HAMILTON GIRLS’ HIGH SCHOOL

December NewsletterPhotos from left to right: Neha Lal - Academic Dux & Anna O’Hara - Proxime Accessit

As we head into our last days of school for 2014, it’s often good to reflect on what our students have achieved so far as we round off yet another successful year at Hamilton Girls’ High School.

Raising student achievement and enhancing school pride is at the heart of our school. This year we have made many changes through the development of our house system, with a continued focus on house pride and academic mentoring as well as a change to the student leadership structure. We also began the year with a new timetable structure with a focus on allowing more time back into the senior curriculum through including a sixth subject for all, that is meaningful towards a NCEA qualification, with a focus on presence, engagement and achievement.

A very supportive Board and student voice drove the decision to move to a full uniform school from the start of the 2015 school year. The addition of a school blazer and tie to the traditional uniform builds on the sense of school pride. Although some uniform items have been adjusted for shape and style, the core uniform is much the same.

We all have our own responses to change – as the old adage states we can be the people who make things happen, watch things happen or those who wonder what happened? At HGHS we are most definitely making things happen in a way that embraces the present, enhances learning and ensures that change is led, purposeful, and enjoyed.

From a sporting and cultural perspective, Hamilton Girls’ High School has been a hive of activity. Highlights include two National titles in Girls’ Rugby and the Condor 7’s, and a silver medallist at the NZ Secondary School Softball Championships.

Culturally, our Kapahaka group, Te Mauria Whiritoi, performed at the NZ Secondary School National Championships and our Pasifika group represented Hamilton Girls’ High School with pride at Pasifika Quest. On the music front, Aspire Quartet were placed third at the NZ Secondary School Barbershop Nationals in Wellington earlier this year. Once again, our joint HBHS and HGHS school production, Alice in Wonderland, proved to be another Margie Wynne-Jones stunner and nothing short of amazing, demonstrating the depth of talent in the Arts at both schools.

We have seen a shift in our school culture and environment as we continue to focus on raising achievement, high expectations and a culture of excellence – aiming for our personal best. There is still a long way to go but we are on the right trajectory for continued overall school improvement. This is largely due to the commitment, dedication and hard work of many of our staff members at school. My thanks to all our teaching and support staff for your ongoing commitment to Hamilton Girls’ High School – you are well appreciated.

To our Year 13 students, we wish you all the very best for the future. As you close one chapter of your secondary schooling life, another exciting one opens as you continue to move forward.

To our parents, students, staff and wider school community - have a fantastic Christmas, happy new year and happy holidays. Your support of our school is well appreciated.

MARIE GORDONPrincipal

PRINCIPAL’S COMMENT

Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou

2015 Hamilton Girls’ High School Uniform

2015 Senior UniformSenior Blazer and pinstripe shirt for Year 12 -13 and Senior Tie for Year 13 only.

Compulsory FootwearBlack Roman Sandals Permissible inTerm one and Term four

Black Polishable Shoes Permissible all year Below the ankle Enclosed; covering back, sides and front of feet Lace-ups or over straps Worn with plain black stockings or black mid-calf HGHS socks Sports, canvas, boots or ballet shoes; jandals, or shoes without a durable sole are not permitted. Shoes are not yet available for purchase from the Uniform Shop but may be later in 2015.

Softshell Winter or Sports JacketCompulsory for Year 9 students in 2015, usually worn in winter or for sport. Optional for year 10-13 students as an alternative to the existing jacket.

2015 Uniform Shop Hours(Pre-order Pickups)Tues 20 January - Fri 23 January 8.30am - 7pm

Tues 27 January - Wed 28 January 8.30am - 7pm

Tues 29 January - Fri 30 January 8.30am - 4.30pm

Senior Prizegiving 2014 Recognising exceptional people who have made a positive impact on our school community through their hard work and commitment.

On the evening of November 5th at Founders Theatre 300 senior students were recognised for their hard work and academic success. It was wonderful to see so many parents and families there to support and honour the students as they received their awards. We also took the opportunity to recognise and thank all of our 2014 Senior Leaders and Prefects for the huge contribution they have made throughout the year.

Congratulations to all recipients of Awards – we are very proud of you and all you have achieved. The culmination of the evening was the revealing of the 2015 Student Leaders, and the announcement of the 2014 Academic Dux and Proxime Accesit, amidst great excitement and celebration.

2014 Academic Dux - Neha Lal2014 Proxime Accesit - Anna O’HaraUniversity of Auckland Scholarship - Alex MayerUniversity of Auckland Alumni Scholarship - Zinab Al-KhaleefaUniversity of Waikato Sir Edmund Hillary Scholarship - Georgia AllenUniversity of Waikato Sir Edmund Hillary Scholarship - Tessa LeongUniversity of Waikato Vice Chancellor’s Academic Excellence School Leaver Scholarship - Hye Bin HanUniversity of Waikato Vice Chancellor’s Academic Excellence School Leaver Scholarship - Yasmin BrinkworthUniversity of Waikato Vice Chancellor’s Academic Excellence School Leaver Scholarship -Nevada Huaki-FooteUniversity of Waikato Vice Chancellor’s Academic Excellence School Leaver Scholarship - Carmen MatairaUniversity of Waikato Vice Chancellor’s Academic Excellence School Leaver Scholarship - Holly RobinsVictoria University Academic Excellence Scholarship - Ashleigh MilesDavid Johnstone Trust Scholarship to study a Bachelor of Nursing at Wintec - Suad AbdulkadirUniversity of Otago Pacific Island Entrance Scholarship - Danni Ryan

Junior Prizegiving 2014

Junior Prizegiving will be held on Thursday, 11 December 2014 in Ngā Puawaitanga. All Parents and caregivers are invited to attend. Please be seated at 10.45am for an 11.00am start.

For all Year 9 & 10 Students the day will run as follows:

8.45am Period 19.30am Period 210.15am Interval10.30am Tutor to lock bags, check uniform, then bring over to Ngaa Puawaitanga10.45am All students seated11.00am Prizegiving begins12.00pm Prizegiving ends – Tutor Group to issue Reports, tidy up, dismiss

Neha Lal – Dux 1. How did you feel when you found out when you were Dux?

To be honest I didn’t actually feel much at the time, as it was truly overwhelming and such a privilege to be awarded Academic Dux. I was beside myself with joy and extremely pleased that my hard work and consistent effort over the years had paid off.

2. What is your plan for next year?Next year I will be staying at the Halls of Residence and I plan to study either first year Biomedical or Health Science at the University of Auckland.

3. What is your long-term plan?Following either first year Biomedical or Health Science, I aspire to complete a medical degree and hopefully venture into either medical research or into a more specialised field of interest. This would hopefully enable me to give back to the community and make a positive contribution to the lives of others.

4. What is one of your favourite school memories?One of my unforgettable school memories would be the first day of classes at High School, in Year 9. I will never forget how difficult it was to locate my classes and find my way around the unfamiliar buildings, but now it is almost like second nature. It was such a new and special experience to become a part of such a large school, which, although felt unfamiliar at the time, has grown to become like a second home. It is truly a privilege to be a part of Hamilton Girls’ High School, as it has provided me with many opportunities and numerous life long memories.

5. What is your favourite subject?I have enjoyed all the subjects that I have done over the years at High School and in Level 3, thus I have no specific favourites. However, I especially enjoy and take an interest in Mathematics and Science based subjects, particularly Calculus, Biology and Chemistry.

6. What are your hobbies?My hobbies are reading, watching movies, spending time with family and friends and baking.

7. Who has been your biggest influence and why?Many people have inspired me over the years, but my parents have probably been my most significant influence. This is because they have always supported and encouraged me to endeavour to reach my goals and fulfil my aspirations, but most importantly to do my best and enjoy all that I do in life. Therefore, their constant support and encouragement over the years has shaped me and enabled me to be the person I am today.

Cecelia Lockley – Dux Artium 1. How did you feel when you found out you were Dux Artium?

I felt honoured and thankful to God for the gifts and opportunities I have been given.

2. What is your plan for next year?To study first year bio-medical sciences at Auckland University.

3. What is your long-term plan?To firstly become a qualified doctor and then I intend to audition and perform in a stage show at either West End or on Broadway.

4. What is one of your favourite school memories?One of my favourite memories at HGHS has been the privilege of singing at many prestigious school events over the last 5 years, including the opening of the Hall and Prizegiving this year.

5. What is your favourite subject?Chemistry

6. What are your hobbies?Singing, dancing, acting, musical theatre and water skiing.

7. Who has been your biggest influence and why?One of my biggest influences has been my vocal teacher, Lynn Jamison. I have grown and developed not only in singing under her direction, but also I have achieved more than I ever thought I could through her continuous encouragement and support. She also introduced me to Barbershop 5 years ago and I’m never

Georgia Allen – Sportswoman of the Year 2014 1. How did you feel when you found out you were Sportswoman of the Year?

When I found out I was Sportswoman I was pretty proud. HGHS has so many students who have excelled in their sport and it was an honour to be recognised amongst them.

2. What is your plan for next year?Next year I am studying Engineering at Waikato University on a Sir Edmund Hilary Scholarship and I will also be rowing for Waikato Regional Performance Centre. I hope to trial for a New Zealand Rowing Team after Nationals in February 2015.

3. What is your long-term plan?My long-term plan is to continue rowing and like all aspiring athletes, I want to one day compete at the Olympics. At the moment I want to see how far I can go in the sport by continuing to improve.

4. What is one of your favourite school memories?I have lots of amazing school memories. I loved being a part of the HGHS Rowing team and will forever cherish all the bonds and life-long friendships I made with all the girls.

5. What is your favourite subject?My favourite subject would have to be biology or chemistry.

6. What are your hobbies?With rowing, I generally don’t have a lot of time for other hobbies but when I do I enjoy spending it with friends and family.

7. Who has been your biggest influence and why?My greatest influence would be Gil Cawood, the 1968 NZ Olympic Rower who has been involved with HGHS rowing during my time and still has massive involvement with rowing in the Waikato. The encouragement, advice and support he has offered me at critical times has been inspiring and gratefully received.

BIG PICTURE COMPETITION

Year 9 art students worked in groups to complete multi-media art works based around the theme of Child Poverty. These art works were entered into the Big Picture Competition and are now currently in an exhibition in the Parliamentary Gallery in Wellington. The exhibition launch on Wednesday 5th November was attended by many Members of Parliament including Metiria Turei, Green’s Co-Leader, and Alfred Ngaro National, who were the joint hosts. Other MPs from National, Labour and the Maori Party were in attendance as were members of UNICEF, Child Poverty Action Group, J. R. McKenzie Trust and the Office of the Commissioner for Children. Our entries were considered to be thought- provoking, creative, and original in both concept and execution. It is a real privilege to have our work on display at such an important gallery. As well as being invited to be part of the exhibition, we also were one of the prize winners, winning an iPad for the Art department.

THEARTS

Prize winners, Kate Sampson, Hreepika Singh and Rosi Tabudravu have written the following statement about their winning image.

What is the biggest problem in our society? We decided it was POVERTY.The top left corner of our art work was made to show how we go on in everyday life, not even thinking about people who don’t have the things we have in everyday life. How they are just shadows. The white shadows are representing a crowd of homeless people who, every day, are starving for food, thirsty for drink and do not have proper houses to live in. We want to remind people that poverty is not natural but man-made.The top right hand corner was made to show how we could help people in poverty. We gave some options on how people in poverty could be helped. For example; food brought to homes, less fees and free education.

The bottom right corner was made to show what’s under cover, under the wall paper.

The bottom right corner was made to show how poverty is not noticed and is a problem that is not addressed well enough.

Our left bottom corner shows how people beg for pieces of food. They just need basic stuff in life to survive. We found a quote from Mahatma Gandhi saying “Poverty is the worst form of violence “. We thought that quote was needed so we could remind people of our age that poverty is not right and is a huge problem in our country.

Our top middle section has a CHILD. We need to know that it’s not just old people but parents, children etc. We put facts and figures on the board about poverty so that people know it is real and needs a solution.Our final section, the door, represents the way out of poverty. To open the door, all we need is the key.

We don’t hope to win but for poverty to end. Please give us a chance. Poverty is a main problem but we could fix this together hand in hand with the final key, John Key. Children are the future, so do we really want this?

The frame around the picture shows hands reaching out for help. Our help. The splattered back shows the darkness of poverty and the hope for poverty to end.

PASIFIKA

Talofa…..Kia Orana Aloha Malo e lelei Taloha ni Mauri Ia orana Ni sa bula vinaka

Warm Pasifika greetings from the Pasifika Mentoring team.

We have had a busy few weeks since our last newsletter. Two weeks ago, we enjoyed the Prize giving evening. What made it all the more special was the announcement that one of our Pasifika leaders, Tava Tyrell, would be Head Girl of HGHS in 2015. A very special congratulations to Tava and her family. We look forward to working with her in her new capacity.

Families, we also take this time to thank you for maintaining a high level of support for your daughters as they journey through high school. We hope that this will be maintained right up to the last day of school this year, which is December 11th. To that end, may we encourage you to support your daughters in their camps that they will attend from Wednesday 3rd to Friday 5th December? A number of girls have told us that they believed it was optional to attend but we have explained to them that the camps are part of the regularly scheduled school programme. It is education outside of the classroom, a very valid and valuable form of learning. We look forward to seeing the girls enjoying another learning style to the usual sitting at desks with books and pens.

Finally, the last field trip out some of our Pasifika girls have enjoyed was attending the recent BEAMS day, which was hosted by the University of Auckland. Here, the girls got to experience university lectures through many varied activities as they looked at what the Business, Engineering, Architecture and Medical and Health Sciences programmes could offer them as an option for their tertiary studies. If your daughter attended this, please take the time to ask her about how she found the day.

SoifuaThe Pasifika Mentoring Team

In order to help our students prepare for success, we’re providing Office to every student free of charge. With Office 365, your daughter has access to the latest version of Word, for writing; Excel, for spreadsheets; PowerPoint, for presentations; OneNote, for organization and note taking; and much more.

sports at hghs

SCHOOL MAY BE WINDING DOWN BUT SPORT IS STILL AMPING The Hamilton Girls’ High Junior Softball team headed to Auckland for the NZSS Junior Softball Tournament. In a challenging double round-robin the girls came up against a number of strong teams. The girls performed very well on the diamond, improving in every game. It was a close call in making the finals as we had to beat Massey to whom we lost 4-2 a couple of days earlier. The team played out of their skin showing their basic skills that they had learnt and putting them into practise, which saw us beat Massey High 5-2. The final match was going to be a hard task, as One Tree Hill had beaten every team, excluding us, by double figures. The team exceeded all expectations and played outstandingly. Although the girls lost the final 4-0, One Tree Hill had to fight very hard for each of those runs which took them 7 innings to get. A fantastic four days away and it was fantastic to be able to come away with second place. A huge thank you to Miss Brittany Kenney, Angela Johnstone, Pania Shepherd, Pania Monk and Casey Downs as well as the generous support of the following sponsors:

Dogtag LtdCeilings and Buildings LtdBunnings

First Place Fitness GymKaipaki Cat LodgeTotal Decorators’Nimbus MediaFletcher IndustryNexus Physiotherapy Avalon PodiatryCuzzin Here

And all the friends and whanau who supported the team. Our Junior Water Polo team also went to Auckland for the North Island Secondary School Tournament. After a hard fought final in the Waikato Junior Secondary Schools competition against Waikato Diocesan on Monday 19th November where they lost 4-2, the girls were fired up to do their very best. They have gone from strength to strength this season and they gained hugely from the exposure to the level of competition that these tournaments provide where they finished 12th. We would like to thank their Coaches, Emma Ballard, Ashleigh Miles, Manager Doug Bridge, Teacher in Charge Sue Oppert for the time and effort they have put into this team. A special thank you also to all of the parents who supported a huge number of fundraising and sponsorship initiatives.

This year NZ Rugby added an Under 15 division to the Condor 7’s. The team travelled and played at Kelston Boys High School on Friday 27th November. This young team, some of whom are new to Rugby this term, were looking forward to heading to a tournament that would be a great stepping stone for them for 2015 and beyond. In true Auckland fashion it was certainly four seasons in one day but the girls took this and each game in their stride. They stepped up in each and every game and finished in a fantastic third place. This certainly bodes well for the future of HGHS rugby with many of these girls still eligible to compete at this level in 2015. Special thanks to Brent and Crystal Kaua and Teacher in Charge Alex Ritchie for everything that they do.

The Open Condors 7’s team have been putting in a huge amount of work, amongst their study, to ensure that they were in the best possible position to defend the Condor 7’s title they won in 2013. This team is made up of a number of talented young woman and retaining this title would certainly cap off an extremely successful and exciting 2014 season. They worked hard on Saturday and had convincing wins against the three teams they faced, South Otago, a composite team and then Kaipara College. Sunday was always going to see the team

have to step up another notch in the pursuit of that final place. The quarter final was against local school Fairfield College which we won 26-0. They then faced Opotiki College in the Semi Final and came away with the win 38-0. They met Southland Girls’ High School in a thrilling final. The girls from the deep South certainly threw everything at our team and pushed them defensively and shut them down on attack. In the final minute of the game Te Awatea showed her skill and athletic prowess to evade four opposition to score a try. This brought the score to 12 a piece and it was the kicking skills of Tenika that gave us the win 14-12 to take the 2014 Condor 7’s title. The following girls made the tournament team: Terina Te Tamaki, Tenika Willison, Te Awatea Whitiora Te Uira and Violet Hapi Wise. To the team that has supported and nurtured this talent, Coaches Crystal and Brent Kaua, Trainer Zara Powell and Manager Alex Ritchie, a special thank you for everything you have done.

Four of our students have been named in a combined Waikato Secondary Schools team to compete at the New Zealand Secondary Schools Inline Hockey Championships on the 6th and 7th December. Inline Hockey is played year round and has become an increasingly popular sport

at Hamilton Girls’ High School. Congratulations to Madison Fox, Grace Fowler, Sofia Del Grosso and Samara Campton for making this team. We wish you the very best.

Hamilton Girls’ High School is sending a small, but talented team to the New Zealand Secondary School Athletics Championships in Wanganui on the 6th and 7th December. Eden Bates, Tiana Parker and Meg Reid will compete in the Senior Girls’ High Jump, Junior Javelin and Senior 800m respectively. We look forward to following their progress throughout the meet and know that they will do their very best. Good luck girls.

Our Senior Touch Team will head to the New Zealand Secondary School Touch Nationals between the 12th and 14th December. These girls and their coaching team dedicate a huge amount of their time and energy to Touch and we know they have been doing all the work they need to achieve the goals they have set themselves. It is a hugely competitive tournament and we wish the girls, Whaea Hollie, Whaea Allanah, all the best for a successful three days.

Ashleigh Jeffcoat will be looking to carry on her strong form into the National Secondary Schools Championships in Auckland between the 14-16 December. Ashleigh will be one of 72 youth who have qualified in their respective regions to attend the Nationals. The Championships, which has been held since 2000, is the flagship event for youth bowls and one which selectors will be watching carefully. Selectors will be looking for youth to step up to international level, and be part of the Under 18 Trans-Tasman team beginning the pathway to becoming a Blackjack. We wish Ashleigh the very best of luck and know she will be looking to go one better than last year where she finished 2nd.

SUPPORTING SPORT AT HAMILTON GIRLS’ HIGH SCHOOLEach year Hamilton Girls’ High School relies heavily on our wider community to help us deliver sport. We know that within this community there are a number of whanau and supporters who have the skills, knowledge, passion and desire to help ensure that each girl who participates in sport can achieve her personal best.Moving into 2015 we are asking for expressions of interest for all coaching positions, managers and officials for most of our sporting codes and across a

variety of levels.

We’d love you to complete the attached google form and submit it and we will be in contact in due course.If you have any specific questions regarding these positions, please feel free to contact the Sports Office on sportsadmin@hghs.school.nz or 07 8391304 ext. 847

ONLINE REGISTRATION FOR SPORT 2015In an effort to improve our processes and make getting involved for sport a little easier, we are moving to an online sport sign up system. You can sign up here: http://goo.gl/forms/rQ3RfGM3st . For all sports that commence during Terms One and Two in 2015, students will be required to register online. Over the coming weeks we are updating the information for each sporting code on our website, and this will become a one stop shop for parents and caregivers regarding each code, uniform requirements, trial requirements and dates, training days, playing days and more. The key dates for sign up will be between February 2nd and February 13th next year for all codes that start between February and July 2015. Codes played in Terms Three and Four will have registration at a later and this will be advertised in due course. For those who have limited access to the internet we will have some forms available in hard copy.

HAVE A GO DAYS 2015If you haven’t had the opportunity to try a sport before, how do you know if it’s the right ‘fit’ for you? In 2015 we’ve worked to bring students a range of ‘Have a Go’ Days during the first few weeks of term one. Each lunchtime between Monday 2nd February and Friday 13th February, girls will be able to try their hand at Golf, Cricket, Netball, Tennis, Lacrosse, Cheerleading and Rugby. We are still working to add a few other codes to the mix, but we hope that this will help girls to incorporate sport into their lives and reap the benefits that being involved can provide.

Photos on left hand page thank you to: www.facebook.com/condorsevens

We are 9EA and we are Mrs Anand’s Science class studying” Lost In Space topic”. We are learning about the 8 planets, the Sun, the constellations, the significance of Matariki, the life cycle of stars, the phases of the moon and much more. We have all enjoyed studying and creating a solar system of our own. This has given us a better understanding about the sizes, colours and position of the planets from the Sun. Making the models and posters about the solar system and Matariki was an interesting method of learning this topic.

Kaleesha, Deanna, Lilli, Anahia, Kyla, Nyesha, Kiana, Jessie, Ashyra, Keisha, Maddison

SCIENCE

ACADEMIC NEWS

PHYSICAL EDUCATIONGYMNASTICS WITH YEAR 9C1

As a part of this Unit, the girls got to participate in a range of gymnastic environments, demonstrating a range of skills and sequences. Firstly balance, individuals, pairs and groups. As you can see, my lovely class demonstrate a range of balances and pyramids here in the photos below. Moving onto balance and landing, rotations and flight - at the end of the unit the girls needed to demonstrate a routine which included all these aspects of the Gymnastics. Well done girls, you were very creative.

Mrs Irwin

10 SPORT

The 10 Sport classes have been learning the fundamentals around Tennis this Term. Both classes have had a tennis coach come in to do some coaching around specific skills. The classes will be running an interclass competition later this Term. Good luck in the preparation, girls. They have also been learning about injury prevention and rehabilitation from injury – a topical subject for many sports women. This concludes with some practical learning around strapping and treatment of injuries.

Miss Hodgkinson & Mrs Perry

YEAR 9 NEWSLETTER ARTICLE

Our Year 9 Physical Education and Health classes have had an action-packed term. Some students participated in a Gymnastics unit while others covered soccer or basketball skills in a Large Ball Games unit. As part of the Gymnastics unit, the students learned how to balance in various positions and work as a group to make different shapes. The girls participating in the Large Ball Games unit learned the basics of passing and stopping the soccer and basketball, as well as looking to pass into space and working together as a team. Their skills were tested when classes battled the elements, competing in a soccer tournaments or playing basketball in the large gym.

Our Year 9 Health programme combines collaboration from both the students and teachers. This term class have worked extensively on the Sexuality unit and are progressing onto a unit covering alcohol and drugs. These two topics are taught in an interactive manner and class discussions are imperative. The students have thrived as part of class and group activities within this unit.

After a busy and successful year, the PE staff are wishing all the girls and their families a safe, enjoyable and active holiday season.

10MA

10MA have had a vibrant year in Health and Physical Education. There are a variety of strengths within this class and, at various times throughout the year, they’ve each been able to shine and show their personal best as we worked through each of the units of work. Stella Wilson, Taniesha Parker, Shreha Shant, Sam Ouch, Veronica Sue and Amy Dunn must be commended for their willingness to learn and engage in each and every lesson.

LANGUAGES

MATHEMATICS

On Tuesday 25th November some year 10 French students took part in a “French Masterchef” competition. There were four categories and the girls came up with some delicious, creative and well-presented dishes inspired by French cuisine. Congratulations to Zahrah and Fenella, Abiya and Olivia, Georgia, Leah and Kelly, Crisna, Hannah and Amy for their winning dishes.

Picture: Bayleigh and Brianna putting their macaroons together

NEW STAFF IN THE MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT

The Mathematics Department is very pleased to welcome Stuart McNaughton, from the Caitlin’s Area School in South Otago, who has been offered a permanent teaching position in 2015. We are very pleased that Mohini Singh and Amy Pouwels, who are currently fixed term teachers, will also be taking up permanent positions in 2015. Congratulations to all three teachers!

Photos: Left - Mohini Singh Right - Amy Pouwels

ENGLISH - YEAR 9 COMICS

The Drama department has had an exciting season of performances during Term 4. Our first production, Renée’s Wednesday To Come, in Week 2, was an opportunity for our Year 13 students to showcase their skills and demonstrated just how much theatrical talent we have in our school. The season ran for two nights and was well received by the audiences. The following week, the Year 12 classes presented Ernest Labiche’s French farce Le Plus Heureux Des Trois (The Happiest of the Three). In Week 6, the Year 10 classes performed William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream to a capacity audience. For many of these girls it was their first major stage production, and they acquitted themselves admirably to deliver one of the best Year 10 performances we have ever had. The Drama department would like to acknowledge the assistance of Rebecca Maher and Christina Howard-Shi, who came along on performance nights to help out backstage.

The Year 9 Drama students delivered our final performance for 2014. This afforded them the opportunity to present selected items to an invited audience of family and friends on the evening of November 25. The programme consisted of various acts they had prepared during class time and included Devised Drama, Clowning, Melodrama and Hip Hop.

We would like to acknowledge Margie Wynne-Jones who did most of the blocking for the Years 10, 12 and 13 performances during Term 3. Our performances would not have been nearly as successful without her input.

- Jo Belgrave

On the October 31, ten students and three teachers attended a contemporary dance masterclass run by the Okareka Dance Company. This dance company has been established by professional contemporary ballet dancers from around New Zealand and has just finished its Mana Wahine tour. The masterclass workshop was an hour and a half long and consisted of a variety of ballet and contemporary exercises as well as a short dance routine. Thank you to Tane and Tairoa for their wonderful teaching and to all the students who participated. Watch the Dance room notice board next year for an opportunity to attend more masterclasses with a variety of different NZ Dance Companies!

- Vicki Wenham

Photos from top to bottom:The Rude Mechanicals, Fairy and the Messenger, Fairies, The Lovers, Okareka Dance Company

DRAMA

GAMEMAKER SESSION

On Monday 17 November, Nilesh Kanji, a Senior Tutor from the Computer Science Department at University of Waikato, ran a two hour GameMaker session for the Year 10 Digital Technology class. GameMaker is designed to allow novice computer programmers to be able to make computer games without much programming knowledge by using a scripting language. The students created a space invaders type game and really enjoyed the experience. Nilesh also encouraged the students to consider IT as a career path and gave examples of the opportunities available in the IT industry.

PROGRAMMING CHALLENGE 4 GIRLS (PC4G)

On Wednesday 26 November, five teams consisting of 9 students took part in the annual Programming Challenge 4 Girls at Wintec. The students had already completed programming tasks using SCRATCH, LEGO Mindstorms and Gamemaker as part of the Year 10 Digital Technology course. This challenge provides Year 10 female students with the opportunity to compete against other teams from schools around the country, Australia and Canada. They complete a programming challenge using the ALICE programme. The main purpose of the challenge is to encourage more females to look at IT as a career choice, as there is a severe shortage of women in this industry. The students had a successful day. I would like to congratulate them on their efforts and the medals they achieved:

Julie Capil - Head of Digital Technology

GOLD MEDALSLauren Blackburn and Natasha HealeyEunice Llobet

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY

BRONZE MEDALSZahrah Hanif and Kalpana KrishnaRamandeep and Kajal Sharma

POSITIVE BEHAVIOUR 4 LEARNINGAs 2014 draws to a close, it is our privilege and pleasure to acknowledge the following students who have been awarded the HGHS PB4L Owl Badge for completing 10 Student Affirmation Cards. This is an outstanding accomplishment and we applaud these young woman.

Students who have been awarded an Owl Badge in 2014 will work towards a WISE Bar badge (maroon coloured) in 2015. This will be worn proudly on the lapel of their blazer. In subsequent years, our students will work towards additional WISE Bar badges in bronze, silver and gold. Harneet Singh Khangura WCL has also gone on to be the first student to complete 25 Student Affirmation cards. This milestone is testimony to the fact that Harneet consistently demonstrates the qualities of being WISE (Willing to Learn, Interacting with Respect, Striving to Understand and Engaging to Achieve). Harneet is a tremendous role model for all our students.

Our staff have recently reviewed and evaluated PB4L at Hamilton Girls’ High School. 80% of staff who responded to the survey considered that the system of Student Affirmation cards was either effective or very effective. Comments from staff indicated that PB4L is:

• Supporting, rewarding and encouraging appropriate behaviours• Providing data which enables us to inform our behaviour management systems/restorative processes within School• Promoting engagement and success• Enabling positive relationships between staff and students.

We are looking forward to growing and developing our School-wide Positive Behaviour for Learning initiative in 2015. We are committed to reviewing, improving and modifying the programme to meet that needs of all our community members.

GOLD CERTIFICATE RECIPIENTS

Harneet Singh Khangura - WCL Georgia Adams - HHA Josefina Pehrson - WLGKaitlin Wolfe - WLG Sofia Malik - WSH Brooke Baldwin - WSAGeorgia McArthur - HMP Kawthar Mauveen - WSI Te Miringa Panapa - EPSOlivia Hooker - WWS Priyanka Singh - HMP Rebecca-Rose Ngatai - EBCSideqa Sharif - XHD Dayna Peek - HAD Rachel Li - HCCArshpreet Kaur - XSP Fenella Finlay-Yates - CHY Eden Pohipi - WKYAmy Wilkinson - CHS Ashley Bezuidenhout - CHP Madeline Hailwood - CHSOlivia Shaw - WMW Tanika Smith-Hall - HAD Chloe Reid - CHSThida Cheum - WKY Rajwinder Kaur - HMP Katie Lush - MBYHeidi Thomas - WSI Kendal Lawrence - MWR Erica Bullen - WCLDarshana Raman - WSH Sumedha Garg - EPS Tihi Eruera-Williams - XWUMolly Ives - HMP Leah Davis - WKY Taiwiri Monsall - MBRMele Nginingini - XSP Ciarne Ngatai-Morrison - EPS Christina Neale - EMLHannah Black - WSI Renee Allan - WKY

A number of students have recently been successful in winning scholarships to assist them with their study at University or Wintec for 2015. They were recognised at our recent prizegiving and we would like to pass on our heartfelt congratulations to them all.

A reminder to those intending to study for 2015 to check closing dates for courses and also to be aware that there are still scholarships available to assist them. They can access the site www.breakout.org.nz at school for all scholarship information throughout New Zealand or look at each tertiary institutions website.

Student Loans and Allowances – students still wishing to apply for student loans can do so by visiting the Study link website www.studylink.govt.nz as this is an online application. This must be done urgently to allow time for processing or the funds will not be available in time for starting courses in February. 2014 leavers can access careers advice on www.careers.govt.nz. There is a particularly useful section about job hunting in the “How To get A Job” section, that includes a CV and cover letter writing templates. Students can chat online to a Careers Adviser or use many of the interactive tools and resources available.

Our Careers Office will be open until 10 December and students and parents are more than welcome to make an appointment at any time.

CAREERS

Summer Holiday Programme 2014-15

Hamilton Girls High School and other various venues from 12/12/14 – 24/12/14 and 5/01/15 – 3/2/15.

For children aged 5 to 13 years.

Kelly Sports Holiday Programmes are designed to give children the opportunity to do the things they love and enjoy in a supportive and

encouraging environment.

Our programmes are full of exciting activities and trips that will guarantee children have a great time. Come and join us for a holiday of fun!

For more information or to enrol, go online to www.kellysports.co.nz or contact our office on (07) 8399017

Photos - Row one: Kayla Leonard at The Soccer Shop, Amun Mukiktar at Peachgrove Dental.Row two: Bronwyn Clunie at NZ Vet Pathology Laboratory, Bethany-Rose Erutoe at Valentines.Row three: Joycelin John at ANZ, Olivia Brough, Shanae Hoggart and Toni Holcroft at The Warehouse.Row four: Rebecca Powell at Patricia Avenue School, Diana Mamu at Dinsdale Pharmacy.

GATEWAY

Hamilton Girls’ High School would like to thank the following companies for their support and sponsorship of our Health and Wellbeing Week 2014. New World Glenview - fruit, Pak N Save Clarence Street - fruit, Countdown Bridge Street - vouchers, Muscle Worx Hamilton - Voucher, Beaming White - Vouchers, Industrial First Aid Supplies - First Aid Kit, Chartwell Dental - sample packs, Libelle Group - Home maker cooking plate, Sports Waikato - cholesterol meter, OPSM - eye testing, TOLBECS - ear testing, Pharmaco Diabetes, Cancer Society, Wintec, Community Health, and Totally You Massage.

NCEA Internal Assessment Results for Senior Students All senior students should logon onto the NZQA website and check their internal assessment results are correct (See instructions below). Considerable effort has gone into ensuring that these results are accurate. However, senior students should still check that their results are correct, and contact Mr Mitchell over the holiday period if they find an error:

E-mail: mitchellm@hghs.school.nz

How to login to the NZQA website: Your National Student Number (NSN) is at the top of the enclosed results printout. This number is needed to access your personal information online. To use Learner Login, you need to register (if you have not already done so), and set your own password. To do this: Please follow these steps:

1 Go to www.nzqa.govt.nz 2 Click on “LOGIN” (Top right-hand corner) 3 In the section Students and Learners (Top of the page)

4 If you have not registered your password then click on “register now”

Enter your NSN and date of birth (DD/MM/YYYY) then register If you have registered then click on “Login”

5 Then follow the instructions on screen. Once registered, you can login and view: Your personal details Your 2014 entries and results (click on the name of your school) including:

o your internally assessed results o your entries for external assessment (exams and portfolios) o your results for external assessment once they are available

Your Record of Achievement (all previous years’ results). Obtaining Your Record of Achievement and NCEA Certificate

NZQA will NOT post your Record of Achievement or NCEA Certificate to you

unless you register online and request them.

You can only request your Record of Achievement or NCEA Certificate when they become available.

NZQA allows you to have one free Record of Achievement each year and one free NCEA Certificate at each level. You are only allowed one free School Results Summary in your life. Most senior students will order this when they finish their schooling. NZQA will charge a fee for every School Results Summary you ordered after the first one. Students can request a University Entrance certificate when they qualify for this qualification. However NZQA does charge a fee for this.

Challenging Exam Results: If you believe that NZQA has made a mistake in grading your external examination papers then you should apply for a review or a reconsideration of the results in question. It is best to hold off requesting either a Record of Achievement or NCEA Certificate until your results have been finalised. NCEA Certificates endorsed with Merit or Excellence: Some students may want to hold off requesting their NCEA Certificate for a year as they may want to use Merit and Excellence grades gained in future years to get a NCEA certificate endorsed with either merit or excellence.

HAMILTON GIRLS’ HIGH SCHOOL