Newsletter Vol 30 Issue 18 - 2017 - St George College

Faith, Family Forever Excelling Volume 30 | Issue 18 | Thursday, 7 December 2017 MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL Mrs Gina Kadis Old Scholar- Dr Michael Frazis Graduated Class of 2002 Current Employment: After graduating from dentistry in 2012 Michael began his dental career going between 2 practices in Mile End and Elizabeth. He started honing the basic skills in dentistry and quickly developed a passion for oral surgery and complex restorative work. In 2014 Michael began flying between Adelaide and Ceduna to offer the local community dental treatment where he was the only dentist practicing with in 100km and quickly learnt valuable skills in emergency treatment management. Since 2015 Michael has been working out of Semaphore Dental in the seaside suburb of Semaphore. During this time he has spent over 300 hours in continued professional development in Oral Surgery, advanced cosmetic and restorative work, full mouth rehabilitation work and cosmetic injectable training. He is currently undergoing training in Implant dentistry and soon to start training with the University of Miami for a fellowship in Implant dentistry.

KEY DATES 7 December2017 Last Day of Term 4 Reports Distributed 25 December 2017 Christmas Day 26 December Boxing Day 1 January 2018 New Years Day 7 January 2018 Blessing of the Waters—Glenelg 26 January 2018 Australia Day

HOLIDAY OFFICE HOURS OFFICE CLOSED 21 December 2018 - 5 January 2018 OFFICE OPENING HOURS 8 January - 23 January 2018

Outside of dentistry Michael has also undertaken various Australian and international courses on business management, business leadership, communication, public speaking and holds a diploma of business management and entrepreneurship. He has spoken at and helped run many courses in dentistry and leadership both in Australia and Overseas. He actively helps mentor recent graduate dentists in their transition from university to the workforce and onto higher education through their continual professional development. Education History: Michael together with his siblings Savvas and Evangelia have all attended St George College primary school, with his siblings finishing year 12 at St George College. Both parents have contributed to St George College with Dr George Frazis teaching modern Greek at the school and later becoming head of languages 2011-2015, before moving to Darwin to continue writing his book on Greek migration in Australia. Michael’s mother worked in and ran the school canteen for over 12 years. Michael went on to attend Glenunga International High School where he completed year 12 SACE Modern Greek and Biology in year 11. In 2007 he completed the International Baccalaureate program and went on to study dentistry at Adelaide University where he graduated in 2012.

9:00am—4:00pm 24 January - 29 January 2018 8:00am—4:00pm

HOLIDAY UNIFORM SHOP HOURS Monday 29 January 2018 2:45pm-3:45pm Thursday 25 January 2018 12:30pm—3:30pm Monday 29 January 2018 2:45pm-3:45pm Tuesday 30 January 2018 8:15am-9:15am Call 0408 803 289 or 8346 0830 to book an appointment time if you need a longer timeslot.

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www.sgc.sa.edu.au

Family:

of such an education – as I am sure are many people in this Michael is currently engaged to his fiancé Amy Mercorella room. If only we could give these opportunities once again to who is a dental hygienist also working out of Semaphore school children. Many of us took up this free tertiary education with gusto – and we were presented with an Dental. They are set to marry in April 2018 opportunity to be creative, to be challenged, to learn from tertiary experts, to collaborate with others with such a broad range of views and aspirations in this “lucky country” – here in multicultural Australia. We are delighted that the State Government recently announced that it will increase funding to all schools in South Australia – public and private. For this we are eternally grateful. Let’s hope that free tertiary education and extra university scholarships are not just a distant memory – but instead the Vision of future politicians.

Closing Remarks: Michael’s early primary school education at St George College played a pivotal role in shaping his attitude towards education and his role in the wider community. Without the solid foundation and grounding that was provided in his early years Michael doubts he would have been able to accomplish all that he has in such a short period of time. Principal’s Address – Speech Night – Tuesday 5th December 2017

Despite not being here today – our thoughts go to our Year 12s and their families. Our Year 12s were farewelled on the 21st November by the College community with a special Graduation Ceremony at our College and a Graduation Dinner at the Adelaide Pavilion. Many of our graduates have gained part-time employment and they are busy leading an exciting life beyond St George College already. We wish them well for the 19th December when the Year 12 SACE Results will be released. We wish them well in pursuing their dreams. We look forward to announcing the Dux of the College before Christmas and inviting this student back to address our 2018 student body at our “High Achievers” assembly in February. We look forward to enjoying the company of our Year 12 graduates at future Old Scholar events and following their life and work adventures beyond St George.

Please allow me to take this opportunity to acknowledge and Good evening, distinguished guests, St George College sincerely thank key people in our College that have allowed parents, grandparents, staff and our dear St George College us to flourish and grow and be here today: students. Firstly – I wish to thank the Very Reverend Father Patsouris Thank you for your attendance this evening to celebrate the for his tireless commitment to make St George College such fine achievements of our students from Years 3-11. This is an inspirational learning experience for those privileged to our first Speech Night off campus. What an opportunity we be here. I also thank Father for his wise words, advice and were presented with earlier this year – an opportunity to guidance that he extends to me personally and my celebrate the Academic and College Life achievements of our leadership team. Mr Peter Karamoshos, my Deputy Principal students in this highly respected educational institution – and myself sincerely appreciate everything Father Diogenis Elder Hall, University of Adelaide. This Hall has showcased does to support us, as we roll out the Vision we have been numerous student success stories over the years and employed to deliver here at St George College. Father celebrated so many fabulous achievements of young South Diogenis – happy Name Day for today and wishing Presvitera Australians – many of whom are parents and staff in this Anna a speedy recovery from her recent surgery. Father room today. Many before us in this Hall were also children of Diogenis – thank you for always praying for us and guiding us immigrants who arrived in Adelaide with very little – a few and in particular praying for all our staff and students to be pounds in their hands and probably a few dracma in the the best they can be. Faith, family, forever excelling. It bottom of their suitcase - and a letter introducing them to a underpins all our decision-making here at the College - as we family friend to give them a kick-start in their new life here in make a critical difference to the lives of the children in our Australia. Many immigrant families couldn’t believe their care. luck when the Federal Government in the 1970s offered free tertiary education to their children. I’m the proud recipient

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Secondly – I wish to thank our families for trusting us with your children and grandchildren. It means so much that you support us. It means so much that you go without other things to give your children a St George College education. Thank you. We promise to do our best for your children. We are committed to implementing educational initiatives to ensure your children and grandchildren gain a good understanding of the Orthodox faith and learn about the Hellenic culture. We are committed to learning about the Serbian, Ethiopian, Chinese and Koean cultures amongst many other cultures embraced at St George. A St George College education is truly a multicultural global education. To our dear members of the "Greek Orthodox Community and Parish of Saint George Thebarton and Western Suburbs Inc." under the Presidency of Mr George Portokalas – thank you for investing so many resources into St George College over the years to improve our educational facilities. Thank you for your generous donation towards the construction of our new Junior Campus Playground amongst many other things this year. You must be so proud of this great educational institution and the exceptional education it provides many, including your children and grandchildren. We thank you for your generosity. Thank you for your hugs, smiles, good wishes and love you send our way when staff and students visit your Church each term and when you welcome us to your pension lunches. Faith, Family, Forever Excelling underpins all we do in partnership together. Your Parish was formed in 1960 to help the expatriate Greeks, and in 1965 the members of that community built St. George church. In 1983, you had the foresight to open a College - to provide quality education for young people. Your vision humbles us and inspires us to continue to excel and be the best we can be. Thank you.

encountered challenges and most importantly I hope you never gave up on your dreams. On behalf of the St George family, I wish every student a restful break and hope your Term 4 report is everything you want it to be! Thank you so much to our Parents and Friends under the leadership of Claire Papoulis, Sasha and Kostas Fotopoulos, Angela Drouganis, Nicky Andresakis, Olivia Petropoulos, Loula Mihalopoulos, Maria Miltiadous, Melissa Desyllas, Sia Patsouris, Kathy Tellis, Helen Tsangari, Eleni Exadaktylou – we can’t thank you enough for the fundraising events you have run in 2017. Your fundraising has given us a lot of money to build that new Junior Campus playground I mentioned earlier and given the children additional sporting equipment on the Junior Campus drive-through. It also funded furniture for the Year 12 Common Room on the Senior Campus. The children have loved these new facilities and are grateful for everything. Thank you for your tireless work to run this year’s Quiz Night, Festival Hellenika Movie under the stars evening, Grandparents Day, making Greek Easter decorated Lambathes, pizza lunches, sausage sizzles, ice-block days and your great support at Sports Day. Thank you for absolutely everything – have a good rest over the holiday season. To our LAP volunteers – Jouli Lyrtzis, Julie Doyle, Michael Renucci, Rachel Bennett, Theochari Mazarakou and Claire Papoulis – thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your work is so special and so valued. All the students and staff appreciate everything you do each week. To our parents and Old Scholars who volunteer to coach many of our Co-curricular activities – thank you so much. You have stayed back after school to coach our students and teach them basketball, netball, soccer, chess and Greek Dancing. Many of you have been up at the crack of dawn on Saturday mornings to join our staff to provide these exciting co-curricular opportunities for our St George College students. Thanks to Kate Soukoulis, Melissa Desyllas, Kosta Bakopanos, Stanley Loulakis, Ody Lagos, Chris Miltiadous, Niko Dacolias, Ari Tolis, Tanya King, Anna Taleporos and Kostas Giouvantsioudis. Our childrens’ lives are so much richer as a result of what you do for them. Thank you also to all our parents who juggle their lives to get their children to various games and fixtures. We know your children appreciate your efforts. We certainly do.

Strong governance is critical to the registration and growth of all schools. I sincerely thank our Board Chairman - Mr Bill Gonis and members of the Board of Governors for the many hours of volunteer work you have put in this year and over a long period. Together, we have spent many a long night working through the finance and governance requirements of our College and in particular looking for solutions to make it easier for families to send their children here and for staff to teach here. I thank you for all you do. You have provided endless genuine support to the College Operational Team and in particular to myself as Principal. I can’t thank you enough. Wishing everyone on the Board a restful holiday To our talented staff – thank you for the outstanding work break with your families and friends. John I am so glad you do to prepare your classes – especially this year as we fully implemented the new Australian Curriculum and Tiffany will see lots of her dad over the next few months! redesigned the College Reporting system. Research shows To each and every student – I hope you had your best year that the key factor that makes the biggest difference to at St George College. A year where you learnt new things, improving student learning outcomes is a quality teacher. celebrated successes, both your own and those of your We are blessed to have teachers of the highest quality here peers, learnt from mistakes, picked yourself up when you

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at St George and fabulous ESO administrative staff. Above-all our staff genuinely care for the children in our school. Have a well-earned rest and lots of fun times over the holiday period. To our staff leaving – we are sad to see you go. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all you have given to our students and your professionalism and friendship. We wish everyone leaving a happy and fulfilling life ahead in their personal and professional life beyond St George. Thank you and goodbye to Carmen Asche who returns to Henley High after we were able to have you with us for 12 months teaching English from Years 8-12. Your creativity, your inspirational suggestions and great sense of fun will be truly missed. Thank you and goodbye to Emmanuel Mangas, we wish you well for the future. Thank you to Rita Rossidis for supporting our Junior Campus reception this year and the library last year. Best wishes for a fulfilling future. Thank you to Chelsea Fryar Betham for welcoming and teaching our newest students in our midyear Reception class and making their first 6 months of schooling such an amazing experience. We look forward to having you in our Vacation Care program and hopefully back soon for TRT and future employment opportunities. Finally a special goodbye to Matt King who moves to Scotch College, after five exemplary years here at St George College – leading us with distinction as Head of House for Athens over the last two years. Thank you Matt for being so supportive of your students, of me personally, of your colleagues through your fabulous social committee work and for being an exceptional teacher – motivating and caring for all the students in your classes over the years. You did a great job running the St George Cup this year and leading the CoCurricular Programs whilst Daniella was on long service leave in Term 3. Good luck. John Newton and Scotch are so lucky to have lured you across to their school. We will miss you. Please join me to thank all our teachers at our fine College.

College. Last but not least - I must thank Emily Giles my PA - who has taken on two additional roles in the last 12 months to help grow enrolments at St George College - that of College Registrar and International Student Registrar. Emily - you are an amazing ambassador for St George College and a real help to families looking for a great school for their precious children. You quickly put people at ease and work your magic to get them in the door to experience what we all know – how good St George College is. Thank you so much for all you do. I apologise if I did not mention you by name in this report. Remember each person in our community is highly valued and appreciated. Team work is absolutely critical for any family to thrive. Thank you to everyone in this room for playing a pivotal role in securing the College’s exciting future. With us all working together - we will continue to grow from strength to strength for the good of young people lucky to come here. Wishing everyone a joyous festive season and good health and happiness for 2018. To all those not returning in 2018 – may Saint George guide you and protect you always.

Finally, special thanks to Peter Karamoshos - who continues to make a key difference in his quality work around the College and who has played a pivotal role in orchestrating this amazing event. Thank you Peter for working tirelessly to achieve our Vision for St George. Special thanks to Simon Atterton for coming aboard in his new permanent role as Head of Business Operations. Simon has been a key driver in providing financial long term modelling to help our current families stay at St George College and to help new families afford to send their children to our College. Thank you for everything Simon. Special thanks must be extended to Janice Copeland for establishing our new “Out of Hours Care and Vacation Care” programs, as well as growing the College “playgroup” opportunities for our youngest students. These initiatives support our working families and bring real value to our

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MESSAGE FROM THE DEPUTY PRINCIPAL Mr Peter Karamoshos

year, they can expect the same results. There will only be a change for the better if students make a positive change to their approach. Make a change to see a change!

The end of the school year has been a whirlwind for our students, staff and families – much like the rest of the year. Have a very Merry Christmas. Friends ask me whether things are winding down as we near the end of this last term. Nothing could be further from the Best wishes to all our students, families and staff over the Christmas break. May we all really enjoy the festive season in truth. catching up with friends and family, eating more than we should, getting sunburnt when we shouldn’t, sleeping, reading, playing and exercising. I also trust we respect Activities Week Christmas as more than a just a holiday. We are reminded Our Year 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 students have been involved in an that we are celebrating the birth of Christ. And also keep an exciting Activities Week to finish off the term. Our Year 5 and eye out for those less fortunate than us. May God be with 6 students have improved their water safety skills through you. their swimming sessions at the Thebarton Pool. Obviously, this is very important in the lead up to summer holidays. Our Year 7 students participated in Surf Education which saw them spend two days at Glenelg focussed on Surf Life Saving. The students had an enjoyable experience developing their Year 12 (2017) Students. confidence in the water while also learning how they might We are inviting Year 12 students, who are not involved in the help people who might strike trouble in the surf. Students B Part of It study, to have a throat swab taken, complete a also took the opportunity to participate in the trek up My consent form and a questionnaire in 2018. Students who Lofty, a session at the Beach House and activities at school wish to participate can visit the B Part of It stands at like board games challenges, crafts and indoor sport. Orientation week (‘O’ Week – week of 19th February 2018)

“Big Day In” The “Big Day In” was a day dedicated to preparing our Year 12 students for 2018 for Stage 2 SACE. We appreciate that Year 12 can be both challenging and rewarding with success coming through hard work, determination, careful planning and goal setting. Getting them together before the end of the year was important in providing program outlines for their Stage 2 subjects, the types of assessments they can expect and some prior learning students can review in preparation for 2018.

located at the main campuses of the University of Adelaide, Flinders University, and the University of South Australia. Students will be reimbursed with a $40.00 Coles Myer Voucher for their time and travel costs. Students who are already participating in the B Part of It Study will receive a letter in the next few weeks which will provide further information about their involvement in the study, including catch-up locations for vaccinations. Further details regarding where and how Year 12 students can be involved in the study will be available on the B Part of It website: https://www.bpartofit.com.au/

Reports Students will have received their Semester 2 Academic Reports. It is important that students and their families take the time to review the information contained in this report. While it is a summary of student academic achievement for the second half of the year, it also contains important information regarding student strengths, weaknesses and suggested strategies on how to improve. We trust that many of our students are satisfied with their results and have achieved to their potential. To those who haven’t, consider this for next year - “if there is no change, there is no change”. If students take exactly the same approach next

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ατμόσφαιρα. Τα περισσότερα από αυτά τα παιδιά είναι μαθητές και μαθήτριες του Κολεγίου ήδη από τα Our entire College community came together on Tuesday 21 προσχολικά τους μαθησιακά χρόνια. November to celebrate the journey of our Year 12 class of 2017. Celebrations began with a ceremony in the Performing Τους ευχόμαστε καλή επιτυχία στην ζωή τους, καλή πρόοδο Arts and Sports Centre at 2pm and a celebratory dinner the με ό,τι επιλέξουν να σπουδάσουν στο μέλλον και να θυμούνται ότι οι πόρτες του Κολεγίου και του Ιερού Ναού same evening at the Adelaide Pavilion. του Αγίου Γεωργίου θα είναι πάντα ανοιχτές. Parents, grandparents, staff and students came together to wish our Year 12 class all the best for their future endeavours. We would like to acknowledge our keynote speakers, old scholars’ Dr Michael Frazis and Miss Arista Kontos for their inspirational address and wise words of advice for our graduating class. College Captain, Magdalene Thomadakis and Vice-Captain Constantinos Andresakis addressed their peers and their families and shared the most pivotal moments of their school life at St George College.

YEAR 12 GRADUATION CELEBRATIONS

The dinner was equally as enjoyable and gave everyone the opportunity to relax and enjoy each other’s company. Glowing speeches followed, by our Year 12 Prefects, Athena Stamoulos and Nikolina Veselinovic. The same messages resonated in both the College Prefect speeches and old scholar speeches; the sense of community, care for each other and a drive to succeed and live our College motto – FOREVER EXCELLING. Η ΑΠΟΦΟΙΤΗΣΗ ΤΗΣ 12ης ΤΑΞΗΣ Η αποφοίτηση των μαθητών και μαθητριών της 12ης τάξης ήταν πραγματικά μια ιδιαίτερη εκδήλωση που έμεινε αξέχαστη σε όσους είχαν την χαρά να παραβρεθούν. Την Τρίτη 21 Νοεμβρίου, στις 2μμ, πραγματοποιήθηκε η τελετή όπου δόθηκε το απολυτήριο σε κάθε μαθητή και μαθήτρια της 12ης τάξης του Κολεγίου. Είχαμε την χαρά και την τιμή να φιλοξενήσουμε δύο πρώην μαθητές, τον Μιχάλη Φραζή, ο οποίος εργάζεται ως οδοντίατρος, και την Αρίστα Κόντου, που εργάζεται ως δικηγόρος. Οι παραπάνω απόφοιτοι του Κολεγίου μας, με την ομιλία που απηύθυναν στο κοινό, εξέφρασαν την ευγνωμοσύνη τους στο διδακτικό προσωπικό και σε όσους συνέβαλαν στην επαγγελματική αλλά και προσωπική τους ανάπτυξη καθ΄ όλη την διάρκεια της φοίτησής τους στο Κολέγιο. Κατά τη διάρκεια της τελετής, ο μαθητής της 11ης τάξης Αλέξανδρος Κατσίγιαννης και η μαθήτρια της 10ης τάξης Ευθυμία Κουτσουρίδου διασκέδασαν τους παρευρισκόμενους και ανταμείφθηκαν με τα πιο θερμά συγχαρητήρια από τους συγγενείς και φίλους. Το δείπνο της αποφοίτησης έλαβε χώρα στο κέντρο PAVILION. Μία καταπληκτική βραδιά με καλό φαγητό και καλή παρέα, για να εορταστεί η τελευταία σχολική χρονιά Angela Drakopoulos των παιδιών της 12ης τάξης σε μια ιδιαίτερα ζεστή

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FROM THE ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL Miss Stephanie Kosmetos

Christmas Concert It was the event we had been waiting for since the start of term, the show that signals the end of year and the highlight for the Junior Campus students. The junior students in Reception to Year 4 celebrated the Miss Stephanie Kosmetos end of year with their Christmas concert last week performing to entertain their family and friends. We were treated to a first-class performance of dance, music What’s been happening in 1T? and kaleidoscope of colour and excitement. 1T have been extremely busy this term. They have been The students and teachers worked hard all term to put on a learning soccer skills during their P.E lessons and have magnificent show where every class sang in Greek and enjoyed going to the block to practise them. They have English, recited poems and role played the Christmas story learnt how to dribble in and out of markers, how to kick properly, and trying to score. They have applied these skills with such confidence, grace and happiness. during a friendly match with each other and discovered how The children were amazing, they were loud and lively, to work together as a team. exciting and engaging, but most of all they looked like they What else? Well... the children have been busy preparing for were having fun! Christmas and have begun making arts and crafts. A big The Year 4 SRC students Savva Miltiadous and Lana thank you to Mrs Janice Copeland for helping us become Petropoulos did a brilliant job as the bilingual MC’s. little artists by creating salt dough Christmas trees and Costumes worn were bright, colourful and creative together Playdough dough Christmas trees, where they had the with the props on stage adding to the already outstanding chance to paint and decorate them using a variety of materials. They will look amazing hanging on their Christmas performance from our students. tree as a keepsake. To all our families who have supported us throughout the year, the staff of the Junior Campus thank you sincerely and Let the fun continue. wish you a Happy and Joyous Christmas and a Happy New Year. We look forward to another exciting year in 2018.

Miss Iliana Toumbas Year 1 Class Teacher

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Reception P and Year 1T Road Safety Visit This term the Reception and Year 1 students visited the SAPOL Road Safety Centre, Thebarton, for a Road Safety lesson on ‘How to be Safe Near, By and On Roads’ as part of their Health program. The students were welcomed by the resident Police Officer who gave an Interactive presentation on: • passenger safety • pedestrian safety • safety on wheels • sensing traffic • road rules • signs and playing safely.

During Term 4 the Junior Campus staff room was filled with excited young chefs producing some delicious sweet and savoury treats they could easily reproduce at home for their birthdays, for their family and friend’s gatherings and for their Christmas table. Together the students made Cheese Triangles (Tyropitakia) with mint gathered from our garden bed, ‘Mummy ‘Hot Dogs, Raspberry Jam Pinwheel Pastries, Banana Muffins, Chocolate Coconut Balls and Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer biscuits. The students had a wonderful time measuring, mixing, folding, rolling, baking and finally eating their finished products at the conclusion of the sessions. Each student took home a recipe book filled with all the recipes made during the term.

The students were given a bike and a helmet and proceeded Congratulations to all our future ‘budding’ chefs for their to the mock roadway which mimics road conditions children enthusiasm and great cooking skills each Wednesday on bicycles are likely to experience in real life. afternoon after school. The police officer reiterated the road rules at the roadway and then the students excitedly proceeded to ride their bike through the pedestrian crossings, an intersection with traffic lights, signed intersections, a roundabout and a railway crossing while attending to pedestrian safety and the road rules viewed and discussed during the Interactive presentation. Mrs Helen Pappageorgiou The students were able to put into practice what they had ‘Cooking Club’ Teacher been learning about in our Health units in a safe, fun Teaching our youngest students, the true meaning environment.

of Christmas.

A wonderful afternoon of learning was had by all!

A special thank you to the SAPOL Police and their volunteer Some of the ELC children tell the story in their own words… helpers for a wonderful afternoon of learning! Theodore – Baby Jesus gets born on Christmas. The three A big thank you also to our parent helpers who came and men gave him presents. They followed the shining star. supported the students and teachers on the day.

Scarlett – It’s Jesus’s birthday. Its Christmas! Styliani – Baby Jesus was born in Bethlehem and some bad guys came and tried to kill baby Jesus. They nearly got him, but the angel helped them. The wise men came to visit. They followed the star. Ana – Jesus was born that night. An angel came out. Stavros – Joseph and Mary go to a barn and that’s where baby Jesus is. A star was in the sky and the angel and the men found their house.

Mrs Helen Pappageorgiou Reception Class Teacher Miss Iliana Toumbas Year 1 Teacher

Junior School Cooking Club

Juliana – Baby Jesus was born on Christmas. He got born in a stable. Mary and Joseph was walking around to find a home but no one let them stay. But the farmer let them stay in the stable. The star was so bright that the Three Wise Men followed it. They brought presents to Jesus. Miss Jana Livatidis ELC Teacher

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interactive and exciting Science, PE and Art lessons. The students also enjoyed recess and lunch at the Senior The Year 8’s had such a busy and fun time creating activities Campus, also having the opportunity to use the canteen, a for the Year 1 class to do for English. Ms. Asche brought her big treat! students in for a meet and greet last week, so they could get to know the little ones and figure out what type of activities The students had a wonderful day! They returned to the will be best suited for their age. So, on Thursday the 30th of Junior Campus with a positive attitude and can’t wait for November, the Year 8’s came into our class and formed their new adventure to begin! themselves in groups. Each group had a picture book to read All the best Year 4P! and games to follow, such as word searches, memory game, spot the difference, who am I, maze activity and much more. They were all so engaged and excited and even stood up to tell the high school students which part was their favourite. Thank you to the Year 8 English class and to Ms. Asche for organising this buddy lesson. We had the BEST time!

Year 8 visit to the Year 1 class

Miss Alison Pearce Year 4 Teacher

Year 3’s visit Adelaide Zoo

Miss Iliana Toumbas Year 1 Class Teacher

On Thursday the 30th of November, the Year 3 class went on an excursion to the Adelaide Zoo. The day was warm and sunny as the children boarded the bus and headed to the zoo to visit Wang Wang and Funi in the Giant Panda enclosure as part of our studies on China. Both Pandas were keen to say “Hello” as they sat in their enclosure enjoying their bamboo. The children got to see and learn about many of the other animals as well. They saw the Lions during feeding time, the orange snake in the Envirodome and many other fascinating creatures. Overall we had a wonderful day and a big “Thanks” goes out to our wonderful parent helpers, our student teacher, and Mrs Miltiadous!

Transition Day for Year 4P 2018 will see the Year 4 students make the ‘big move’ to the Senior Campus, and in preparation for this, the students took part in a Transition Day in Week 5. .

The aim of this day was to assist and put the Year 4 students at ease about the move to the Senior Campus next year. This was a full day event, which enabled the students, with the support of current Year 5 student as their buddies, to see what schooling life is like and learning opportunities are available at the Senior Campus. The children participated, with their buddies, in a variety of lessons and activities, this including a full tour of the campus grounds, familiarising them with the facilities available to them, a look into life in Ms Vicky Koutsoukos the Year 5 class, their learning space, meeting their Heads of Year 3 Classroom Teacher House and staff who will support them next year. As well as

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I hope that you have enjoyed being part of the St George College playgroup during the year and I look forward to This time of year is certainly wonderful; there’s a special welcoming you back in 2018. Every blessing to you and your magic in the air! It sees us reflecting on the last twelve loved ones this festive season. months while looking onwards to the possibilities a whole new year promises. I find it fitting as the year comes to a close to reflect on the journey that we have been on. The little people I see each week have grown and changed so much in a year and it is amazing to see how much more confident they all are now. This also means that for some of our playgroup friends, it will be time to say goodbye as they move on from playgroup and onto their new adventure. As I farewell some to the big world of three year old pre-entry or four year old pre-school, I thank you for the chance to spend time with you and your family and watch your children grow.

News from Playgroup

Why follow a path, when you can leave a trail? This statement comes alive in our Playgroup each week as the children blaze a trail of investigations and discoveries as they explore the learning environment and make social contact with other adults and children. The playgroup learning spaces have evolved as the children developed their social skills and their ability to participate in shared learning experiences. This has been an educational focus all year as children learn to take turns and negotiate roles within their play and as they learn to engage with new Janice Copeland peers.

Playgroup Teacher

It was wonderful to see strong relationships develop amongst them. Developing social skills is very important for a child’s mental health and well-being. The children have been learning these relationships through communicating with parents, educators and other peers. Their ability to learn social rules and work in small and large groups have created opportunities for the children to verbally and nonverbally communicate their thoughts, ideas and feelings throughout their play.

News from OSHC

As the year comes to a close it’s good to look back on what has been a very busy time in our first semester for OSHC. Our focus has been creating a welcoming environment for those participating in our fledgling service. The children have eagerly attended each session and have shared their attachment to the staff and environment with others. It has been a joyful experience for Natalie, George and myself to So now ….. Wow! Who would have thought the end of the cross the courtyard each afternoon and be greeted by new year would come around so quickly? It finds us asking, friends who express a desire to come to OSHC one day. “Where has the time gone?” With 2017 and my first Another focus has been creating a ‘living’ physical playgroup year drawing to a close, I would like to take the environment that reflects the work, play and interests of opportunity to thank everyone for welcoming me to the St children in the process. Our aim is to make the physical George College playgroup and to thank our playgroup space feel warm and inviting, but also ever changing, and members for sharing the joy of playing, learning and with the children’s help we are making progress. The connecting. program is designed to take children’s interests and build on Happy Holidays and I look forward to continuing our journey in 2018. Playgroup will start back in 2018 offering Tuesday and Thursday programs in the week commencing January 30.

their ideas to promote learning outcomes, in a leisure based environment. After a slow start to the OSHC with low numbers of children, it has gradually picked up as the word about our wonderful setting has spread and we have a far more positive outlook for next year.

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As the year draws to a close. It is amazing how much has been achieved by the children, staff, parents, Principal and governors in one semester. We have achieved so much because we work together as a team and this is one of the greatest strengths of the school. We never stand still and we are always looking at how we can improve and 2018 will be no different. Our aim is to benefit all children at St George College, now and in the future. As our OSHC grows we are constantly striving to provide the best opportunities and the best facilities and resources. If you have any ideas or can help in any way, please let us know. Whilst it is onwards and upwards for OSHC in 2018, we are looking forward to our first Christmas/New Year Vacation Care program. Thank you so much for sharing your children with us this year, and trusting them in our care! It brings us complete joy to get to know your children, watch them as they grow, learn, and change, into capable, communicative beings! We have enjoyed our time with all of the OSHC families this year. Have a wonderful, relaxing, and restful summer! Don’t forget that we have our Vacation Care program over the holidays! The Vacation Care Program is out now on our website and in hard copy at Reception, and it is jam packed with fun excursions and incursions. Casual attendance is welcome. All you need to do is fill out the enrolment forms and email them to [email protected] or call us on 0427 991 747. On behalf of Natalie, George, Petros, Helena, Angelica and myself, we wish you and your families a Merry Christmas and hope you take time out to relax, unwind and enjoy a safe Christmas break. As for us, we hope to continue to provide quality care and service for your children.

Janice Copeland and the OSHC Team

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ACEP SCHOLARSHIPS Scholarships (Years 5 to 12) Australian Co-operative Entry Program (ACEP) gives students the opportunity to apply for an Academic Scholarship provided by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER).

Who’s Eligible? Students undertake the Entry Program Scholarship Test and a subsidy on fees may be awarded, subject to the performance assessment. Applicable to all independent schools in South Australia, ACEP scholarships are open to all students who will be in years 5-12 in 2019. MATERIALS AVAILABLE

Visit the ACER website (Preparing for the Test), which gives useful links to materials available for purchase.

What does the Scholarship cover? Academic Scholarships offered for the 2019 academic year provide a discount to the tuition fee component of the school fees up to Year 12 (please note that it does not extend to the curriculum fee or the cost of uniform or textbooks). Strong academic results must be maintained throughout the duration of the scholarship. Annual reviews are conducted to determine whether the scholarship is being utilised effectively.

About the Test Examinations take place on Saturday, 3 February 2018 in the Media Room at the St George College, Senior Campus from 8.45 am to 12.15 pm. If you would like further information on this, please go to https://www.acer.org/scholarship-parents/south-australia

Application Process You can apply online now at https://scholarships.acer.edu.au/intro/1302 * A registration fee of $110.00 is applicable and must be paid online by Thursday 18 January 2018.

For more information about our scholarship program, please contact: Emily Giles REGISTRAR E: [email protected] P: 08 8159 8100

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With Theochti Antoniadou

Αλληλογραφία στα Ελληνικά Το τρίτο τρίμηνο, οι μαθητές και οι μαθήτριες της τρίτης τάξης του δημοτικού σχολείου μας ξεκίνησαν να αλληλογραφούν με τους μαθητές τους σχολείου Οakleigh Grammar της Μελβούρνης. Στο πρώτο τους γράμμα, με συντονίστρια την κ. Μαρία Μιλτιάδου, οι μαθητές μας έγραψαν στα Ελληνικά πληροφορίες για τον εαυτό τους και αφιέρωσαν μία ζωγραφιά στον παραλήπτη της επιστολής τους. Η ιδέα της αλληλογραφίας ξεκίνησε με σκοπό να ενθαρρύνουμε τα παιδιά να χρησιμοποιούν την ελληνομάθειά τους και εκτός της ελληνικής τάξης.

Όταν ήρθε η στιγμή οι μικροί μας μαθητές να παραλάβουν με την σειρά τους γράμματα από τους καινούριους τους φίλους, η χαρά στα πρόσωπά τους ήταν απερίγραπτη. Αυτό το τρίμηνο λοιπόν, η τρίτη τάξη συνεχίζει με την κ. Θεοχτή Αντωνιάδου, να αλληλογραφεί με το σχολείο της Μελβούρνης ετοιμάζοντας μία καινούρια επιστολή – κάρτα με θέμα τα Χριστούγεννα και χριστουγεννιάτικες ευχές. Οι μαθητές μας με μεγάλη ανυπομονησία θα περιμένουν να λάβουν με την σειρά τους τις χριστουγεννιάτικες ευχές των φίλων τους μέσα στις επόμενες εβδομάδες.

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With Theochti Antoniadou

Διαγωνισμός ΔΗΜΗΤΡΙΑ 2017 Το Συντονιστικό Γραφείο Εκπαίδευσης Αυστραλίας και Νέας Ζηλανδίας στη Μελβούρνη σε συνεργασία με την Παμμακεδονική Ένωση Νότιας Αυστραλίας, διοργάνωσαν και φέτος για τους μαθητές Δημοτικών Σχολείων, Γυμνασίων και Λυκείων των κρατικών, απογευματινών, Σαββατιανών και ιδιωτικών σχολείων της Νότιας Αυστραλίας, μαθητικό καλλιτεχνικό διαγωνισμό στα πλαίσια του πολιτιστικού κύκλου των «ΔΗΜΗΤΡΙΩΝ» με θέμα: «Οι αρχαιολογικοί χώροι και τόποι της Μακεδονίας». Tα τρία καλύτερα έργα βραβεύτηκαν από την Παμμακεδονική Ένωση Νότιας Αυστραλίας την Κυριακή, 12 Νοεμβρίου 2017. Το Κολέγιο μας, εκπροσωπήθηκε από την μαθήτρια της 9ης τάξης, Αικατερίνη Γιουβαντσιούδη, η οποία δημιούργησε μία αφίσα για το αρχαίο θέατρο των Φιλίππων. Η προσπάθεια της Αικατερίνης βραβεύτηκε με την δεύτερη θέση του διαγωνισμού και μας έκανε όλους περήφανους. Παρακάτω ακολουθεί, σε μια σύντομη περιγραφή, η διαδικασία του διαγωνισμού όπως την βίωσε η μαθήτριά μας. Συγχαρητήρια Αικατερίνη!

Η ΕΜΠΕΙΡΙΑ ΜΟΥ ΣΕ ΕΝΑΝ ΣΧΟΛΙΚΟ ΔΙΑΓΩΝΙΣΜΟ Η εμπειρία μου στον διαγωνισμό με θέμα “οι αρχαιολογικοί χώροι και τόποι της Μακεδονίας” ήταν πολύ ευχάριστη. Η διαδικασία του διαγωνισμού είχε ως εξής: έπρεπε να δημιουργήσουμε μία αφίσα για έναν ή και παραπάνω αρχαιολογικούς χώρους της Μακεδονίας. Επέλεξα να ασχοληθώ με το αρχαίο θέατρο των Φιλίππων το οποίο έχω επισκεφθεί και βρίσκεται στην Καβάλα, μια πόλη της ανατολικής Μακεδονίας. Ετοίμασα την αφίσα και λίγες μέρες αργότερα με ειδοποίησαν ότι έχω κερδίσει κάποιο από τα τρία πρώτα βραβεία. Την Κυριακή 12 Νοεμβρίου 2017 με κάλεσαν στην εκδήλωση “Δημήτρια” ώστε να παραλάβω το 2ο βραβείο. Η εκδήλωση αυτή πραγματοποιήθηκε στον χώρο που στεγάζεται η εκκλησία του αγίου Δημητρίου και διήρκησε από τις 10 το πρωί μέχρι τις 8 το απόγευμα. Η εκδήλωση συνοδευόταν από ελληνικούς και ποντιακούς παραδοσιακούς χορούς και από μία ορχήστρα. Επίσης είχε πολλές καντίνες που μπορούσες να απολαύσεις ελληνικά φαγητά και ποτά. Γενικότερα το κλίμα ήταν πολύ ευχάριστο και φιλόξενο. Ήταν μια εμπειρία που αν είχα την ευκαιρία θα την ξανά έκανα γιατί άξιζε τον κόπο.

Από την μαθήτρια, Αικατερινή Γιουβαντσιούδη

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With Mr Michael Rodas ADFA Applications Open Now Applying for ADFA is a competitive, dual application process that can take up to 12 months. It's preferable you apply in Year 11, but you can still apply in Year 12. Applications for 2018 Year 12 Students (for 2019 entry) close at the end of February 2018. https://www.defencejobs.gov.au/students-and-education/australian-defence-forceacademy/ how-to-apply

No Cost Hospitality Training for Unemployed School Leavers www.hitsa.com.au HITsa (Hospitality Industry Training SA) are running free job ready skills workshops for school leavers; Criteria for entry: Over 17 years of age Not at school Unemployed or working less than 17 hours per week Australian citizen or permanent resident.

Careers with STEM is an excellent resource for students interested in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths and where these subjects can take you. https:// careerswithstem.com/

Job Seeking Website Jobbydoo aggregates job vacancies from all Australian career sites, job boards and recruitment agencies, and organises that information to make it accessible with easy find/search options. Jobbydoo's live listing includes apprenticeships, traineeships and entry-level jobs across a variety of industries. Key advantages of Jobbydoo-au.com: - Fresh, comprehensive job listings. Find work either nationally, state-wide or locally. https://www.jobbydoo-au.com

Job Jumpstart Tips and ideas about jobs and careers in the one spot. A Government website that includes articles and various search tools for finding out more about a possible job or career. It is divided into 3 themes, looking for a job, building a career, at work. https://jobjumpstart.employment.gov.au/

Fit in a TAFE Short Course after you finish the SACE Consider boosting your employability with a TAFE short course after you finish your exams. TAFE SA offer a huge range of short courses, with many of them available online. You can prepare yourself for employment or get a head start on future study. Find a TAFE SA https:// www.tafesa.edu.au/courses/short-courses

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St George Greek School Greek School lessons are held every Saturday morning between 9-12pm at St George College Senior Campus. Enrolments for 2018 will be rd held on Saturday 3 February at the hall behind the St George Church.

For more information please call Mrs Maria Miltiadous on 0421064441.