is dependent on the value that the school places on education and dedication – thank you for doing those many ‘little extras’
and the involvement of parents. These two factors combined for the students. The staff show a real commitment towards
are critical for improving a child’s motivation to do well at their profession and give of their time so willingly to help the
school. In addition, the real strength of any school emerges students achieve their very best. I can honestly say that they go
through the stories that fashion and confirm the culture of that ‘above and beyond’ to help the students each day and for this
school. At St Andrew’s, we celebrate stories that are based we should all be very thankful.
on positive relationships, progressiveness and inclusiveness.
These qualities are surely the most enduring ones that we can Thank you to our parents for your continued support by
develop in our students. Yet, throughout this year, there have providing assistance in all that we do within the Primary years.
been many moments when more wonderful qualities of our Whether it be helping in the classroom with reading groups,
students have been visible – their resilience and adaptability, creating costumes for the Primary Plays or Book Week Parade,
the poise with which they experience success and the courage driving your child to sporting or musical events, or simply
they display in the face of disappointment. attending our carnivals and special days to watch your child
perform, we really do value your involvement and input to help
Attending a school that encourages a love for learning, within make the learning environment so enriching for the students.
a happy and caring environment, is paramount to effective Even though we had a relatively short online learning period
education and development. I believe we do this so well at St early in the year, it was with a great sense of relief and pleasure
Andrew’s; an achievement gained largely through a conscious to see parents visiting the Primary School after the upheavals
effort to develop the positive and honest partnership between experienced throughout 2021.
the teachers and the parents. This partnership develops a
living, breathing and energetic environment where you can feel I would also like to thank our Principal Chris Ivey and the
the ‘pulse’ as you walk through the Primary school and into College Executive team for their continued guidance and
the classrooms. It can be felt in the music room, on the sports support. My gratitude also to Megan Hewitt and Jane Olivero
field, at the school camp, on the stage performing, in the in the Primary Office and the ancillary staff for their ongoing
sustainability garden … it is everywhere and in every activity in assistance.
which the Primary students are involved. It is the children, the
staff and the parents who create this energy. Finally, I extend my best wishes to our Year 6 students for
their future schooling years. They leave our Primary School to
I congratulate the students for their drive, their effort, their face new challenges and experiences that await them in their
commitment and the personal goals they have achieved, not Secondary years. They leave with our blessing and best wishes
just in their academic studies, but in every opportunity and as they take this next step in their educational journey. I offer
activity in which they have been involved this year. Many of my heartfelt congratulations to all of the Year 6 students for
the children’s achievements are not always the obvious ones, completing their successful Primary years.
those which are recognised during assemblies, on social
media or on the class Seesaw page. Instead, it can be playing Mr Rob Paterson
a piece of music for the first time or understanding (at last) Head of Primary
Page 22PRIMARY News
PRIMARY SWIMMING YEAR 4 CAMP
The Aquatic Centre was filled with cheering, smiles An exciting couple of days for students at Year 4 camp.
and huge numbers of participation at our Year 3 to 6
Swimming Carnival. Students enjoyed being in the natural environment and
challenging themselves through feeding farm animals,
While records were broken and competition was tough, milking cows, bushwalking, riding and orienteering. This
it was the sportsmanship, support and cheering of peers was the first tenting experience for the students and
no matter if they were coming first or struggling to finish, has provided them with skills that they will use in future
that made us most proud to be a member of the St camps.
Andrew’s #diamondstrong community.
Congratulations to Williamson House who were crowned
House champions, just ahead of Hocknull in 2nd and
Burkett in 3rd.
FINAL IMMERSION ROSIE THE SCARECROW
The immersion program came to an end for our Year 5 Our Primary garden is flourishing and it now has a new
students, who concluded their two years of work with a addition, Rosie the scarecrow!
concert.
Year 1SN spent last term making Rosie the scarecrow and
It was an impressive display to see what they’ve learnt and put on the finishing touches to place her in the garden in
how far they’ve come and we hope that many will continue Term 4.
with their musical journey.
Page 23PRIMARY News
JUNIOR CHEFS CODING CHALLENGE
Aprons and chef hats on, our Prep students enjoyed Year 3 students discovered that coding a ‘bot’ to land
cooking their own damper! precisely at a very specific point is harder than it looks...
and ‘close’ doesn’t quite cut it.
Preps had been learning about food production, so after
a planting session with our wonderful Groundsmen But they were up for the challenge and persisted –
Richard and Sam, a tasting of fresh produce and a quick trialling new combinations and battling new hurdles
talk from Beyond Honey, Preppies got heir hands sticky in which forced them to think differently each time they
a masterclass with Graduate student Roberta. accomplished a task.
MARKET GARDEN READY FOR SECONDARY
Our Year 5 students spent their morning tea running their A fun morning of welcome activities for our Year 6
first Market Garden Stall, selling their harvest from our students preparing for their first year of Secondary
Primary garden to teachers! schooling in 2022!
The students have spent many weeks looking after their To build their connection as a year level, our current
plants and sold nearly all of their harvest, working to pay off students and those joining us for Year 7 in 2022 rotated
their loan from the ‘Bank of Teachers’. through team building exercises, cooking, a team
‘amazing race’ and maths quiz.
Page 24WE LOVE SCIENCE! MUSIC IMMERSION
Year 1 students were visited by Professor JellyBean, Our Year 4 parents shared and celebrated their student’s
who took the students on a fun investigation to discover musical journey at the final Year 4 Immersion concert.
the flow of light energy. They created colourful, freaky
goo worms and rainbow seed bombs, discovering how We look forward to seeing the growth in the student’s
sunlight energy brings life to all living things. musical knowledge and skills in the second year of their
Immersion.
Through these two science activities, Professor JellyBean
wove a story of change and told how we are all
connected to the greater community of life through the
flow of light energy.
SWIMMING CARNIVAL YEAR 2 CAMP
A little bit of rain wasn’t going to stop the fun and smiles What a day for our Year 2 students on their camp
from our Preps, Year 1s and Year 2s at their swimming engaging in a variety of activities all designed to deepen
carnival during Term 4. their understanding of themselves, others and the
environment.
Students enjoyed low ropes, a mud pit challenge, bush
skills and kite making activities!
Page 25YEAR 4
robotics
Year 4 students were fortunate to spend a
whole day designing, creating, coding in an
immersive Robotics experience day. This was
a culmination activity whereby all of their
knowledge and understanding from 2021’s
learning in Science, Design Technology and
Digital Technology came together.
Led by Mrs Stanhope, our Head of Digital
Integration, students were given a kit to
design a robot, then code its movements.
They were given time to practise with their
robot to ensure their design and algorithm
would withstand a competition against
opposing robots.
After lots of problem solving and persevering
the students were ready to battle their robots
on the sumo wrestling mats.
Page 26IGNITE
showcase
A semester of project learning culminated in our
second amazing IGNITE Showcase for 2021.
IGNITE is a celebration of learning where Year 5
and 6 students have the opportunity to shine in
what they are passionate about. The projects are
unique and autonomously driven by the students
in their designated learning times on Friday
afternoons.
Seeing the end product of what they have
achieved, worked so hard on and are so clearly
passionate about is always a highlight.
Page 27PRIMARY
Sponsored Awards
Alexander Aitchison Sofia Healey Charlie White Ava Thornton
THE MURPHY VISUAL ARTS AWARD THE ARCHBISHOP’S AWARD
This award is presented to an emerging artist within the This award is presented to the student who has
Primary School who displays an enjoyment for exploring shown the most improvement throughout the year
visual arts and using his/her creative imaginations. in all aspects of their College life.
Charlotte Guthrie Kate Bailey Oliver Greer Lachlan Hunt James Watson
THE PATERSON FAMILY THE DEAN FAMILY AWARD FOR ENTHUSIASM, ENERGY AND
AWARD FOR LITERACY VITALITY
This award is presented to the Year 6 This award is presented to a student who is recognised by the staff as a person
student who has achieved at the highest who consistently gives 100 per cent effort in all aspects of life of the College. The
level in literacy. recipient is known for their positive attitude, support for their peers, enthusiasm,
generous spirit and commitment to their studies.
Hailey Higgins Charlie Lawther Molly Lawther Daniel Miller Emily Tarsilli
THE HORNUM FAMILY SCHOOL SPIRIT AWARD
This award is presented to the Primary student who has con tributed an ongoing high level of enthusiasm
and encouragement to other students and demonstrates a real passion for St Andrew’s Anglican College.
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