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 14 August, 2o13 Term 3 Week 5House on Duty Abbott, 0439 041 627

HEADMASTER, MURRAY GUEST

As some will know, I have been away from the School on long service leave over the past four weeks and I offer my considerable thanks to our Deputy Headmaster, Alan Jones, for kindly stepping in to cover a number of tasks during that time.

As I mentioned at assembly yesterday, viewing the activities of the School from afar during these recent weeks gives fresh perspective to the scale and pace of life at TAS. So many major events and achievements have been recorded in this short period that it is difficult to keep up. What was highlighted to me in looking at all that has been happening is the commitment of so many of our staff in providing the opportunities that make TAS life so full. I was able to remind our students yesterday that they are very fortunate to have such committed people volunteering their support and I offer the thanks of the School as well to our teaching and support staff who so often contribute well beyond expectations.

HSC Trial ExamsThrough this week and next our Year 12 students will have their focus on their Trial HSC Exams. Whilst most subjects will still have some course material to cover after the trials, this is the final examination period for these students before the HSC itself and it will bring them close the end of their assessment program. I wish all our senior students well for this fortnight as they strive to present the fruits of their study in the best light possible.

Curtain UpI have enjoyed hearing glowing reports following the Year 12 drama showcase last Thursday evening. This evening was not only the final assessment for our HSC drama students, but also an important opportunity for them to perform their group and individual works in front of a live and responsive audience. I know that that audience enjoyed the evening very much and I wish all our performers well as they continue to refine their pieces in preparation for the examiners.

Headmaster, Mr Murray Guest and Commanding Officer, Cadets, Major Trevor Thatcher

invite you to attend the

The Annual Ceremonial Passing Out Parade of The Cadet Uniton Adamsfield

Sunday 25 August, 2013 at 11.00am

Reviewing Officer: Colonel Scotty Palmer (Australian Defence Force Capability Development Group)

City to SurfCongratulations are due to the TAS team of over 30 runners that completed the 14km City to Surf on Sunday. Beyond being a big personal challenge, being part of this enormous community event is a wonderful experience that will last with them for many years. With leadership from Year 9 student Huw Knox, the group was also responsible for raising over $8,000 to support the fight against Multiple Sclerosis and I congratulate them on adding such fine purpose to their physical efforts.NSW Parents’ Council and the 2013 ElectionParents will be aware that school education is featuring as an important focus for the coming federal election. As a major advocacy group for independent schooling, the NSW Parents’ Council has prepared an information pack for independent school families to assist them to support lobbying of federal candidates in this area. The information pack is included with this edition of TAS Talks and I commend it to you.

Science Bee CongratulationsIn an amazing effort Ali Ahsan, Year 10, has placed fourth in the NSW final of a prestigious international competition.Out of more than two thousand students from across the state that entered the Australian Brain Bee competition by completing an online test at school, Ali and classmate Tom Mailler were amongst only 140 selected in the state finals in Sydney last week. The Australian competition is a division of International Brain Bee, a world-wide neuroscience competition for high school students founded in 1999. The competition aims to encourage students to learn about the brain, capture their imaginations and inspire them to pursue neuroscience careers in order to help treat and find cures for neurological and psychological disorders.Ali was one of 10 students selected for the next session, and was placed fourth – just missing out on a $5000 scholarship, awarded to each of the top three placegetters. This is a great effort and Ali and Tom are to be congratulated.

Head of Middle School BoardingMiddle School boarders and their families were made aware yesterday that our Head of Middle School Boarding, Bill Doherty, has accepted the position of Deputy Headmaster at St Kevin’s College in Melbourne and I offer my congratulations to Bill on his appointment to this senior role. At the same time, I also take this opportunity to offer my thanks to Bill for his leadership of Middle School boarding since taking up the post at the start of last year. Middle School boarding, of course, occupies a special and very important place in the life of our school and the challenges of ensuring that it is a positive, productive and happy environment are many. Bill’s commitment to those challenges has been greatly appreciated.Mr Doherty will take up his new post in Term 1, 2014 and the process of searching for a new leader of White and Dangar Houses will commence shortly.

TAS TALKS 2

TAS TALKS 3

CHAPLAIN, RICHARD NEWTON

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Term 3 Week 5Wednesday 14 August HSC Trials continue NCIS Athletics (Coffs Harbour)

Thursday 15 August HSC Trials continue Year 10 Parent Teacher Interviews 6.15pm Year 10 into 11 Parent Information session Friday 16 August HSC Trials continue PSSA Athletics11.45am Year 10 into 11 Parent Information session Saturday 17 August Rugby vs St Ignatius (Riverview) at TAS Musica Viva- Elias String Quartet, Armidale Town Hall Sunday 18 August8.30-3.30pm Year 10 First Aid course (optional day 2)11.00am Service at Kellys Plains Community Church Monday 19 August HSC Trials continue Year 11 Metals & Engineering workplacement Tezukayama visit all week (JS)6.30pm Twilight Concert

Tuesday 20 August HSC Trials continue Year 11 Metals & Engineering workplacement Year 9 Geography Excursion to Coffs Harbour AgQuip in Gunnedah

Wednesday 21 August HSC Trials continue Year 11 Metals & Engineering workplacement Year 9 Geography Excursion to Coffs Harbour AgQuip in Gunnedah 6.30pm TAS/NEGS Service

Term 3 Week 4Thursday 22 August HSC Trials continue Year 11 Metals & Engineeringwork placement AgQuip in Gunnedah Friday 23 August HSC Trials conclude Year 11 Metals & Engineeringwork placement12 midday OBU Golf Day - BBQ lunch Armidale Golf Club6.00pm TAS vs Old Boys debate in Hoskins Theatre

Saturday 24 August OBU Weekend8.30am Tennis on the School courts Shooting at Meadowfield Rifle Range 11.00am NE Branch of Bell Tower Society, Morning Tea Lower Maxwell (Old Boys over 70 years)11.00am Football on the Cricket Oval 1st XI v Old Boys11.30am Tours of the School from McConville Centre 12.15pm Rugby - TAS 1st XV v The King’s School 3rd XV 2.00pm Touch Football - Old Boys v TAS on Cricket Oval3.00pm Tug-o-War - Hoskins area Presentation of Croft Cup - Hoskins Centre 3.30pm TAS OBU AGM - Hoskins Centre 6.30pm Pre Dinner Drinks in Big School7.00pm TAS OBU Official Dinner in the TAS Dining Hall

HSC French Continuers Oral Exam (AHS) Tezukayama depart Sunday 25 August9.30am OBU Chapel Service - TAS Chapel followed by morning tea11.00am TAS Cadet Unit, Passing Out Parade,Adamsfield

Monday 26 August Foundation meeting Tuesday 27 August Board Meeting

Wednesday 28 August Winter Sports photos

Kellys Plains Community Church Service at

Perrott Chapel, Kellys Plains

11am, Sunday 18 Augustfollowed by morning tea

all welcome

Any queries please phone Rev Newton 0429 157 905

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P&F ASSOCIATION, SANDRA KAYNES - PRESIDENT

COUNSELLOR, ROB HADFIELD

RazzmaTAS Fete - 2 November 2013Thanks to all our enthusiastic parents who attended our fete meeting last Wednesday evening. This year’s fete will be another fantastic event that brings the whole school together. Over the next couple of weeks your Liaison Parents will be contacting to you to get some assistance with your year group’s stall.

Cup Cakes and CraftKindergarten is running a Cupcake and Craft stall at

this year’s RazzamTAS fete. So we were wondering if the crafty folks... people who can

knit, crochet, sew... could start to think about creatinglovely things for us to sell at our stall. I’m sure there areGrandma’s, mums, aunts, dads(maybe!) who can make

us something - now is the time to start.Contact Felicity Pennington for more information via

6776 5800

Some students in Year 12 are reporting stress at this point in the year. There are all kinds of individual reasons why this is the case as well as some generic ones common to all facing the HSC and the end of school life.

There are many elements in the situation that constitute high pressure. For example, personal, school and family expectations can create pressure. Entry levels for some tertiary courses can do the same.

As a result of this pressure some students experience stress. Stress is our response to pressure or a sense of threat. There is a ‘realistic’ level of stress that might be expected in the context of the HSC and stress up to a certain point is important to bring out our best performance. Stress can help us direct our energies, focus our attention, and connect us to our priorities. Too much stress however, interferes with our performance and subverts our confidence. In this case stress quickly becomes anxiety.

Anxiety is usually focused on the future and imagined outcomes that would be disastrous. These thoughts often begin with, ‘what if….’. We quickly develop narratives of the future that distract us and take us away from the here-and-now of giving things our best shot. Becoming pre-occupied with imagined futures contributes to our stress becoming ‘dis-stress’.

If you recognise yourself here why not become pro-active in your self-support and drop by. There are things you can do.

Tombola Jars Wanted Filled or Unfilled

Year 4 is organising the Tombola stall at the RazzamaTAS fete and they are looking for

donations of jars, with or without contents. They can be left at TAS Reception or contact

Cressida Mort 0417 271 835

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GENERAL NOTICES

TAS Cadet Unit Passing Out Parade

Passing out parade for all cadets in Year 8 and above will be held on Adamsfield on Sunday 25th August. This is a compulsory activity for all cadets.The polyester parade uniform was issued in Week 4 and all cadets should now have this. The uniform will be inspected during the full dress rehearsal on Wednesday 14th August, then handed-in for safekeeping by the Q Store. Uniforms will then be issued back out on the morning of the parade, all cadets will get dressed in this uniform in classrooms prior to the parade. Upon completion of the parade, cadets will change and hand back their uniform prior to dismissal. See timings for the parade below.

Passing Out Parade Rehearsal ScheduleWeek 5 14th August (Wednesday) - 3.40 - 5.00pm Full Unit Dress Rehearsal - Polyester Uniform with black boots. 15th August (Thursday) - Lunchtime Full Unit Rehearsal - school uniform 15th August (Thursday) - 3.30 - 5.00pm Year 12 Cadets Rehearsal 16th August (Friday) - 3.30 - 5.00pm Year 12 Cadets Rehearsal followed by Dining-in NightWeek 6 19th August (Monday) - 3.40 - 5.00pm Full Unit Rehearsal - school uniform 20th August (Tuesday) - 3.30 - 5.00pm Year 12 Cadets Rehearsal 21st August (Wednesday) - 1.30 - 3.30pm Year 8 Cadets, Flag Party, and their Leaders (B Coy) - school uniform 22nd August (Thursday) - Lunchtime Full Unit Rehearsal - school uniform 22nd August (Thursday) - 3.30 - 5.00pm Year 12 Cadets Rehearsal 23rd August (Friday) - 1.30 - 3.30pm Full Unit Rehearsal followed by Year 12 Cadets Rehearsal - school uniform

Passing Out Parade - 25th August (Sunday) - 8.30am - 12.30pm 8.30am - cadets parade wearing casual dress - roll call 8.45am - breakfast for whole cadet unit in dining hall (hot cooked) 9.15am - cadets re-issued polyester uniform by platoons 9.30am - cadets to polish brass and dress in platoon classrooms 10.15am - inspection under covered way 10.45am - unit to form-up front of Dangar House 10.55am - markers take post 11.00am - parade commence 12.00pm (approx) - parade complete 12.15pm - cadets change into casuals in platoon classrooms and hand-in polyester uniform, except SGT and above who move to lunch with families. 12.30pm - cadets dismissed.

Year 9 Geography Field TripWhen? 20 and 21 AugustWhere? Coffs HarbourWho? All of Year 9How much will it cost? Approximately $50 to cover travel and food.Why? As a part of our unit of study this term, which investigates the factors that cause change in communities, we will be conducting a case study of Coffs Harbour - its environment, management, industries, past and future. This will also be an op-portunity for us to model a Research Action Plan before the boys begin work on their own. The RAP is the major assessment component for the semester. We will be staying at Bishop Druitt College, hearing from a variety of guest speakers, visiting the National Maritime Research Centre and Muttonbird Island, as well as gathering some of our own primary data in the CBD. We will arrive back on the Wednesday afternoon in time for day boys to catch buses.

A list of items to bring, what to wear etc will be issued closer to the date.

Trevor Thatcher, Major (AAC), Commanding Officer

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HSC Trial ExamsYear 12 Trial exams began on Monday 12 August and conclude on Friday 23 August. All Year 12 students have been emailed the Trial exam timetable and a copy of the Rules and Procedures for exams. Students should read the rules and procedures carefully.

Year 10 Parent Teacher InterviewsDetails for booking times online for Year 10 Parent Teacher Interviews have been emailed to parents.Two Interview sessions are planned for Year 10 - Thursday 15 August (primarily for day boys) from 3:30pm - 6:00pm and Friday 16 August from 1:50pm - 5:30pm. (primarily for boarders). The online booking system will be available from 31 July 2013 to 16 August 2013.Please go to the Armidale School PTI homepage at http://denbigh.as.edu.au/pti_den/ and login in with your allocated username and password.Once you log in, it is a matter of choosing your child’s teacher and a time to suit. When you choose your time it will be high-lighted in red. When you have finished you will be able to print off a personalised booking sheet.Should interviews on these dates prove inconvenient, an alternative date or telephone interview may be arranged at a time that suits both parents and teachers. Requests can be directed to your son’s Advisor or to the Academic Assistant, Vickey O’Brien.

In an effort to accommodate all parents - those working and travelling, two Information Sessions will be held in Big School. The first session will be on Thursday 15 August beginning at 6.15pm and a repeat session on Friday 16 August at 11.45am. These sessions will focus on the academic support at TAS, subject choices - A link to the Year 11/12 Subject Handbook will be emailed to parents and students in the week prior to Parent Teacher Interviews, HSC scaling, the Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) and expectations as a senior student. These sessions will be conducted by the Headmaster, Mr Guest, Mrs Wark, Director of Studies and Mr Buntine, Director of Pastoral Care. It is highly recommended that students attend these sessions with parents.

Please email vobrien@as.edu.au to indicate which information session you will be attending.

Ag Quip 2013Students in Years 9, 10, 11 Agriculture and Year 11 Primary Industries will be attending Ag Quip on Thursday 22 August.The bus will leave at 6:30am and return at approximately 6:00pm.

Mike Ball

MEDICAL CENTRE - SISTER JENNY MURRAY

We recognise that some students missed the first (and second) opportunity to commence immunisation at school for HPV vaccination. Three doses of this vaccine are required to provide optimal protection. If parents/carers wish we can start the course for students who missed out on the first dose/s this year during the next clinic visit to the school on November 7th. The course can be completed during the first visit/s next year while they are in year 8.

Also Giardasil Vaccination (HPV ) is available free to 15 year old boys in Year 10 this year at doctors’ surgerys.

What are you doing with those boots and balls ?Have you ever said to yourself, “What am I going to do with those boots? They are in good condition so I can’t chuck them out.” How about you donate them to a local Fijian school. In Fiji, a lot of kids play soccer or rugby bare-footed. Sometimes they don’t even have a soccer ball or rugby ball to play with, but instead use something else. These children need the right equipment - boots and balls - that we can supply to them. If you are interested and want to give these children the right equipment needed to play these sports, just come to Middle School where there will be two boxes with a poster on each. Just put your equipment that you want to donate into one or both of those boxes. There are few requirements except that balls are not to be pumped and that they all must be good quality. The second requirement is a big one. It must be good quality. If you want more information, just email me at bhadfiel@as.edu.au or just ask me directly during school hours. PS I now have plenty of boots but not enough soccer or rugby balls!!

Brayden Hadfield

TAS TALKS 7

DIRECTOR OF CO-CURRICULAR, JASON LINCOLN

TAS Careers NightI wish to congratulate Waseem Sajeev and the other members of the TAS Speakers for the initiative taken to introduce our community to a Careers forum on Friday night. I am delighted to report that feedback given to me about the presentations was most favourable. On the whole the boys and families were not only entertained but they felt they had a better understanding of the pathway chosen by our guests and why. It has helped motivate a number of our boys in their decision making process and it has got many of our boys thinking about the possibilities for themselves beyond school.

St Joseph’s College VisitSaturday's visit by St Joseph's College was a most enjoyable day thanks to the continued support of our families in prioritising these weekends on so many levels. Despite the nail biting loss for our 1st XV the highlight for me was the way our boys held themselves and the spirit of competition which was impeccable. This weekend we welcome St Ignatius College, Riverview for another full round of fixtures.

Old Boys Weekend (23/24 August 2013)Next weekend we host The Kings School as part of our annual Old Boys Weekend. Our boys will be competing against both Old Boys and Kings alike throughout the weekend and I encourage you to go to the TAS website for all information on what is truly the highlight of the year on our sporting calendar.

Jay Kennedy On the swimming front Jay Kennedy continues to shine achieving even more PB's in the New England & North West Area Short Course Championships held at the TAS pool on Sunday. Jay achieved many placings on the day and we congratulate him on his self discipline displayed to pursue his goal with an impressive work ethic in what can be an isolating sport.

City to SurfI congratulate all our staff and students who participated in the City to Surf 14km fun run on Sunday. Special mention must go to Huw Knox who's fundraising efforts for MS saw the team raise in excess of $8000 for this very worthy cause.

NCICS AthleticsSenior athletes have been helping out Junior athletes in the preparation leading up to the NCIS competition in Coffs Harbour today. It has been delightful to have the senior athletes offering their expertise and giving up lunchtime hours to help the juniors develop their skills for their upcoming competitions at NCIS and PSSA. The athletes are getting excited at the prospect of competing in Coffs Harbour on Wednesday and at Armidale High on Friday. Huw Knox, Joe Makeham, Henry Coldham, Ben Broster and Will Brissett have all happily attended junior trainings on designated days for the past two and a half weeks weeks.Ben Broster is seen right working with the sprinters on the starts.

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HOSKINS CENTRE, EMMA BUZO - MANAGER

'West Side Story' Information Evening - tonight!There will be a short information session at 5pm on Wednesday August 14 (tonight!) at Hoskins for students from TAS, NEGS, PLC and OCC. We will give a little (but not too much) away about the BIG plans we have for the show and answer questions about the auditions and rehearsals. Potential crew members are also welcome. West Side Story is epic and one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Auditioning, however, is not epic. It's really easy, as is the 'street combat' style of movement/dance in the show. We're looking for students with guts, attitude and fightin' spirit to form the two rival gangs. We'll teach you the rest...

Details: http://teams.as.edu.au/groups/hoskins/wiki/2bb17/West_Side_Story.html

Last week's HSC Drama showcase 'Curtain Up'Fourteen students from TAS, NEGS and PLC took the stage last week in front of one of the biggest and most enthusiastic audiences I have ever seen at Hoskins. Hundreds of boarders, day students and family members of the cast cheered the class on as they told their stories with great courage and a palpable sense of joie de vivre. Special thanks go to the guest markers Andrew O'Connell, Sorelle Stewart and Jess Vince-Moin for their valuable input in the lead up to the prac exams in a few weeks.

Jazz Workshop and Performance A group of 45 students from across Armidale were treated to a delightful and inspirational workshop experience last Sunday. Students had the opportunity to work with nationally renown Jazz artists, led by trombonist and vocalist Dan Barnett and vocalist Tricia Evy. A range of Jazz concepts were explored including improvisation and establishing a sense of style. The workshop culminated in an en masse performance. It is through experiences like these that music can become a life long passion. So it was great to see students so engrossed in music making. It was a privilege for TAS to be involved in such an exciting project. Many thanks to conductor and instrumental tutor, Rob Woodhouse for being the visionary behind this exchange. Also thanks must go to Susanne James and NECOM for including us in this collaboration. Everyone at TAS continues to appreciate the amazing contribution NECOM makes to our community. We are looking forward to future collaborations.

Elective Music students to Musica Viva A reminder that all elective music students at TAS (Year 9, 10 and 11) will have the opportunity to attend the 2013 Musica Viva concert series in Armidale. The series of concerts on offer this year presents an unprecedented opportunity for students to gain valuable insights into a range of styles and concepts as covered in the elective curriculum. Students will attend two concerts over the year at a discounted group price of $18 per concert. Details of the concert programs are outlined below for your information. Students will be expected to find their own way to the Town Hall concerts. Arrival should be no later than 15 mins before the concert commences. Purchased tickets will be distributed at the door. A bus will take boarders from the book room at 3:30pm and will return students after the concert. Students are required to wear formals to each concert. A free pre-concert talk will also take place at 3:15 at the Town Hall on the 17th. The talk will unpack the music that will be played at each concert. Delivered by Alan Davidson, convenor of Music, UNE, the pre concert talk will be a great opportunity for any student or parent wishing to gain a deeper insight into the performed repertoire. An email with details of both concerts has been sent to Elective Music parents and students this week. Non elective music students and their parents are also welcome to attend. Please contact the TAS Music Dept as soon as possible if you would like to be included in our discounted group booking.

Elias String Quartet - 17 August - Armidale Town Hall 4pm Second in the Musica Viva Armidale Concert Series for 2013 is the Elias String Quartet. The Quartet brings together together their diverse cultures, languages and musical interests to create a dramatic and satisfying whole. In this triumphant return tour of Australia they present two revered staples of the quartet repertoire alongside a highly anticipated world premiere from composer Matthew Hindson, inspired by the movement and energy of light.

The Elias String Quartet take their name from Mendelssohn’s oratorio, Elijah, of which Elias is in its German form, and have quickly established themselves as one of the most intense and vibrant quartets of their generation. They perform around the world, collaborating with many different artists. The Quartet was formed in 1998 at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester where they worked closely with the late Dr Christopher Rowland. They also spent a year studying at the Hochschule in Cologne with the Alban Berg quartet. Other mentors in the Quartet’s studies include Hugh Maguire, György Kurtág, Gábor Takács-Nagy, Henri Dutilleux and Rainer Schmidt.

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MUSIC, NIK GLASS - DIRECTOR

Term 3 Twilight Concert Monday 19 August 6:30pm Hoskins Centre

Featuring student musicians from our peripatetic instrumental and vocal programs

All welcome - entry free

TAS TALKS 10

HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL, MARK HARRISON

New ArrivalsAfter having fare-welled our Auckland boys just two weeks ago, we’re about to welcome two new Round Square arrivals, this time from Scotch Oakburn College in Tasmania. Samuel Herbert and Will Jones, both of whom are in Year 8 will be joining Middle School boarders and attending classes for two weeks. Again, it is so good that our students can take the opportunity of meeting and assisting new people, dealing with different approaches to school life and, hopefully, forging friendships. I look forward to introducing Samuel and Will at this week’s Town Meeting.

Year 8 Parent Interviews and Stage 5 Information SessionLast Thursday hosted the first round of Year 8 Parent Interviews and an Information Evening. While I’m hoping that the academic interviews went well for all families, I know that the Information Session was a real success, involving about forty people. Interviews and Information sessions continued on Friday, this time to a Hoskins capacity audience. While many families could attend one of these days, for those who couldn’t, I’ll briefly outline the content of the Information part of each. Effectively it involved talks from Barney Buntine, Cindy Barnsley and me. Amongst other matters, Barney Buntine, Director of Pastoral Care, informed boys and parents about the differences between Year 8 Home Room clusters and the Senior School Advisor system, opportunities and service initiatives available to seniors and the senior boarding and day house systems. Importantly, he also spoke about the School’s pastoral care program. Cindy Barnsley, Middle School Curriculum Coordinator, then ‘walked’ families through the Stage 5 subject selection options. Year 8 boys now have the bulk of information they need for the their three Electives (and one optional extra) in Years 9 and 10. I spoke about the responsibilities that invariably attach to making academic choices. These selections should be carefully considered by individuals (and families) and all boys need to ‘go with their heart’ when choosing one of them, at least. This is a wonderful time for students to focus on an elective, being an area of interest they’re really keen to pursue over the next two years.

I was very happy, not just to meet parents, but also to discuss their sons’ academic and extracurricular lives. Middle School boys are a lively and, thankfully, eclectic group to say the least and both days presented themselves as ideal opportunities to canvass their parents’ views on the ways in which students, both as members of a group and as individuals, make the best of their time here. Not surprisingly, the majority want their boys to ‘be out and about’ and all want the boys to be engaged, pursuing activities that interest and challenge them. Within reason, I want them to do those activities that appeal to them, too. They need to be given opportunities simply to enjoy themselves while they’re at TAS. Setting up a desk in the Memorial Hall, I was really pleased also to talk to boys who, of their own volition, came to speak to me about - anything other than their academic performance, as a matter of fact! So happy in fact that I want you, as parents, to encourage this kind of interaction whenever the boys want or need to talk, even advise, about Middle School. As you know, I’ve told all of them that the place belongs to them and that the only effective way of determining its course is largely to tell me what works and what does not… The staff do this, so the boys, likewise, have the right to do this, too.

City to SurfDespite their relative youth, I’m pleased to report that the City to Surf contingent of thirty-seven TAS and PLC students comprised three boys from the Middle School: Jordan Frahm, Jim Orr and Ollie Shannon – all of whom are in Year 8. These were the youngest competitors from TAS and each acquitted himself better than well. These boys finished the course easily and their times were good. The TAS contingent raised more than $8000 and all monies will go towards research methods in an attempt to find a cure for Multiple Sclerosis.

Communication With YouI’m know that not all parents can read TAS Talks easily - I’m well aware of your busy lifestyles. So, as someone new to this position, I’ve decided to communicate information relevant to you in a more direct manner and, something challenging for me, as succinctly as possible to Year 6, 7 and 8 parent e-mail accounts. In addition to this TAS Talks inclusion, Year 6 parents will have received a ‘bare bones’ e-mail from me this afternoon outlining information that exclusively concerns our Year 6 cohort. Already, I’ve received five responses from parents and this is heartening for me. For those others of you who wish to communicate with me directly, I’m including again the e-mail addresses that will come to the Middle School. My personal address is: mharriso@as.edu.au

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Tournament of Minds The Tournament of Minds team is well and truly working hard preparing their presentation for this year’s Tournament of Minds Regional Final, to be held at UNE on Sunday 25 August. The team has chosen to answer the Social Sciences Challenge - Secrets...Shhh don’t tell! Almost everyone keeps secrets. They can be small like “we ate the last chocolate biscuit” or important like our ATM pin number. We keep secrets for all sorts of reasons. Whether the reasons are deemed good or bad depends on our personal values. Sometimes we share our secrets and sometimes our secrets are discovered. When secrets become known, there may be consequences. Having read the challenge our TOM team have put together a fantastic story involving a singer with tonsillitis, a computer programmer with greed on his mind and busy body House painter. We wish them all the very best of luck as they busily prepare over the next 12 days. The 2013 TOM team: Will Grant, Brayden Hadfield, Noah Rose, Xavier Tonkin, Harry Jones, Henry O’Neil and Owen Chandler.

Jack Vallance Memorial Football CarnivalOn Sunday the TAS U12s A team played in the Jack Vallance Memorial Football Carnival. We played 5 matches each with two 7-minute halves. Because of the shorter halves taking your chances were very important. The first game we played was against Ex Servies West Wolves. The game was very tough and at half time the score was nil all. Both teams were playing well and with not much time left Ben Hamilton scored off a great pass from Sam Jeyakumar. The full time whistle blew and we had won 1-0. Our second game was against Walcha Brumbies. This again was a hard game but we managed to win 2-0 with Joe Gordon and Cotter Litchfield both scoring. Our third game was against a determined DK Saints team. Ben Hamilton was on fire scoring three great goals especially when he chipped the keeper off a Harry Jones pass. Joe Gordon also picked up another goal with a screamer into the top corner. We won 4-0.After lunch we had the toughest game yet. It was against DK Demons. We were almost one nil down in the first half but Harry Jones managed a great save however the ref awarded a penalty and DK got a penalty shot. Luckily for us the shot just missed and we were saved. Luck was on our side when DK scored an unlucky own goal. A late goal to DK made the score line at the end of the match 1-1. If we won our last game against South Skeetas we would win the tournament. We started well but missed a few chances. Then Ben Friend had a shot from a long way out that went in. Luke Evans also scored a great goal to go with Ben’s screamer. We won 2-0 and also won the tournament. Thankyou to Mr Hadfield our coach and all the parents who were there supporting us. Kieran Dennis

The Jack Vallance Tournament is a Football (Soccer) Tournament that is on every year. This year was the first time TAS has entered into the Tournament. TAS entered three teams, I was in the under 14s Division 1 group. In my team there was Noah Piper in the goals, Lewis Baber, Tom Baily, Tom Hyatt and Angus Cornell in the backs then in the midfield there was Oscar McBean, me (Harry Mackenzie) and Hunter Hine for one game then in the forwards we had Oscar Barrett, Archie Woodhouse and Griffon Shepherd. In our group there were five teams - Souths, two DK teams and Exservies. Our first game was against Exservies. In the first half we had a close half with only nine players on the field. Exservies had a couple of shot’s on goals but nothing to tough for Noah to handle, as the second half started we were joined by Tom Hyatt to bring us up to 10 players which helped us in the defence. As the end of the second half neared I slotted the ball in the bottom left corner, as the Exservies kicked of Oscar Barrett made a perfect tackle and passed it to me on the wing which opened the centre up for Oscar McBean to have a clear run at goals so I crossed the ball into the centre at Oscars feet and he just slotted the ball into the net which made the score 2:0. The game finished and we had won our first game. Next was against the strongest team in our group the DK destroyers. As the first half had started DK got threw our very strong defence and had a couple of shots on goal but luckily Noah made some excellent diving saves. In the second half we nearly scored but put the ball to the side of the goal, the game ended at a nil all draw which was a really good out come. Our next game was against the DK conquerors but unfortunately we were a bit tired in this game and was on top of our form and ended up having another nil all draw. As our last game against South’s came near Hunter turned up which gave us a bit more energy to put up a fight to win the competition. The game started and we had a couple of close shots on goal but only just missing. As the game was coming close to the end we put up a last and final effort to score but with no success - we ended up having another nil all draw which put us in second place on the ladder but Souths was close on our tale and had one game left, if they won 1:0 they would be level with us and if they won 2:0 then they would be in second place. As we watched the game Souths scored only one goal and we all were happy and thought that there would be a play off for second place only to be disappointed because the one goal put them just in front of us because we only had two goals and they had three. We were still happy for we had come third and considering that we hadn’t played together before it was a great outcome. Harry Mackenzie

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HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL, IAN LLOYD

From Ian LloydFundraisingThis week we heard from our friends at St Jude’s School in Tanzania, for whom a previous fundraiser has raised almost $350. To receive a handwritten letter, graciously expressing their appreciation for the support and help from others, reinforces to our children just how important it is to serve others. On the same note, you will again see a reminder about the Christmas Child project from Liam Matherson and San Behrend, outlined below with suggestions for each week’s donation. It is a wonderful program and I strongly commend it to you.

Tezukayama Elementary School Visit and Bush DanceYou will have received by now an outline of next week’s activities with Tezukayama. As you will see it will be a busy time and we thank all those who have supported this venture. Specifically, we would like to invite all our families to join us at Echidna Gully on Thursday an evening for an Aussie style bbq and bush dance. We are using this occasion as an opportunity to have a party, but also to thank the billeting families for their support by hosting students. The School was very thankful so many were able to help out.

NCIS and PSSA AthleticsWith healthy sized squads departing for these carnivals, I would again like to mention the assistance our students received from senior students for the last number of weeks. You’ll find all the details in the Director of Co-Curricula section, but it goes without saying that we have appreciated their help. I hope all the athletes enjoy the occasion. Representing their school is significant, but giving up their time and effort to do so and performing to the best of their ability is even more so. Good luck team!

Looking Ahead

Wednesday 14 August Transition Assembly – Hoskins Centre NCIS AthleticsFriday 16 August PSSA Athletics – Armidale High SchoolMonday 19 August Stephanie Velia Prac Student in for four weeks on Year 4 TEZ arrive – approx 4pmTuesday 20 August Welcome Assembly for TEZ 8.45am – Hoskins CentreWednesday 21 August Maths Olympiad Hanna Shield at UNE Aquatic Centre No Class AssemblyThursday 22 August Robo-Tec performance 2.30pm Echidna Gully dance and Bush band 5pmFriday 23 August TEZ Farewell Assembly 2pmSaturday 24 August TEZ depart 8.45am Old Boys WeekendSunday 25 August Tournament of the Minds

TAS TALKS 13

Happy Birthday WishesWe wish a very Happy Birthday to the following students: Kieran Dennis, Zac Matherson, Liam Matherson, Thomas Wu, Dominic Ferguson, Zoe Strelitz, and Kyanna Ping Kee.

HatsPlease remember that the Junior School children are expected to wear a school hat when they are in the playground. The wide brimmed boys’ and girls’ hats are compulsory. The school “No Hat No Play” policy is being reinforced for the children’s well being.

Promptness to SchoolPlease ensure children are at school before 8:45am ready to start of the day. The morning routine is an important one and it can be rather disruptive if children arrive once a lesson has commenced. If your child is late please escort them to the Junior School Reception desk prior to heading to the classroom and we thank you in advance for your co-operation.

Christmas ChildThe Year 5 Christmas Child committee would like to remind all parents and students to bring in an item or a shoebox that you and your family have created. Please note the cost of postage is $9 per box.These boxes may include: Week 5: Something to Wear – t-shirt, polo shirt, shorts, skirt, cap, beanie, sandals etc. Week 6: Something to Love – Teddy bear, doll, soft toy etc. Week 7: Something Special – Carry bag, sunglasses, stickers, necklaces, craft kits, a personal note, a photo of yourself etc. Week 8: Someything for School – Exercise book, pencil case, pens, pencils, colouring pencils, sharpener, eraser, chalk etc. Week 9: Something to Play With – Tennis balls, toy cars, skipping ropes, marbles, musical instrument, yo-yo, slinky, finger puppets, wind up torch etc. Week 10: Something for Personal Hygiene – Soap and face washer, toothbrush, comb, scrunchies, hair clips etc.If you can possibly donate you will have the sensation of feeling good by making someone who is poor happy. Just remember, these children only get 1 Christmas box in their time at school so lets join together and make these boxes count.Kind Regards, Liam Matherson and Sam Behrend (Year 5 Christmas Child Committee)

JUNIOR SCHOOL SPORT, KIRSTY BRUNSDON

HockeyU11s Girls’ HockeyThe mighty U11s girls hockey team played a superb game against Harlies last Saturday. Despite the final score not being in our favour, the match was a fine display of teamwork and sportsmanship. Our defence was strong, both from our backs and Sophia Grant in goals. This prevented Harlies from scoring on a number of occasions, including several short corners in a row. The girls created a number of good opportunities inside Harlies circle, but unfortunately, Harlies defence was very tight and we were unable to convert. Despite this, it was a terrific game to watch and see the girls playing well in their positions, communicating with each other and passing the ball well. We are looking forward to our game this weekend against St Johns at 10.30am. There will be no training on Wednesday due to the NCIS carnival in Coffs Harbour. See you all on Saturday!

U11s WhiteFriday saw an understrength TAS Whites face up against Servies Red in a tough matchup. With some talented individuals in the Servies side, it was easier pickings than it might have otherwise been considering we were two short. Servies, on the other hand, must have had at least three or four reserves. Despite these odds, our boys worked tirelessly and Josiah Alcorn and Zac Matherson were regularly seen at both ends of the field in both defensive and attacking roles. Stewart Williams did a good job in the backs, aiding first time keeper Alex Gibson, whilst Cassidy Williams and Dominic Ferguson tried their luck running the ball but to no avail. Eventually, despite a good goal from Zac Matherson, Servies took out the match with a commanding scoreline.

U13sUp against City Hornets, TAS 13s were keen to show some of the form they have exhibited earlier this season, and with a full contingent when compared with last week, it was looking as if we would put up a good fight, on paper at least. The opening 10 minutes saw TAS dominate, with some excellent ball movement and positional play. However, as the subs started to roll on, some players demonstrated that they were less familiar with their expected roles, and the tight marking and work off the ball shown earlier, began to fade. Even though the City attack were beginning to get on top, a quick breakthrough by the TAS attack saw Sam Behrend race into the circle and fire one into the backboard for our first score. Shortly after, in almost repeated fashion, Behrend once again broke away and made no error to get TAS another superb goal.

TAS TALKS 14

The TAS Tonkas/Transformers plus Solomon Layton from St Johns played in the Jack Vallance Carnival on Sunday 11 August at the Rologas Fields, Armidale. The team played 4 x 15 minute games and played fantastic football throughout the day. They played 3 draws and 1 loss which was a great result.Everyone displayed really good sportsmanship and were a credit to their school.Special thanks to Neil Smart for his coaching and refereeing, Ingrid Evans for the oranges and all the parents who turned up to watch the kids play. Matt MeehanPhoto right from the dayBack Row: Oliver Smart, Josh Pongrass, Alex Webber, Sam Meehan, Lachlan Costello, Solomon LaytonFront Row: Beatrice Henzell, Peter Evans, Conol Nicoll, Campbell Aitkin, Lachlan Hunt

Despite City evening the card in the second half, goalie Sterling George had a stunning game once again showing his many abilities in front of the net. In defence, Sam Ruba proved himself once again to be a valuable member of the team whilst Sam Wright showed his versatility and great attitude. Late in the second half, Jonothan Chamberlain got a well deserved goal and played a pivotal role throughout the game to give TAS 13s another fine win for the season. Well done to all for their fine efforts and desire to do better week after week.

Please note - latest draw is on the TAS Hockey webpage.

Tornadoes - Mrs WrightWell, the Tornadoes were certainly on fire last Saturday, playing Norths at Rologas Fields. The game started a little slowly, with both teams taking possession of the ball and using it to their advantage. It was the Tornadoes, however, who were first to score with some great teamwork in the forwards. Norths equalised shortly after with a great goal, drawing our backs out of position and placing the ball into the corner of the net. During the second half the game the Tornadoes continued to work strongly as a team, passing the ball, staying in position and making accurate passes to score 5 more goals. It was a terrific team effort this week. Great work boys!

TAS/St Johns Tonkas v North Armidale Red Rovers - Matt MeehanOn Saturday the Tonkas played a top game of football against North Armidale Red Rovers. Solomon Layton played another blinder and kicked 2 goals. Josh Pongrass and Alex Webber did a great job as our goalies again this week and held Red Rovers to one goal. Campbell Aitkin was ever reliable throughout the game. Lachlan Costello scored another ripper goal by drilling one from far out. Catherine Alcorn had her best of the year and awarded player of the week. TAS/St Johns won 3-1.

NetballTAS/PLC Topaz vs Sunbeam - Mrs TrenerryTopaz well and truly shone in their second last game of the competition on Saturday. It was great to watch the girls move more freely around the court with many series of good passes. Sunbeams were strong and defended well but Topaz were stronger and excellent positional play from Ruby Straker, Casey Smith, Lucy Caldwell, Lucy Young and Rachael Kenrick sealed our victory. Stephanie Evitt warmed up as the game progressed and by the end was trusty and determined. She managed to net her second goal of the series. Grace Smith slowly got into the rhythm of the game but by the end was into position and helping out with secure catching and throwing. Charlotte Portell, once again, showed her great coordination scoring 2 goals for the team. Goals were also scored by Rachael Kenrick with Lucy Young getting her second of the series as well.It really was a great team effort this week and the girls should be very proud of themselves. On Saturday, 17 August we have a bye and we meet for our final game on 24th August when we play ACSC Rainbows. There will be a presentation to all Junior Netball players after the final game.

TAS TALKS 15

COMMUNITY EVENTS

 

 

 

 

 

NO  TICKETS  SOLD  AT  THE  DOOR    

TAS TALKS 16

Exhibition will run until 11am Sunday 8th September 2013

Opening Night Cocktail FunctionWhen: Friday 6th September 2013Where: NEGS Multi-Purpose CentreTime: 6.00pm - 9.00pmCost: $30.00/head prepaid; $35.00/head on the night(includes champagne supper, live entertainment and drinks)

RSVP: With payment advice, 2nd September 2013Direct Deposit: NEGS OGU Inc. BSB: 932 000 Acc No.: 726755 Ref: your full name Cheque: NEGS OGU, C/ NEGS, Uralla Road, Armidale NSW 2350 Or: NEGS Administration Office for ticketsConfirmation of attendees for catering purposes to: Mrs Jo Campbell E: archiec@bigpond.net.au P: 02 6772 2048

Plus NEGS Inaugural Student Art Competition

Proudly Sponsored by:

Raffle prize kindly donated by Kate Warby

Exhibition will run until 11am Sunday 8th September 2013

Opening Night Cocktail FunctionWhen: Friday 6th September 2013Where: NEGS Multi-Purpose CentreTime: 6.00pm - 9.00pmCost: $30.00/head prepaid; $35.00/head on the night(includes champagne supper, live entertainment and drinks)

RSVP: With payment advice, 2nd September 2013Direct Deposit: NEGS OGU Inc. BSB: 932 000 Acc No.: 726755 Ref: your full name Cheque: NEGS OGU, C/ NEGS, Uralla Road, Armidale NSW 2350 Or: NEGS Administration Office for ticketsConfirmation of attendees for catering purposes to: Mrs Jo Campbell E: archiec@bigpond.net.au P: 02 6772 2048

Plus NEGS Inaugural Student Art Competition

Proudly Sponsored by:

Raffle prize kindly donated by Kate Warby

Exhibition will run until 11am Sunday 8th September 2013

Opening Night Cocktail FunctionWhen: Friday 6th September 2013Where: NEGS Multi-Purpose CentreTime: 6.00pm - 9.00pmCost: $30.00/head prepaid; $35.00/head on the night(includes champagne supper, live entertainment and drinks)

RSVP: With payment advice, 2nd September 2013Direct Deposit: NEGS OGU Inc. BSB: 932 000 Acc No.: 726755 Ref: your full name Cheque: NEGS OGU, C/ NEGS, Uralla Road, Armidale NSW 2350 Or: NEGS Administration Office for ticketsConfirmation of attendees for catering purposes to: Mrs Jo Campbell E: archiec@bigpond.net.au P: 02 6772 2048

Plus NEGS Inaugural Student Art Competition

Proudly Sponsored by:

Raffle prize kindly donated by Kate Warby

Sally Carmichael Specialist Tutor

Offering tutoring to primary aged students in Literacy and Numeracy.

• Multilit – Word Attack & Extension programs• Precision Academics - Visual Maths program• Sight word, sound and blend association• Homework supervision• Reading and comprehension

Before and after school appointments available

Ph: 0408 388 444

Circuit Classes are on:Monday: 6:15pmTuesday 5:15pmSaturday 4:15pmCost is $8.00 per session ($7.00 for TAS staff and students)Contact: Chris Doherty 6771 1158 or 0414 98 43 78