22 September 2020

Newsletter Articles

Principal’s Report

While the shadow of COVID-19 has diminished somewhat in recent weeks, it continues to impact upon both the curricular and co-curricular life of the school. Much of the data and feedback we use to reflect upon the academic, cultural, and sporting achievements of learners are either unavailable or limited. Despite these obvious challenges and the cancellation of many events, I am immensely proud of the continued commitment of teachers to support all learners to achieve their potential. We have completed the 2020 Progressive Achievement Tests (PAT), and teachers will continue to share this data with learners over the coming weeks. Our Year One learners have also completed the Phonics Screening Check (PSC), and the results highlight our enviable strength in this vital area of learning. This week has also seen the end of the report reflection cycle for this term and grades have now been uploaded onto Daymap. The ‘grade-free’ window we introduced in 2019 is well-supported by our learners, and they have become increasingly skilled in reflecting upon their growth and acting upon the feedback provided by their teachers.

September remains the time when Year Twelve courses transition into the revision stage, as we prepare for the end of year examinations. This is also the time when our other senior learners face the increased pressure of completing compulsory subjects to ensure a smooth transition to the following year. Matt Griffiths and his team are working hard to support the senior learners during this time, and we encourage all caregivers to get in touch if they have concerns or require further information.

Finally, I would like to wish all of our families a safe holiday. We look forward to seeing you all in term four for the next chapter of our learning journey.

Andrew Gilsenan-Reed

Learner Engagement and Wellbeing

Parent Engagement Survey

The 2020 parent engagement survey is now open. The survey is for all parents of students enrolled in a South Australian public school.

The survey is an opportunity for parents to provide feedback on their school.

Your feedback will help us understand:

• what we are doing well
• where we can improve
• what is really important to you as a parent.

The Smith Family

We are extremely pleased to announce that we have signed a partnership with the Smith Family. The Smith Family is an independent children's charity helping disadvantaged Australian children to get the most out of their education, so they can create better futures for themselves.

There are scholarships available for 2021 and beyond, which will assist families enrolled at Quorn Area School with direct school related expenses each year.

I have attached a flyer with more information. If you believe that your family fits the criteria, please contact Sarah Bury at the school. She will be able to guide you through the referral process. The flyer states that children need to be in Foundation-Year 7, however if your child is in Year 8 this year, there will be an exception.

Any questions regarding the Smith Family and the referral process – please contact Sarah Bury.

Walk Safely to School Day

On Friday the 25th of September, Quorn Area School will be holding a Walk to School Day to recognize the 'National Walk Safely to School Day' which was held on the 11th September 2020. The day promotes road safety, health, public transport and the environment. We would appreciate it if all students and teachers could join us at 8:15 at the Railway Station and everyone is encouraged to wear their team colours (Yarrah and Kanyaka) on the day. When we arrive at school, there will be a pancake breakfast provided.

Students and teachers will receive a point for their team for participating in the walk. Students will also get the opportunity to help their team gain more points through an activity hosted by their teacher, teaching in lesson one.

Subject Report

5/6 Science with Mr Sambi

Year 5/6 students recently built a solar oven as part of an investigation. The photos show the students trying to heat coffee using solar energy.

Year 9 Science

To understand functions of different parts of a human eye, Year 9 learners dissected a cow’s eye which in many aspects is very similar to the human eye. Learners were provided with a cow eye and dissecting tools to do this activity. They were able to identify the sclera, cornea, iris and pupil by looking closely to the cow’s eye. When they performed the dissection on the cow’s eye, they could see the aqueous humour which keeps the shape of the cornea. Some of them were able to pull out the iris in order to get the lens of the cow’s eye. To remove the lens from the cow’s eye was the most exciting part of the activity. Learners put the lens on a newspaper to see the magnifying power of the lens. They were also able to locate spot where all nerve go and forming the optic nerve.

Quorn School Community Library

Book Week

SAVE THE DATE

Term 4 Week 2
Tuesday, 20th October – Friday, 23rd October
at Quorn School & Community Library

Theme: Curious Creatures, Wild Minds

Each year across Australia, the CBCA brings children and books together celebrating CBCA Book Week. During this time schools, libraries, booksellers, authors, illustrators and children celebrate Australian children's literature and you will often see children's book character parades and talented librarians creating amazing displays.

Scholastic Book Fair

SAVE THE DATE
(same week as Book Week)
Term 4 Week 2
Tuesday, 20th October – Friday, 23rd October
at Quorn School & Community Library

Remember, every purchase made earns learning and literacy resources for our school. Payment options are stated in the letter sent to you.

Reading for pleasure unlocks the power of information and imagination! It helps children discover who they are…

Our Book Fair is a reading event that brings the books, which our learners want to read right into our school. It’s a wonderful selection of engaging and affordable books for every reading level. Every year, friends and families come together to promote reading books and lifelong learning at our Book Fair.

*Payment options:

Cash or Card (EFTPOS) available

Online Payment also available here:

• Be sure to choose Book Fairs payments NOT Book Club.
• Make sure to record your receipt number.
• Fill in the payment receipt number details in the back of the Book Fair Brochure and bring this to your librarian.

OSHC – Happy Haven

October Vacation Care

Miscellaneous Reports

School Yearbook

We are now taking orders for the 2020 School Yearbook. The cost of the magazine is $30 – an email can be sent to michelle.baker315@schools.sa.edu.au to place your order and your money can be deposited into the school bank account, alternatively you can call into the Finance Office to order and pay for your Yearbook.

Rowan Ramsey School Community Award

Nominations are now open to a staff, parent or community member who has ‘gone the extra mile’ dedicating and volunteering their time and skills to Quorn Area School.

If you would like to nominate a deserving person please forward your submissions to dl.0793.admin@schools.sa.edu.au.

The worthy recipient will be formally recognised at our end of year presentation assembly on Monday 30th November 2020.

The University of Adelaide – Student Accommodation 2021

C.A.S. Hawker Scholarships

The 2021 C.A.S. Hawker Scholarships open on Monday 7th December and close on Friday 8th January 2021.

C.A.S. Hawker Scholarships are one of the most generous privately funded scholarships available to undergraduate students in Australia. Each residential scholarship is valued at up to $60,000 over three years. The scholarships are available to all Australian students. The majority have been awarded to students entering their first year of university studies.

Selection is largely based on personal qualities and demonstrated leadership as well as academic ability. Undergraduate Hawker Scholars are able to attend a range of Australian educational institutions.

The Charles Hawker Scholarship perpetuates the memory of scholar, soldier and pastoralist Charles Allan Seymour Hawker and commemorates the achievements of one of Australia’s most respected statesmen.

October School Holidays – Intro to Hair & Makeup