Issue 1 - March 2023

From the Principal

Welcoming well over 1350 students to the start of the school year is a complete joy as well as a relief, given that the weeks of preparation in the lead up to the first day for learners are always filled with a huge volume of work to complete but also a nervous anticipation and excitement. When we saw all those smiling young faces catching up with friends, scanning class lists, woofing down a sausage, listening in the welcome assemblies and rushing between orientation classes it was truly re-energising. Something that struck me was how great it is not to have masks and instead have all the nuances that come with face-to-face expression as staff welcomed learners and students made connections that are so integral to a sense of community belonging. I warmly welcome all of you - families, every staff member, local community members, inter-agency groups, Department for Education, Children and Young People personnel, our local schools, friends, and visitors to the college, in this work of supporting continual growth in the learning and wellbeing of our students.

Our main goal at Hobart College is for all students to complete the Tasmanian Certificate of Education (TCE) or Tasmanian Certificate for Educational Achievement (TCEA), and for us to prepare students for a successful transition to further studies or employment.   We are also committed to providing students with a holistic education that enables them to be healthy, connected, and responsible members of the community.  As well as a focus on careers and goal setting, the weekly Home Group Program provides opportunities for students to participate in enrichment activities and themed events like Clean Up Australia Day and Harmony Day.

Wellbeing for Learning and Effective Pedagogical Practices that ensure that all learners achieve to high levels, are our main school improvement priorities for this year. We will continue to ensure that our Student Leaders program provides students with more opportunities to take on leadership roles and to have a greater voice in their learning and how the college operates. We will also continue to work with the Hartz Collective of associated schools (Dover, Huonville, Kingston, Taroona, and Woodbridge Schools) to ensure there are relevant and engaging pathways for all students in our southern region to continue their education and to achieve successful outcomes at the end of Year 12. 

Of critical importance to learning is engagement and attendance. Hobart College continues to hold attendance rates above other schools in our sector, but it is at the individual level that attendance matters most. We care deeply that every learner knows that they are important to us, that their sense of connection and belonging matters. We are a ‘learning concierge business’, ensuring that nothing gets in the way of your learning or your wellbeing for learning. Let us know: What do you need to help you be engaged, participating, well and learning?

Hobart College students continued in 2022 to achieve exceptional results and were aptly celebrated at Hobart Town Hall in February at the TASC Outstanding Achievement Awards Ceremony. On 29 March, we will hold our own Awards Evening and we look forward to celebrating with you – our school community – the awe-inspiring achievements of our learners both academically and no less importantly in the fields of leadership, performance and contributions to community. What I find so inspiring are the visions our young people have for the future, and how they see themselves as playing key roles in that future. 

I would encourage you to stay connected with the college through our Parent Teacher Evenings (held in Terms 2 and 3) and to engage online with our Schoolzine app, Facebook page, Instagram and website.  You may also consider joining the College Association.  We meet both virtually and face-to-face 6 times over the year.  The AGM will be held on Tuesday 28 March.  Please contact Mandy Reynolds-Smith on 6220 3133 or email  hobart.college@decyp.tas.gov.au if you would like an invite to the meeting, would like to nominate for a Committee position, or if you have any concerns throughout this year. 

I should also mention that early in the school year I experienced an unexpected illness. As frustrated as I am to be on sick leave for treatment and recovery, Mandy Reynolds-Smith (highly experienced principal) is at the helm of the ship on campus in my absence and is continuing to work with the whole staff to steer a steady and relentless course forward at full-throttle. To have such expertise and collegiality in this role of educational leadership is a profound gift. I will be back on campus by end of term, and be reassured, I haven’t gone anywhere, and I am grateful to be able to work from home in daily communication and partnership with the leadership team of the college.

I really look forward to working with all of you over this year to ensure that we continue to uphold our traditions of excellence and diversity. Participation in College life is part of the fun, so we’re also looking forward to seeing each of you here, loving college life and enjoying learning.

Dr Libby Robinson

Acting Principal

Students and Staff "In the Spotlight"

Claire Clements

Congratulations to Claire Clements who has made the Junior Canoe Slalom Championship team that will compete in Poland later this year.  Claire was featured in The Mercury where she was described as “our next gen stars of whitewater”. You can read the full article via the link below. 

Conor Hennessy

Congratulations to Conor Hennessy who finished 3rd in the Expert Level of the Australian SuperEnduro Motorcyle Championships in Ballarat recently. Conor also placed 1st in the Gold Class Victorian Hard Enduro, beating a tough field of competitors who were significantly older than him.

Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) Scholarships

Congratulations to the following students who have secured AIS Scholarships for their respective sports:

• Max Johnstone – Hockey
• Claire Clements - Kayaking

Jack O’Sullivan - RAW Comedy

Congratulations to HoCo's own HASS and English teacher Jack O'Sullivan on winning the TAS Raw Comedy competition on the weekend! Jack will now compete in the National RAW final in Melbourne in April!

Learning Area News - HPOE

Expedition Class - First Trip to Bruny Island

Sixteen students set off in the green bus to enjoy some of the outdoor experiences that Bruny Island offers. The glorious evening of Feb 24 meant that the initial surf at Cloudy Bay was in warm conditions with perfect sized surf for the class. Students then set up camp and cooked a range of healthy nutritious meals on trangias and the evening was spent with students bonding over songs and stories. The next day was another good surf, followed by an afternoon walk to Fluted Cape. The weather change meant that cooking was in rainy conditions but it cleared up enough for a late beach walk, followed by games and songs at camp. The rain continued into Sunday but it could not dampen the enthusiasm for the last walk to Mars Cliff and ice cream at the honey shop. There was a bit of a queue at the ferry for the trip home but a few bangers on the bus kept the mood high for the return trip to school to unpack and clean gear. What a great bunch of polite, enthusiastic and fun students. The addition of a guitar was a masterpiece. Thanks, Elijah, for including it in your luggage. Teachers Jo Goldfinch and John Dalco are looking forward to the rest of the year 

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Learning Area News - Performing Arts

New Media Studios

Bring on the future of media production! The latest addition to our campus is a cutting-edge new media space that will take student creativity to the next level. This purpose-built facility boasts a post-production computer lab, a state-of-the-art studio control-room, and it's even connected to the legendary Mt Nelson Theatre - the possibilities are endless!

Media students can now collaborate with this multi-million-dollar facility to produce groundbreaking work that will leave audiences in awe. Whether it's capturing the perfect shot, editing a blockbuster film, or recording an album, this space has everything students need to bring their vision to life.

And that's not all - being connected to the Mt Nelson Theatre means that students can be involved in events and shoots, giving them real-world experience and exposure to the industry. With all these resources at their fingertips, we can't wait to see what our talented media students will create this year!

Olinda Groove Record Label

Calling all musicians! Are you ready to take your music career to the next level? Look no further than Olinda Groove, the record label run by students, for students. With lunchtime concerts already in full swing, and recording and producing projects underway, this is the perfect opportunity to showcase your talents and get the support you need to make your mark in the music industry.

But that's not all - Olinda Groove is also teaming up with the media department to create cutting-edge music videos that will help you stand out in a crowded market. From concept to post-production, this collaboration will give you the chance to create visuals that match the quality of your music.

And if you've been struggling to find the resources to record and produce your own music, look no further than Olinda Groove. With state-of-the-art recording equipment and a team of talented emerging producers, they can help you create the sound you've been dreaming of!

So, whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting out, make sure you don't miss the chance to be a part of this label. Head over to the music department on Level 3 in A Block and make yourself known – or send an email to lachlan.court@decyp.tas.gov.au if you have a project in mind. 

SpongeBob the Musical

Are you ready, kids? Aye, aye, captain! SpongeBob the Musical is making waves with its upcoming show, and it's guaranteed to be a spectacle like no other! With auditions done and dusted, our talented cast is putting in the work to bring the beloved sea sponge to life in all their glory.

But that's not all - the orchestra is already making a splash with their stunning sound after only a few rehearsals. And with an incredible soundtrack featuring music from legendary artists like David Bowie, Cyndi Lauper, and Joe Perry (from Aerosmith), it's sure to be a musical masterpiece that will leave you humming the tunes for days.

But what really sets this production apart is the creativity and innovation of the tech crew. Collaborating with local trash-artist, Andy Vagg, the team is bringing new life to old items with repurposed props, sets, and costumes. Who knew that a vacuum cleaner could become an octopus or that bubble wrap could transform into jellyfish? Even old skateboards and a dustbuster have been given a new lease of life as a jetpack!

And if that wasn't enough, the show also has an important message to share about the environment. Through the imaginative use of repurposed materials, SpongeBob the Musical is highlighting the issue of pollution in the ocean, bringing awareness to a global problem that affects us all.

So, if you're looking for an unforgettable experience that's fun, innovative, and socially conscious, make sure you don't miss SpongeBob the Musical. It's sure to be a hit with audiences of all ages, whether you're a fan of the iconic cartoon or simply looking for a fantastic night out!

Drama

Rehearsals are underway at the Hobart College Drama Department for upcoming performances in Drama 3 and Theatre Performance 3. In Drama 3, students are preparing for a performance of "A Dream Play," a challenging and complex surrealist masterpiece. Meanwhile, in Theatre Performance 3, the focus is on a play called "SAME," which explores the themes of conformity, identity, and belonging in a thought-provoking and emotionally-charged experience.

The cast and production team are working tirelessly to bring these plays to life. From experimenting with new techniques to crafting every detail of the set design and lighting, every element is carefully considered to create a truly immersive experience for the audience.

So, whether you're a fan of surrealist drama or thought-provoking explorations of the human psyche, be sure not to miss the chance to see these talented students perform. The Hobart College Drama Department is sure to deliver a stunning and unforgettable theatrical experience that will leave you pondering the complexities of the human experience.

Dance

The Hobart College dance program is home to talented and hardworking students who have been putting in countless hours to perfect their choreography and movements. Aside from technical skills, the students have also been creating their own choreography, showcasing their boundless creativity and imagination. Rehearsing tirelessly, the dance students have been pushing themselves to their limits and supporting each other every step of the way.  The dance class will be involved in a workshop run by DRILL Performance Company later this term where they will be mentored by local industry professionals.

House Band

This year, the group is bigger than ever before, with a whopping 50 members! That's right - this talented group of musicians is now running three ensembles - the Stage Band, Extension Band, and Vocal Ensemble – and will collaborate together to create an unforgettable sound!

The groups have an exciting line-up of shows and community performances planned for the year. Get ready to be entertained by their challenging and eclectic setlist that will leave you tapping your feet and singing along.

But that's not all - this year, the Stage Band and Extension Band are taking their talents to the next level by attending the prestigious Generations of Jazz festival in Mt Gambier in May. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students to perform alongside some of the best musicians in the country, and even be treated to a concert by the headline act 'Dirty Loops'!

Concert Band Summer School

This year's Concert Band Summer School was a resounding success, with 60 young performers from a range of age groups and skill levels coming together for four days of intensive rehearsals and performances. With guest conductors and instrumental specialists on hand to provide guidance and support, the students worked tirelessly to prepare a range of performance pieces that showcased their impressive skills and dedication to their craft.

The program included not only a full ensemble, but also intermediate and advanced ensembles that allowed students to work at their own level and challenge themselves to reach new heights. The combined pieces brought all of the groups together for an unforgettable performance that left the audience amazed and inspired.

We would like to extend a special thank you to all of the performers, parents, teachers, and tech crew who made this event possible. Without your support and dedication, this incredible showcase of talent and hard work would not have been possible. And for those who missed out on the live performance, don't worry - you can still catch all the action on our Youtube channel, where you'll find this performance and many more from the talented performers. 

Hobart Drama teachers engaging in PL in Auckland

In 2022, HoCo Theatre Performance teacher Rowan Harris co-developed the ‘Our Place’ narrative improvised theatre show, where performers create a town on the spot, describing its geography and notable characters using their imagination and incorporating audience suggestions.  Performers then improvise stories and scenes based on these characters and locations.  Drama 3 teacher, Jeff Michel, performed this format at Hobart’s 2022 “Festival of Improvised Theatre” with Harris and other improvisors from across Australia.  This home-grown theatrical format was selected to be showcased in Brisbane and has since been invited to the Auckland Improvisation Festival in April.  Jeff Michel will be sharing the format at the festival and participating in other workshops and shows. “I’m looking forward to this Professional Learning opportunity,” says Jeff.  “I’m excited to bring back some of the latest developments in narrative and long-form improvised theatre with students when I return for term 2. Interacting with the audience and supporting fellow performers on stage are key skills for performers of all theatre styles and genres”. Harris says “It’s wonderful to be invited to share work on national and international stages and fantastic that Jeff will be able to share the latest with our students in the Performing Arts department”.

UPCOMING PERFORMING ARTS EVENTS:

Hobart Twilight Market - March 10 - 4:30-7:30pm -

This community performance will feature the Hobart College Extension Band plus Olinda Groove acts.  There will be a range of music from acoustic acts to bands over the three hours. Come along for a great evening of emerging talent!

This concert will feature pre-tertiary music students as well as performances from the Musical Production (SpongeBob the Musical), Vocal Ensemble and Hobart College House Band. All set in the magnificent Mt Nelson Theatre. The night will showcase the thriving performing arts culture at Hobart College.

The upcoming Olinda Groove launch on Thursday March 23 will showcase the creativity and talent from the Contemporary Music and VET Music classes as they presented their best 2 songs in preparation for further industry events and the rock challenge.  The show will cover a diverse range of genres from pop acoustic, indie, funk, rock and metal, both original music and covers.  The event will also give opportunities for students to develop event planning and technical skills.

The Theatre Performance class will be showcasing their production of 'SAME', a powerful and thought-provoking play that explores themes of identity, social norms, and the consequences of conformity. Meanwhile, the Drama class will be bringing to life 'A Dream Play', a surreal and mesmerizing work that challenges our perceptions of reality and delves into the mysteries of the human psyche.  Both shows will be presented on this evening back-to-back.

Learning Area News - Technology

VET Cookery, Hospitality and Tourism Excursion

A few weeks into Term 1 and VET Cookery, Hospitality and Tourism students are already on the job hunt.  The Tasmanian Hospitality Association provided a fantastic opportunity for students to sharpen their skills and meet with potential employers in the luxurious surrounds of the RACV Hotel.  Students made valuable connections with top industry professionals and learned to make cocktails and coffees from some of the best in the business.

From help finding apprenticeships and job opportunities to funding assistance and a chance to work on the mainland, the event helped budding restaurant managers, chefs and tourism professionals access all the information they need to get the best start in their career.  All exhibitors spoke very highly of our students’ attitude towards working in the industry and keenness to embrace new opportunities.

Learning Area News - Learning Support

Preliminary English/Maths

Students in Preliminary English/Maths had their first visit to the Kingston Library on Tuesday. The students were introduced to the library staff who gave them a tour of the Library and explored all the wonderful resources that are available for them to borrow. We then enjoyed some time at the new Kingston playground where the students were happy to try out some of the new equipment there. We will be returning to the Kingston Library over the next two weeks.

Home Group Program

The Hobart College Home Group program has made a great start this year with the focus of these early weeks on making connections and building relationships with our young people to help them navigate their way through Years 11 and 12.  Our Opt-In activities were launched in Week 3 with some creative cooking happening along with many outdoor activities that reinforce the importance of connection, involvement and participation for a healthy mind and body.  This dovetails nicely into our first term’s theme on “Discovering Skills and Interests” which is the first key element of the Career Decision Making Process.

Home Group delivers the TASC course, Career and Life Planning and, as a college, we are working together to help your young person ensure that they are empowered and educated to make informed decisions about their pathways.  Career Education underpins so many of the life choices we make – whether that be what course we enrol in, what work placement we go on or even how much effort we want to put into one or all our subjects.  In Home Group, students are taught these important skills that will support them well beyond their time at college and we encourage students to work closely with their Home Group teacher to support them through this process.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss our Home Group program and what our goals are for your young person, please feel free to email Lou.christie@decyp.tas.gov.au or Rosemary.Beswick@decyp.tas.gov.au

Reasonable Adjustments - TASC Exams

TASC allows reasonable adjustments to be made for students who are unable to be assessed in the same way as other students.  This may be due to issues such as a learning disability or a diagnosed mental health disorder, a hearing or vision impairment or a significant health issue. Students will need to have valid and up-to-date documentation of a diagnosis from a Medical Professional or Psychologist.

Students can check the provisions that might be available on the 2023 Application Form which is available here:

RA1 Reasonable Adjustments Application Form 2023 - Fillable PDF (tasc.tas.gov.au)

Process:

• Those wishing to apply for any adjustments should visit the TASC board in Student Services in A Block. If you are applying, please take an RA1 Application form and relevant Adjustment Sheet. Fill out and sign Part A of the RA1
• You will need your Medical Professional/ Psychologist to complete Part B of the RA1 (A letter is not sufficient, TASC will only accept the form). Your application might include reports that you already have
• The RA1 needs to be returned to the school (College Office) by May 26th so that the school can complete Part C, together with the adjustment sheet that is relevant to your condition. (e.g. Medical/ Psychological/ Learning Difficulties)

If any of this is problematic because you do not have a diagnosis or if you have further questions, please make an appointment to see Jenni Bailey (School Psychologist) via the Student Services counselling request tab on the student intranet (see image below). Alternatively, you can contact Sue Hancock (TASC Liaison officer)  sue.hancock@decyp.tas.gov.au

Keep up to date - install the Schoolzine App

To access our Newsletters on your Android or IOS device, install the Schoolzine App.  Please use this PIN number when prompted 3185.

School Notices

School Association AGM and Committee Meeting

Hobart College Parents/Carers are invited to attend the HOBART COLLEGE ASSOCIATION AGM & FIRST MEETING FOR 2023. The Association’s purpose is to facilitate the flow of information between stakeholders and the College and to develop initiatives that contribute to improving student outcomes and the ongoing success of the College. There are no fundraising activities.

The Association is represented by an elected committee of 11 (parents, staff, community members and the College Principal) and meets around six times per year. Attendance may be face-to-face in the A Block Conference Room (next to the main office), or via Microsoft Teams.

The AGM and meeting will take place on Tuesday March 28.

• AGM: 5.30 - 6.00pm
• Regular Committee Meeting: 6.00 - 7.00pm

All attendees are asked to RSVP on 6220 3133 or email hobart.college@decyp.tas.gov.au. 

If you would like to nominate for a postition on the Hobart College School Association, please access the link below.

We look forward to seeing you at the meeting.

Writing Assistance Tutorials

Is your young person having difficulty with written assignments? Do they need some help with an essay? The HoCo Writing tutorials can help. Available every lunch time in Room D306. Assistance includes planning, drafting, referencing, and editing. Students are asked to bring along your assignment sheet, workbook, notes and texts.

What Matters? writing competition

What Matters? is a writing competition open to Australian school students in Years 5 to 12. It’s inspired by Gough Whitlam's commitment to involving young people in shaping Australia's future. Students are asked to respond to the simple question 'what matters?’ and are free to express their views on any matter they care about.  Part writing exercise, part civics and citizenship activity, What Matters? is the perfect opportunity to empower students to raise their voices on issues that are important to them. To know that their perspectives are valuable, no matter their age, background or viewpoint.

How to enter

Entries can be fiction, non-fiction, poetry or prose of up to 600 words, and are submitted online at What Matters? Writing Competition. Students can enter through their school, or from home via the website. Entries close on Friday, 5 May 2023.

What Matters? Tasmania

Tasmanian students who enter the national competition are automatically entered into What Matters? Tasmania. Like the national competition, prizes are awarded in four categories: Years 5/6, 7/8, 9/10 and 11/12. Visit the What Matters? Tasmania website for more information.

Resources

Videos and downloadable resources are available for teachers and families from the Whitlam Institute’s Classroom Resources page. 

For more information on the What Matters? Writing Competition and What Matters? Tasmania, contact the Project Officer by phone (03) 6165 6196 or email learning.events@decyp.tas.gov.au

Let's talk about vaping

Hobart College is concerned that many of our young people believe that vaping is safer than smoking, but this is not the case with mounting scientific evidence suggesting that vaping is just as dangerous as smoking. Not to mention that it's illegal to vape on Government property (HoCo is Government property) and if you are under the age of 18.

We want to help you quit. Our Student Support Staff are here to help. Come and visit us anytime. We are located in A Block above the College Office.

The following YouTube video may help your young person change their mind about the health impacts associated with vaping.

Did your student miss their Meningococcal ACWY Vaccine (Nimenrix) at the Year 10 School clinic?

The City of Hobart is running a catch-up immunisation clinic for students who may have missed their Year 10 vaccinations in the last couple of years during the school clinics.

Clinic Details:

When: 28^th March 2023

Time: 3:30pm-5pm

Where: Hobart City Town Hall, Elizabeth St Conference Room.

What: We will only be vaccinating with the Meningococcal ACWY Vaccine (Nimenrix) at this clinic.

Cost: Free for current students in Year 10-Year 12

For more information about City of Hobart Vaccination Free Clinics please visit:

https://www.hobartcity.com.au/Community/Public-health/Immunisations

For more information on Meningococcal Disease please visit:

https://www.health.tas.gov.au/publications/meningococcal-disease#meningococcal-acwy-vaccine

Appointments are required: Please call 03 6238 2829 to book.

Community Noticeboard

Light Up The Lane is back and are now seeking from young artists aged 12-25 your digital artwork, illustrations, paintings, photography and video to be showcased via projection at Tasmania's premiere youth arts festival on Friday 5 May 2023.

The all ages, drug and alcohol-free festival will be held in Mathers Lane in the City of Hobart and will showcase young people's art, live music and dance performances, plus interactive activities.

To submit your art follow the link: https://t.ly/ccl7

Applications for 2024 Tuckwell Scholarships are now open.  We encourage our Year 12 students on a university pathway to apply for this prestigious scholarship.

Find out more here: https://tuckwell.anu.edu.au/apply