June 2021 Newsletter
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Principal's Update
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Library Refurbishment is starting!
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Reconciliation - Native Planting
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AISACT Leadership Breakfast Series
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Breakfast with the Minister
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Act Up Festival
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The Mousetrap - Tickets on Sale!
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Road to Engineering
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The Sciences - Space Squad Scholarship
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Broaden your Horizons
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Visual Arts Semester 1
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Health, Medical and Applied Sciences R unit
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Monthly Excellence and Impact Awards
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Hall of Fame Signing - Rhys Howden
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Sports Update
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CIT ‘Taste’ Excursion
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Ex Student's Art Exhibition : The Impulse of Hysteria
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Lady Musgrave Experience
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Student Artwork
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ABC visits Media Class
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AusDance
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ANU Maths Day
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UCSSC Technology Benches
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Committing to success! - Student Study Group
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Student Artwork
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Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea Fundraiser
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Academic Excellence Program update
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Do you have?
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Student Artwork
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School Facilities for Community Use
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School Board Appointments
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Our Community Supports
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Public Notices
Welcome to the end of Semester 1.
Students have been involved in rich learning experiences both in, and out, of College, on excursions and participating in events including; subject specific camps, forums, hearing from guest speakers and involved in leadership, cultural and sporting activities.
I enjoyed seeing our drama and dance students in Act Up at the Canberra Theatre and our Drama teacher Dale Thain was quoted in the Canberra Times article about the event (Canberra Times Article HERE).
Our Information Night was jam packed and full of tours, questions, showcases and future students and families.
For enrolment information 2022 please go to Enrol in a Public School HERE.
Welcome to new staff and permanent placements at the college in Semester 2:
Kirk Zwangobani (Executive Teacher)
Emily Clarke (English/Psychology)
Laura Defalco (Psychology/Sociology)
Ellen Smith (Outdoor Education)
Rachael Burrage, Morgan Robinson and Belinda Castle will be on maternity leave Semester 2 and we wish them all the best.
Our library refurbishment is due to start this week so if your child is looking for a study area or to keep warm, the English open area is a welcoming space.
Please read on for a bumper newsletter edition and hope to see you all at the College production of ‘The Mousetrap’ for a real 3D whodunnit!
Have a wonderful break and safe travels.
Important Dates
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Term 3 commences Monday 12 July
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School holiday travel and COVID-19
As we head into the school holidays, it is important to note the ACT Government has updated travel directions for people considering travelling to COVID-19 affected areas of New South Wales.
The ACT Government advises people should not be travelling between Greater Sydney and the ACT at this time.
If you must travel for essential reasons, you must abide by all public health directions in place in NSW and the ACT. This includes changing travel plans and adhering to public health instructions upon your return.
At 4.00pm Wednesday 23 June, the ACT Government introduced a new ‘stay-at-home’
requirement for anyone who leaves the following seven Local Government Areas of Greater Sydney and enters the ACT – City of Sydney, Waverley, Randwick, Canada Bay, Inner West, Bayside and Woollahra.
These requirements will remain in place for at least one week, until 11.59pm Wednesday 30 June 2021.
ACT Health will continue to monitor the situation very closely and put in place further directions if required in order to keep our community safe.
Further information on these requirements is available on the COVID-19 website.
Work will begin this week on the library refurbishment that is due for completion mid July. This is a kind reminder to the community to follow safety signs and procedures around the construction area.
There will be updates as the project continues.
In celebration of reconciliation week, we will be planting some Australian native plants to symbolise growth and strength and to build the school's cultural integrity. We value the diverse contribution that our First Nations people have made to the ACT and our country at large, and we hope to continue growing together as one."
Oliver Da Roza - Youth Worker
On Thursday 27 May, the AISACT Leadership Breakfast Series was held at the National Gallery of Australia. The guest speaker Kate Carnell, Deputy Chair of Beyond Blue, the first Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, finishing that role in early March this year.
Here is what one of our students, Ellen, had to say:
A couple of weeks ago, Archie and I, as well as Kirk, Melissa, Gerard and Mali, had the privilege to attend the Australian Independent Schools, ACT, breakfast. Along with teachers from many different schools we had the chance to listen to Kate Carnell, former Chief Minister, discuss businesses and how to be a successful business. While we indulged ourselves in a wonderful breakfast we listened to Kate talk through how businesses were able to be successful through the COVID-19 lockdown we faced during March last year. Kate prominently stated that for companies to continue even through these tough times they must be creative. She used an example of a staging company used for events, who decided to change their primary services from staging, as there were no longer any events, to making and providing desk and furniture for homes, as everyone now needed a desk to work from at home.
While this was interesting to note, what stood out was how she linked it back to the school system and how our schools should function. Kate used the seven E's to describe what a school and a business should encompass; the most memorable of those seven E's were: Ethics, Education, Enemies, Enthusiasm, Empathy. Kate also believed passion, creativity and problem solving to be fundamental aspects of a business and a school.
What stood out the most, was towards the end of her speech where she stated that, "You will never have all the information you need. So to try and make a decision that will make everyone happy, you will instead make no one happy." I have thought about this statement and my own decisions and it is valid. We are very much taught that we should be people pleasers, but it is important to note, we will never please everyone, so it is better to make a decision and stick with it, because you will please some but not all.
Cheers,
Ellen.
Students in Dance and Drama bravely trod the boards at the Canberra Theatre Centre on Wednesday 2 June as part of the Act Up Festival. The Dance students performed ‘Portal to a New Normal’ – the finale in the Theatre’s matinee performance to full acclaim. Their audience was on their feet madly cheering the solo dance entry to the festival, with many besotted new fans approaching the dancers afterwards to congratulate them.
The performance in the Playhouse of ‘Mum Pick Me Up, I want to go home!’ was also well attended and received. Exploring the theme of moving out of home, a circumstance close to the hearts of some Drama student, their piece was unique and included many lovable characters. Immediately after their first performance, the Canberra Theatre Centre staff interviewed our students regarding the Act Up! experience, to which they eloquently responded encouraging future students to participate.
UCSSC Lake Ginninderra performing arts students are to be congratulated on this year’s festival entries, continuing the high-quality reputation that our college has for innovative performance work.
The Mouse Approaches the Cheese…
The two casts of the school’s production, ‘The Mousetrap’ are gearing up for the technical side of performance. Photographs and publicity materials are now coming together nicely with ticketing launched this week on Eventbrite. See below for details on how you can book your tickets today!
Meanwhile, with help from the wider school community, some authentic and thoughtful props have been placed in our care including vintage suitcases and skis. A bake sale was undertaken by the students to great result, netting $115 towards the costs of the elaborate set which is soon to be constructed. We cannot reveal too much detail of the interior of ‘Monkswell Manor’ as yet, however we are on the hunt for a functioning sash window to integrate. Any tips on where we can acquire one would be greatly appreciated!
Cast 1 will be performing on Wednesday 21 July at 11.30am and 6pm, Cast 2 will be performing on Thursday and Friday 22-23 July respectively.
To purchase tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/the-mousetrap-tickets-158812100267
When I finish college, I want to do something preferably in STEM such as engineering. I'm particularly interested in Physics, Mathematics and Chemistry. I am currently studying Specialist Mathematics, Specialist Methods Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, English, and the ANU Extension Course in Biodiversity.
At Canberra High I was selected for Lake Ginninderra College’s E2 Science Extension Program. Through this program I gained knowledge and skills in the college-level sciences as a high school student. I received a lot of support and guidance from the science faculty in putting the theory into real-life contexts and connecting this with my future study. As a Year 12 student, the continuous support of all of my teachers makes me really enjoy the student experience.
Everything I am learning has important applications in the world, now, and in the future. For instance, in Specialist Mathematics we're studying 3D vectors, and that's so connected with the things we do in physics. I am studying magnetic fields and electric fields there and 3D vectors come into those areas. Both the subjects are quite interconnected and so when you study them at the same time, you learn the theory and the application. This has been a recurrent theme throughout my college experience. Because the things that you learn in maths, come back in physics, and you end up applying them in physics. And so, I think, a great idea is to study maths and physics at the same time.
All my subjects are quite interconnected. In chemistry, when for instance we study the gas laws, thermodynamics and electrochemistry, we see them come into play in physics as well. All the subjects converge at a deep level, and it's a great idea to study all of them. If you're up for the challenge!
When I hear “engineering, ” I think about applied sciences. To me, it's all about the applications of Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics in our world, to improve it in a positive way. So, I'd say studying STEM subjects at UCSSC Lake Ginninderra like Physics, Chemistry, Specialist Mathematics are a great way to go forward, especially given the Government’s push for gender equality in STEM careers.
Anjana MURALIDHAR
We have nominated (2) young women from year 11 who have been awarded a fully funded scholarship into our initial #girlsdefyinggravity Air and Space Female Cadet Camp. We at Space Squad want to break down barriers through supporting these young women to defy gravity and create moments, memories, and friendships at Space Squad!
Our female cadets will explore new frontiers, journey beyond the stars, hear from top speakers in their respective fields
Guest presenters include Astrophysicist and Science Communicator Dr. Kirsten Banks, Julie Mason from NASA, Senior Chaplain Space Ethicist Nikki Coleman from Canberra’s Royal Australian Air Force, SGT. Amy Hestermann-Crane from Canberra’s Royal Australian Air Force, SQNLDR (Pilot) Susan Lambert, Astronomer and ASTRO3D Fellow Dr. Katie Grasha, Jackie Bondell from OzGrav, Sian Keys from the Australian Space Agency, Dr Brad Tucker from the ANU, Geoff McNamara AM from MSATT, Glen Nagle from CSIRO Canberra and many more.
Please congratulate Sophia Searle and Nicole Vea, we look forward to hearing about their experiences
Broaden your Horizons
Construction Pathways
Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander students and others, attended this event at CIT Bruce campus on Thursday 3 June. The event provided the opportunity to explore the growing and emerging career opportunities in the Construction Industry via interactive sessions, stories from apprentices, a mini–Careers Expo and a What’s next career session.
Students discovered future employment opportunities in:
- business, computing, art, design, architecture, engineering,
- plumbing, electrical, carpentry, plastering, glazing,
- retail, real estate, economics, advertising,
- environmental sciences, social sciences, maths,
- geography, surveying, interior design,
- graphic design, photography, project management,
This semester in Art student completed projects exploring a range of art movements and art making techniques. In the Exploring Visual Arts classes, student had the option to follow an independent line of enquiry looking to artists and movements that they most liked. Students explored what are the features that underpin their chosen art styles and produced their own art in response. In the Drawing class students produced work influenced by Realism, MC Escher and Expressionism. Students in Drawing explored both traditional and digital drawing techniques.
Students in the Health, Medical and Applied Sciences R unit have been hearing from a variety of local health professionals about their careers and work. This week students were fortunate to have local GP Dr Clara Tuck Meng Soo visit to share her experiences of studying and working in medicine. Dr Soo had many interesting perspectives on the challenges and rewards of a medical career.
Other talks we have had this semester included a student studying a combined nursing/paramedicine degree, occupational therapists and a dietitian from UC, a genetic counsellor and a PhD student from ANU. There have also been some sessions focussed on how to apply for a medical degree in Australia, and what kinds of testing processes are involved.
Next semester we are planning to get out to explore some of the local options to study science in higher education. Interested students are welcome to attend any of the sessions, come and see Sarah in the science staffroom or Anna in technology for details.
The monthly Impact and Excellence Awards are chosen from teacher nominations of students who have contributed to the college community or to excellent work in their classes.
Chosen for Excellence Award for April-May
Ricky Hawker Y12 Outdoor Recreation
Grace Tate Y12 Visual Arts
Sam Mackonis Y12 Drama
Yiorgos Sbirakos Y12 Biology
Also nominated
Teagan Young Y11 English
Laura Cox Y11 English
Csenge Keszei Y11 Exercise Science
Mia Davies Y11 Global Studies
Alice Fraser Y12 Psychology
Ashley Usback Y12 Psychology and Ceramics
Jules Webster Y12 Visual Arts
Tharaphi Naing Y12 English
Shirley Zhang Y11 Literature
Jaime Couter Y12 Drama
Jai Allen Y12 Drama
Chosen for Community Impact Award for April-May
Abby Schoon Y12 Open Night
Katie Jakab-Van Dooran Y12 All round contribution
Rhys Howden Inducted into Lake Ginninderra College Sporting Hall of Fame
UCSSC Lake Ginninderra students and staff were excited for Australian Water Polo player Rhys Howden to be formally inducted in the Lake Ginninderra College sporting Hall of Fame. Rhys joins sporting icons such as Lauren Jackson, Adam Pine, Petria Thomas, Shane Heal, Daniel Marsden and countless more on the ever-growing Hall of Fame alumni wall.
Rhys is preparing for his fourth Olympics Games, and generously gave his time in an Olympic year, to talk to our elite sporting students about his Olympic experiences and his personal training schedule, sleeping hours and advise on becoming a better athlete.
Our students are very lucky to have so many amazing athletes and Alumni like Rhys willing to give back to them and provide inspiration and knowledge towards their own sporting pathways.
Girls Regional AFL Champions
The Lakers Girls AFL contested the regional colleges event with excellent results. They played games with Erindale, St Clare’s, Dickson and St Francis Xavier and won each of them. The girls continue their undefeated run in AFL, after winning last year, qualifying for the next round of the Giants cup. They will play against St Mary Mackillop next term.
It is always great to see talented athletes play a sport for the first time, alongside experienced teammates. It’s great when it all comes together. A great day was had by all.
Congratulations to Susan Sanft, Emmy Clarke, Jasmyn Boutzos, Ainslie Winefield, Ruby O’Meara, Olivia Holgate, Annabel Scott, Mieke Schmidt, Hayley Macdonald, Paige Slater, Inge Schmidt, Maddie Bailey, Cynthia Hamilton, EJ Norris, Kara Thompson, Riley McQueenie, Kirby Smee, Keeley Dunbar and Gisela Vea.
Boys Regional AFL
The Lakers Boys AFL team contested the regional colleges event with good results. The boys had strong wins against Gungahlin and Dickson before narrowly going down to Erindale. The Lakers had a slow start to their game against Erindale and fell short after a strong comeback.
Always a great experience for players from different clubs as well as those with no AFL experience to play together for the first time.
Congratulations to Ethan McNevin, Cooper Eaton, Lachie Smith, Elijah Witchalls, Tate O’Down, Jarryn McClymont, Matot Matot, Bile Noor, Steven Magnussen, Josh Connell, Caleb Henderson-Connell, Kayan Watterson, Jamo Norris, Josh Carter, Tui Georgievski, Zak Levine, Jake Gourgaud, Chris Mecham, Zach Haycraft, Zach Michell and Taj de Montis
Boys and Girls Futsal Wrap
Term 2 was an extremely busy time for Futsal at the college with boys’ and girls’ teams competing in the South Coast NSW titles, ACT inter-college tournament and the Australian Futsal Association (AFA) titles. The NSW titles were covered in the last Newsletter, while the AFA titles were very successful for our Girls team, winning the Tournament undefeated and conceding only a couple of goals, which is a credit to both the excellent field players and the Goalkeeping of Ruby O’Meara. The school had two boys’ teams entered in the competition who were both eliminated before the semi-finals, despite some good wins.
The intercollege tournament once again saw the fantastic skills of our girls’ team on display to beat every school during the pool stages and with a dominant display in the final defeated Erindale 5-3, to take the ACT title. Well done to Meg Roden, EJ Norris, Tayla Hampson, Riley McQueenie, Kara Thompson, Hayley Macdonald and Ruby O’Meara.
The boys also competed very well in the pool rounds with one team winning the North Side competition and the other second in the South Side competition. This meant that the two boys teams came up against each other at the semi-final stage where the year 12 team came out victors facing Gungahlin in the final. The final was a game of two halves resulting in a 4-4 final score before heading to Penalties, where Gungahlin emerged victors. Congratulations to all the boys involved this semester.
Congratulations to Yr12 team: Jacob Booker, Bailey Sorenson, Nick Katsoulis, Matt King, Dylan Barreto, Elliot Alberto, James Stoddart, Lachie Brown and Sam Tregurtha.
Yr11 team: Jaidyn Croucher, Sam Thomson, Julian Smith, Mehmet Kazanc, Jack Authaisawang, Declan O’Neale, Ahmed Berjak and Stefan Avric.
Mixed Touch Champions
Earlier in the term, our mixed touch team competed in the ACT Colleges mixed touch gala day at Deakin. The team started well winning over Narrabundah College, Erindale College 1, Erindale College 2 and Hawker College.
After finishing on top of our pool and remaining undefeated throughout the day, Lake G met Gungahlin in the semi-final. This was a tough contest, both teams defended well, but as the game went on, our Lake G team proved to be too good in attack, coming away with a win by 2 tries.
The grand final was another match up against Erindale – this time their top team. The game was fast paced, with Erindale attacking through the middle and scoring early. Once Lake G sorted out the defensive line, the team held Erindale out and began to improve in attack. After going try for try throughout most of the game, Lake G came away with a win by 2 tries, to take out the competition.
Well done ACT Champions – Tate O’Dowd, Jordan Valter, Toby Balshaw, Tui Georgievski, Jamo Norris, Kyle McDermott, Cynthia Hamilton, Gisela Vea, Paige Slater, Hayley Macdonald and Kody Donnelly.
ACT College Netball Wrap
In week 5, Lakers entered three mixed netball teams into the ACT Colleges Gala day at Lyneham Netball Centre. All three teams had a busy draw, playing 8 or 9 games throughout the day.
One of our Lakers teams went through the tournament undefeated. Well done to all students who participated in the competition and congratulations to our winning team! A big thank you to Tori Nikias who helped umpire all day.
Thanks to Team 1: Mei Linh Doan-Herlihy, Emily Heintzelman, Cassie Dodd, Ella Schabort, Ella Milne, Ben Hood, Chandler Leydon, Kaia Clarkin and Kiefer Sinclair. Team 2: Charli Withers, Alison Francis, Lily Godding, Charlotte Van Gerwen, Maddie Bailey, Lachie Smith, Charlie Potter, Cam Pender, Lachlan Smith, Mason Bruce and Will Rice. Team 3: Grace Wolff, Kara Thompson, Keeley Dunbar, Hayley Macdonald, Paige Slater, Ieisha Sutton. Lachie Brown, Kyle McDermott, Adam Zanardo and Cooper Eaton
On Thursdays of term 2, the Lakers Netball team competed in intercollege netball. Beginning strongly the girls defeated Erindale, Narrabundah and Hawker in successive weeks.
In round 4 Erindale won narrowly. The season finished with a Canberra College forfeit in round 6 and missed playing Gungahlin college due to a clash with exams.
Overall, Lake G finished in equal second place. Well done to the following girls – Maddie Bailey, Charli Withers, Paige Slater, Hayley Macdonald, Ella Schabort, Cassie Dodd, Ieisha Sutton, Keeley Dunbar, Clea Dunne, Grace Wolff, Chloe Edwards, and thanks to Tori Nikias for playing and umpiring.
Boys Rugby 7’s
On a cold and windy day, the Boys Rugby 7’s team competed in the ACT Colleges event organised by the Brumbies. The Lakers came up first against a fast-paced Canberra team, but scoring back-to-back tries in the first two minutes the team ran away with the win. Next was Erindale who were a tough opponent and the eventual winners on the day. The Lakers came up against Gungahlin College in the semi final. It was an expansive game with many tries scored out wide and some strong tackles from Tue Tere, but the Lakers ran out of energy and fell short.
Thank you to Matot Matot, Zach Haycraft, Alamu Toomata, Jonty Clarke, Jamo Norris, Dylan Best, Tate O’Dowd, Volkan Irfan, Tua Tere and Ong Oung
Lakers at ACT Colleges 3x3 Basketball
Lakers basketball entered five teams into the ACT Colleges 3x3 Basketball event. The girls were one of four teams in the competition and went through undefeated against Hawker, Narrabundah and St John Paul. The girls turned it on in the final with flawless shooting from Keeley Dunbar and Emmy Clarke. Madi Lyons got the final basket to tip the score over 21 points in under 8 minutes.
The Lakers had four boys’ teams who were all very competitive throughout the round stages. Three of the four teams went through to the semi-finals, then Lakers Blue and Lakers White progressed to the final. It was an entertaining final with the predominantly year 11 Lakers White team taking the title.
Congratulations to Girls: Jasmyn Boutzos, Madi Lyons, Laura Topp, Emmy Clarke and Keeley Dunbar. Lakers Green: Tom Noble, Maverick Gigantone and Bailey Roberson. Lakers Blue/Green: Bowyn Beatty, Jeremy Hazlewood, Che Peters, Garin Beech and Will Foley. Lakers Blue: Will Paterson, Lachlan Thistlethwaite, Lachie Smith and Charlie Potter. Lakers White: Will Rice, Cameron Pender, Lachlan Smith, Aleu Mapiou and Mason Bruce
SSACT Cross Country Championships
Lake Ginninderra had three remarkable students who contested the SSACT Cross Country Championships at Stromlo Park. It was run on a cold and rainy day, but our students were determined to give it 110%. Congratulations to Bile Noor who ran 6km and won the U17 division. Ally Chambers finished in the top 5 for her age group and EJ Norris finished top 15. Well done to all three students.
Congratulations to
- Milo Whittingham who won gold in the vault at the Australian Gymnastics Championships in May.
- Chyra Evans, Isobel Borlase, Kate Deeble, Charlise Dunn, Alana Goodchild, Nyadiew Puoch and Shaneice Swain who were selected in the Australian Gems Basketball squad.
- Tyrese Proctor, Dyson Daniels, Max Mackinnon and Yaak Yaak who were selected as part of the Australian Emus Basketball squad.
CIT Taste is an annual event giving secondary school students a chance to explore the career possibilities in the exciting hospitality, culinary and tourism industries.
Students participated in fun hands-on practical activities in the following areas:
After these workshops they enjoyed a free lunch while hearing success stories from CIT graduates. Students came away with an increased awareness of the variety of career opportunities in these industries and pathways available to them here in Canberra.
After a battle with Covid and border restrictions, a select group of Lake Ginninderra students and staff were able to underatke the 2021 Reef trip.
On the 3 May students and staff arrived bright and early at the boat shed; whilst energy levels may not have been peaking yet, excitement was filling the bus as each person arrived. Thanks to previous preparation, the trailer was already packed and all that was left to do was check that no gear or humans were left behind.
Shortly after being on the road the realisation of the distance we would be covering over the next two days began to set in. With the help of a repeating playlist and an endless supply of mesmerising sunrises and sunsets it became easier to watch the hours go by. It was always quite clear when major progress was being made because the more you looked out the window the less there was to see. Stopping at places like Cowra, Dubbo and Coonabarabran on the first day, before reaching Moree. After allocating cabins and some students having to come to terms with the fact they would be on the floor for the night, there was a group dinner and the option to enjoy the natural hot springs. After a delightful stay at the Moree caravan park, we were back on the road at the crack of dawn. As body clocks were still adjusting to the new wake up times the mornings on the bus usually consisted of those who could go back to sleep and those who sat in their seats admiring the sunrise. Another full day on the bus would eventually land us in Bundaberg, our place of departure to the island. As we were entering the outskirts of Bundaberg the group decision was to essentially empty a local takeaway shop of their burgers, chips, fish and scallops. Once we had arrived at our accommodation in Bundaberg, a small team was sent to collect the feast. After everyone ate what they could physically endure it was time for each group to plan their meals for the nine days spent on Lady Musgrave island. This task proved itself to be far more challenging than expected for some groups and quite infuriating for others.
The next day it was time for each group to go and purchase whatever food they had decided would suffice for the next nine days and repack into one crate and one bag (compatible with 8kg of potato and 8kg of carrot specifically). From the supermarket car park we made our way to the dock yard, ready for the task of packing the boat. During surprisingly heavy rain everyone worked together in order to transport a very large amount of gear and food from the trailers and onto the boat. After this we had some time to go to a beach and enjoy the water as well as some games. For our last night on mainland Australia we treated ourselves to a good feed.
The next morning nobody had an issue with waking up because it was time to finally board the boat. Some people battled with sea sickness whilst others were enjoying the complimentary morning tea. Once we had reached the island, the experience was absolutely mesmerizing; the sky blue water and the vibrant green vegetation were unbelievable. The next task, transporting each group's nine days worth of gear to the other side of the island was a shock to the system, and left everyone dripping in sweat. Across the nine days that we spent on the island, each and every student and staff was able to have some of the best experiences of their lives. The opportunity that this trip provides to participants cannot be overstated; getting to see the reef and the wonders that it has to offer positively impacted everyone on the trip more than they expected.
From spending every day together and essentially doing everything together everyone became closer and people began opening up. Across reflection sessions, camp shenanigans, underwater experiences and team building activities the trip gained value each and every day.
Throughout the nine days we were lucky enough to encounter many different aquatic animals. Each and every dive we saw and experienced the amazing underwater world of the reef. There was so much variation in the corals and sea life, from anemone and clown fish to the green sea turtles and manta rays. We even saw a loggerhead turtle, a school of 40 parrotfish and 18 eagle rays swimming in formation. On the second day on the island, we saw baby turtles hatch from their nests. It was the most incredible experience. They were on the run of their lives, trying to make it to the ocean before being eaten by birds. All staff and students dashed to the beach and protected them as they made their way towards the ocean. Students and staff were screaming with delight!
On one of the last dives of the trip we saw the most amazing manta ray. Although it wasn’t the first time we had seen them, it was incredible as we were so close to it. The SCUBA divers were sitting below it, while the snorkellers didn’t miss out as they were right above it. Everyone, staff and students, followed it for almost 30 minutes. The excitement everyone felt as we got out was incredible, one of the best parts of the whole trip!
The 9 days flew by and all of a sudden it was time to pack up our campsite. As each group was consuming whatever was left in their crates for breakfast everything that had been hauled from one side to the other now had to go back, everyone did their part and we were left with time to kill waiting for the boat to pick us up. Some very efficient packing trains later and every single piece of gear as well as everyone made it onto the one shuttle boat. The provided lunch buffet was greatly appreciated by everyone's stomachs; fresh food had never tasted so good. Upon return to mainland the group completed one last chain to remove all the gear and personal belongings from the boat and pack it into the buses and trailers. Although it felt like the end of the trip there's nothing like two full days of driving to ice the cake that was for many people an absolutely life changing and eye opening experience.
Special thank you to Piper, Bec as well as all other staff members that made this trip possible.
Sam Tregurtha Year 12
The Media Department at UC SSC Lake Ginninderra has had a close relationship with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
This term, three representatives from the ABC visited the Media class to talk about their profession and conduct a workshop about publishing on a variety of platforms and framing shots professionally using available light sources. Students also had a go at operating a professional television news camera and setting up a three point lighting configuration; the standard in lighting for film and television.
The workshop was an insightful look into where Media Studies can lead our students and we look forward to the next workshop at the beginning of term 3, when students will be producing a news story for the ABC’s Instagram page.
“The ABC workshop was fun and engaging.” Taj
“It was an educational, hands-on learning experience with useful and interesting tips and insights from professionals at the ABC.” Tunc
Dance students were treated to 'Digital Moves', a workshop offered by AusDance ACT on Friday 4 June 2021.
"What a busy and fantastic week we have had working with the team from Felicity Arts providing Digital Moves workshops to schools participating in Youth Dance Festival.
On 28 May five students participated in a full day maths competition organised by ANU for year 12 students. There were four rounds of competition.
The first was a GROUP CONTEST , comprised of ten problems, which are to be answered collectively by each school team. The second round of competition is the SWISS CONTEST , a series of head-to-head quizzes between pairs of teams. After each quiz the pairs of contesting schools was changed to match equal scoring schools. The third round CROSS CONTEST is a cross-number puzzle with a difference; half (3 members) of the team get the “across” clues, the other half (two members) get the “down” clues.
The final round of competition was the RELAY CONTEST where again each team splits into two so that three members have the odd numbered questions and the other two have the even numbered questions. The teams tackle a series of twenty problems where each half of the team cannot receive the next question until the other is answered. The contest becomes more like a running relay as time ticks down and questions remain unanswered. The annual competition is always fun for the participants who did not share in the prizes this year.
The team is pictured below with some extracts from contest papers.
The fabrication of the benches was originally intended to be an in-class project completed by year 12 students. The pandemic events of 2020 paused our practical projects leaving this project partially complete. Luckily however, later in the year Nathan Ford joined the technology team and picked up from where the students left off to complete the benches with outstanding results.
Below are some before and after images:
The Student Study Group is designed by teachers to support students to complete
assessment and be engaged with their studies.
The program is held during H-Line on Mondays & Wednesdays in the library in seminar
room (B102) and student participation will go towards an R Unit.
If you would like more information about the program please email or visit one of the
following staff:
Oliver Da Roza - oliver.daroza@ed.act.edu.au
Gary Rolfe - gary.rolfe@ed.act.edu.au
For the sixth year in a row our Year 11 Hospitality students organised a fundraiser for the Cancer Council's Biggest Morning Tea event. This year they chose to target teachers specifically (as they tend to contribute more generous donations!) in a high tea style event. Students brainstormed a variety of recipes and put on a great spread.
Menu:
Cucumber and Dill Sandwiches (wholemeal bread is GF), Turkey Ribbon Sandwiches (wholemeal bread is GF), Lemonade Scones with Jam and Cream, Caramel Slice, Orange and Poppyseed Cake, Lime and White Chocolate Cheesecake (GF), Zucchini Slice (GF), Raspberry Brownies (GF), Mocktails: Sunrise & Lemon Lime Bitters, Extras: Quiche, Chicken & Leek Pie, Vegie Samosa, Party pies, Sausage rolls.
As a school we raised over double our target amount, leaving a good challenge for next years’ cohort. If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to the Cancer Council, you can do so using the link provided below.
https://www.biggestmorningtea.com.au/fundraisers/LakeG/act
Thanks again for everyone’s generosity ?
Academic Excellence Program update
The Academic Excellence Program at UC SSC, Lake Ginninderra is open to any student with motivation and a growth mindset.
If you would like to joining the program please visit lakeonline.act.edu.au and complete the Academic Excellence Application Form |
The Academic Excellence Program offers students targeted mentorship and opportunities to support their learning in Years 11 and 12. Upon successful entry into the program, opportunities for students are designed through consultation with the Academic Excellence Team. These opportunities support students not only in their academic pursuits but focus on developing core skills that will enrich students beyond the completion of their ACT Year 12 Certificate. Students within the program are expected to proactively engage in extracurricular activities across the school and attend targeted Academic Excellence enrichment activities.
AE Mentoring Partnerships:
Mentoring partnerships within the college and with outside organisations like ‘Global Shapers’ have been an integral part of the program. Mentors work with participants assigned to them with common areas of interests.
Invitation to Community: If you would like to work with our AE participants in mentoring capacity please send your EOI with your skills and expertise: |
AE Enrichment Opportunities:
Our AE participants were given a range of enrichment opportunities to take part in this semester:
- Feb 2021 - Academy of Interactive Entertainment (AEI) game design & animation workshop
- March 2021 - International Women’s Day Workshop at the Education Directorate
- March 2021 - She Leads Conference
- March 2021 - ANU Humanities Showcase
- March/ April 2021 - Global Classroom Conference (hosted online by Germany)
- May 2021 - Ethics Olympiad
- May 2021 - Boys and Feminism ANU Lecture
- June 2021 - Q & A Canberra
Global Classroom 2022 Conference: ‘Ways of Learning’
UC SSC Lake Ginninderra is the proud host of the Global Classroom Conference in 2022. Our Partners are:
- University of Canberra Senior Secondary College, Lake Ginninderra, Australian Capital Territory, AUSTRALIA
- Gymnázium Zlín - Lesní čtvrť, CZECH REPUBLIC
- Graf-Friedrich-Schule, Diepholz, GERMANY
- Cape Peninsula High School, Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA
- CF Somorrostro,Muskiz,Bizkaia, SPAIN
- Bobergsgymnasiet, Ange, SWEDEN
- Anderson High School, Lerwick, Shetland Islands, UK
- Ridgewood High School, Ridgewood, New Jersey, USA
This is an exciting leadership and networking opportunity for all interested students. We are currently seeking EOI from students who would like to be involved in the conference planning. If you could contribute with IT skills, communication skills and admin skills please contact the GC Coordinator on mali.wijesundara@ed.act.edu.au with a list of what you could contribute to the conference.
(Photos from GC conference 2021: Crisis Causes Change)
Wanted - Upright Piano Benches – Music Department:
The music department is looking to replace a couple of wooden upright piano benches (x2).
Our pianos are used daily by our talented and dedicated students. If you know of one (or two) piano benches in great condition that could use a good home here at the school for our students via donation please contact the college on 6142 0222.
UCSSC Lake Ginninderra College has a range of facilities available for community use including meeting rooms, a gymnasium, and a performing art theatre.
Facilities are available outside school hours, including weekends and school holidays.
To hire College facilities in Terms 2 or 3, please contact us at lakeg@ed.act.edu.au or 02 6142 0222.
The University of Canberra Senior Secondary Lake Ginninderra College School Board is composed of representatives from parents, students and teachers.
The Board meets to discuss matters of interest and strategic direction for the school. Members are appointed for a period of 12 months and are elected by the group that they represent.
Please welcome the following new representatives to the School Board 2021 committee.
Name of appointee |
Position appointee is to occupy |
Term of Office |
Ms Arthika Prasad |
Staff member |
1 April 2021 to 31 March 2022 |
Ms Jemma Julian |
Student Member |
1 April 2021 to 31 March 2022 |
Ms Katie Jakab |
Student Member |
1 April 2021 to 31 March 2022 |
Mr Andrew Roden |
Parent member |
1 April 2021 to 31 March 2022 |
COVID-19 reminder
A reminder that the COVID-19 pandemic is still with us and while many restrictions have been eased since last year, some restrictions are still in place in our school.
It is important that students stay home and get tested if they are unwell.
Visitors to our school, including parents and carers, should sign in using established processes, meet density requirements of one person per two square metres, and maintain physical distancing of 1.5m from other adults. Students and visitors also need to practice good hand and respiratory hygiene.
You can find more information on COVID-19 and ACT public schools on the Education Directorate website.
School Holiday Short Courses
The DiscoverFAD school holiday program, presented by the University of Canberra is back with a range of fun and creative short courses on topics such as becoming an online influencer, architect, sports reporter and more!
Get a taste of your future as a creative professional.
For more information visit: www.canberra.edu.au/discoverfad