phone: 6776 5800 fax 6776 5830 web: www.as.edu.au email: reception@as.edu.au

TAS TALKSTHE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER OF THE ARMIDALE SCHOOL

Wednesday 5 June, 2o13 Term 2 Week 6House on Duty Croft, 0439 026 748

HEADMASTER, MURRAY GUEST

Coonabarabran Horse ExpoOver the last four days the TAS Equestrian Team has been in the company of around 500 other keen high school horse sportsmen and women at Coonabarabran for the annual North-West Equestrian Expo. This huge event has been held at Coonabarabran and supported by Coonabarabran High School for more then twenty years and it is now the largest pony club event in Australia, outside the Sydney Royal Easter Show. The TAS team of seven riders competed in a range of events and I have already heard very encouraging reports of the fine way they carried themselves in representing the School. I offer congratulations to each of them on their efforts and I look forward to seeing the full report of the event next week. I also offer thanks to Mark Harrison and the families who supported our team through the expo, including those from PLC and NEGS who welcomed the TAS team in such good spirit. Horse sports, by its nature, takes our students away from school for competition and that makes that support all the more appreciated.

Dick Hodgson ShieldLast Friday afternoon hundreds of Farrer students arrived at TAS for competition in football, rugby, tennis, hockey, basketball and chess. This collection of sports (including chess) made for a gala day that involved the majority of our Middle and Senior School students and it was again a happy and thoroughly successful event. Our two schools compete for the Dick Hodgson Shield, named in recognition of Dick’s great work in developing our relationship over a decade as Sportsmaster at TAS, and it is awarded to the school that wins the most individual games through the day. As was the case in a competition of similar breadth against Sydney High last week, the score line was very close and came down to the final games of the day.

I offer my special thanks to Farrer for their willingness to travel to Armidale on Friday. The day had been scheduled at Farrer, but due to a clash with parent-teacher interviews here, Farrer very generously agreed to come to TAS for a second year in a row. Perhaps the home ground advantage that Farrer so gracefully sacrificed made the difference on the day and if that is so their generosity should be especially recognised.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Term 2 Week 6Wednesday 5 June Year 6-10 Mid-course exams Eisteddfod Voice and Keyboard6.30pm Evening Prayer

Thursday 6 June Year 6-10 Mid-course exams Eisteddfod Voice and Keyboard Friday 7 June Boarders depart for Queen’s Birthday Weekend - School Closed Staff PD Day Eisteddfod Voice and Keyboard NSW Country Schools Rugby at TAS Saturday 8 June Queen’s Birthday Weekend NSW Country Schools Rugby at TAS Sunday 9 June Queen’s Birthday Weekend NSW Country Schools Rugby at TAS Monday 10 June Queen’s Birthday Weekend Boarder’s return pm

Tuesday 11 June Classes resume MTA Assessment - Year 11 and 12 Eisteddfod Year 7-12 Ensembles Eisteddfod Band Night

Term 2 Week 7/8Wednesday 12 June Eisteddfod Primary Ensembles 6.30pm Choral Communion

Thursday 13 June Year 7 and 9 Vaccinations6.30pm Night of Instrument Music - Hoskins Friday 14 June Saturday 15 June Sunday 16 June Eisteddfod Gala Concert

Monday 17 June Activities Day No 4 Dubbo Bull sale continues

Tuesday 18 June Board Meeting2.00 & 7.30pm Year 11 production of ‘Antigone’

Wednesday 19 June5.00pm Farewell for Dennis Dempster in Hoskins6.30pm Evening Prayer7.30pm Year 11 production of ‘Antigone’

Thursday 20 June9.00am Confirmation Service10.30am NAIDOC Assembly and Lunch CSIRO Young Australia Science Show in Hoskins 3.30pm School closes

Eisteddfod Band NightAfter the great success of Choirs’ Night last week (reported in more detail later in this edition of TAS Talks), our bands will compete next Tuesday in the second major evening of the Armidale Eisteddfod. I know that our band musicians have been working hard in preparation for next week and I am sure that all at TAS will join me in wishing them well for it.

Straightening ties before the award winning choir performance

ExamsFinally, I wish all our students in Years 6 to 10 well as they continue their mid-course exams through to the end of this week.

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CHAPLAIN, RICHARD NEWTON

Proverbs 3:1-8Illusory superiority is a cognitive bias that causes people to overestimate their positive qualities and abilities and to underesti-mate their negative qualities, relative to others.

For instance, there is a tendency for people with a below average IQ to overestimate themselves. The disparity between actual IQ and perceived IQ has also been noted between genders, on average, men are more likely to overestimate their intelligence by 5 points, frankly I find that hard to believe. What’s more, women are more likely to underestimate their IQ by a similar margin. Well that’s clearly not very smart…In another study 87% of MBA students at Stanford University rated their academic performance as above 50%. Quick calcula-tions will show that doesn’t work. In ratings of leadership ability, 70% of the students put themselves above the median. In abil-ity to get on well with others, 85% put themselves above the median, and 25% rated themselves in the top 1%. As far as driving is concerned 93% of the US sample put themselves in the top 50%. For safety, 88% put themselves in the top 50%. What’s more people in the study often described themselves in positive terms compared to other people, and this includes de-scribing themselves as less likely to overestimate themselves than other people.

Given all that, it almost seems pointless saying what I’m about to say because most of us will think, “that doesn’t apply to me, I am able to make better judgments than most.”But for the 20% of us who might have a more realistic view of ourselves I will continue. The passage we heard said, don’t lean of your own understanding, don’t trust in your own wisdom, but trust in what the Lord says. Why does this make sense? Two compelling reasons: 1 If these studies are accurate and we always overestimate ourselves then our judgment is often wrong, and our wisdom is skewed – in other words there is good reason to question our ability to see things clearly, as they appear in reality. 2 If God has designed and made us, then told us what is best for us, then it makes ultimate sense, it is wise to trust the Lord. The passage said three things that we should do in response to our illusory superiority. To keep the Lord’s commands because they are good for us; submit to Him because He knows what is best for us; and fear the Lord for this, as we will see next time, is the beginning of wisdom.

Wednesday 19 June, 20135.00 - 6.30pm for drinks and canapesTAS Hoskins Centre

The Headmaster Murray Guest, extends a warm welcome to TAS students, staff, parents and the wider community, to join in farewelling the Head of Middle School, Dennis Dempster.

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GENERAL NOTICES

Host Family OpportunityCurrently we have two boys from Meitoku, Japan on exchange at TAS for a year. Their names are Daiki Takeda and Jun Hyeok Kim. They arrived in February and have settled into life at school and in the Boarding House. They are currently staying in Abbott House and they have had a wonderful time interacting with other students. The aim of the exchange is to improve their English and to experience life in Australia. They had a wonderful time during their homestay in the recent school holidays and they would love to have another opportunity during the three week holidays from June.They are easygoing boys and are open to new experiences. Their English is good and they are very sociable. This provides a wonderful opportunity for TAS families to host a student from another country and to gain an understanding of a different culture. If you are able to host one or both boys during the holidays, could you contact me on the email below. The length of time that you host the boys is also open. Allan Moore amoore@as.edu.au

Position VacantTAS HSC Presiding Officer

Trial HSC exams: August 12 - 23HSC exams: October 14 – November 6

Lead the team to supervise the 2013 Trial and HSC exams at TAS. This is an important job, ensuring that the exams are conducted properly and fairly so that candidates can do their best.

The position involves liaising with the school regarding preparation for the exams, conducting the exams in accordance with the Board’s rules, managing the HSC supervisors (rosters, briefings and overseeing performance) and dispatching completed exam scripts as per the Board’s instructions. The Presiding Officer needs to be well-organised, have good attention to detail, and be able to manage students and effectively organise and supervise their examination supervisors.If you are interested in this position and able to commit to being available for all of the exam period (beyond normal school hours), please check your eligibility below, then register your interest by emailing your name and contact details to Seonia Wark, Director of Studies: swark@as.edu.au by Monday 10 June 2013.

This is a paid position with the Board of Studies for the HSC exams and with TAS for the Trial HSC exams.

Eligibility for appointment:You must be over 18 years of ageYou must have access to private transport, and the vehicle used must be covered by a comprehensive motor vehicle insurance policy.You must not have a child or near relative (including siblings, grandchildren, nephews, step-children, step-grandchil-dren and first cousins) sitting for the HSC at any location this year.You must be willing to complete a Working with Children Check – Application Declaration and Consent formYou must not be employed by TAS.You will be required to provide identification documents such as birth certificate, passport, drivers licence etc.

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MEDICAL CENTRE - SISTER JENNY MURRAY

Concussion Management ProgramThe implementation of our school based concussion management program to Middle School and Senior School coordinated by Dr James Donnelly has been delayed due to a very short, busy term.However student advisors who will be supervising the computer based baseline testing will be trained in the use of the program at the Staff PD Day - Friday 7 June Student testing will then begin in Advisor Groups from Wednesday 12 June.

The brief test will measure reaction time to various target visual stimuli appearing on the screen. A questionnaire about concussion history and a checklist of symptoms associated with concussion will also be included.All information obtained from the testing will remain confidential and will only be accessed by Medical Centre staff, Dr Luke Bookallil and Dr Jim Donnelly in case of a concussion injury.

If parents do not wish to have their son involved in this testing could they please contact the Medical Centre on 0428 152 291.There will be a charge of $5 per student which will be added to your Sports account.

ImmunisationsParents of Year 9 and Year 7 students – the second round of School based immunisations will occur on Thursday 13 June at the Medical Centre.

The Late Walcha Bus will run on Thursday as normal, picking up from PLC and NEGS if required.

STUDENT SERVICES, MEG SADLER

Official Results of the Year 8 Mathematics Day at UNE indicate TAS 1 in thrid place - well done.Place High School1st Coffs Harbour Christian Community School 12nd PLC Armidale 13rd The Armidale School 14th Bellingen High School5th Camden Haven High School 2

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Rugby Training Camp 15 JuneJust letting families know that next weekend all our rugby players will be involved in a coaching camp from 10am-12pm followed by a lunch hosted by our Rugby Supporters Group. We look forward to this special opportunity for our young men and any parents are welcome to join us for lunch on the day.

Coonabarabran Equestrian ExpoCongratulations to all our students who participated in this enormous event last weekend where they competed against close to one thousand students from schools across NSW. Our results were most impressive and I look forward to a report from the competitors in coming weeks. I would like to especially thank Mr Mark Harrison and Mrs Jo Benham for their wonderful contributions behind the scenes as well as their attendance at the weekend and of course our committed parents who support our riders in these endeavours.

Cricket Representative HonoursA huge congratulations to Kieran Dennis - Year 6, and Joe Gordon - Year 5 who have been selected into the Northern Inland Cricket Academy under 14’s squad. This is a huge achievement as only 18 players are chosen from the entire Northern Inland region for each age group. We look forward to seeing the progress these two talented cricketers achieve.

TAS Hockey - Alex Portell, MICWhat a great weekend of Hockey action, despite the U9s and U11s Girls having the week off. There will be no hockey over the June long weekend so there will be no Thursday training this week. Hopefully, if the roster is all sorted, training will begin on Wednesdays when we return, with exact times to be confirmed.

DIRECTOR OF CO-CURRICULAR, JASON LINCOLN

Farrer FixtureI was very pleased that we had the opportunity to broaden our boys experience and celebrate our schools diversity as we battled for the Dick Hodgson Shield in 2013. The chance to compete in a wide variety of sports including chess certainly added to the fixture and the competition was enjoyed by spectators and participants alike. I would like to especially thank our Rugby Supporters Group and P & F Executive for their tireless efforts behind the scenes in catering for events of this type and I particularly acknowledge the ongoing enormous time commitment of Mrs Tanya Coldham and Mrs Sandra Kaynes.I am pleased to report that TAS successfully remained holders of the Dick Hodgson Shield and the 1st XV Challenge Shield on the back of our successes across the board on the night. I am also very grateful to Mr Gus Comi and Mr Jim Levy from Farrer for all their support of this fixture and of our hosting in 2013.

NSW Country Schools Rugby WeekendThis weekend TAS plays hosts to players from across NSW Country for the Country Schools Championships. I would like to thank Mr Jim Pennington for all his outstanding contributions as Secretary of NSW Country Schools and as Championship Convenor. I wish the many young men who are participating every success as they battle for both the title and representative selection and I once again thank our broader TAS community for the many roles they have taken on from hospitality, residential, ground controllers to management to ensure the success of the weekend.

TAS TALKS 7

U13sWith many of the 11s enthusiastically backing up after their scheduled games, the 13s took to the field against Servies missing a couple of regulars but nonetheless keen to give it their best. With Jonathon Chamberlain up front as striker, Sam Wright in back and Zac Matherson in goals, our chances were looking good with some solid attack and defence. The likes of Jack Sewell, Josiah Alcorn and Floyd Hardingham were never too far from the ball and all combined with the halves of Liam Matherson, Sam Behrend and Owen Chandler well to create some good movement down the field. New recruits Ziggy Harris and Riley Eichorn did themselves proud against a solid Servies line up, however Jonathon Chamberlain proved too strong on numerous occasions as he weaved his way through the Servies defence to get a couple of nice shots off and in.

A GradeIn TAS' only grade game for the weekend, A Grade went up against Servies in the pouring rain of Sunday morning. Despite the cold, wet weather, the game was quick and flowing from the opening whistle, with Servies quickly capitalising from some sleepy defence from the TAS side in the opening minute. Slightly shell-shocked, the TAS side were determined to pick up the tempo, re-fusing to submit to this side that we were definitely capable of beating, having done so only a few weeks prior. As we got into the swing of things, the TAS passing game became more solid, but many balls were still missing their mark by that indeterminable margin that proved the difference between possession and turn-over. Eventually, through some neat ball movement through the halves and inners, centre forward Portell turned to receive the ball into space with only the goalie in front and the backs hot on his heels as he penetrated the circle. After a quick line up, the ball was cracked into the top left net, leaving the Servies keeper stranded in its wake. With scores even, our men were fired up to work hard to break the deadlock, however shortly into the second half, the Servies forwards combined to confuse the TAS backs and with a deadly tomahawk, the ball cracked past Jack Bishop despite his best efforts, to put the red and whites into the lead. Like the rain, TAS did not let up and pushed Servies to the very end. With 50 odd seconds on the clock, Michael Young took the ball and worked some magic to get the ball deep into Servies territory where a scramble in the circle eventuated in the ball spilling ominously to forward Angus Rive who cracked the ball forcefully towards the open net, only to be denied ever so closely by the post. As he lay shattered in the puddle of a field, the final siren sang, but all were in agreeance that despite the bad luck, the game was one of the most enjoyable so far this season. The next game for TAS A Grade will be Friday 14th June at 7.30pm against our adversaries, United.

TAS Firsts vs Farrer FirstsIt all began with the superb TAS vs Farrer game on Friday afternoon, held at the UNE. Farrer were an unknown quantity to us and with a few of our key players out due to U15s State Championships duties, the game was shrouded in nervous anticipation. From the opening whistle it was obvious it was going to be a solid contest, with the game played at a high pace and both teams working the ball well. Even so, it was TAS who netted the first goal through some good scrambling by forward David Williams. The whole team were playing superbly, especially youngster Michael Harris and the more experienced back and half combination of Michael Young and Callan Rogers-Ellis, who were equally strong in defence and attack. A short time from the final siren, Farrer were able to equalise, despite the best efforts of keeper Jack Bishop, who played with great determination. Time eventually ran out for the TAS side to get back on top, however everyone agreed that it was a fine result for the first of hopefully many hockey fixtures against Farrer.

UmpiringFor all juniors wanting to gain precious community service as well as brush up on their knowledge of the game and give a little back to HNE, there will be a Rookie Umpires course to be held at 7.00pm this Thursday at the Servies club. Please contact Umpires Coordinator Dennis Behrend to RSVP on cytan@internode.on.net

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THE HAWKESBURY CANOE CLASSIC 2013, TIM WHEATON

Expressions of interest are being sought for those who would like to participate in the Hawkesbury Canoe Classic 2013. Please email Tim Wheaton before the end of Term 2 if you are interested. Email: twheaton@as.edu.au

I should’ve, I would’ve, I could’ve but I didn’t. I should have attempted the 111km Hawkesbury Canoe Classic (HCC) people tell me too late. I should have told them how rewarding it was and how they could have pushed themselves beyond their limits and comfort zone. I would have but I prefer to sleep in on Sunday mornings instead of going to training. I could have but I was busy with other things. I didn’t and now I may not get the chance to do it again.

The Hawkesbury Canoe Classic is an event that TAS has been participating in for 34 years. Since the beginning students, parents and friends of TAS have taken the opportunity to challenge themselves in an overnight paddle that can take between 7 and 20 hours to complete, if you make it to the end. Many people have succeeded in completing the event and some have completed it in record time. Last year was the first year in all the years that TAS has participated that all the boys completed the race.There are a number of different competition events to enter as well as local trophies to celebrate the fastest junior/adult paddlers, fastest junior/junior paddlers, fastest three kayaks from one school and biggest fund raiser, all of which are awarded s at a presentation night in November.The HCC is an event that has raised over $4 million dollars for the Arrow Bone Marrow Transplant Foundation and other charitable organisations. The TAS/NEGS/PLC team of paddlers has contributed significantly to this total with our contribution to this figure being in excess of $150,000 since our first entry 33 years ago and this is also due to the generous donations made by Count Financial.

The Myall ClassicThis is a 47km paddle during the day and it starts and finishes at the same location after paddling up and back on the same river near Teagardens. This event also raises money for charitable organisations like Cure for Life established by D. Charlie Teo to raise money for brain cancer research and is a great training paddle leading up to the HCC.There are age restrictions on each of the events being 15 years of age at January of this year for the HCC and 13 years of age for the Myall Classic.

Training for both EventsThe main training location is Malpas Dam as we have a number of kayaks housed there including boats donated by the TAS Parents and Friends, TAS Old Boys Union and also generous donations from a number of parents of past students. The cost of paddling the above events varies depending on whether you choose one or all events to participate in and if you have your own equipment or need to hire it from us. There is also a charge for joining the TAS Kayak Club and this entitles you to access Malpas Dam and the TAS Kayak/Rowing shed throughout the training season, BBQ breakfasts when supplied on Sunday training days, complimentary tickets to the information night as well as the presentation night. Costs for previous HCC’s have been placed on the TAS website under the ‘Expeditions’ menu if you would like more information on this.Entrants can choose to paddle with a partner of their choice or on their own. I strongly suggest completing the HCC with some-one else before attempting this on your own. Training is carried out on Malpas Dam on Sunday mornings between 8.30 and 11.30am most weekends with a Grafton paddle to gain experience in night paddling and navigation down a river. Grafton paddle is a compulsory paddle if you choose to paddle with TAS at the HCC. Another night paddle may be scheduled at Malpas dam in lieu of the Grafton paddle. Training begins at the start of Term 3.Kayaks, lifejackets, spray decks and paddles are available if required and they are charged at $110 per person and these are yours to use throughout the season. Kayaks can be taken elsewhere if suitable kayak racks are being used to transport them.If you are interested in participating in the Hawkesbury Canoe Classic, The Myall Classic or the Grafton Paddle please email me before the end of Term 2 and I will send you an Expression of Interest form or answer any questions you may have. twheaton@as.edu.au Tim Wheaton, MIC TAS Hawkesbury Canoe Classic

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HOSKINS CENTRE, EMMA BUZO - MANAGER

Year 11 Production 'Antigone' - only weeks away!The word 'theatre' originates from the Greek word 'theatron', so it's really the ancient Greeks we have to thank for the wonderful dramatic art we enjoy today. Back in 441 BC when 'Antigone' was written, theatre going was a whole population event in honour of the Gods. Dionysus was the God of Theatre - and wine! People gathered in massive open air theatres to worship him by putting on plays. Our production at Hoskins is pretty humble in comparison, but with a fabulous young cast, a few broken mirrors and bit of blood, we're making it happen on June 18th & 19th. Book now to see the story of a brave young woman who dares to defy the King of Thebes in order to remain true to her family.

Enrol now for NIDA’s holiday workshops at HoskinsA reminder that the National Institute of Dramatic Art’s community access arm ‘NIDA Open’ will be running school holiday work-shops for young people at the Hoskins Centre. The courses are for students from 8 years old and up and run from July 2nd-5th and 6th-7th. For further information and enrolment details, go to: http://www.nida.edu.au/NidaCustomisation/CourseList.aspx?TYP=225

There are still a couple of scholarship places left for students studying Drama at TAS. Email ebuzo@as.edu.au for details.

TAS TALKS 10

Tuesday 11.06.13 at Old Teachers College, Mossman St Afternoon Session 1.30pm TAS SENIOR JAZZ COMBO Section 5 and 7 Competitor 1 Transport by TAS Bus to venue *Students will be dismissed from OTC at end of session Evening Session at 6.00pm TAS DRUM LINE Section 1 Competitor 1 Drum Line members meet at TAS at 5pm for rehearsal TAS WIND ENSEMBLE Section 2 Competitor 4 Wind Ensemble to make own arrangements to meet at venue at 6.00pm TAS BIG BAND Section 3 Competitor 2 TAS Big Band to make own arrangements to meet at venue at6.30pm.Please Note:Transport will be provided for TAS Drum Line members and boarders - to venue on TAS busDayboys will need to arrange own transport after event Boarders will be transported back to TASMeals will be arranged for Boarders

Wednesday 12.06.13 Old Teachers College, Mossman Street Morning Session 9.00am TAS YEAR 9/10 ELECTIVE MUSIC CLASS Section 2 Competitor 2 Students will be transported to and from venue by TAS bus

TAS Singers with adjudicator Stephen Leek (second from right)

MUSIC, NIK GLASS - DIRECTOR

Eisteddfod AchievementsI continue to hear about the great results emerging from this year's Eisteddfod. From solos to small ensemble items, TAS students have done themselves proud over the last few weeks. One of the highlights of course was the success of TAS Singers at Choir Night last week. Singers took out both the Under 19 and Championship events. Adjudicator, internationally renown composer Stephen Leek, commented on the boys warm tone as well as their dramatic and at times moving performance. This was an outstanding result for the boys, for which they should be very proud. Other great results came from the guitar events last Saturday during which both our Junior and Senior guitar groups took out honours in their respective events. Congratulations and thank you to all staff and students for continuing to make such a valuable contribution to the music life of our School. With string and piano events now in full swing I look forward to hearing about the performances of our students. Please email music@as.edu.au with your child's results. With over 40 students enrolled into over 120 events, we look forward to sharing the honour roll with the TAS community at the conclusion of the Eisteddfod. I look forward to reporting on our achievements after next week's Band night, which promises to be an event to remember.

Logistic information regarding co-curricular ensemble performances

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Night of Instrumental Music Thursday 13 June 6:30pm

in Hoskins Theatre

Featuring: TAS Big Band, TAS Senior Jazz Combo,

TAS Wind Ensemble and TAS Guitar Ensembles

Please join us to celebrate the achievements of our instrumental ensembles

Free entry

TAS Music Department proudly presents

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UAC Key Dates for 2014Applications Open on Wednesday 7 August 2013On-time applications close for Semester 1 study Friday 27 September 2013Late applications close with late fee* Thursday 31 October 2013Late applications close with late fee* Friday 29 November 2013Final closing date for semester 1 study Thursday 21 February 2014

HSC and ATARsHSC results released by NSW Board of Studies Wednesday 18 December 2013ATARs released by UAC Thursday 19 December 2013

Change of preference closing datesFor consideration in Main Round Saturday 4 January 2014For consideration in January Round 3 16 January – 23 January 2014For consideration for semester 1 study 30 January – 31 January 2014

Offers releasedOctober Round Thursday 24 October 2013November Round Thursday 14 November 2013December Round Thursday 5 December 2013January Round 1 Friday 3 January 2014Main Round (January Round 2) Thursday 16 January 2014

Late Rounds Thursday 30 January 2014 Thursday 6 February 2014 Wednesday 12 February 2014 Wednesday 19 February 2014 Wednesday 26 February 2014* Fees and charges for 2014 admissions are to be confirmed

CAREERS, TREVOR THATCHERSydney University Scholarships - Information EveningDid you know that the University of Sydney offers over $65 million in scholarships each year?That's $65 million for over 700 scholarship schemes (not including prizes or college and sporting scholarships). To maximise your students' chances of receiving a scholarship, we are hosting a Scholarships Information Evening for Year 11 and 12 students.

Date: Wednesday 26 June 2013Time: 6pm for 6.30pm start Eastern Avenue Auditorium, Camperdown Campus (K5/6 on map)RSVP: Register on the event website

Please note: Registrations open Monday 3 June at 5pm The Head of the Scholarships Office will be sharing insider hints and tips on completing a University of Sydney scholarship ap-plication. Attendees will also hear from a current student about how they got a scholarship and how it has helped them succeed.If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact Sydney University on 1300 362 006 or email future.students@sydney.edu.au

Undergraduate Medicine and Health Science Admission Test (UMAT)UMAT Registration is now open at http://umat.acer.edu.au/

UMAT is developed by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) on behalf of the UMAT Consortium universities. The test is used specifically to assist with the selection of students into the medicine, dentistry and health science degree pro-grams at undergraduate level at the universities listed on this website.

UMAT scores can be used for admission to any of the UMAT Consortium universities ONLY in the year following the test. For example, results from UMAT2013 can be used for undergraduate medicine or health science courses beginning in 2014 but NOT 2015. Do not register for UMAT2013 unless you are planning to apply for a course commencing in 2014 AND you meet the eligibility criteria specified in the UMAT2013 Information Booklet.

Year 10 - University Entry Requirements 2016Students will receive the UAC University Entry Requirements 2016 booklet in Careers classes. Please chat to you son about the booklet and subject selection for Year 11.

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Queens Birthday Long WeekendAfter a busy 6 weeks of activities in and out of the classroom the boys will appreciate the opportunity to recharge their batteries in the comfort of their own homes. At the end of this term a semester report will be mailed out to parents. We wish the boarders a safe journey home and know that all our boys are looking forward to this opportunity to spend extra time with their families.

Absentees and Leave RequestIt is a Board of Studies requirement that all absentees are explained. A note or email from parents explaining the absence is required when your son returns to school or on the day of his illness.We now require you as parents to complete leave requests if you need to take your child out of school for an upcoming planned absence. (Medical/Dental appointments do not need leave request forms) Application forms for exemption from attendance are on the school website and downloadable from: http://www.as.edu.au/current_happenings/forms.php Please note: leave cannot be taken until a certificate for exemption from Attendance at School is received.

PSSA Cross CountryCongratulations to Joe Carlon and Kieran Dennis, representing Middle School Years 6 at the recent PSSA Cross Country event. Both boys showed fantastic behaviour and exemplary sportsmanship and it was a delight to have them on the team. They also ran very well with Joe placing 7th and Kieran 10th in the 12 years boy event. Unfortunately Henry Claridge and Hamish Moore were unable to compete on the day. Mrs Kirsty Brunsdon

Thank YouLast week Mr O’Connell’s class enjoyed a very insightful and moving presentation highlighting Will Mazzei’s experiences while servicing with the Australian Army in the Solomon Islands. Will spoke about the recent conflict there and how this has impacted on the local people. Will’s talk most certainly showed how fortunate we are to be living in Australia. We are all very grateful and appreciative of Will’s visit.

Early Adolescent Development12 Year Olds – Twelve year olds are unpredictable. The opinions of their peers are more important than those of teachers or parents. Twelves are beginning their search for identity so argue with adults and want adults to pay attention to them. They are more likely to listen to adults other than their parents or teachers. They need ceremonies to mark milestones on the path to adulthood. They are careless about finishing assignments or tidying their room. Twelves are capable of empathy. They like to be put in charge and can be responsible and do a good job. They are very energetic and need lots of sleep, food and exercise. Twelves enjoy sports, can show skill in particular subjects and appreciate more sophisticated humour like irony. They enjoy work with a purpose like projects and science experiments. They can set goals and concentrate on their work. They show an interest in current affairs, the environment and issues of social justice.

Lost PropertyHarry Jones’ back pack went missing on Tuesday after football training on Adamsfield. If found could you please return to MS.Oscar McBean’s akubra and blazer went missing at the end of Term 1. Could you please check to see if your son has picked up the wrong akubra or blazer. Callum Ferguson is missing his tracksuit top. It went missing at the rugby on Saturday (last seen near the BBQ area near McConville). The tracksuit top is clearly labelled. If found could you please return to Middle School.

HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL, DENNIS DEMPSTER

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HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL, IAN LLOYD

From Ian Lloyd

Premier’s Reading ChallengeAs you will read below, we have registered 46 students in the Premier’s Reading Challenge. Mrs Janine Ranck has been coordinating our assault on this competition and it is very pleasing that so many have been involved and this is largely due to her enthusiasm. Reading is such a fundamentally important life skill and this type of encouragement goes a long way to help more children take up books. It all helps.

The Armidale EisteddfodJunior School has been very well represented in this year’s Eisteddfod competitions and a full list of results will appear in next week’s bulletin. Preparing for performance is a vital component of building self-confidence whether in a group or as an individual. I am very pleased to see the involvement of so many taking the opportunity to challenge the individual to perform and congratulate all participants.

Da Vinci In SydneyTravelling with the team to Sydney for the da Vinci competition reminded me of the importance of going outside the square, the classroom, the comfort zone. Observing the team travel, stay and compete in Sydney reinforced why we participate in such broadening experiences and the role they play in pushing the boundaries and stretching our limits. Angus Alford’s report is included below but for me, it was a pleasure to be with a group of like-minded individuals (and their teacher) as they embarked on what was a fantastic learning experience. They were exemplary in their behaviour and the manner in which they faced the challenge. At Right the Da Vinci team in Sydney: l to r: Alistair Le Surf, Matthew Wark, Ollie Fletcher, Mrs Anne Hine, Thomas Wu, Albie Woodhouse, Angus Alford, jack Nivison, Cotter Litchfield

Looking AheadWednesday 5 June Transition AssemblyFriday 7 June Pupil Free Day Staff PD DayMonday 10 June Queens Birthday Long WeekendTuesday 11 June Students return to ClassWednesday 12 June Year 2 Assembly – Memorial HallThursday 13 June The Little Bad Wolf Performance 2.30pm.Monday 17 June Activities Day Transition to Town Library

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Premiers Reading Challenge (PRC) - Term 2We have registered 46 students to complete the 2013 PRC – this is a fantastic effort! Congratulations to 7 of the students who have already completed the Challenge this year: Annabelle Pennington, Harry Pennington, Grace Pennington, Jonathan Harris, Joshua Miron, Alexander Zuber and Archie Douglas-Menzies.I encourage the students participating, to bring their reading logs into the Library during their weekly library lessons, so we can register the books you have already read. If you need any help finding books that are in the challenge, please just ask Mrs Allan, Mrs Ramazani or myself and we will be able to guide you in the right direction.Students are encouraged to come to the Library during their lunch break to return books and borrow more with their teacher’s permission – you don’t have to wait until your weekly Library lesson to change your books over.As we are getting closer to the end of term, don’t forget that you have the opportunity to borrow 6 books from the library over the 3 week holiday period with your parents permission. We have plenty of PRC books in the library and this will be a great op-portunity to get 6 books onto your reading logs. Don’t forget the town library also has plenty of PRC books.Just a reminder about the series rule in the PRC, please be aware of it as it does catch students out – this is the rule:In an approved series, any two (2) books from the series can be read as part of official PRC reading. Up to five (5) other books from the same series can be read as personal choice booksHappy reading everyone! Janine Ranck, PRC Co-ordinator

Wednesday 19 June Year 5 Assembly – Memorial HallThursday 20 June Classes conclude at 3.30pmFriday 21 June Staff PD Day

Term 3Monday 15 July Staff PD DayTuesday 16 July Classes resumeWednesday 17 July No Assembly Happy Birthday WishesWe wish a very Happy Birthday to the following children who celebrate their birthdays this week: Henry Douglas-Menzies and Hamish Newton.

Da Vinci Decathlon – Knox Grammar SchoolLast Wednesday, a team of 8 Year 5 boys travelled to Sydney on the TAS mini bus with Mr. Lloyd and Mrs. Hine to compete in the da Vinci decathlon at Knox Grammar School. We were in awe as we mingled with 800 other Year 5 and 6 students. Matthew, Thomas, Alistair and I were busy cracking the General Knowledge questions, while Jack, Ollie, Albie and Cotter were frantically deciphering Code Breaking before time ran out. Then we divided our group up to figure out the “nearly impossible” Maths ques-tion. At the same time, the rest of the team attempted the chess challenge, which was to achieve checkmate in two moves. The board was blanked out in certain areas, which made us think outside the box. We tried our very best with each and every chal-lenge. Overall it was an exciting experience that I would like to participate in again next year in Middle School. By Angus Alford, Year 5Australia’s Biggest Moring TeaOn a glorious final day of autumn parents, friends, staff and students joined together for a sumptuous morning tea, all in the name of a very worthy cause. As has been the tradition for many years, the Junior School hosted the Biggest Morning Tea for the Cancer Council on Friday. We are very grateful to everyone for their support and we thank you all for cooking, attending and donating. We raised $466.70 for the Cancer Council. A raffle was also conducted during the morning tea and Mr Tim Hadfield was the recipient of a beautiful camellia while Mrs Ingrid Evans won 2 free movie tickets kindly donated by Belgrave Cinema. Thank you all for supporting this cause. Mrs Trenerry

Families Required to Host BilletsDue to the large number of students coming form TEZ this year, we are still looking for families to host students during August.This is a wonderful experience for the visiting children and the Host families, often resulting in lifelong friendships.Please consider hosting students and if your family is able to help contact the Junior School on junior@as.edu.au

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Woolworth Earn and LearnThis year the TAS Junior School will be participating in the Woolworths Earn & Learn program. You can collect Earn & Learn stick-ers when you shop at Woolworths. There’ll be one sticker for every $10 spent (excluding liquor, tobacco and gift cards). Place the stickers onto a sticker card which can be printed off the Woolworths website and when the card is full it can be dropped into the sticker collection box here at the Junior School reception.

Turning CirclePlease do not park in the turning circle while waiting for your child to come down from school. Parking in the turning circle holds up other parents whose children are ready to be collected and causes a danger if a child needs to move between cars. We understand having to do the circuit can be frustrating, however this is a safer option and the system works well when everyone follows the directions on the signage.

Lighten your Child’s BagAs children at this time of year often bring more winter clothes for the start and end of the day we are conscious of bag weights for each child.Please help us look at ways of lightening your child’s school bag.Idea 1 - Have a pencil case at home and one for schoolIdea 2 – Only send in essential items for that dayIdea 3 – Choose a lighter weight lunch boxIdea 4 – Bring in the water bottle on a Monday and take it home on a Friday for a good wash.

Holiday Borrowing The coming holidays are the ideal time for children to catch up on reading time. Please note that children are able to borrow 2 books from the Library for the holidays without a permission note but if they would like to borrow more books, parents need to sign the permission note, which is attached to this newsletter.

Lost PropertyThere seems to be a large number of items arriving in the Junior School lost property box. If you are missing an item or items, please have a look in the lost property box; the item may just be there.Would you also check your children’s’ clothes to ensure they have collected the correct article and not inadvertently picked up somebody else’s.

The New TAS InflatableYear 5 PE class were among the first students to have an encounter with the new TAS Inflatable. This was a perfect addition to our aquatic unit, which focuses on safety first and water safety skills. Clambering over the obstacles, and trying (not all that successfully) to get to the end was tough, particularly because of the staff who were hurling buckets of water as the kids progressed. This gift to the School, a combined effort of last year’s Year 12 student body and the P&F, will certainly provide hours of entertainment for many. What a fabulous gift!

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PSSA Cross Country29 students from Years 2 to 6 headed out to UNE Bellevue Oval last Thursday to test themselves against the rest of the primary schools in and around Armidale. It was a beautiful day for competing and spectating alike. The students were all keen to get out and walk the course and discover where they were going to fun the actual event. We had some outstanding results and it was terrific to see the majority of the students really try to achieve their best and improve on last years placing. The highlights were Sam Meehan and Emily Buntine’s results in the 8/9 years division. Both are only 8 years of age and Sam won his race and Emily placed 10th. This bodes really well for next year when they are in the same division but competing as 9 year olds. Other highlights were Liam Matherson placing 2nd and Joe Gordon finishing 10th in the 11 years boys race.Thanks to Hiram who did an outstanding job as our gappie. He was focused on our students and was a terrific help to me. The individual results are as follows:8/9 years girlsEmily Buntine 10th, Poppy Broun 28th, Zoe Strelitz 31st, Sophia Rutledge 38th, Isabel Newton 39th, Beatrice Henzell 41st8/9 years boysSam Meehan 1st, Asher Game-Lopata 14th, Archi Lawrence 18th, Jonathan Harris 20th, Harry Litchfield 29th, Harrison Price 38th10 years girls - Isabel McBean 24th10 Years boys Flynn Jones 22nd, Joseph Anderson 24th, Nicky O’Neil 25th, Alexander Gibson 27th, Eli Evitt 29th, Jack van Roy 31st11 years boysLiam Matherson 2nd, Joe Gordon 10th, Sam Behrend 17th, Harry Ashton 22nd, Charlie Rutledge 28th12 years boys Joe Carlon 7th, Kieran Dennis 10th, Dillon Hill 18th, Stuart Epworth 29th

Cricket Representative HonoursA huge congratulations to Kieran Dennis - Year 6, and Joe Gordon - Year 5 who have been selected into the Northern Inland Cricket Academy under 14's squad. This is a huge achievement as only 18 players are chosen from the entire Northern Inland region for each age group. We look forward to seeing the progress these two talented cricketers achieve.

SoccerTAS Tanks - Sean O’NeilIt was another strong performance from the TAS Tanks boys again this week as they combined well together to outplay the opposition and score some wonderful team goals. The passing between the boys continues to improve and the players are working together to support each other in defence and attack. Strong performances from everyone this week as the passing and positional play improves. Well done TAS Tanks, enjoy the break over the long weekend and see you in a fortnight.

TAS Tonkas - Mrs WatersWhat a mighty game of football these buddying young sports stars played on Saturday morning. It was great to see such enthusiasm from so many young players. Sam Meehan continually had his eye on the ball and had some fabulous passes and was keenly supported by Lachlan Costello who displayed excellent control of the ball whilst dribbling. Ashley Knights did a truly wonderful job as goalie and made many commendable saves. Alex Webber and Campbell Aitken showed good dribbling skills and were not afraid to tackle the opposition to gain possession of the ball. Solomon Layton was particularly impressive and played with gusto and displayed focus and a keen eye for the ball at all times. Thank you to Solomon’s dad Mr Layton for refereeing and to the Costello’s for providing the oranges at half time.

TAS Transformers - Mrs WatersIt was wonderful to see the TAS Transformers playing their game of football on Saturday morning. The team members were full of enthusiasm and showed great potential as a team. Conor Doherty and Conal Nicoll did a fantastic job in goals and saved many! Jasper O’Neil was very impressive with some pretty clever ball skills on show-including a little tap backwards on the ball in order to keep it away from the opposition. Peter Evans displayed great enthusiasm as a back and was able to clear the ball with gusto, sending it down the field. Lachie Hunt (despite an injury) and Poppy Broun did a superb job in passing the ball and trying to keep it in our half. Erin Alford’s confidence grew as the game progressed and she tried hard to tackle the opposition. Beatrice Henzell was most impressive, as she displayed no fear of the ball or the opposition, tackling efficiently, passing the ball well and dribbling the ball with true style! Even though the score was not in our favour all players did a truly wonderful job. Thank you Mr Doherty for refereeing and to the Hunts for the refreshing oranges at half time.

JUNIOR SCHOOL SPORT, KIRSTY BRUNSDON

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NetballPLC/TAS Topaz vs. Golden Unicorns - Mrs TrenerryIn rather mild conditions on Saturday the talented Topaz team, who continue to sparkle more brightly each week, met the Golden Unicorns. Topaz dominated from the start displaying excellent teamwork, including good passing, swift movement and secure handling of the ball. It is heartening to see every player involved in the game, watching and moving well into position. Great passing set up goals from every player and we scored each quarter. Standout shooter this week was Ruby Straker who shot 7 goals in 2 quarters. Recent recruits Grace Pennington, Grace Smith and Charlotte Portell continue to improve each week while old hands Rachael Kenrick, Isabel Newton, Casey Smith, Lucy Young, Stephanie Evitt and Ruby Straker are impressive with their growing knowledge of the game and skill development. Grace Smith provided some delicious sustenance at half time enabling us to return to the court energised and ready for more attacking play. We play our final game for the term after the Long Week-end when we meet Sunbeams on Saturday, 15th June. Topaz has a bye on 22nd June.

HockeyTAS Hockey -Alex PortellWhat a great weekend of Hockey action, despite the U9s and U11s Girls having the week off. There will be no hockey over the June long weekend so there will be no Thursday training this week. Hopefully, if the roster is all sorted, training will begin on Wednesdays when we return, with exact times to be confirmed.

U11s WhiteThe mighty TAS White team faced up against City Wasps following the buzz of the TAS/Farrer match. Slightly short of players, we managed to snatch Cameron le Surf who joined with Dominic Ferguson and Alexander Gibson to keep things interesting in the attacking forward line, unlucky not to reap the rewards of some good movement wide off the ball. Backs Zac Matherson and Alistair le Surf did a fine job in conjunction with keeper Josiah Alcorn to keep the skilful Wasps offence thinking at all times and forcing them to come up with some solid strikes and great passing to capitalise. Despite some good running from Stewart Williams and some nice passing from brother Cassidy, the Whites went down 4-0, learning that they will need to use all of their players and all of the field if they are to trouble such dominant teams as the Wasps.

U13sWith many of the 11s enthusiastically backing up after their scheduled games, the 13s took to the field against Servies missing a couple of regulars but nonetheless keen to give it their best. With Jonathon Chamberlain up front as striker, Sam Wright in back and Zac Matherson in goals, our chances were looking good with some solid attack and defence. The likes of Jack Sewell, Josiah Alcorn and Floyd Hardingham were never too far from the ball and all combined with the halves of Liam Matherson, Sam Behrend and Owen Chandler well to create some good movement down the field. New recruits Ziggy Harris and Riley Eichorn did themselves proud against a solid Servies line up, however Jonathon Chamberlain proved too strong on numerous occasions as he weaved his way through the Servies defence to get a couple of nice shots off and in.

¬¬-----------------------------------------Please return signed note to Junior School Office -----------------Permission to borrow Library books during the holidaysI give permission for my child ………………………………….in Year ………………………….to borrow six books from the TAS Library during the holiday period, and will return these books in good condition in the first week of Term 3, 2013.Should the books not be returned, or are returned damaged, I agree to the purchase cost of the replacement books being charged to my Child’s school account.

Signed …………………………………………………….. Date…………………………..

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COMMUNITY EVENTS

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Lake Keepit Sport and Recreational Centre

Boys & Girls 10-13 years

Born 2000-2003

Total Package includes

15 hours of expert skill coaching

One quality training kit shirt/short/socks

1 quality football size 4

Cabin accommodation

7 quality meals plus morning and afternoon teas

MORE INFORMATION

Contact: Howard Stubbs, NIF Technical Director

Email: coaching@northerninlandfootball.com.au

Ph: 0468 723 239

Website: www.northerninlandfootball.com.au

Northern Inland Football Camp 2013

Saturday 29th June – Monday 1st July

With the beautiful back drop of Lake Keepit, the Sport and Recreational Centre located 40 minutes west of Tamworth is the perfect environment for a live in football skill camp.

All coaches will be FFA qualified. The coaches will be working on the FFA National Curriculum for the development of players at the Camp.

The amenities at the facility are first class and allow the players to be given the opportunity to experience the full requirements of being in a professional football environment, and at the same time enhancing their development.

For more information on the Northern Inland Football Skills CampContact: Howard Stubbs, NIF Technical DirectorEmail: coaching@northerninlandfootball.com.auPh: 0468 723 239Website: www.northerninlandfootball.com.auor Luke Polson at TAS lpolson@as.edu.au