LMHS Smooth Sailing Newsletter - Term 3 2023

Mrs Selby – HT HSIE (Relieving)

TAS - Faculty Report

Industrial Technology Timber & Metal

In Year 11, student’s have been working extremely hard to finish off their Jewellery Box projects. Mr Watson and Ms Plane are very proud of everyones effort and look forward to seeing what they can produce for their Major Projects in Year 12.

Year 9 have been busy building their Camp Chairs.

Mr Watson, Mr Westwood, and Mr Pastermoglou have very talented students in their classes who have done a wonderful job completing their projects. We look forward to seeing the students progress through the rest of Year 9 and into Year 10 IT Timber.

Year 9 Metal have been working hard on their windmills and Year 10 Metal have been meticulously finishing off their Camp BBQs.

All of our Industrial Technology subjects have been utilising our fantastic workshop spaces which have had many new upgrades this year.

Year 7 & 8 Technology Mandatory

Our junior TAS subjects have seen some great talent this term amongst our amazing students. Students have been either cooking, building, or coding in our technology mandatory classes.

Year 12

A big congratulations to all Year 12 student’s who have graduated in 2023. A special shout out to those student’s studying TAS subjects. The future is bright for those Software Design Development, Food Technology, and Industrial Technology Students who have completed their HSC this year.

Congratulations to those who completed their Major Projects. A lot of hard work went in to getting them completed and ready for marking.

Science - Faculty Report

As we bid farewell to another exhilarating term at LMHS, the Science Faculty is elated to share with you the remarkable journey our students have embarked upon in the world of science.

Bidding farewell to our Year 12 students has been bittersweet for our dedicated Science teachers. We have watched them blossom into young scientists, and it's with immense pride and a hint of nostalgia that we send them off into the world. To our Year 12 science students, we wish you the very best in your future endeavours. We are thrilled to hear that many of you have been selected for science-related programs at TAFE and universities. The sky is the limit, and we know you'll reach for the stars! We are particularly proud of our Science superstars Tiana Davey who came first in Biology and Earth and Environmental Science and Jessica Denniss who came first in Physics and Chemistry. Jessica has been awarded the Vice Chancellors Award for Academic Excellence from the University of Newcastle. These two outstanding young women are leading the way for female scientists in a typically male dominated field and we couldn’t be prouder!

In Year 11 Earth and Environmental Science, our students have been on a journey to unearth the secrets of our planet. They've conducted experiments to illustrate soil conservation techniques, realizing the crucial role vegetation plays in maintaining our environments. Our Year 11 Investigating Science students have tackled complex scientific concepts by creating scientific models, showcasing their creativity and problem-solving skills. We are truly impressed by their dedication and innovation.

Our Year 10 classes delved deep into the fascinating world of genetics and evolution this term. Miss Hudson's class had a blast with a mock blood typing activity that had everyone on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the results. And who could forget the chocolate fossils experiment? A sweet treat for our budding scientists!

Year 9 was all about chemistry! Our students rolled up their sleeves and participated in a practical assessment task where they determined the reactivity of various metals. They also ventured into the atomic realm, creating models that vividly depicted the structure of atoms, including the intricate dance of protons, neutrons, and electrons.

Year 8 students didn't hold back on the excitement this term. They embarked on a practical-based assessment task that involved creating vinegar-bicarb explosions - a spectacle that left everyone in awe! But the real shocker came when they tested various surfaces for the presence of bacteria and explored the impact of handwashing. The results were eye-opening, to say the least!

Our Year 7 students had a blast exploring the mysterious world of forces. From tug-o-war showdowns to using charged ebonite and Perspex rods to make light objects defy gravity, they've had hands-on experience with the forces that shape our world.

As we wrap up this incredible term, we can't help but look forward to what the next one has in store for us. Science is a never-ending adventure, and we're thrilled to have you all along for the ride. Until next time, keep questioning, keep exploring, and keep the scientific spirit alive!

Mrs Shae Martin – Head Teacher Science

English - Faculty Report

It has been a fabulous term in the English faculty. All year groups demonstrated keen interest in the topics covered and produced some great collaborate projects to convey their knowledge and understanding.

Our year 7 students dived into a contextual study exploring a range of texts that are set during World War 2 such as the novel, ‘Once’ by Morris Gleitzman and the picture book, ‘Rose Blanche’ by Roberto Innocenti. Our year 8 students have enjoyed an introduction to Shakespeare and his works. Year 9 became filmmakers and produced some awesome films showcasing their talents. Year 10 explored a Shakespeare play in detail and created some amazing essays, scripts and dioramas.

We also had some outstanding public speakers and debaters representing our school in the Premier’s Debating Challenge and The Legacy Public Speaking Competition. A shout out to Jayde S, Malii T, Charli Y, Sentulia M, Chelsea F, Mary Q, Teleshia W, Billy Z, Oran C, Brock M, Asher K and Bryson C who all participated and demonstrated outstanding teamwork and rebuttals!

We’d love to give a huge congratulations to our year 12 students! All the best with your exams.

Below is a collage of all awesome work students have done this term!

10U English

10U had a busy Term 3, studying Shakespeare’s play King Lear and the 2003 film of the same title. The students then had to write a comparative essay, comparing how the film’s themes were adapted to a modern audience. The second part of their task was to work in groups where they became the teacher, asking questions and marking their peers responses, utilising a marking criteria. This is in readiness for next year when they embark on Senior study, with many of the students choosing to study Advanced English. Well done 10U, you demonstrated excellent collaborative skills in a very mature manner.

PDHPE - Faculty Report

Wow we are at the end of Term 3 already!

We hope this newsletter finds you in great spirits! The Term 3 adventures in our Physical Education and Health program have been nothing short of exciting, filled with valuable learning experiences for all our students.

**Farewell and Best Wishes to Mrs. Lauren Mulhearn**

As we bid farewell to Mrs. Lauren Mulhearn, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt best wishes as she embarks on this exciting journey of motherhood. Mrs. Mulhearn has been an integral part of our PDHPE department, bringing her dedication, passion, and expertise to every class and project. She will be greatly missed, and her absence will undoubtedly leave a void in our team.

We have the utmost confidence that Miss Jasmine Stanford, who will be continuing Mrs. Mulhearn's role and taking over her classes, will continue to uphold the standards of excellence that Mrs. Mulhearn has set. We look forward to Miss Stanford's contributions and the positive impact she will undoubtedly make in our department.

Mrs. Mulhearn, we wish you all the joy and happiness that parenthood brings. May this new chapter in your life be filled with beautiful moments and treasured memories. Your PDHPE family will eagerly await your return, but until then, take this time to savor every precious moment with your growing family. Congratulations and best of luck!

**Year 7: Power and Relationships**

In their theory lessons, our Year 7 students delved into the fascinating world of Power and Relationships. They explored essential concepts that will help them navigate the complexities of relationships in the years to come. We're delighted to see their growing understanding of this crucial aspect of life.

In the practical arena, Year 7 got their bodies moving with Dance and Striking Games. These activities not only kept them active but also improved their coordination and teamwork. It was a joyful sight to witness their enthusiasm and energy on the field and dance floor.

**Year 8: Let’s Talk about Sex and Drugs**

Year 8 students engaged in meaningful conversations during their theory lessons as they explored the topics of sex and drugs. It's heartening to see our students developing a responsible and informed perspective on these important subjects.

On the practical front, our Year 8 students enjoyed Invasion Games, enhancing their strategic thinking and teamwork skills. They displayed excellent sportsmanship while having a blast on the field.

**Year 9: Keep on Moving – Lifelong Physical Activity**

In their theory lessons, Year 9 students took a deep dive into the importance of lifelong physical activity. They've been learning how to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle throughout their lives, and we couldn't be prouder of their commitment to their well-being.

In the practical lessons, Team Games brought our Year 9 students together as they honed their teamwork and communication skills. The camaraderie displayed during these activities was truly heartwarming.

**Year 10: White Ribbon and Sports Education**

Our Year 10 students embarked on a meaningful journey in their theory lessons with the White Ribbon program, which addresses critical issues surrounding domestic violence and respect. We're proud to see them engaging with such important topics and taking steps towards creating a safer and more respectful society.

In their practical lessons, Year 10 is working hard on their assessments as part of the Sports Education in Physical Education Program. They are honing their skills and showing great dedication in their chosen sports. We look forward to celebrating their achievements in this program.

We're extremely proud of the progress and enthusiasm displayed by all our students throughout this term. We believe that a healthy body and a well-informed mind go hand in hand, and our students are on the right path towards a bright and promising future.

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to an equally exciting and educational Term 4 ahead!

Celebrating the Sporting Spirit at Lake Munmorah High School

Hello, sports enthusiasts!

We've had an action-packed and exciting Term 3 in the world of sports here at Lake Munmorah High School. Our students have been lacing up their boots, strapping on their sneakers, and hitting the fields with enthusiasm and determination.

***Snow Camp at Thredbo***

Week 7 brought a winter wonderland adventure as 44 of our students hit the slopes at Thredbo for the Snow Camp. Snowboarding, laughter, and unforgettable memories were the order of the day, and we couldn't have asked for a more thrilling experience.

***U15 Eastlakes Netball Gala Day***

Our netball stars shone brightly at the U15 Eastlakes Netball Gala Day. They competed with passion and grace, forming new friendships along the way. It's heartwarming to see the sportsmanship and camaraderie that our students bring to every event.

***The Run Beyond Project***

Sunday, September 17th, marked a monumental achievement as four of our students and six dedicated teachers completed the Sydney Marathon 10km as part of The Run Beyond Project. Their commitment to fitness, well-being, and setting and achieving goals is truly inspiring. This is the first cohort to graduate from the program and we are already looking to build on this amazing project in 2024.

***Muri Bulbi Cup - Rain or Shine***

Week 8 was a test of our students' mettle as they faced off against Gorokan High School and Northlakes High School in the Muri Bulbi Cup. Rain couldn't dampen their spirits as they battled it out in netball, oztag, soccer, and rugby league. We're thrilled to announce that our Senior netball and senior soccer teams emerged victorious in their categories, showcasing their skills and teamwork.

***Newcastle Touch Football Gala Day***

Our junior girls and junior boys Touch football teams put their best foot forward at the Newcastle touch football gala day. They not only learned valuable touch football skills but also the importance of teamwork, making us proud with their dedication and sportsmanship.

We are incredibly proud of our students for their hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship in all these events. It's not just about winning; it's about the spirit of competition, personal growth, and the friendships forged along the way. We can't wait to see what exciting sports adventures await us in Term 4!

Here's to a future filled with more victories, challenges, and the joy of sports!

Mathematics - Faculty Report

From the Maths Faculty.

In Week 7, selected students from Year 7 and 8 were lucky enough to attend the World of Maths expo at LMHS!

World of Maths is all about making sure learning is fun through real-life examples, by understanding instructions and applying problem-solving skills.

The presenter was extremely impressed with our student's ability to interact with, and solve, some very challenging problems.

Good times were had by all, especially the Maths teachers!!

Support Unit - Faculty Report

Purple Class

This term Purple Class have been learning how to write persuasive texts to speak up about issues impacting our school community. They have worked together in cooking to produce a variety of meals that have been thoroughly enjoyed by staff and students. During Community Access, students have been completing short walks in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and on the Central Coast. They have been lucky enough to see dolphin pods and seals while exploring our surrounding areas. In addition, students have enjoyed engaging in NAIDOC Workshops and the Love Bites Program.

White Class

In a recent highlight of our term, the White Class students enthusiastically embraced the world of tennis during PDHPE lessons. They embarked on a journey to refine their tennis skills, setting their sights on an epic tournament showdown at the local tennis courts at the end of the term. The students not only had a blast but also polished their tennis skills while engaging in some friendly yet spirited competition.

Green Class

Students in the Green class visited Nobbys Beach at Newcastle.

Gold Class

The Gold class and a range of other students from the Support Unit participated in the Love Bites program, where they learned about healthy and unhealthy relationships. The students engaged excellently and participated in some important discussions. Great work Gold class.

Silver Class

I would like to acknowledge the achievements of Silver Class over the past term. The growth and development of various skills, both academic and life-related, have been notable. Their engagement in Community Access activities, which have exposed them to diverse environments, and the acquisition of essential life skills, including financial literacy and social competence, are commendable.

It has been a privilege to witness their progress and participate in their educational journey. I look forward to continued success next term.

Red Class

We would like to congratulate Luke Jarrett on becoming School Vice-Captain for 2024. This is a fantastic achievement as he will become the first member of the LMHS Support Unit to be voted in as a School Vice-Captain. Well done, Luke!

Support Unit Disco

Students from the Support Unit attended an inclusive disco at Tumbi Umbi High School. The students had a great time tearing up the dance floor and participating in a variety of activities such as face painting, balloon animals and a sausage sizzle.

Support Unit Sport

During this term, students and staff from the support unit participated in lawn bowls. Students had a great time and we would like to thank Cookie and his team at the Gwandalan Bowling Club for donating their time and resources to allow our students the opportunity to learn lawn bowls.

Aboriginal Education

Yaama!

It's with great pride that we share the remarkable achievements and initiatives that have taken place over the past few months. Our Year 12 graduation was a significant milestone, with seven students completing their HSC studies. This accomplishment is a testament to the hard work and commitment of both our students and educators at LMHS.

We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Dhinewan Mentoring team and everyone involved in organising the four inspiring workshops that took place over two days in celebration of NAIDOC. These workshops not only enriched the knowledge of our students but also enhanced our staff's understanding of Aboriginal culture.

Our students continue to shine as leaders and mentors in the community. Five students ran the Koori games mentoring program at Gwandalan Public School, where they shared their knowledge by teaching two traditional games over three weeks. Additionally, we had the community hair project come into LMHS, providing free haircuts to 14 of our students. A huge thanks to Ms Molyneaux, Cathy (Uniting), Chris (CHP) and Ebony (Hairdresser) for organising and providing the service.

Additionally, we actively participated in community events such as the NSW AECG Golf day at Mangrove Mountain Golf Club and the annual Muru Bulbi Shield. Unfortunately, we didn’t get the win but we must congratulate Northlakes High School for winning back-to-back shields. Our coaches are already meticulously planning for next year’s Muru Bulbi Shield as we look to win it back.

Throughout Term 3, we continued to run a variety of cultural programs, including Dhinewan Mentoring, Bungree Resilience program, Yidaki Group, NRL School 2 Work, and Barang Dreambuilders. Two members of our staff attended Connecting to Country PL, and we participated in the Central Coast Aboriginal Education Conference. Moreover, we have started regular meetings with our community of schools to discuss ideas and share resources pertaining to Aboriginal Education.

Lastly, we take immense pride in celebrating the exceptional achievements of some of our students. These students have demonstrated exceptional dedication and resilience on their educational journeys, and we wholeheartedly congratulate them on their remarkable accomplishments:

• Kahlia P: Early entry into the Bachelor of Education & Arts (Primary) program at Macquarie University.
• Dakota L: Early entry into the Bachelor of Education (Primary) program at Newcastle University.
• Shai S: Early entry into the Bachelor of Psychological Science program at Newcastle University.
• Lationa D: Early entry into the Bachelor of Criminology & Criminal Justice program at the University of New South Wales.
• Kodey B: Completing HSC studies
• Holly C: Completing HSC Studies
• Koko J: Completing HSC Studies
• Charlotte Fernando: For being appointed school captain for the year 2024.

These students have demonstrated exceptional talent, commitment, and perseverance. Their achievements are a testament to their hard work we are immensely proud of your accomplishments and the positive representation you provide for our community. Your achievements inspire us all, and we have no doubt that you will continue to excel in your future endeavours.

Have a great and restful holiday, see you next term!

LMHS Aboriginal Education Team

Junior & Senior Leadership Team

Another busy and eventful term for the school Leadership Team!

Members of the Junior Team represented our school proudly by participating in the recent year 6 into 7 question and answer forums at Lake Munmorah, Mannering Park and Gwandalan public schools. The students demonstrated excellent public speaking skills, were able to think quickly on their feet to respond to questions and showed insight into their time at LMHS by providing words of wisdom based on their own transition to high school.

The Senior Leaders wrapped up their term 2 charity drive for Share the Dignity with an amazing donation to the charity. Their term 3 charity drive for the Shoebox Revolution has been an overwhemling success, students, staff and community have donated dozens of shoeboxes, food items and toiletres to this worthy local charity. Thank you to everyone that has contributed to these charity drives.

On behalf of Ms Cook and Mrs Fitzgerald, we would like to take this opportunity to thank the Senior Leadership Team for their incredible contribution to Lake Munmorah High School. Their leadership, support of the student body and overall contribution to the school has been tremendous. They have done an outstanding job representing and leading their school and should be exceptionally proud of their efforts over the last 12 months. Good luck to each and every member of the team as they graduate and move on their next big adventure!

Zara Blackwell-Aili, Ethan Stuart, Hayleigh-Shae Hughes, Ashton Woods, Tara Forde & Kobe Maxted

Congratulations to our newly appointed Senior Leadership Team for 2024:

Captains – Charlotte Fernando & Kallen Maarshchalk

Vice Captains – Alyssa Burton & Luke Jarrett

Prefects – Damien Hamilton, Laura Dunn & Laura McKay

We are excited to work with our new leaders and watch them grow & step up to the challenge of their new roles.

Ms Cook & Mrs Fitzgerald (Co-Coordinators Junior & Senior Leadership Teams)

Wellbeing - Faculty Report

Term 3 has been non-stop for the Wellbeing team with lots of proactive wellbeing groups, presentations and awareness raising events, some of which are listed below, in addition to Yr. 6-7 Transition and Leadership team activities.

Lots of fun has been had by students with plenty of important information learnt along the way.

The Hub has continued to provide support to students, including the provision of food, before school and in both breaks as well as during class time with class teacher permission to attend.

COAST SHELTER presented JUNIOR LOVE BITES - Friendship Program to all of our Year 7 students. The program emphasises the importance of a whole-of-school commitment to respectful relationship education. Love Bites aims to provide young people with a safe environment to examine, discuss and explore respectful relationships.

R U OK DAY - A SPLASH OF YELLOW

R U OK? inspire and empower everyone to meaningfully connect with the people around them and start a conversation with those in their world who may be struggling with life.

You don't need to be an expert to reach out - just a good friend and a great listener.

Use these four steps and have a conversation that could change a life:

1. Ask R U OK?
2. Listen
3. Encourage action
4. Check in

By taking the time for an R U OK? conversation and genuinely listening with an open mind, we can all help the people in our world feel supported and connected.

Let the people in your world know you’re here, to really hear, because a conversation could change a life.

Wear it Purple and National Day of action against Bullying and Violence

🧡National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence & Wear it Purple Day - Pyjama Day!💜

On Friday the 18th August, LMHS celebrated the 'National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence' and 'Wear it Purple Day'!

Our guest speaker from the Mental Health Organisation Batyr attended to speak with students about the mental health app called OURHERD.

Corina Vargas the development manager of Batyr spoke to students in break one and two with her interactive prize wheel and engaged students in a positive talk about promoting mentally healthy behaviour.

The theme for this years 'National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence' was 'growing connections'. This theme supports research findings that strong school community connections and social skills are protective factors in the prevention of bullying and help enable positive, help-seeking behaviours in students.

The theme for this years 'Wear it Purple Day' was 'write your story', placing emphasis on the importance of personal expression and individuality for rainbow youth. Write your Story’ promotes Visibility – allowing LGBTQIA+ youth to see themselves represented in the world around them. Crucial for those who may feel isolated, marginalised, or uncertain of their place in the world, as it can help to validate their experiences and provide a sense of belonging through expression and connection!"

LIFE LINE - OUR YEAR 10 COHORT PARTICIPATED IN MIND YOUR MATES

How do we know the signs that someone – one of your mates – is not necessarily coping or may be developing a mental health problem, especially when our familiar face-to-face gatherings are unavailable? Most of us have heard of or undertaken training in physical first aid, but, when it comes to mental health or emotional first aid, we are not so well trained or equipped.

This 45min ‘toolbox tool’ will enable you to recognise the signs of depression, anxiety and thoughts of suicide in your mate. This presentation is delivered by Lifeline skills-for-life suicide prevention trainers.

NAME NARRATE NAVIGATE

COAST SHELTER attended LMHS weekly to facilitate a program called Name Narrate Navigate. The NNN program for young people focuses on psychoeducation and skill development for young people 12-18 years who are victims/perpetrators of violence. It is trauma-informed and culturally safe.

Twenty referred students participated in the NNN Program this term. The program will be on offer again in Term 4. NNN embraces a relational approach to work with youth violence. NNN focuses on validating trauma while recognizing the consequences of violence, supporting mindful engagement and the development of skills for self-awareness, self-regulation and connection.

NNN is focused on using ‘power-with’ young people to better understand their experience of violence.

NNN intentionally merges the neuroscience of trauma with Aboriginal ways of knowing and doing. NNN draws on tenets of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory, Universal Design and Photovoice methods.

NATIONS OF ORIGIN

During the July School Holidays 11 students participated in the PCYC Police Nations of Origin event in Sydney. Nations of Origin is a multifaceted sport, cultural, education and leadership program that culminates around NAIDOC week annually.

Each year around 1,400 Indigenous & Non- Indigenous young people represent their Aboriginal Nation in Rugby League, Football fives, Basketball, Netball and Gymnastics to promote reconciliations within communities and celebrate Australia's diverse Indigenous culture.